Agents Invited to Take Part in CLIA Campaign

New Zealand and Australian businesses devastated by the suspension of cruise operations will voice their support for a carefully planned revival in a new video series launched this month by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Part of CLIA’s #WeAreCruise initiative, the videos will highlight the economic impact suffered by local businesses and the 25,000 jobs that are at risk across Australasia while the cruise industry remains at anchor.

An initial four videos will be released on social media during October and November as part of a wider campaign that aims to raise awareness of the impact on the region’s A$5 billion-a-year cruise industry and tell the stories of people within the Australasian cruise community. CLIA is urging travel agents and other industry supporters to join the campaign and help share the message.

CLIA Australasia managing director Joel Katz says cruise lines have committed to extensive new health measures to support future operations, and that it is vital to plan for a phased and carefully controlled resumption of local cruising.

‘While the suspension of cruise operations has been the right response to Covid-19, we need to open a pathway towards resumption, so we can bring an economic revival to communities.’

The #WeAreCruise videos will tell the stories of an initial four businesses including Hasslefree Tours, a Christchurch tour company that offers an extensive range of shore excursions for cruise visitors to New Zealand, whose operations have been suspended under travel restrictions.

Katz says agents can share the videos and amplify the industry’s voice to governments. A website landing page has been created with more information, links, etc. www.WeAreCruise.org

(Source: TRAVEink  MEMO 13th October 2020, issue 2139)