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Eurobodalla Coast Tourism is hosting the training session to allow workers to brush up on their customer service skills before the first cruise ship anchors in Eurobodalla waters next month.

Eurobodalla Coast Tourism manager John Pugsley said the training session was one way to ensure retail and hospitality staff have the knowledge and customer service skills to guarantee the visitors had a great few days.

“These first two cruise ships present a once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunity for Batemans Bay,” he said.

“Smaller ports such as ours are not usually on the cruise ship radar as regular ports of call, so it’s vitally important the operational process runs smoothly and the passengers and crew enjoy their few days in Batemans Bay.

“The cruise ships will be looking for feedback and will use that to determine if they revisit. Batemans Bay is seen as a destination that can offer international passengers a ‘real Australia’ experience, away from the cities.”

The World’s 450 passengers and 250 crew are only a small group compared to the larger numbers we will see in Batemans Bay in March when Volendam anchors, carrying up to 1400 passengers and more than 500 crew.

This month’s information session will run from 6pm to 8pm, with free refreshments available.

Anyone interested in participating should RSVP by November 26 on 4472 6900.

The training session will cover operational details about the ship’s anchoring and time in Batemans Bay, along with customer service.

The operational details will include when the ships arrive, how passengers get in, how long they will be here, where they have come from, and what tours are being pre-booked on board.

The customer service component will help session attendees understand what the cruise ship patrons and crew will expect in terms of service, what the crew want, why and how they are different to usual visitors and how to ensure they spend as much money as possible.

“They will expect to meet and chat with locals, be welcomed and be able to shop, eat and see a bit of the area in their short stay,” Mr Pugsley said.

“It’s important that everyone in Batemans Bay who may come in to contact with these visitors is ready to be friendly, helpful and able to answer any questions.”