More than 100 travel agents explored Nieuw Statendam on Wednesday (June 26) for Holland America Line’s (HAL) largest ever UK trade ship visit.
Agents from across the country embarked the Pinnacle Class ship in Liverpool for an event hosted by HAL’s dedicated UK trade team.
They attended a brand presentation, before receiving a guided tour and three-course restaurant lunch.
The 2,666-passenger Nieuw Statendam will sail from Dover in 2025, with a full season of 10 sailings throughout the summer.
The ship will set sail on itineraries including to the Canary Islands, British Isles, Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Iberia and the Eastern Mediterranean.
HAL is offering eight travel agent ship visits this year, with a total of 430 places available, an increase of 23% on the 350 it had in 2023.
Following the high demand for the Liverpool event, a second visit has been planned for the port, taking place on August 12, onboard the 2,668-guest Rotterdam.
Visits are also taking place in Dover, South Queensferry, Belfast, Newcastle and Cork.
Karen Farndell, HAL sales and marketing director, said: “We’re thrilled to have so many agents joining us onboard as part of our extensive ship visit programme.
“First-hand product experience is simply the best training tool we can offer our agent partners, and with Nieuw Statendam sailing from Dover next year, it’s the perfect opportunity to get the trade onboard.”
Emma Otter from Travel Counsellors said: “I have excited guests looking forward to sailing from Dover on Nieuw Statendam next year and am so grateful I could spend the day onboard. This ship is perfect for guests who enjoy world-class live music, spacious indoor and outdoor spaces, immersive cruising and incredible food.”
David Houghton from Hays Cruise added: “It was an exceptional day, with everything really well organised. The ship had an understated elegance and the food was superb.
“I would definitely advise fellow agents to join a Holland America Line ship visit.”
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