About CATO
The Canadian Association of Tour Operators represents the most respected companies operating tour programs and packages from Canada to international destinations, trans-border as well as overseas.
The association is composed of like-minded tour professionals – owners and senior executives who can speak for their respective companies, but just as importantly, for the industry. For more information about applying to become a member of CATO, please visit our application page.
Tenets of the Association:
Members shall respect and conform to the intent and purpose of the Association as expressed in the Letters Patent, issued at the time of the formation of the Association, being:
- To consider and act on behalf of tour operators conducting business in Canada on all matters which the Association considers to be of mutual interest to or affect the trade of tour operators conducting business in Canada.
- To promote and increase the prestige, confidence and public awareness of the business of tour operators conducting business in Canada.
- To increase the knowledge, skill and proficiency and to maintain a high standard of ethical practice in the business of tour operators conducting business in Canada.
- To influence and develop industry standards.
- To provide a voice on behalf of all tour operators conducting business in dealing with government at all levels an Canada and abroad.
- To establish a communications network for members to convey information valuable to the members and the industry.
- To promote co-operation between tour operators and suppliers.
- To work within the tour operator industry and with governments at all levels in Canada to provide the travelling public the greatest practicable protection at the lowest cost.
Every member’s input is valued and considered.
Membership in CATO is considered a National membership encompassing all of Canada. Co-operation between CATO and ATOQ (Association des Tours Opérateurs du Québec) is permanent and ongoing, sharing similar goals. Membership in CATO does not preclude, include, prevent or require membership in ATOQ, or vice-versa.
Membership meetings are generally held every two months, on a regular basis, in Toronto, ON. Additional meetings may be held from time to time, and in other provinces.