1. Cruise 101
What it means for our region
AQUILA ~ Canada New England Cruise Symposium

2. Cruise in Our Region
• Ships calling regularly since late 80’s
• Less than 40,000 cruisers in 1996 to over
400,000 today
• One of top 12 regions for cruising
worldwide
• Mass Market brings most cruises
• Small, luxury and expedition growing
AQUILA ~ Canada New England Cruise Symposium

3. Shore Excursions:
Important to the Cruise Lines
• One of the main revenue
generators
• Important for guest
satisfaction
• An extension of the
onboard experience
AQUILA ~ Canada New England Cruise Symposium

4. Shore Excursions:
Important to the Destination
• Showcases the best of the Destination
• Contributes to the Destination’s marketing
efforts with the cruise lines
• Greatly affects the Guest experience in the
Destination and Satisfaction Ratings
• Can impact future calls on the port
AQUILA ~ Canada New England Cruise Symposium

5. How Shore Excursions Work
• Tour Operators work with Local Suppliers to package
products into Shore Excursions
• Cruise Lines work with Tour Operators to build a
Shore Excursion program in a destination
• Cruise Lines sell the Shore Excursions to their guests
through their websites, reservation agents, and
onboard the ship during the cruise.
AQUILA ~ Canada New England Cruise Symposium

6. What Cruise Lines Look For from
a Shore Excursion?
• Products packaged into excursions
• Competitive pricing and exclusivity
• Highlight the culture, history, heritage and
key attractions
AQUILA ~ Canada New England Cruise Symposium

7. How do you get your product to
the Cruise Lines?
• Partner with other providers in your region to
develop an experience
• Partner with local tour operators to package your
product into an excursion
• Focus on marketing and building relationships
AQUILA ~ Canada New England Cruise Symposium