53 lunch, do the sunset dinner outside Uluru, see the sunrise the next morning, get back on a plane and be back in Fremantle just after lunch.” Looking ahead, Gelineau advises destinations to think beyond individual calls and consider how they fit into regional itineraries. By working with neighbouring destinations, they can offer cruise lines complete itinerary concepts. “If you present an itinerary, you’ve done half the work for the cruise line,” says Gelineau. “Itinerary planners, especially for some of our global cruise lines, are looking at the world. By coming to the cruise lines with a potential itinerary, you can showcase your local regional knowledge and work together with other ports.” While Gelineau is clear that developing a destination isn’t a quick process, he sees it as a valuable opportunity for those willing to invest in the long term. “You’ve got to understand that you’re planting a seed,” says Gelineau. “You’ve got to fertilise and water that seed. And in two to three years, you’ll be able to reap the fruit from that plant.” Photo: Jason Gelineau “ You can’t sell a secret. Nothing beats meeting people in person at events”
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