With the Trans-Tasman start date now locked in, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has its eyes on the horizon and urges governments for a return to cruising plan.
After a year of patiently waiting, New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern yesterday confirmed that quarantine-free trans-Tasman travel will begin from Australia to New Zealand on Monday, April 19.
This means that families and friends can be reunited once again and, according to CLIA, it’s time for governments in Australia and New Zealand to start rolling out a plan for the return of cruising.
CLIA on cruising
CLIA Managing Director Australasia Joel Katz said “The announcement of a trans-Tasman travel bubble is a positive step forward for tourism in Australia and New Zealand, particularly for the many thousands of travel agents and other businesses that have been devastated by border restrictions over the past year.
“However, this announcement highlights the lack of progress being made towards a responsible resumption of local cruise operations, without which an estimated 25,000 jobs are still at risk across the region.”
He said “Cruise lines globally have committed to extensive new health protocols in response to COVID-19, including 100% testing of all guests and crew. These measures are among the most comprehensive of any industry worldwide and are already working successfully in several countries overseas.
“Now is the time for governments in Australia and New Zealand to progress a phased and tightly controlled resumption of local cruising, operating initially for locals-only within domestic boundaries or within the trans-Tasman bubble.”
Joel Katz, CLIA Managing Director Australasia
As we look towards Australian and New Zealand cruises returning to the seas, Norwegian Cruise Line has announced its highly anticipated return to service, with new itineraries sailing Europe and The Caribbean beginning 25 July, 2021.
The Cruise Line will restart operations at a reduced capacity with Norwegian Jade, Joy and Gem as the first of its 17-ship fleet to welcome guests back on board.
This news is a positive sign for the industry and the return of leisure travel as long as a plan is put in place for the return to cruising within Australia and New Zealand and the country looks towards international border openings soon.
Let’s go! #ArrivalRevival