91 also providing enough space to allocate to passengers.” With Connemara now an integral part of the fleet, Bluebridge anticipates a record year ahead. “We expect to take approximately 400,000 passengers across the Cook Strait in 2024, up 80,000 from what we would have expected from before acquiring Connemara,” says Dady. “I then expect us to continue expanding our share of both the freight and passenger markets even further in the following years.” To maintain this success and retain a competitive edge over Interislander on the Wellington-Picton route, Bluebridge must present its service as a distinct experience, Dady explains. “We have to provide key areas of differentiation to demonstrate our value,” he says. “To achieve that, we focus on what we can offer to our customers rather than using our competition as a benchmark. For example, people want a private space, so we’ve invested heavily in promoting cabins to provide a comfortable experience in a way that our competitor doesn’t. We’ve leveraged our cabins to provide a fantastic product for passengers.” Bluebridge is also improving the online ticket reservation experience by implementing Hogia Ferry Systems’ Bookit system. The booking system handles the complete booking process and also allows Bluebridge to sell closely related products, such as onboard services and accommodation. Dady, who first “ We deliver a great customer experience through the friendliness and authenticity of our staff” Photos: Strait NZ Acquiring Connemara has allowed StraitNZ to increase the number of passengers it takes across the Cook Strait
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzQ1NTk=