By now I am sure you have learned that the Federal Government has extended the restrictions on outbound travel until at least 17 September. This also includes continuing restrictions on the entry of cruise vessels within Australian Territory. Our industry has already endured 15 months of being unable to trade due to closure of International borders and we now face a further 3 months.
There are cruise lines waiting for the ‘green light’ to be able to enter Australian waters. Small ships with exciting itineraries around Australia, New Zealand, Subantarctic and Antarctica have been waiting for months with the expected opening up after 17 June. All now dashed as Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, indicated that the Government is pursuing an elimination strategy in relation to Covid-19.
Cruising is not only starting up in many places in the world now, but some cruise lines have been operating since last year. Have we heard of major covid incidences on these cruise lines? You can be sure we would have if there had been any. The Health and safety protocols in place on cruise lines is probably safer than many other places on the planet.
From an inside industry point of view, and as our audience is only industry people, I have taken the liberty to write this today just to let you know, if you do not already, the plight that our (collective) industry is in. I am not irresponsibly suggesting that the health and safety of Australians should come second, but surely a zero outcome as a target is a long way off. The continuation of no plan, no pathway forward is not only hurting our industry but frustrating Australian travellers. Our industry has been working very hard behind the scenes – backed by the industry’s extensive new global health protocols which are driving successful restarts in many other global markets. 40,000 emails have just been sent to state and federal MPs in an effort to launch a Set Sail Campaign. The Australian cruise community is extensive, supports 18,000 jobs and people’s livelihoods continue to be in jeopardy.
APT has authority to sail Caledonian Sky around Australia because it is an Australian owned company and fulfills the current required criteria. It carries 99 passengers and set sail this last week in the Kimberley. Fortunately for APT, Caledonian Sky is pretty full for this year. We have a couple of departures this year and many more for next year at a discount. With the pressure of Australians travelling domestically, there isn’t much discounted industry space available. However, a discount is better than none and we do our best to get you the best rates we can. There is a last minute Broome to Darwin on 29 Jun!?
APT – Australia sailings on Caledonian Sky
Prices are per person twin share
Broome / Darwin 9 nights 29 Jun Standard $12495, Yours $11399
Broome / Geraldton 10 nights 31 Aug standard $12795 for you $11680
Melbourne / Hobart 7 nights 17 Nov standard $9995, your price $9020
Broome / Darwin 2022 numerous deps 9 nights from $10020
Available ALL TIC members & travelling friends
Book Now
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