#United States #H.I.G. Capital #Fort Lauderdale #Cruise Industry #Shore Excursions Group

H.I.G. Capital Acquires Shore Excursions Group

H.I.G. Capital, a globally recognized alternative investment firm managing $71 billion, has completed the acquisition of Shore Excursions Group, a prominent name in the cruise travel sector. Established in 2008, Shore Excursions Group specializes in offering unique, onshore tours for cruise passengers, marking its position as the largest independent provider of such services worldwide.

Headquartered near Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Shore Excursions Group has successfully conducted over five million tours across numerous ports, making it a household name among cruise passengers seeking personalized experiences. The company collaborates with vetted local operators to provide an extensive selection of over 4,000 customized excursions, ensuring that travelers can explore major cruise destinations authentically.

The acquisition is poised to leverage H.I.G.'s expertise in scaling consumer and technology-oriented businesses, highlighting a vision for growth, enhanced technology, and enriched service offerings in the travel industry. In a statement regarding the acquisition, Paul Kiritsy, CEO of Shore Excursions Group, expressed enthusiasm about the future: “With H.I.G.'s support, we are well-positioned to enhance and expand our offerings and deepen our relationships across the travel ecosystem.”

As tourism trends shift towards more authentic experiences, passengers are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional cruise line excursions. Shore Excursions Group has filled this gap, catering to the growing demand for unique local experiences through a robust network of partnerships and a commitment to service excellence. Their proprietary booking platform further enhances customer experience by simplifying the travel planning process.

Tyler Levin, Managing Director at H.I.G., commented on the strategic advantage of this acquisition, noting that Shore Excursions Group's established reputation presents exciting growth potential. He stated, “We are eager to work with Paul and his team to accelerate growth, invest in technology and product innovation, and continue delivering exceptional service to the Company's global customer base.”

This acquisition aligns with H.I.G. Capital's strategic focus on investments that allow for operational improvement in the service sector. With over 400 companies in their portfolio since its inception in 1993, H.I.G. has a proven track record in nurturing businesses to reach their full potential through both equity and debt investments.

As the cruise industry gradually recovers post-pandemic, the collaboration between H.I.G. Capital and Shore Excursions Group promises to elevate the travel experience for countless consumers. It represents a significant move not just for both companies but for the cruise travel market as well, setting a new standard for excursion offerings.

For more details about Shore Excursions Group, visit shoreexcursionsgroup.com. If you're curious about H.I.G. Capital's investment strategy and portfolio, you can find more at hig.com.

This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for both entities, establishing a road map for future success in a rapidly evolving travel landscape. As H.I.G. Capital embarks on this transformative journey with Shore Excursions Group, it undoubtedly aims to reshape the way cruise passengers engage with their destinations, fostering memorable and fulfilling travel experiences.