‘The brand has changed a lot and we want agents who have not been on board for the past few years, or even at all, to take advantage of Pacific Explorer being here. We will have three or four opportunities for them to do so over the next five years.’

A small trade group had time on the vessel on Friday, but Clark says future ship inspections will cater for larger numbers.

President of Carnival Australia and P&O Cruises Australia, Marguerite Fitzgerald was in Auckland on Friday and says some 40,000 passengers, mostly Kiwis, will cruise on Pacific Explorer this winter.

The ship has 20 itineraries over the five months, taking in the Pacific and also cruising around New Zealand.

Fitzgerald’s key message to travel agents is to start booking clients into 2024 and even 2025 now.

‘We’ve almost sold out for 2023 so they should make sure their clients don’t miss their opportunity next year.

‘With the cost of airfares continuing to rise, guests travelling on Pacific Explorer will experience an affordable way of travelling to the Pacific islands and around Aotearoa, all from the doorstep in Auckland.’

• Kathryn Robertson, Carnival Australia and... Kathryn Robertson, Carnival Australia and...
• Julia Hindman, Flight Centre; Jeff... Julia Hindman, Flight Centre; Jeff...
• Jono Norton, Flight Centre; Belinda... Jono Norton, Flight Centre; Belinda...
• Michelle Halliday, Creative Cruising; Darlene... Michelle Halliday, Creative Cruising; Darlene...
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