Cruise reputation in focus at C360

LAST Fri’s Cruise360 conference in Sydney featured a reputation management panel which tackled big issues facing the perception of the cruise industry.

Participants covered how agents could address client concerns, such as debunking norovirus myths and explaining the seriousness of shipboard crime.

Carnival Cruise Line vp Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke emphasised the importance of “building a reputation for ourselves in the marketplace as a safe, secure and fun vacation choice”.

The panel also discussed man overboard incidents.

“I think the biggest myth when it comes to man overboard is this idea that someone fell off the ship,” said Megan King, CLIA global svp communications.

“What we all know...is that in many cases it’s a sad situation and in other cases, it’s just sheer stupidity - people wanting selfies while standing on a rail or doing silly things off a balcony.”

The panel explored cruise’s impact on the environment and culture and explored various cruise line sustainability efforts.

Vandekreeke explained bringing ships to small islands helped create jobs and increase interest in culture from the local youth.

“They believe that cruise tourism is saving their culture, not destroying it,” she said.

Overtourism was also discussed, with the panel saying it was in the industry’s interest to maintain thriving communities.

Pictured are Megan King and Peter Kollar, CLIA; Chris Hall, Primary Communication; Jennifer Vandekreeke, Carnival; and NSW Marine Area Command detective chief inspector Todd Cunningham.