LATTE this week revealed Signature Travel Network had developed and launched a cruise program for travel advisors in Australia and New Zealand. The previous lack of a cruise program Down Under was no doubt a pain-point for potential new agencies considering joining the US-based consortia.

Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed cruising is finally back on the agenda for the nation.

Australian’s could be cruising from domestic ports before the end of the year, and even by Christmas, says Australian Minister for Health, Greg Hunt.

Virtuoso has reported improving signs of a recovery in the travel sector this year, buoyed by a strong rebound in hotel city stays, increasing traffic to Europe and growing confidence in the cruise sector.

Virtuoso Chairman Matthew Upchurch has called on the travel industry to pull together as a united front and “get cruise ships sailing again”.