Agent lands £150k cruise booking after meeting client on sailing

Not Just Travel consultant Janet Lacey has secured a 141-night world sailing with Regent Seven Seas Cruises worth £150,000 after meeting the client on a ship.

Lacey was on a Fred Olsen Cruise Lines voyage with her mum Barbara through France, Portugal and the Canaries when the pair were seated with the “avid cruiser” client and his partner at dinner, where the four “hit it off”.

Since meeting on the cruise in April 2024, the customer has booked five cruises with Lacey including the luxury world voyage – the value of which “could be higher” as he is waiting for a cabin upgrade.

Lacey set up her business in March 2019 with her cruise specialist husband and the company has claimed its best month on record this January, taking in more than £300,000 in bookings.

She said the luxury world voyage was her “biggest booking to date” and advised agents to always carry business cards and “not be put off” by ultra-luxury clients.

Lacey said: "Everyone goes on holiday, so everyone is an opportunity.

“Many people like to test you out with a small booking such as a city break before they enquire about something significant.

“You should never judge someone by how much money you think they have to spend.

“You simply never know their background or whether they’ve had a windfall or inheritance."

She added: "Some people think business cards are old-fashioned, but they work.

“I’ve generated enquiries in GP surgeries, down the shops, and at my mother’s bedside while she’s been in hospital.”

Lacey said her mother is “totally invested in her business” and “fully entertained” by the fact she made the booking while visiting her.

"Don’t be put off by going for ultra-luxury clients,” she advised.

“However, you do need to recognise that you have to be responsive, helpful and proactive in your relationship.”