Journey Beyond’s acquisition of Voyages is opening new possibilities for connecting Australia’s most iconic destinations. As the two brands launch their first internal collaboration, Rainforest to Reef, recently appointed chief commercial officer Matt Cameron-Smith says this is only the start of a broader vision to create multipronged premium journeys blending nature, culture and country.
Congratulations on the new product – can we expect to see more Journey Beyond and Voyages collaborations across Australia’s iconic destinations?
Absolutely, this is just the beginning. Journey Beyond’s renowned for connecting experiences across Australia into world-class journeys, while Voyages is known for connecting guests with culture and country. There are some incredible opportunities ahead.
How important is it to create multi-region journeys that encourage travellers to stay longer and explore more of Australia?
Australia’s scale is one of its greatest strengths, but it can also make itinerary planning feel quite daunting. Products like our Rainforest to Reef package take away that complexity. They give people the time and confidence to experience a destination properly; travellers can plunge in headfirst, rather than just dipping in a toe.
It’s important they leave with a deeper understanding of our landscapes and cultures, and that communities like the Kuku Yalanji at Mossman Gorge can share culture on their own terms, and create meaningful employment and economic opportunities.
At Sailaway, travellers exploring the reef see responsible tourism in action, and how it contributes to marine education and coral stewardship.
How does this product help meet growing demand for authentic First Nations and nature-based experiences?
This is the perfect combo. You’ve got the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, combined with Mossman Gorge, home to the living, breathing culture of the Kuku Yulanji, whose traditions date back 50,000 years.
On the Mossman Gorge Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk, guests explore the rainforest with local Kuku Yalanji guides – the people who know it best. A guide might paint his family history on his arm with the ochre from river rocks, or share ancient tips on bush survival. They each have their own unique stories. It’s unmatched when it comes to authentic experiences that share Indigenous culture in a meaningful way.
And when you think the day can’t get any better, you’re soon snorkelling amongst the corals of Great Barrier Reef, and enjoying a sunset sail with a drink in hand – on a vessel delivering the highest standards of ecotourism and reef sustainability. It really does bring together the best of Australia, nature and culture, all in one seamless journey.
With more Australians looking overseas, how do premium all-inclusive experiences help keep travellers exploring Australia?
Our research is showing that Australians are quite keen on their own backyard at the moment – with all the concerns around geo-politics and cost of living, research is showing we’re looking to domestic experiences for our travel fix.
So these premium, all-inclusive experiences really do fill a pressing travel need – an experience that feels elevated and special, but is also easy to plan and close to home.
Earlier this month, Journey Beyond appointed Roland Ah Chee to a newly created role guiding how the experiential tourism group partners with Traditional Owners and First Nations communities across its national footprint. Read more about that here.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Journey Beyond and Voyages’ first collaboration hints at a bigger opportunity: connecting Australia’s iconic destinations into seamless journeys while meeting growing demand for authentic, premium domestic experiences. Expect more to come.
