| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 12/06/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 33 |
| Copyright: Other |
Crown Odyssey: operating in the Mediterranean this summer
Orient Lines looks to build on relationships with independents
ORIENT Lines is to focus more attention on the independent sector after seeing a big increase in bookings from smaller agents.Sales and marketing director Paul Ellerby said total bookings are up 130% this year, which is well above the 100% increase expected as a result of launching a new ship.
Exact bookings figures were not available
The 1,050-passenger Crown Odyssey, formerly known as Norwegian Crown, made its maiden voyage for the company last month.
It will be operating in the Mediterranean this summer, replacing the 850-passenger Marco Polo which is offering Baltic cruises – a new area of operation for Orient Lines.
“The number of bookings from multiples is in line with what we expected, as is the business from cruise specialists, which means there is a lot of growth from independent agents,” said Ellerby.
Because there have been few promotions with independents, Ellerby believes the new business is consumer driven.
“We need to go back and see who these new agents are so we can help to educate them and tell them why clients choose us,” he said.