Grab yourself a coffee and catch up on today’s news in brief – the latest updates from the industry and everything you need to know in bite-size pieces.
Alaskan Airlines to buy Hawaiian Airlines
Alaska Airlines has announced it will acquire Hawaiian Airlines for USD$1.9 billion (approx AUD$2.85 billion) with both airlines retaining their individual brands operating under a single platform.
When finalised, the acquisition will result in a 365-airplane fleet covering 138 destinations, including Australia.
Emerald Cruises christens newest luxury yacht
Scenic Group Founder and Chairman Glen Moroney and Scenic Group Managing Director for the US Ken Muskat, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) President and CEO Kelly Craighead gathered in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Saturday 2 December to christenEmerald Cruises’ newest, warm water luxury yacht, Emerald Sakara.
The luxury yacht carries 100 guests in 50 deluxe staterooms and suites ranging from 17 square metres to 110.8 square metres – with 44 featuring large walk-out balconies. The open-air infinity pool is surrounded by lounge chairs and day beds ideal for relaxing and enjoying a cocktail from the nearby Aqua Café. A wellness deck complete with spa, infrared sauna and gym allows guests to keep focused on their health goals, while the top deck Sky Bar offers the ideal spot to watch the sun set. Located off the yacht’s stern, a marina platform boasts water toys galore—kayaks, standup paddleboards, snorkel equipment, SEABOBs and a giant trampoline available to guests when the platform is deployed. The extra-spacious La Cucina dining room specialises in fresh, seasonal cuisine with seating indoors as well as on the adjacent terrace, while the warm and welcoming Amici Lounge is a friendly place to gather and enjoy live music in the evenings. Finally, with 76 crew members onboard, guests can count on receiving attentive, personalised service.
Iconic Norah Head Lighthouse now available for stays
Reflections Holiday Parks has announced Norah Head Lighthouse on the NSW Central Coast as its newest accommodation offering. Together with the NSW Government and dedicated volunteers, Reflections says it has embarked on a mission to preserve this iconic landmark and provide an exceptional stay for visitors while contributing to the local community’s prosperity.
“We are thrilled to unveil the Norah Head Lighthouse accommodations, offering guests a unique chance to be part of history while relishing the stunning views and rich heritage of this remarkable site,” said Peter Chapman, CMO of Reflections Holiday Parks. “Our commitment extends beyond providing exceptional stays; we are dedicated to preserving the reserve’s legacy and nurturing a strong bond with the local community.”
The Head LightKeepers Quarters, accommodating up to 9 guests, boast panoramic ocean views from every window. With three spacious bedrooms elegantly furnished and a fully equipped kitchen, guests can savour the historical charm coupled with modern amenities. The Assistant LightKeepers Quarters, accommodating up to 8 guests, also offer picturesque ocean views and feature three beautifully decorated bedrooms, providing a soulful retreat steeped in history.
Both cottage types provide ample space for larger family gatherings or intimate getaways with friends, featuring verandahs adorned with BBQ facilities, perfect for soaking in breathtaking vistas while enjoying a meal with the family this summer.
TOP IMAGE: View from Cottage 1 Norah Head Lighthouse/Reflections Holiday Parks
IHG announces voco Gosford on the NSW Central Coast
IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced the signing of its seventh voco in Australasia, partnering with leading Sydney developer ALAND to open voco Gosford, on the NSW Central Coast, in early 2025.
voco Gosford will form part of Archibald by ALAND, a landmark mixed-use development precinct overlooking the magnificent Brisbane Water.Named after Archibald Acheson, the second Earl of Gosford, the development covers 5,656sqm and will include 320 residential apartments, a 130-room lifestyle hotel, a portfolio of impressive hospitality venues and a podium outdoor pool with swim-up bar.
The design-focused hotel will feature guest rooms of up to 41sqm and executive suites of up to 54sqm and an extensive hospitality offering with a street level pub and pizzeria, a rooftop sky bar and lounge on level 28, a signature restaurant under celebrity chef Dany Karam (former Executive Chef at the award-winning restaurant Black Bar and Grill in Pyrmont), a wellness centre and a total of 610sqm in conference and events facilities.
Thredbo holds Australia’s Best Ski Resort title for seventh straight year
Thredbo has been crowned ‘Australia’s Best Ski Resort’ for the seventh year in a row at the prestigious World Ski Awards.
Thredbo General Manager, Stuart Diver said the award is an honour.
“Our premium business model continues to give Thredbo a leading edge, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry here in Australia and around the world. Our 2023 award wins are a result of the hard work of so many and we’re extremely grateful for the support of our community and the guests who choose to visit Thredbo each winter.”.
Silversea AU & NZ sales team appointments
Silversea has announced a series of key appointments within its Australia and New Zealand sales team, headlined by the appointment of Cassandra Kerr to the role of Director of Sales. Kerr joined Silversea in April as Strategic Business Development Director APAC.
In her new role, Cassandra Kerr will lead the strategic direction of sales development and trade partnerships across Australia and New Zealand. “I am excited to step into this new challenge and work closely with our incredible team. The opportunity to contribute to Silversea’s growth in this region is something I am eagerly looking forward to,” shared Kerr.
Joining her team is Anoushka Kudav, who steps in as National Account Manager, Australia & New Zealand, bringing her rich sales and account management experience from various high-profile travel brands, and Nicole Buzelin, who has been internally promoted to Sales Manager for NSW/ACT after her successful tenure as Inside Sales Account Manager.
Barry Laasksonen continues his role as Sales Manager for VIC/TAS/SA, Sara Puglia as Sales Manager QLD/NT/WA, Mel Watson as Country Lead for New Zealand, and Jo Bingham as Inside Sales Account Manager.
