In a bold move highlighting the resilience and adaptability of the global travel sector, House of Travel Group is gearing up to navigate the flourishing waters of the cruise industry. With recent statistics from CLIA spotlighting an impressive 19% upswing in global cruise capacity slated for 2022-2028, it’s evident that the allure of cruise travel is far from waning.

Recognizing the unmissable opportunity, House of Travel has set sail with a pioneering cruise strategy, reaffirming its intent to remain at the forefront of this buoyant sector. Anchoring this ambitious blueprint is introducing a cohesive Cruise Product and Wholesale team. The man helming this pivotal armada is industry stalwart Jeff Leckey, now donning the title of General Manager Cruise – Australasia. Leckey’s illustrious career, boasting a commendable six-year stint that propelled House of Travel to the zenith of cruise retail in New Zealand by 2018, only strengthens the group’s position in this strategic move.

Bruce Parton, the formidable CEO of House of Travel New Zealand and Chair of its Australian counterpart, is fervent in his endorsement of Leckey. “Jeff’s unparalleled expertise will be the lighthouse guiding us through the vast ocean of cruise opportunities,” Parton remarked.

Yet, the excitement isn’t contained to New Zealand’s shores. Joe Araullo, CEO of House of Travel Australia, mirrors the enthusiasm, seeing the new strategy as a beacon of innovative product and marketing initiatives. “Our unwavering commitment to the cruise sector has laid the foundation. Now, it’s time to harness our collective prowess and steer towards untapped horizons,” Araullo asserts.

The revamp isn’t merely about high-profile appointments. TravelManagers’ Cruise Product Maestro Lia Malone will join this dynamic team, pledging her expertise to concoct outstanding cruise experiences. These endeavours will be showcased through the vast networks of travel advisors under the House of Travel and TravelManagers banners.

A buoyant Leckey, reflecting on the ensemble of cruise aficionados on board, stated, “The energy is palpable. Both Kiwis and Aussies have shown an insatiable appetite for cruise holidays, and we’re here to serve an experience unlike any other.”

As the cruise industry sails towards new horizons, House of Travel’s visionary strategy serves as a clarion call to all: the future of cruise travel is luminous, and they’re leading the way.

Written by: Michelle Warner

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