The official opening of Cruiseabout’s first store ever, in Whitford City Shopping Centre, was at 10am on Wednesday, May 1.
But long before that, the shop was full of travellers who had appointments with expert consultants. When I arrived long before 10am, I counted 20 people in there.
Cruiseabout is a new brand for the Flightcentre Travel Group, which chose to launch it in WA. It will be followed by stores in Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria.
And, with one in 20 Australians cruising, the average age falling to 48 years old, and more family, no-kids, luxury and adventure cruising, the stage is set for Cruiseabout’s success.
James Kavanagh, chief executive of Flightcentre Travel Group’s leisure travel says Cruiseabout specialises in fly-cruise packages, with everything organised for travellers, and back-up throughout their holiday. He adds: “There’s something for everyone — and we will make sure you get on the right cruise. That is the most important thing.”
He adds that 85 per cent of Australian cruise enthusiasts sail in regional waters, with New Zealand, South East Asia and the Pacific on their list.
And he cites a Princess cruise package in Japan at around $3500 per person for 13 nights, including flights, as an example of the value that cruising is offering.
After the red ribbon was cut and team member Cher Ingham had handed out cupcakes, the team, under leader Sarah Smith, and with Cruiseabout’s head of operations Kelly Neri alongside, got to work.
As Cruiseabout general manager Bradley Kennedy says: “The spirit of the brand is all about community — about connecting passionate cruise enthusiasts with our experts.”
cruiseabout.com.au
