SeaLink Sydney’s Captain Cook Cruises has been awarded GOLD in the “Major Tour & Transport Operators” category at the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards 2024 in Sydney last Thursday, reaffirming its position as a trailblazer in Australian tourism.
With over 50 years of operation, Captain Cook Cruises has continually set new benchmarks for harbour cruising, becoming a cornerstone of Sydney’s visitor’s economy. This accolade underscores Captain Cook Cruise’s unwavering commitment to delivering world-class experiences that celebrate the magic of one of the world’s most iconic harbours.
Nick Lester, General Manager of SeaLink Sydney, credited the win to the team’s dedication:
“Our team at Captain Cook Cruises works tirelessly to ensure every guest experiences the magic of Sydney Harbour. This award is a testament to their passion for excellence and creating unforgettable memories. For over five decades, we have been proud custodians of Sydney’s tourism story, and this recognition inspires us to continue raising the bar.”
SeaLink Marine & Tourism CEO Donna Gauci also praised the win, noting:
“This award highlights the brilliant experiences Captain Cook Cruises creates on Sydney Harbour, combining world-class service with a unique perspective of one of the world’s most iconic destinations. I’m incredibly proud of the team for their unwavering commitment to excellence and providing experiences that captivate visitors from around the world.”
A Commitment to Excellence, Sustainability, and Inclusivity
This prestigious recognition highlights Captain Cook Cruises’ focus on innovation, sustainability, and personalised guest experiences. The company prioritises environmental stewardship, offering sustainable seafood, Australian wines and beers alongside French Champagne – always sourcing locally wherever possible.
Captain Cook Cruises is also a proud supporter of environmental initiatives such as The SeaBin Project and actively integrates First Nations history and culture into its offerings, presenting a broader narrative of Australia through its harbour experiences.
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of Captain Cook Cruises’ operations, epitomised by the “The Harbour Belongs to Us All” campaign. This initiative ensures that cruising on Sydney Harbour is safe and accessible for everyone, including individuals with wheelchairs, walking aids, or low vision. Captain Cook Cruises believes that everyone deserves the transformative experience of a day on Sydney Harbour, making it a welcoming journey for guests from around the globe.
A Legacy of Service Excellence
This recognition adds to Captain Cook Cruises’ impressive legacy, including receiving the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2024, marking the 13th consecutive year of achieving this global honour.
Captain Cook Cruises owes much of its success to its loyal and experienced team. Remarkably, 54% of full-time employees have been with the organisation for over 20 years, creating continuity that fosters exceptional service and a personal connection with returning guests. Whether it’s a familiar Captain or the talented chefs crafting memorable onboard cuisine, the team’s expertise sets the company apart.
This Gold award will see two SeaLink Marine & Tourism businesses compete at the national Tourism Awards, set to take place in Adelaide, South Australia in. Captain Cook Cruises Sydney will represent New South Wales, while the Murray Princess, which won the same category in last month’s South Australian Tourism Awards, will represent South Australia.
“Having both Captain Cook Cruises Sydney and the Murray Princess representing SeaLink Marine & Tourism on the national stage is a brilliant testament to the dedication and excellence of our teams. Additionally, with two of our businesses earning Silver in their respective State Tourism Awards, this year’s results highlight the passion and commitment to showcasing Australia’s top holiday destinations,” Ms Gauci said.
Leading the Way in Australian Tourism
This Gold Award reinforces Captain Cook Cruises’ leadership in redefining Sydney Harbour experiences. From its sustainability initiatives to its inclusive practices and innovative storytelling, the company remains a beacon of excellence in the tourism industry.
As it celebrates this remarkable achievement, Captain Cook Cruises looks forward to continuing its mission of creating unforgettable journeys on Sydney Harbour for years to come.
For more information or to book your unforgettable Sydney Harbour experience, visit Captain Cook Cruises Sydney.
