Cruise1st launches trade hub to share ‘Experience’ packages with UK agents

Cruise specialist Cruise1st is launching a trade hub this week to open its ‘Experiences’ programme up to travel agents across the UK.

The Cruise1st Trade Hub will allow independent agents to sell the Manchester-based online agency’s signature travel packages, which feature itineraries that combine cruises with land-based experiences.

Managing director Ashkan Ghasemi said: “As a pioneer in combining cruise itineraries with air and land arrangements, Cruise1st has always had cruise travel packages embedded in its DNA.

“With more than 25 years of experience, we have perfected 
the art of crafting itineraries that deliver unforgettable experiences. 

“Building on this legacy, we are now making our signature packages accessible to travel agents, allowing even more customers to experience our expertly curated journeys.”

Leveraging its Iata and Atol licences and direct contracts with cruise lines, airlines and destination management partners, Cruise1st has developed itineraries that already contribute significantly to its sales, Ghasemi explained.

With the launch of the Cruise1st Trade Hub, the company aims to drive further growth while supporting high street and independent agents.

“Our experts skilfully design these packages with customer experience at the heart of every detail,” he said. “We want agencies to have the opportunity to book these curated journeys for their clients while retaining full ownership of their customers and managing all communication directly.”

Travel agents can also white-label Cruise1st’s Experiences content as their own exclusive offers. 
A brochure featuring the curated tours is currently in production, with the option for agents to receive customised versions tailored to their businesses.

Cruise1st will offer the packages at a special net trade price to provide participating agents with access to rates that are more than 50% lower than customers booking direct with suppliers, Ghasemi claimed.

Additionally, agents will have full pricing flexibility, allowing them to set their own margins.

“We don’t dictate the final price – agents are free to mark up itineraries as they see fit,” he said.

“We aim to build meaningful, long-term partnerships that drive mutual growth for both Cruise1st and our participating agents, while also expanding the range of products available to our partners’ customer bases, enabling them to offer more diverse and tailored travel experiences.”