The latest survey of travel trade professionals has revealed huge demand for more African routes.
Initial findings from the Expedition Cruise Network’s (ECN) inaugural annual survey has revealed 70% of the group’s cruise line members have seen growth in sales this year. Most respondents said they would like to see Africa included on more expedition itineraries with 40% naming the continent as a favourite, followed by the Indian Ocean (35%) and Asia (27%).
Appetite for expedition cruises ‘unprecedented’
ECN chair Martin Johnson said the appetite and the enthusiasm for the Expedition sector is unprecedented. “Our expedition operator members provide utterly incredible experiences by providing unrivalled access to destinations well off the beaten track and in so doing create natural ambassadors for sustainability by showcasing fragile environments in a sensitive way,” he added.
ECN believes the expedition cruise market has presented the travel trade with an “enormous opportunity” to boost its overall cruise business sales.
Providing support so agents can increase sales
To help agents capitalise on the growing market, the Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) has launched a dedicated online training hub, which features 100 training videos from the group and its members.
Exciting news for Ilha de Mozambique
We are confident that more African cruise routes will inevitably lead to more ships visiting 'Ilha'. For centuries Ilha has provided an important maritime trade and cultural link between Africa and Asia and this will continue as the island host an increasing number of Expedition ships.
For Expedition ship planners UNESCO World Heritage Ilha de Mozambique is a friendly "off the beaten track" jewel in the Indian Ocean. A well managed destination and a welcome port of call mid-way along the East African coastline. Its an obvious choice for expedition ships.
BZ Gearing up to provide more shore excursions
Blue Zissou with our partner Ilha Blue are already building more capacity in anticipation of this increased demand. Employing and training local men and women to provide sustainable and immersive shore excursions to a high standard to satisfy the most curious and discerning guests on a 1 or 2 day stop over.
Read the orginal ECN post on linkedin
