The voyage of Cruise Travelers Consumer Research commenced on February 3rd, 2023, marking an important step for Vanuatu's tourism industry. In a collaborative effort, the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) has partnered with the Department of Tourism (DoT), Vanuatu Bureau of Statistics (VBoS), Reserve Bank of Vanuatu (RBV), and the Vanuatu Skills Partnership (VSP) to steer this insightful journey.
Port Vila, a bustling hub frequented by cruise ships, has been chosen as the starting point for this research. With an eye on the cruise schedule for February 2023, this strategic location promises a wealth of cruise travelers to participate.
The research's focal point is the 'Free Independent Travelers' (FITs), those intrepid cruise visitors who curate their own pre-arrival and post-arrival experiences in Port Vila. To engage with this group, QR codes are dispensed to cruise visitors at the VTO Travel & Information Centers, strategically positioned at the wharf and downtown Port Vila.
The mission of the Cruise Travelers Consumer Survey is to gather feedback and gauge the sentiments of consumers regarding their holistic encounters with Port Vila's tourism offerings. This encompasses evaluations of tours, transportation, destinations visited, artisanal creations, local products, dining establishments, the warmth of Port Vila's hospitality, overall satisfaction levels, and crucially, insights into the spending patterns of FITs.
To ensure a comprehensive understanding among FITs, an informative video has been crafted, spotlighting the significance of participating in the survey. This endeavor aligns seamlessly with the Vanuatu Sustainable Cruise Tourism Development Plan, aimed at fortifying the nation's cruise market.
Warren Gama, the VTO Business Intelligence Manager, underscores the necessity of evaluating marketing endeavors and tourism services through astute consumer research. He emphasizes that such endeavors are pivotal in enhancing visitor experiences and shaping decisions.
The survey, steered by the VTO Business Intelligence Program, will generate data analysis and reports biannually. These insights will be shared not only with industry peers but also with valued partners and government stakeholders.
Adela Issachar Aru, the CEO of VTO, underscores the importance of this initiative in the rejuvenation of Vanuatu's tourism sector. She articulates how each interaction, domestic or international, contributes to the nation's tourism rebirth. By harnessing the power of data, Vanuatu aims to refine its offerings and establish itself as a captivating destination for all.
As the research sets sail, Vanuatu's dedication to improving its tourism landscape becomes evident. By aligning itself with traveler feedback, the nation embarks on a transformative journey to redefine its allure on the global stage.
Link to site: https://www.dailypost.vu/news/cruise-travelers-consumer-research-kicks-off/article_3bcc9934-5a0a-53fb-9065-b4cd57866d2a.html