The cruise industry faces an uncertain future thanks to several high-profile COVID outbreaks including the Ruby Princess saga which claimed the lives of 28 people. With one in 17 Australians opting to cruise prior to the pandemic, Mr Katz says people are itching to get back onto ships and believes current international border restrictions could help boost tourism to regional Australia.
“That’s what we’re saying to the government, let’s work out what the framework is for cruise resumption so that all these Australians who are looking the pathway ahead can plan their lives.” “We have the opportunity, while our international borders are closed, to offer domestic cruising to the amazing ports and destinations right around Australia, our communities.