NORWEGIAN Cruise Line (NCL)has noted a “last minute boost to sales for its 2019 departures” following the Morrison Government being returned to office in the last Federal Election. NCL Senior Vice President and Managing Director Asia Pacific Steve Odell told Cruise Weekly the perceived hit to its key retiree/baby boomer...
NORWEGIAN Cruise Line (NCL)has noted a “last minute boost to sales for its 2019 departures” following the Morrison Government being returned to office in the last Federal Election.
NCL Senior Vice President and Managing Director Asia Pacific Steve Odell told Cruise Weekly the perceived hit to its key retiree/baby boomer demographic under proposed Labor Party policies caused a “slowdown” in the lead up to the election, as potential cruisers tightened their purse strings.
“The return of the existing Government means that from an economic outlook stand point the perception is things will remain ‘business as usual’, giving customers confidence to move forward with their travel plans,” Odell said.
“Bookings have now spiked… especially for our Hawaii and Europe itineraries,” he added.
Odell said that the brand had also seen forward bookings firm up for 2020 and 2021 seasons across all three of its sectors; contemporary, upper premium and luxury.
The rebound coincides with NCL’s recent push on the Asia Pacific market, expanding its regional operations from one office in Sydney to eight across Asia Pacific, now employing close to 200 staff.
Meanwhile NCL is advising local trade partners there will be a booking system upgrade this Sun 02 Jun from 11am (AEST) until Mon, 03 Jun at 1am.
