Bratton optimistic on Kimberley ’21
PONANT Asia-Pacific Chair Sarina Bratton believes the cruise industry will be successful in operating a Kimberley expedition season this year, after it spent the last 12 months grappling with officialdom on both sides of the Tasman.
Bratton’s experiences, including her reaction to the shock 11thhour decision by Immigration New Zealand authorities to deny visas to two-thirds of the crew on board Le Laperouse early last month (CW 04 Feb) - are detailed in an extensive cover story published in this month’s issue of Cruise Weekly’s sister publication, travelBulletin (pictured).
She cited “encouraging support from certain governments” for a resumption, which is seen as paving the way for the rest of the industry, confirming active discussions are underway with state and federal governments by Cruise Lines International Association and other stakeholders, including Ponant, with the Australian Department of Health understood to be working on a formal framework for the resumption of cruising.
“This staged approach will allow the states and territories to make independent decisions on the scale of operations that they are comfortable to support, with very strict health protocols and risk mitigation,” Bratton told CW.
Expedition cruising in particular is seen as a way forward, with Australian officials perceiving it as a more manageable starting point.
Despite small passenger numbers, destinations which have had no cruise visitation for the last year are eager to welcome arrivals, particularly from the high-yielding expedition sector.
In spite of the shock decision which forced the last-minute cancellation of Ponant’s New Zealand season, Bratton continues to believe NZ will be a part of the line’s itineraries in the future, but perhaps not this year.
“In the short term, I am more concerned about the damage that NZ has done to themselves with the global cruising community.
“We need a whole-of-industry approach to the NZ Government to establish a clear consultation process and map a way forward,” Bratton said, adding: “I’m very concerned about whether there will be a 2021/22 season operating [in New Zealand].”
“Immigration NZ’s current processes do not work for the cruise industry,” she said.
“Unless these are changed, it will be difficult for the industry to resume activity in the country.”
However, Ponant is keen on New Zealand long-term, with Bratton adding, “we want to be in NZ and share the country’s beauty with many.”
The full story can be seen in this month’s issue of travelBulletin - travelbulletin.com.au.