Island Cruises future still undecided

**Ally** · 03-07-2008, 09:02 AM

Quote:

Discussions about the future of Island Cruises are ongoing, but no decision about the line’s future is imminent, according to sales director Leslie Peden.

Island was set up as a 50:50 joint venture between First Choice and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, which still owns its newest ship, Island Star, formerly Celebrity Horizon.

Following the merger of First Choice and Tui Travel last year the future of the line has been unclear, with Tui already operating Thomson Cruises, a competitor to Royal Caribbean.

Peden said Thomson and Island offer very different products and there was space in the market for both.

“We have got a business plan in place and we are sticking to that agenda. There is no pressure to make a decision. We are continuing to prosper as a business and we are making money.

“It is business as usual. Discussions are ongoing with the two major shareholders.”

Peden said the line’s first Caribbean winter season in 2008-09 was 50% sold and was driving growth, as were efforts to broaden its UK distribution from predominantly the multiples.

Caribbean cruises have proved particularly popular in the south of England and has forced Island to add a second charter flight from Gatwick, the first being 90% sold.

Island future is undecided - Travel Trade Gazette