Perisher’s Freedom Pass becoming Epic may be the best value for snow enthusiasts, but selling direct means travel agents won’t reap gains.
As part of the announced acquisition of Perisher by Vail Resorts, consumers will be able to reap benefits by purchasing The 2015 Perisher Freedom Pass online before 31 May to include “Epic” benefits which adds free access to 9 resorts in the US, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Park City with some blackout dates applicable.
Current holders of the Perisher Freedom Pass will also automatically be able to enjoy the Epic benefits at no additional cost, subject to the deal closing between the two resorts. The Perisher Freedom Pass with Epic Benefits is on sale now for A$749 via the Perisher website, with the season slated to open June 6.
However, Vail’s Epic Pass for the 2015-16 season is commissionable to travel agents and do not hold any blackout dates for skiing in its US resorts, but holders will only enjoy unlimited skiing and snowboarding benefits at Perisher for the following 2016 Australian snow-season. The Epic pass is on sale for US$769.
Vail continues to invest heavily in its American resorts, with US$125 million pledged for upgrades, including US$50 million to upgrade the guest experience at Park City including establishing a link to Canyons Resort, creating the largest single ski area in the US.
“Park City number one inbound market is from Australia, and we expect a lot more Aussies to visit in future,” Vail Resorts’ PR manager, May Lilley said yesterday in Sydney.
