Azamara reveals details of Masterclass at Sea for UK agents

Azamara Cruises is to run an exclusive educational sailing for UK travel agents this spring. 

Hosted in partnership with Clia, the three-night Masterclass at Sea on board Azamara Quest will depart from Lisbon on April 7.

The sailing will offer agents specialising in luxury and premium cruise sales the opportunity to experience Azamara Cruises first-hand while participating in comprehensive, industry-leading training sessions.

The itinerary will showcase Portugal’s coastal town of Portimão, followed by a scenic sailing up the River Guadalquivir to dock in the heart of Seville for two nights.

Agents will participate in interactive sessions with Azamara chief executive Dondra Ritzenthaler together training from the small ship line and Clia.

Special guests include Clia UK & Ireland managing director Andy Harmer and Travel Weekly editor in chief Lucy Huxley.

Chief international sale officer David Siewers said: "We are thrilled to be partnering with Clia for this extraordinary opportunity for UK agents to immerse themselves in an authentic Azamara Cruises experience while gaining invaluable expertise in premium cruise sales. 

“Delegates will not only discover first-hand what makes Azamara exceptional, but they’ll also benefit from comprehensive training designed to elevate how they serve their clients’ cruise aspirations.

"We’re particularly excited to offer exclusive access to our dynamic and inspiring CEO, Dondra Ritzenthaler, whose ‘lion’s mentality’ inspires partners to lead with confidence, sell with purpose, and turn passion for cruising into results. 

“They’ll be equipped, confident and genuinely passionate Azamara brand ambassadors, ready to share their authentic experience with clients and drive bookings with authority and enthusiasm.

"We are also truly delighted that Lucy and Andy have agreed to join us on this important sailing, as their participation and deep sector knowledge will add even more value for attendees. 

“It will be our profound privilege to welcome Lucy aboard, particularly given her distinguished role as godmother of Azamara Pursuit, the esteemed sister ship to Azamara Quest."

Harmer added: “Immersive education is one of the most powerful tools we have to help travel agents sell cruise with confidence, authority and authenticity. 

“This partnership brings learning to life, combining best-in-class training with first-hand destination immersion experience. 

“For agents specialising in premium and luxury cruise, this masterclass at sea offers an exceptional opportunity to enhance their expertise and translate that knowledge directly into enquiries and bookings.”