Cruiseabout has confirmed two new store locations for 2026, in Indooroopilly, Brisbane and Doncaster, Melbourne, lifting its national footprint to 11 sites.
According to the cruise brand, both stores will open “later in 2026”, bringing cruise consultants to key retail precincts and offering face-to-face planning across ocean, river and expedition travel.
“It’s hard to believe that in just three years we’ve managed to rebuild an entire brand and have 11 stores in almost every state, in addition to three incredibly successful remote teams,” Cruiseabout General Manager Brad Kennedy said.
“Australians cannot get enough of cruising and as such there’s ample opportunity for consultants to build a strong client base and a genuinely rewarding career. The demand is there – all we need are the right people in the right places to meet it.”
The openings come as Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) forecasts show Australian cruising numbers rising 9.5 per cent to 1.4 million passengers in 2026.
Cruiseabout is currently recruiting team leaders and consultants for both locations as it targets continued growth in the Australian cruise market.
“Cruise is a considered purchase that is not only nuanced in itinerary but in cruise line, size of ship, level of luxury, inclusions and so much more. Because of this, customers want to talk to someone in person who knows the product inside out,” Kennedy stated.
“Our stores give people that confidence, and our consultants the platform to build long-term relationships with their clients.”
The news comes just weeks after Cruiseabout, a Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) brand, opened its ninth Australian store at Erina Fair Shopping Centre on the New South Wales Central Coast.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Cruiseabout’s expansion is another signal of cruising’s strong demand curve in Australia – and the continued value of face-to-face selling. For travel advisors, it’s growth anchored in high-traffic retail hubs where cruise appetite is clearly not slowing down.
