IMMINUS has launched a booking and reservation system that it claims will boost travel agents’ ability to purchase ferry operator products through e-commerce.
The network provider joined forces with German equivalent Dillon Communication Systems to base the new product, Merlin Ferry, on the Unicorn reservation system and adapt it with an Internet-style front end.
Unicorn, a computer protocol used for distribution among operators, has not been widely used by agents. Instead they booked ferry products on the phone or through viewdata.
But cross-channel operators are keen to exploit the distribution potential of e-commerce. Unicorn is much faster and more efficient than viewdata because it allows the user to scan different operator inventories at the same time.
Merlin Ferry will allow agents to enquire about ferry schedules, check availability and make their bookings on screen.
It enables them to print ticket vouchers and its front end is multi-media, allowing for graphics and pictures of maps, routes and logos. Imminus says Merlin Ferry has created interest among Brittany Ferries, Sea Containers Group and Stena Line and Bakers Dolphin has been the first retail agents to sign up for the product.
Imminus general manager for travel and leisure, Keith Webber, said: “The ferry companies are concerned about electronic reservation penetration in the UK and this will help that. Agents just have to put in a general travel requirement and the system will access all the operators at once.”
Ferry operators are charged a transaction fee for each completed booking.
Merlin Ferry can also be accessed by the general public via kiosks provided by agents and ferry companies. Users can make enquiries then use the self-service facility to book tickets.
Imminus struck a deal with DCS in 1998 to enable users to access information and make reservations on holiday packages from any operator connected to either network. This will now allow it to open up Merlin Ferry to travel agents internationally.