Bilikiki move offers huge potential for SI dive tourism

In a move Tourism Solomons says will have major ramifications for the Solomon Islands dive industry, Honiara-based Bilikiki Cruises has joined resources with fellow liveaboard dive boat expert Emperor Divers.

Under the new arrangement, Bilikiki Cruises’ live-aboard cruise programs will now comprise part of the Singapore-based Emperor Divers’ existing international dive portfolio which includes Egypt, Indonesia and the Maldives.

Congratulating Bilikiki Cruises on the move, Tourism Solomons CEO (Acting), Dagnal Dereveke said the Solomon Islands reputation as a world-class dive offering is already well established with the international SCUBA community.

“But this arrangement has the potential to take that reputation to a whole new level,” he said.

“Our region’s rich marine biodiversity, coupled with the historic World War II wrecks scattered across its waters, makes the Solomon Islands  a highly sought-after destination for divers globally.

“The dive sector is incredibly important to our overall tourism offering, both culturally and economically, with SCUBA enthusiasts comprising a key component of our overall annual international visitation intake.

“So the new partnership with Emperor Divers, with its established reputation in international markets, its extensive network and marketing channels, creates a huge opportunity for the Solomon Islands to strengthen and broaden its worldwide appeal.”

In a joint statement with Emperor Divers, Bilikiki Cruises’ managing director, Sam Leeson the company was delighted to have linked up with Emperor Divers to create this new working relationship.

“The chance to work with such a prominent organisation in the liveaboard industry is a great opportunity for us,” Mr Leeson said.

“Very little will change in the day-to-day running of Bilikiki as our existing management and staff will keep doing the tremendous work they have been doing for years.

“However, it offers a superb opportunity to spread the word about our beautiful boat and hopefully bring new visitors to experience the magical diving available in the Solomon Islands.”