Trade-only accommodation-only supplier Getabed is in talks with two cruise lines about supplying its content to them for their cruise-and-stay packages.
Managing director Matt Stuart declined to reveal which companies he was in discussions with, but said: “The cruise lines don’t want to be operators or commit in any way, plus we can negotiate better rates, so we’re in advanced discussions.”
He said the talks came hot on the heels of lots more dealings with cruise specialist agents, including Reader Offers, Jetline Cruise and Planet Cruise.
Stuart added: “We have seen an increase in agents wanting to package up their own cruise-and-stay holidays since Complete Cruise Solution’s commission cuts – it’s definitely helped us.”
Getabed said its negotiating power was such that some established operators were now buying through it as well, including USAirtours and Virgin Flightstore.
Stuart said one of Getabed’s objectives was to become known for stocking beach and resort properties as well as city hotels.