In 2024, Princess Cruises is set to host a remarkable 3,000 agents on its ships, marking a significant initiative to strengthen industry ties.
- Newly appointed sales director Hayley Moore is leading efforts to position Princess Cruises prominently in agents’ minds amidst a bustling year ahead.
- Moore emphasises the importance of agent experience in selling cruise packages, underscoring the challenge of marketing cruise holidays.
- Proactive strategies include on-the-road visits and numerous training events for agents unable to join the onboard programmes.
- Wave campaigns and strategic incentives keep the momentum going, reflecting the demand for cruising in 2024 and beyond.
Princess Cruises is launching an unprecedented campaign in 2024 by welcoming 3,000 agents aboard its vessels. This initiative is designed to fortify relationships within the travel trade sector and keep Princess Cruises at the forefront of agents’ considerations. Such a large-scale hosting effort showcases their commitment to fostering strong industry connections.
Under the guidance of the newly appointed UK and Europe sales director, Hayley Moore, this programme aims to engrain Princess Cruises at the top of agents’ potential offerings. Moore’s leadership is instrumental as the cruise line anticipates a busy period marked by the introduction of their new Sphere class ship, Sun Princess, set to launch in February.
Moore articulates the crucial role of first-hand experience in selling cruise holidays, which are often seen as a challenging sale. Her strategy involves immersive opportunities for agents to engage with the product. For those unable to physically be onboard, the company will facilitate learning through frequent on-the-road visits and specialised training events, ensuring inclusivity and widespread education about the offerings of Princess Cruises.
Moreover, Princess Cruises has orchestrated an early wave campaign to generate interest in 2024 holidays, aimed at pre-empting potential post-campaign fatigue. This strategic move is supported by various trade-centric incentives designed to maintain agent enthusiasm and engagement throughout the peak booking seasons. Moore attributes the strong start of the year to these efforts, evidencing robust demand that spans into 2025.
Moore’s assessment of the market is positive, with a prediction of continued growth due to both agent interest and consumer demand, particularly for fly-cruise Mediterranean sailings and departures from the UK. The addition of new ships like Sun Princess and Star Princess are expected to further bolster this growth, emphasising Princess Cruises’ dynamic approach to market expansion.
As Princess Cruises navigates through 2024 with innovative onboard strategies, the trajectory for growth appears promising.
