Business Talk – Cruises International CEO Marco Cristofoli on the rise of cruise-based corporate events
In this Business Talk with Michael Avery interview, Cruises International CEO Marco Cristofoli highlights the rise of cruise-based corporate events and explains how they have made it easier for consumers to book trips.
Cruises International is part of the Bidvest Group and has been South Africa’s leading cruise specialist operator for over three decades.
Cristofoli took the helm in 2020 after a seasoned career in the travel industry with extensive experience in negotiation, sales, hospitality, event management, and tour operations.
He began his career at Rennies Travel in 1987, where he became the General Manager.
Cristofoli then worked as the General Manager for American Express Travel Services, the Director of Regional Sales for Southern Africa at Travelport, and the Managing Director at Harvey World Travel.
In 2017, he became the CEO of BCD Travel, before taking on his current position almost three years later.
Cristofoli holds a Management Advancement Postgraduate (MAP) from Wits University.
He is also an avid traveller who is passionate about making cruising accessible to African markets.
The interview
In this interview, Cristofoli begins by highlighting the growth and evolution of cruising in Southern Africa and explains how Cruises International has shaped that growth.
He unpacks Cruises International’s position in the market, discussing how it has been a gateway for transformative cruise experiences.
Cristofoli then turns to Cruises International’s revolutionary Meetings, Incentives, Conferencing, and Eventing (MICE) offering.
He details what it offers and explains why a corporate event at sea is a great experience.
Cristofoli also highlights how the onboard cruise experience caters to first-time cruisers, families, and leisure travellers who are on holiday or travelling the world.
Finally, Cristofoli talks about the future of cruising in Southern Africa.
Watch the full interview with Marco Cristofoli below.
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