23 November 2011

Adelaide-based SeaLink Travel Group has become one of Australia’s most dynamic and fastest growing players in the tourism and transport industries after settling the purchase of iconic Sydney tourism operator Captain Cook Cruises this week.

The acquisition includes 15 vessels used to service Captain Cook Cruises’ flagship operations in Sydney Harbour, an accommodated paddle wheeler cruise operation on the River Murray in South Australia, related infrastructure, marina berths and licenses

SeaLink Travel Group Chairman Giuliano Ursini, who travelled to Sydney for the settlement, says the acquisition marks the beginning of an exciting period for the company.

“The purchase of Captain Cook Cruises adds to our group’s expanding range of tourism and ferry operations including Kangaroo Island SeaLink and most recently Sunferries Townsville – now known as SeaLink Queensland - cementing our position as one of Australia’s largest tourism companies,” he says.

“We have experienced a remarkable period of growth in 2011 and our latest purchase is not only an investment in the SeaLink Travel Group, but an investment in the future of Australia’s tourism industry.

“Sydney is the gateway of Australian tourism, and Captain Cook Cruises is the perfect vessel for cross-marketing SeaLink’s range of associated travel, marine transport and accommodation services to an international audience.”

SeaLink will now carry about 2 million ferry and cruise passengers a year in SA, Queensland and NSW and will add $33 million to SeaLink’s total annual revenue, taking it to around $100 million per annum.