Residential cruise start-up Crescent Seas will target Ultra High Net Worth (UHNW) travel advisors from key luxury travel consortia as it grows its sales network, newly appointed ANZ Brand Ambassador Jason Gelineau has confirmed.
Speaking to LATTE as Crescent Seas ramps up its presence in the local market, Gelineau explained that UHNW travel advisors from networks such as Virtuoso, Signature and Ensemble are firmly on the company’s radar, along with real estate agencies.
“They would have the qualified database of clients that would be interested in Crescent Seas (and the means),” he said.
Gelineau’s appointment as ANZ Brand Ambassador was announced earlier this month, following the launch of the venture in March this year. Having previously worked with residential cruise pioneer The World, he understands the intricacies of the residential cruise sector and sees it as an “attractive option” for “discerning” Australian and New Zealand markets.
“Australians have a strong affinity for both travel and lifestyle experiences,” he said. “With our growing High-Net-Worth population, there’s a natural appetite for unique opportunities that blend exploration with exclusivity.”
The concept of a luxury residential community at sea has great potential to resonate well with Aussies who already prioritise wellness, adventure and the freedom to travel the world in comfort. But there is still work to be done, according to Gelineau.
“The biggest challenge is that residential cruising is still a relatively new concept in our market,” he explained. “While Australians are seasoned cruisers, the idea of actually living at sea requires a shift in mindset. My role is to educate, inspire and demystify the offering, showing how Crescent Seas is not viable but also incredibly appealing as a lifestyle choice.”
As ANZ Brand Ambassador, Gelineau will focus less on transactional sales and more on building awareness of the Crescent Seas brand across Australia and New Zealand. “Of course, interest and uptake will be key measures of success, but the immediate priority is ensuring Crescent Seas is firmly on the radar of the right audiences,” he said.
He’ll do this by engaging with “valuable sales professionals” with access to UHNW individuals seeking this kind of lifestyle investment. “I’ll also be representing Crescent Seas at industry events and panels, sharing our vision and helping position Crescent Seas as the next evolution in luxury lifestyle residential living,” he added.
While he will continue with his broader consultancy work as Founder of JAG Hospitality, he identified Crescent Seas as a “priority brand” within his portfolio. “I’ll be dedicating meaningful time to ensuring we have the proper visibility, partnerships and conversations happening in the market,” he said.
