Several luxury cruise operators have joined together to create a networking event to showcase the sector to agents.
The Ultra-Luxury Cruise Showcase in France in March aims to educate agents about high-end ocean and river cruising – plus the sector’s land-based offerings – as well as to dispel any confusion about what luxury travel means.
Organised by Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, agents will spend two nights on the line’s Joie de Vivre from March 24-26, sailing on the River Seine. They will meet luxury operators and attend training sessions.
Uniworld is working in partnership with Silversea Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Ponant, Explora Journeys, Luxury Gold, Aqua Expeditions, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and Seabourn, all of which will have a team on board to train agents throughout the showcase.
Clia and Travel Weekly will also be hosting a session, discussing how the luxury market is both attainable and lucrative for agents.
A total of 100 agents will be invited to attend the showcase with 20 of those spots available to win in a prize draw that can be entered by making a booking with any of the participating operators by February 23.
Chris Townson, Uniworld’s managing director for the UK and Europe, said he hoped the event would facilitate agents’ sales by showing them the true standard of luxury cruising.
“The word luxury is one of the most overused in travel marketing and it has left agents and customers confused as to what products really are a cut above the rest,” he said.
“This has ultimately hampered real opportunities for agents to make money by selling the right product to the right client.
“We know that discerning travellers are prepared to pay top dollar for the very best on the water and we want to make it easier for agents to establish what that is.”
Andy Harmer, Clia UK & Ireland managing director, said: “I am delighted that Clia is working with Uniworld on this industry-first event showcasing the many incredible ultra-luxury experiences available to customers who are looking for something very special.
“This is a great opportunity for agents to connect, be informed and learn while also being able to enjoy an exceptional river cruise experience.”