Proud to be aboard Pride once again

NORWEGIAN Cruise Line’s Pride of America sailings in Hawaii are already performing at the same level as 2019 for the Australasian market, according to NCL CEO Harry Sommer, who is aboard the vessel this week with a number of key trade partners.

NCL is celebrating its “Great Cruise Comeback,” after being unable to sail for almost 500 days, with all 17 ships in the Norwegian fleet now sailing (CW 09 May).

Sommer told CW that the Aussie and Kiwi markets comprise the number two source for Pride of America guests, with the strong demand “very encouraging”.

Following Pride of America’s restart last month (CW 12 Apr), Sommer said strong demand for cruises all the way through to 2025 is being seen.

After a recent refurbishment, Pride of America has new carpets, upholstery, and wall coverings as well as updated menus and dining offerings.

Shore excursions are also being updated continually, aligning with a more sustainable and locally authentic approach, in addition to moving toward further environmental considerations.

Damian Borg, Australia/NZ Director of Sales, who’s pictured with Sommer, said the local travel trade is of significant importance to Norwegian, in both international and local cruising.

After factoring in inter-island airfares, accommodation, meals & entertainment, as well as simplicity & the week-long timeframe, the value proposition of Pride of America for Aussie and Kiwi travellers “absolutely defeats everything else,” Borg said.

He added agents need to be ready for the influx, saying “if you’re not talking to your customers now, someone else is.”