Despite the potential of the market, the lack of awareness of cruising as a vacation choice remains a huge barrier. It is thus vital for cruise operators to work closely with travel agents and government partners to educate consumers on the benefits of cruise travelling.
“Training for travel agents is key to unlocking the regional cruise industry’s potential and cruise operators should make this their priority,” said Farriek Tawfik, Director of Southeast Asia, Princess Cruises at the Global Cruise Tourism Conference 2014 that was held recently in Kuala Lumpur.
Speaking to government officials, corporate executives and experts from the cruise tourism industry, Farriek emphasized the need for education of travel agents and consumers on the cruise industry in order to grow a cruise business in the region.
The conference’s theme was about advancing the growth in cruise tourism in Asia, a rapidly evolving market with an expected 3.5 million cruise passenger arrivals by 2017. The healthy growth of the cruise industry, together with Southeast Asia’s strategic geographical location and tropical climate, has encouraged international cruise operators to expand aggressively in the region.
Despite the potential of the market, the lack of awareness of cruising as a vacation choice remains a huge barrier. It is thus vital for cruise operators to work closely with travel agents and government partners to educate consumers on the benefits of cruise travelling.
Mr Tawfik also suggested several other strategies that international cruise operators could employ to grow their business in Southeast Asia, such as providing tailored offerings to suit the tastes and preferences of Southeast Asian passengers, and establishing strong relationships with key stakeholders.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
