Journey Beyond has closed its purchase of Kelsian’s national tourism portfolio, a deal that puts Sydney Harbor cruises, K’gari resorts, and a South Australia paddle-wheeler under the same owner as some of Australia’s best-known rail journeys.
The company announced the completion on Oct. 1. For advisors building Australia itineraries, the result is a single operator with product in five states and the Northern Territory, covering cruises, accommodations, tours, and marine operations.
Queensland accounts for the largest share of the additions. Journey Beyond picks up Kingfisher Bay Resort, K’gari Beach Resort, and K’gari Explorer Tours on K’gari (Fraser Island), along with Red Cat Adventures and Whitsunday Jetski Tours farther north.
In Sydney, the company takes over Captain Cook Cruises, The Jackson, and The Starship Group, all of which run harbor cruises and experiences. South Australia contributes the Murray Princess paddle-wheeler and Adelaide Sightseeing, while Western Australia adds Captain Cook Cruises Perth, Swan Valley Tours, and Bells Functions.
SeaLink’s operations will take on a new name, Island Connections. That brand will cover the Whitsundays, K’gari, and Bruny Island in Tasmania, plus Northern Territory services to the Tiwi Islands, Darwin-Mandorah, and Groote Eylandt.
Journey Beyond CEO Chris Tallent said the company plans to keep the acquired businesses’ identities intact.
“The portfolio is highly complementary to our existing experiences and gives our guests even more ways to explore Australia — whether that’s rail to reef, river to resort, or city to sea,” Tallent said. “We’re excited about what we can create together, while making sure the individual character and stories of these destinations and experiences remain at the heart of what we do.”
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