Registration is now open for the 27th Australian Cruise Association Conference & AGM, Anchoring Success Across Every Region, taking place in Fremantle, Western Australia, from 3 – 5 September 2025.  

 

We are pleased to announce an exciting first line up of keynote speakers with both domestic and international knowledge who possess a real capacity to influence deployments, further develop destination management and deliver on sustainability.

 

Debbie Holbrook, Director of Deployment and Itinerary Planning, Princess Cruises

 

As Director of Deployment & Itinerary Planning at Princess Cruises, Debbie oversees the strategic deployment and itinerary planning for the Princess fleet of 17 ships including their newest Sphere LNG class, Sun and Star Princess. This includes launching over 650 voyages, carrying over 1.8 million passengers annually.

 

Debbie began her career working in International Marketing at Universal Pictures and joined Princess nearly two decades ago. She initially worked in revenue management before discovering her passion for itinerary planning. As a dedicated community leader, Debbie serves on the Princess Cruises Community Foundation and enjoys supporting local charitable events and serving on nonprofit boards.

 

 

Robert de Bruin, Director of Deployment and Itinerary, Holland America Line

 

Born and raised in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Robert completed a Technical and Nautical Degree from at the Rotterdam Nautical College before joining Holland America Line, sailing as both a deck and safety officer for six years. Since 2016, Robert has been shoreside, involved in all aspects of worldwide itinerary development, first for Seabourn and now Holland America Line—including luxury small ship itineraries, expedition voyages, and world cruises.

 

Robert’s expertise, experience and nautical knowledge enable him to bring a unique mindset to the itinerary planning process.

 

Christine Manjencic, Vice President Destination Services, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings 

 

As a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience in travel, tourism, and sales, Christine has built a career around delivering exceptional luxury service experiences and driving strategic growth. She has led high-performing teams across tourism, sales, and destination creation, with a focus on developing unique land programs and special events tailored for luxury clientele. Christine’s passion lies in creating unforgettable experiences while optimizing revenue and fostering strong, mutually beneficial partnerships with vendors and service providers. 

 

Christine is dedicated to mentoring and motivating skilled professionals, cultivating collaborative and innovative work environments that thrive under her leadership.

 

 

The conference will again provide a valuable gathering of the minds to ensure a clear and determined focus on the next phase of cruise growth in our region and explore the means to maximise positive opportunities for cruise visitation across our destinations.

 

We encourage conference guests to make the most of their visit by taking the opportunity to explore the vibrant port city of Fremantle during their stay. Plan your visit here. For those extending their trip, there’s no shortage of incredible sights and experiences to discover across Western Australia. Start exploring here.

 

The Australian Cruise Association extends a warm invitation to both our members and stakeholders to the 2025 Conference and AGM.  

 

We look forward to seeing you in Fremantle!

 

View the Preliminary Program

 

Contact Details

Select Your Registration

AMOUNT
900.00
TOTAL
AMOUNT
1,100.00
TOTAL

AMOUNT
1,100.00
TOTAL
AMOUNT
1,300.00
TOTAL

Tour Options

Fremantle Ports Tour including visit to local brewery

Sep 03, 2025 | 1300 - 1600
AMOUNT
60.00
TOTAL

Fremantle Ports

All visiting cruise ships berth at the Fremantle Passenger Terminal, Australia's largest cruise terminal, or at D Berth. The terminal has undergone significant upgrading in recent years. The work is respectful of the heritage significance of this Victoria Quay landmark and has improved security and visitor amenity.

Little Creatures Brewery

Brewery Tours at Little Creatures are fun and interactive. Led by one of our resident hop heads, you’ll get your hands on the quality raw ingredients we use from toasted malts to hops from around the world. As you wander through the brewery, you’ll learn about the different phases of the brewing process while the team recount the journey of Little Creatures, from the Fremantle America’s Cup and a crocodile farm, the Little Creatures migration over East to Geelong… and now owner operated brewpubs all around the world. Finish with a guided tasting of the full range of Little Creatures brews including any specialty ales that are currently pouring.

Itinerary

1.00pm Depart by coach from Esplanade Hotel Fremantle foyer 

1.15pm Fremantle Ports Tour hosted by Thor Elliott, General Manager (Scenic Eclipse 11 is scheduled to be in Port)

2.00pm Depart by coach to Little Creatures for Tour, Tasting and Nibbles.

4.00pm Return to Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by coach

Fremantle Prison Tour including lunch at Tonic + Ginger

Sep 03, 2025 | 1300 - 1600
AMOUNT
70.00
TOTAL

Fremantle Prison – Convict Prison Tour

Discover the history of UNESCO World Heritage listed Fremantle Prison from its construction in the 1850s until the end of the convict era in 1886. Find out why Fremantle Prison is a heritage site with exceptional cultural heritage significance at a state, national and international levels. It is the most intact of all Australian convict sites. Discover why almost 10,000 men were transported from Great Britain and Ireland, how they built their own prison and helped shape the future of Western Australia. Learn about our history through their stories.

Tonic & Ginger, The Old Synagogue

The Old Synagogue was built in 1902 making it Western Australia’s first synagogue, and today, it's home to four unique hospitality venues, on a state heritage listed site ingrained in Fremantle’s history. Tonic + Ginger does south east Asian fusion in a larger than life way!

Itinerary

1.00pm Depart Esplanade Hotel Fremantle aboard coach

1:10pm Coach arrives Tonic & Ginger at The Old Synagogue for lunch - a selection of shared mains and a house wine, beer or soft drink

2:10pm Depart by coach to Fremantle Prison

2:20pm Arrive Fremantle Prison

2:30pm Fremantle Prison Convict Prison Tour Commences

3:45pm Tour concludes and return by coach to Esplanade Hotel Fremantle

4:00pm Arrive back at Esplanade Hotel Fremantle

Fremantle Cultural Tour | Explore Truth-Telling in Walyalup

Sep 03, 2025 | 1430 - 1600
AMOUNT
100.00
TOTAL

Immerse yourself in a multi-sensory, Truth-Telling Walking Tour in Fremantle delivered by In Culture Tours. This 90-minute transformative tour involves a sight-seeing journey around iconic locations, while giving you the opportunity to hear a side of history that can’t be found anywhere else.

Proud Whadjuk man, Steven Jacobs, will enrich your understanding of the Noongar culture by including a Welcome to Country and Sand Ceremony at Bather’s Beach. Steven shares Dreamtime stories and teaches the significance of the Whaler’s Tunnel, the importance of Country, and traditional bush foods and medicine.

Itinerary

2.30pm Depart from Esplanade Hotel Fremantle foyer on foot

Distance: 1km. Mostly flat ground, some sand and steps.

4.00pm Return to Esplanade Hotel Fremantle on foot

 

Fremantle Hidden Gems Tour

Sep 03, 2025 | 1330 - 1530
AMOUNT
25.00
TOTAL

Itinerary

1:30pm Depart Esplanade Hotel Fremantle on foot for a guided walking tour of the historic port city of Fremantle. 

3:30pm Return to Esplanade Hotel Fremantle on foot.

Ticket fee will be donated in full to St Pat's Community Support Centre to provide support for people facing homelessness in Perth's south metro region. 

Functions

Welcome Function - Gage Roads Freo

Kick off the conference with waterfront views, local brews and warm Fremantle hospitality at this iconic venue.
Sep 03, 2025 | 1700 - 1900

Members’ Dinner - Emily Taylor

An intimate dinner experience at one of Fremantle’s award-winning dining spots, showcasing bold Asian flavours and vibrant conversation.
Sep 03, 2025 | 1915 - 2200
AMOUNT
95.00
TOTAL
AMOUNT
95.00
TOTAL

Conference Gala Dinner - Freo Social

Get ready to let your hair down (or rock a wig) as we turn up the volume for a night to remember at Freo Social, one of Fremantle’s most iconic live music venues. This year’s Gala Dinner theme is Classic Rock, so dust off your denim, leather jackets, band tees and big hair - or channel your inner Bowie, Jagger, or Joan Jett. Whether you're a fan of Fleetwood Mac, AC/DC or Queen, this is your chance to go all out and embrace the spirit of rock 'n' roll. And where better to celebrate than Fremantle, the home of legendary AC/DC frontman Bon Scott. Fremantle lives and breathes rock history, and the energy of its musical roots will be in full swing. The night will feature great food, live entertainment and plenty of opportunities to hit the dance floor. It's the perfect way to celebrate the industry, reconnect with colleagues, and soak up the laid-back, creative energy Fremantle is famous for.
Sep 04, 2025 | 1830 - 2200
AMOUNT
170.00
TOTAL
AMOUNT
170.00
TOTAL

Conference Breakfast with Guest Speaker

Sep 05, 2025 | 0800 - 0930

Australian Cruise Association AGM & Member's Session

Sep 05, 2025 | 0930 - 1200

Accommodation

1st completed star out of 42nd completed star out of 43rd completed star out of 44th completed star out of 4

Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges

With a rich history dating back to 1850, the hotel is an iconic landmark in Western Australia, located right in the heart of Fremantle. The hotel's iconic location means guests can savour the culture and tradition of Fremantle, one of WA’s premier tourist destinations. The hotel site has been established since 1850 and the hotel pays tribute to the rich history of its building, whilst incorporating references to Fremantle as an iconic port city, creating an environment that is rich, warm and sophisticated for business and leisure travellers alike.

  • FULL
    Room Description
    Make our King Spa Rooms your home away from home. These spacious rooms feature a very comfortable king or queen size bed, balcony and spa bath for relaxation during your stay. The modern bathrooms include complimentary personal amenities and there are bathrobes on hand for your comfort. Our Fremantle accommodation is located right in the heart of this vibrant city within walking distance to all attractions and amenities. Or stay in and relax with the 50-inch ULTRA HD LCD television with Streamcast, 24-hour room service and unique mini bar offerings, as well as high-speed WI-FI and broadband internet. Facilities: Modern ensuite spa bath and complimentary personal amenities 50-inch ULTRA HD LCD television with Streamcast 24-hour room service and unique mini bar offerings High-speed WI-FI and broadband internet
  • FULL
    Room Description
    Stay in our comfortable Superior Pool View Rooms, with a balcony overlooking one of two tropical swimming pools. Each room is presented with simple yet elegant décor, a queen size bed and a modern ensuite with complimentary personal amenities. Our Fremantle accommodation is located right in the heart of this vibrant city within walking distance to all attractions and amenities. Or stay in and relax with the 50-inch ULTRA HD LCD television with Streamcast, 24-hour room service and unique mini bar offerings, as well as high-speed WI-FI and broadband internet. Facilities: Modern ensuite with complimentary personal amenities 50-inch ULTRA HD LCD television with Streamcast 24-hour room service and unique mini bar offerings High-speed WI-FI and broadband internet
  • FULL
    Room Description
    Great for work or play our comfortable Superior Rooms are presented with simple yet elegant décor, a queen size bed and a modern ensuite with complimentary personal amenities. Some rooms boast balconies overlooking Fremantle. Our Fremantle accommodation is located right in the heart of this vibrant city within walking distance to all attractions and amenities. Or stay in and relax with the 50-inch ULTRA HD LCD television with Streamcast, 24-hour room service and unique mini bar offerings, as well as high-speed WI-FI and broadband internet. Facilities: Modern ensuite with complimentary personal amenities 50-inch ULTRA HD LCD television with Streamcast 24-hour room service and unique mini bar offerings High-speed WI-FI and broadband internet

Transport 

Visitors to Perth will arrive via the state-of-the art Perth Airport that has recently undergone a $1 billion redevelopment, making it one of the most modern and efficient airports in the country. Perth Airport is Australia’s western hub providing a critical link to the rest of Australia and the world.

 

Fremantle is a 35 minute drive from the airport terminals, with taxis and Uber available at the terminal. A new Airport Line provides a fast connection to and from Perth Airport. Perth City Shuttle offer 24 hours airport shuttle services between Perth Airport and Fremantle as well as private airport transfers. 

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