With the number of British cruise passengers set to hit 1.5 million in 2008, and a flurry of ship launches afoot, there is much talk about getting the next generation of cruisers to make that first booking.
The Passenger Shipping Association estimates the repeat rate for first-time cruisers to be 80%. But we mustn’t forget the current cruisers, typically aged 50-plus with high levels of disposable income and time on their hands.
And with new ships coming in all shapes and sizes, from P&O’s Ventura to Cunard’s Queen Victoria to Royal Caribbean International’s massive Independence of the Seas, it seems there is something for everyone.
But this is where agents can trip up. Experienced cruisers – making up the bulk of bookings – are well versed on the sort of ship, cabin, itinerary, and even the table they want in the dining room.
It has never been so crucial to be a specialist in this field. The ability to guide new cruisers through endless choices and offer in-depth advice to the experienced cruiser is what will polarise cruise retail.
The one-size-fits-all approach is long gone in the package holiday sector, so why should cruisers put up with an off-the-peg holiday when a good cruise agent can tailor it to their specific needs?
By using the cruise as a basis upon which to build the rest of their holiday, with land stays pre and post-sailing for example, a knowledgeable agent can really add value for clients.
