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TRAVEL INFLUENCERS: Jennifer Vandekreeke from Carnival Cruise Lines

More cruise passengers, new ships, expanding destination choices and never-ending onboard offerings - cruising may be a simple concept but there's more to the industry than meets the eye.

More cruise passengers, new ships, expanding destination choices and never-ending onboard offerings – cruising may be a simple concept but there’s more to the industry than meets the eye.

Jennifer Vandekreeke, the Vice President and General Manager of Carnival Cruise Lines in Australia tells KarryOn that while the industry is growing it still has its challenges, particularly infrastructure.

She delves into desires of the growing number of Aussie cruisers and offers readers advice on how to ensure clients are being booked on the right cruise holiday.

 

Cruising is incredibly popular right now but some agents are still trying to get first timers across the line, what tips do you recommend?

There are three key selling points for cruises that will generally get even the most reticent cruiser across the line:

  • Destinations are key to getting a newbie to consider a cruise.  Most consumers start their holiday planning with a destination in mind so show them where a cruise can take them that a land holiday can’t – four beautiful tropical islands in nine days…wow!
  • You’ll never be bored onboard – At three footy fields long, 12 decks high and featuring over 45 activities per day on Carnival, potential guests stop asking “what am I going to do all day” and start asking “how will I fit it all in?”.
  • Nothing beats the value of a cruise – beautiful food, world class entertainment, comfortable accommodation, engaging youth programs, heaps of activities and transport to beautiful destinations – all included in your price!

 

What do Australians look for when it comes to cruising?

Now that there are so many different options in the market compared to just a few years ago, Australians are becoming more discerning in their brand selection.

Instead of just finding a date and price that works, Australians now understand that the different cruise brands offer distinct experiences – from the free-spirited family fun of Carnival to the white star service on Cunard.

There truly is a cruise experience for everyone.

 

Destination vs Vessel – which do you see as driving more bookings?

For someone who is new to cruise – the destination is key and they are attracted to the latest and greatest in cruise ship hardware.

Experienced cruisers focus less on the destinations and more on the guest experience onboard that best fits their lifestyle.

 

Carnival has two ships sailing in Australia – what are some of the challenges of bringing more Down Under?

We quickly grew from zero to two ships in less than two years due to the great response to our entry into the market.

We’d love to expand our home ports and sail out of Brisbane for example, but we simply don’t fit.  And we all know that there’s no room left in Sydney either.

So, our biggest challenge at this point is homeport infrastructure.

 

Is the market big enough for more or do you think there are enough ships to meet demand for the moment?

Although the cruise penetration is above the US, I’m convinced there’s room for more growth in the Australian market for three reasons:

  • Australians have twice the annual leave of Americans and more public holidays.  All of which adds up to almost three extra weeks to enjoy a cruise holiday every year.
  • Across the world, cruise penetration is highest when guests can drive to the port.  As the cruise lines start home porting out of other markets such as Melbourne, Fremantle and Cairns more Australians will start cruising.
  • Australians are loving their cruise experience.  Our Australian-based ships are some of the highest rated in the fleet.  Happy guests share their experiences with their friends which is the best form of marketing imaginable.

 

We’re expected to hit a million cruisers this year, how big do you think Australia’s cruise industry can get?

A. Did you know that all the cruisers in the world equal only half of the guests that go to Las Vegas every year?

I truly believe the sky is the limit.  As long as we continue to provide great experiences for our guests, diversify our home ports and itineraries and provide new compelling onboard experiences, the cruise industry will continue to grow in Australia.

Do you have any techniques for selling cruise?