The Port of Seattle’s tourism development manager, Chantelle Lusebrink, has returned to the US after what has been described as highly successful mission to Australia, including attending CLIA’s Cruise360 event.

Lusebrink said the visit furthers Seattle’s position as a premier cruise destination and gateway to Alaska.

Apart from CLIA’s Cruise360 event at ICC Sydney, Lusebrink’s visit included participation in agent training, and strategic networking with key industry partners.

“This mission has significantly strengthened our relationships in the Australian market,” Lusebrink said. “The enthusiasm we’ve seen from travel advisors and industry partners underscores Seattle’s growing appeal as both a destination and a gateway for Alaskan cruises.”

The success of this mission is expected to drive increased interest in Seattle and generate new opportunities for tourism growth in 2025 and beyond.

The mission was co-ordinated and delivered by the Port of Seattle’s Australian-based representative, Amanda McCoy from Linkd Tourism, who has represented the Port’s efforts in Australia and New Zealand for more than five years.

Highlights of the Mission

CLIA Cruise360 Panel Representation

Lusebrink represented ‘Destinations’ on a panel at CLIA’s Cruise360 event. This marks a shift in CLIA’s traditional focus, bringing destinations to the forefront alongside cruise lines. The event, CLIA’s largest to date, saw participation from 300 suppliers and 500 travel agents.

Agent Training Event

A unique, hands-on training session was conducted for 12 travel advisors aboard a whale watching cruise. The event successfully merged education about Seattle, Washington state, and Alaskan cruises with an immersive experience.

VIP Partner Networking

A strategic lunch event was held at Sydney Tower’s Infinity restaurant, chosen for its resemblance to Seattle’s Space Needle. The event gathered key cruise line directors, marketing managers, product managers, and media representatives, reinforcing Seattle’s importance in the market.

Chantelle Lusebrink at Cruise360 at ICC Sydney.

About the Port of Seattle

Founded in 1911 by a vote of the people as a special purpose government, the Port of Seattle’s mission is to promote economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.

The Port owns and operates Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Fishermen’s Terminal – home of the North Pacific fishing fleet – and public marinas. The Port also owns two cruise ship terminals, a grain terminal, real estate assets, and marine cargo terminals through its partnership in the Northwest Seaport Alliance.

Port operations help support nearly 200,000 jobs and US$7 billion in wages throughout the region. Over the next 13 years, the Port’s Century Agenda seeks to create an additional 100,000 jobs through economic growth while becoming the nation’s leading green and energy-efficient port.