Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will take centre stage at Cruise360 Australasia next month after being named headline partner of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) conference in Sydney.
The partnership builds on HKTB’s longstanding involvement with Cruise360 Australasia and follows the launch of its global “Only in Hong Kong (只在香港)” tourism campaign.
Australasia’s largest annual cruise industry event will return to the International Convention Centre Sydney on 17–18 September 2026 under the theme “Future Ready. Client Ready. Cruise Ready.”
The two-day program will combine conference sessions and professional development with an exhibition featuring CLIA cruise lines, destinations, suppliers and executive partners.
Hong Kong targets cruise trade growth
CLIA Executive Director in Australasia Joel Katz said HKTB’s first appearance as headline partner would put a spotlight on Hong Kong’s position as an international cruise gateway.
“Asia has rapidly become one of the top international cruise regions for Australian and New Zealand travellers, and Hong Kong is proudly among the most vibrant cruise destinations in the world,” Katz said.
“We’re delighted to welcome Hong Kong Tourism Board to the stage as Headline Partner for Cruise360 Australasia, and we look forward to introducing more CLIA travel advisors to opportunities that Hong Kong presents for their cruise clients.”
Australian and New Zealand arrivals rise
HKTB Director for Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific Karen Macmillan said the Cruise360 partnership formed part of broader trade activity supporting the “Only in Hong Kong” campaign.
Visitor arrivals to Hong Kong from Australia increased 20 per cent during the first half of 2026, while arrivals from New Zealand rose 13 per cent.
Macmillan said the organisation saw opportunities to use cruise tourism not only to attract visitors to Hong Kong, but also to encourage longer stays before and after a sailing.
“We look forward to showcasing how Hong Kong can add value to every cruise journey, whether as a port of call, pre-cruise stay or post-cruise destination,” she said.
Cruise360 puts advisors in focus
Cruise360 Australasia 2026 will focus on helping travel advisors navigate changes in cruise demand, capacity, products and consumer behaviour.
The program is designed for a market in which clients are increasingly informed and digitally enabled, with sessions aimed at giving advisors practical insights to remain relevant and commercially successful.
Limited tickets remain available exclusively to CLIA members.
