South African travellers, post pandemic, have started to book lengthier itineraries to newer and more exotic destinations, according to Riet Goetschalckx, Sales Director CEMEA at Oceania Cruises.
“By the end of the pandemic, our guests had waited three or even four years to take that bucket-list cruise, and this is exactly why we're seeing lengthier cruise options and more exotic itineraries topping travel wish lists,” said Goetschalckx.
“Passengers don’t want a flash-in-the-pan holiday, but rather to wring every bit of richness out of their experience and really savour the pleasure of travelling again.”
According to Goetschalckx, the longer cruises offer travellers the opportunity to visit multiple destinations without the need to book several flights and prepare extensive paperwork for visa applications. Despite the change in booking trends among South African travellers, she said the Mediterranean had always been a best seller in the market and was expected to remain as such.
Goetschalckx also remarked on the role the travel trade had played for Oceania Cruises, saying how important it had been to the company. She said more and more bookings were coming through travel agents, and South African travellers increasingly realised the need for an expert when booking a cruise.
“There is an overwhelming amount of information out there, so today’s travellers want someone to discuss the options with; someone with incredible knowledge of the product that can advise the best choice for their holiday needs and wish lists – personalising and tailormaking the holiday experience from start to finish.
“Our South African travel trade partners are invaluable in promoting and strengthening the Oceania Cruises brand locally while bringing in sales,” she said.
