Bicton Travel has just picked up its ninth (yes, ninth!) Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia’s Cruise Industry Award. Director Carole Smethurst shares the (not so) secret to its success, how there’s a ship for everyone and her most memorable sailing.
Bicton Travel was the Cruise Agency of the Year (Small) … again! How does that feel?
We are delighted to have taken home our ninth award from CLIA. It’s fantastic to see our cruise industry partners and suppliers showing their continued support for Bicton Travel over the years. We’re so proud to be recognised as a leader in our industry.
Competition was fierce. So what’s the secret to your success?
I’m not sure it’s a secret! We have an extremely hard working, dedicated team that makes sure all our clients have incredible holidays, and we have clients who return to us year after year to book their special trips.
We pride ourselves on the service we deliver and staff who are very knowledgeable and experienced in cruising.
What are you most excited about that’s coming up for cruising?
I think the broad range of ships in the market now means there really is a ship for everyone. Overall, the standard of onboard offerings, ship amenities and service levels are continually surpassing expectations.
I’ve recently cruised on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer and the culinary experience, service and dining options was faultless. I think cruisers are more discerning than ever and are looking for that impeccable experience.
In a nutshell, where do you see cruising going over the next few years?
I think we’ll continue to see the local industry grow in Australia. We’re already seeing that the post-Covid consumer demand for cruising is there, and this is reflected in the number of ships slated to sail in Australia in the 2023/2024 season. But also, the demand for international travel hasn’t declined – in fact it’s greater than ever.
What do you love most about the industry?
It’s constantly changing and certainly keeps us on our toes. It’s amazing how quickly the industry supported the agents during the pandemic. That support helped all of us survive!
What’s your most memorable cruise experience?
I’ll never forget the experience of cruising Antarctica. It was breathtaking!
Read our big wrap on the CLIA Australasian Cruise Industry Awards.
Visit bictontravel.com.au for more information.
