Australia’s most awarded independent travel agency Bicton Travel celebrates 25 years today, marking a quarter of a century of delivering exceptional holidays to West Australians.

Managing Director Carole Smethurst founded Bicton Travel in 1998, and what started as a team of two quickly grew to become one of Australia’s most successful travel agencies.

Reflecting on this significant milestone, Carole Smethurst commented, “I am extremely proud to celebrate Bicton Travel’s 25^th birthday. Over the years, it has been so rewarding to see the business go from strength to strength and one that continues to be recognised as a leader in our industry.”

She continued, “And of course, we wouldn’t be here without our exceptional team and the continuous support of our clients, who put their trust in us to deliver their fantastic holidays year after year.”

Earlier this year, Bicton Travel took home the Small Cruise Agency of the Year award at the 2023 CLIA Awards, marking the company’s ninth category-winning award.

Realising early the appetite Australian’s have for cruising, Smethurst remains one of Australia’s foremost cruise experts. In 2016, her contribution to the cruise industry was formally recognised as she was inducted into the CLIA Hall of Fame. The same year, Smethurst was also named godmother of the luxury APT ship, the 158-passenger AmaStella.

In 2018, as a way to give back to the local community, Bicton Travel raised $50,000 for Camp Quality at their 20-year anniversary celebrations, a charity that provides help and support for children whose lives are affected by cancer.

This year has been an exceptional year of growth for Bicton Travel, with the agency acquiring Claremont Cruise and Travel Centre, establishing the brand’s second branch and continuing the business’s renewed focus on providing luxury and premium travel services.

Bicton Travel, Australia’s most awarded, independent travel agency has recently acquired Claremont Cruise and Travel Centre, from agency owner Lyn Murphy, effective July 2023.

The purchase of the agency supports Bicton Travel’s focus on providing luxury and premium travel services.

In addition, Claremont Cruise and Travel Centre will be able to leverage Bicton Travel’s industry expertise, and strong reputation for quality and customer service to continue providing top-quality travel services to customers.

Gemma Smith has been appointed manager of Claremont Cruise and Travel Centre. She brings over 30 years of retail travel industry experience in the Perth metro area to the company.

Well-established Claremont Cruise and Travel Centre will continue to operate under its current name, with its employees remaining in place. However, clients can expect to see new travel offerings within the branch as a result of the acquisition.

Learn more about Claremont Cruise & Travel Centre here.