Tour Startup Case Study
Tourism Startup Case Study: Scaling a Private Tour Operator in Sydney
Objective
Our Tourism Startup Case Study project involved the development of a concept to provide private tours to overseas guests. Developing a premium private charter service for groups of up to 4 passengers.
Create visually appealing marketing material to showcase the destinations on offer with an emphasis on providing a personalised experience.
Challenges
Any new Business faces numerous challenges including those of unchartered territory. A little like putting together a jigsaw puzzle and having to invent the pieces as you go along.
Concept Development, What to sell, Where to advertise, what to charge are just some of the questions that need answers not to mention the technology that will be used to build it.
solution
Website Development & Booking Integration
Leveraging over 18 years of web development experience, we adapted a modern, performance-first WordPress site from the ground up. By optimising Rezdy for direct bookings, we resolved common canonical SEO conflicts, allowing guests to access real-time availability without sacrificing the website’s search authority. Working with a premium hosting provider, we further optimised the platform for 2026 security standards, automated backups, and technical SEO, ensuring a fast, secure, and high-converting experience for every traveller.
Videography + photography
The primary vision of this Tourism Startup Case Study project was to create a visually appealing campaign using cinematic video and high-resolution images to sell the experience. Beyond aesthetics, these professional assets were a strategic requirement for Viator listing optimisation, as high-quality media is a core pillar of their ranking algorithm. By providing over 10 specialised photos showcasing real traveller interactions and landscapes, we successfully moved the product from a ‘Good’ to an ‘Excellent’ quality rating. This transition is proven to increase booking potential by nearly 160%, as professional imagery builds the credibility and trust necessary to convert browsers into guests.
Social Media & Digital Engagement
We developed a strategic social media presence across Facebook and Instagram, transforming these channels into active platforms for Social Media Optimisation (SMO) and guest interaction. By fostering a space for real-time feedback and community engagement, we provided a seamless touchpoint for potential and existing travellers to interact with the brand. This approach not only builds brand authority but also creates a vital social proof loop that supports direct bookings and enhances the overall digital reputation of the private tour business.
OTA Management and Distribution Strategy
As a high-yield, cost-effective marketing solution, we performed comprehensive Viator listing optimisation to trigger the platform’s ‘Product Quality’ algorithm and improve search rankings. By developing and managing strategic accounts with leading industry distributors like Tripadvisor and Expedia, we maximised global market reach and established a powerful authority loop through integrated links between these platforms and the main website.
Images
During concept creation a series of images were taken throughout likely destinations on the touring itineraries. These images are a sample of what was taken to help customers visualise the experience.
Results
Trip Advisor
Website
Social Media
Australian Based Tourism SEO & Support
We don’t use call centres. When you partner with Drumroll Please, you work directly with a local specialist who has over 15 years of experience in the Australian coach and tour industry. We provide personalised support to help build a dominant internet presence for your business without the overhead of a generic agency. If you prefer to speak to a real person about optimising your 2026 digital strategy, get in touch via our contact page. We are proudly based in the Sutherland Shire, Sydney.
Project Enquiry & Consultation
Tell us about your project using the form below, and we will be in touch to discuss your digital strategy. Your data is strictly confidential and is never shared with third parties. If you would prefer to speak to a human about optimising your tourism business, call us directly on 0407 251 296. We are local, Sydney-based, and ready to help you grow.