NORWEGIAN Cruise Line is to expand its agency training scheme to give participants a more in-depth knowledge of the product.
The cruiseline launched the scheme, called Cruise Academy 1, last autumn. It consists of a 2hr training session held at 15 venues throughout the UK during September and October.
So far, 1,000 agents have taken part in the programme, which teaches them the basics of selling cruising as a holiday option, different cruise destinations around the world and the different ships in the NCLfleet. Agents also learn about NCL’s new ship, Norwegian Sky, which was launched inAugust and has a number of new attractions, including an Internet cafe, tapas bar and e-mail facilities in every cabin.
Head of sales Nick Sharps said agents who have completed Cruise Academy 1 have asked for a follow-up training programme giving more details on the different types of cruises available as well as tips on marketing and sales.
Sharps said:”The agents who have completed Cruise Academy 1 are invited to go on an educational on one of our ships at a special rate of £299, where, as well as sampling the product, we give them further training. However, the numbers are limited, and we can only usually stretch to 30 agents per fam trip, and many people end up disappointed because they cannot go. To get around this, we have decided to expand the training programme in the UK, to add a second tier, called Cruise Academy 2.”
The half-day programme will run in March and April next year, in three or four venues such as London, Manchester and Glasgow.
Sharps added:”Cruise Academy 2 is more of a seminar on how to develop cruise sales, looking at the potential markets, developing a database of potential clients and how to get out there and really start making a difference.”
Agents who take part in Cruise Academy 2 will be invited on ship visits.