The perception of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines as a service for older passengers may not hold true anymore, as recent experiences reveal.
- Colin Burns recounts his experience aboard Fred Olsen’s Balmoral which challenged his preconceived notions about the cruise line’s demographic.
- Contrary to expectations, the cruise hosted a surprisingly young and diverse group of passengers, altering the common narrative.
- Fam trips, like the one experienced, highlight the value of first-hand knowledge in the travel industry, leading to increased bookings.
- Fred Olsen’s specific offerings may not be for everyone, but they excel in what they do, especially for those not looking for high-adrenaline experiences.
The perception of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines as being geared towards an older clientele has often been perpetuated by consumer reactions, such as the notion that ‘their ships are full of really old people,’ as echoed by many customers. Colin Burns, from Hays Travel Gateshead, shared this view until he embarked on a familiarisation trip aboard Fred Olsen’s Balmoral. This experience, initially approached with scepticism, turned out to dismantle these pre-existing notions, revealing a more diverse demographic onboard than anticipated.
Burns noted his surprise, and mild disappointment, upon finding guests significantly younger than expected, including families with children. While a proportion of older guests remained, the range of ages onboard was more varied than preconceptions suggested. Burns, aged 59, found himself in a cohort of younger travellers contrary to his expectations, thus reshaping the narrative around Fred Olsen’s clientele.
First-hand experiences, such as the one Burns encountered, underscore why suppliers invest in familiarisation trips. These curated experiences are designed to educate and equip travel agents with comprehensive product knowledge, enabling them to counter misconceptions and better serve their customers. Upon his return, Burns successfully translated this knowledge into a booking for a fjords cruise and reassured clients concerned about the cruise’s atmosphere and formality.
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines deliver a targeted experience that might not appeal to the ‘all-singing, all-dancing’ cruise seekers but shines in its unique offerings. Burns’ exposure to the cruise’s authentic environment provides credibility when recommending it to clients looking for a classic cruising experience. Such insights have already proven valuable, leading to multiple positive client interactions and bookings.
Working closely with fellow agents on such trips not only strengthens professional bonds but also facilitates a deeper understanding of the market. The camaraderie experienced was devoid of the anticipated drama, promoting a constructive environment for learning and professional growth. This harmony among agents could be likened to a benign reality TV setting, but without the contention, fostering rather a positive collective experience.
Experiencing Fred Olsen first-hand effectively debunked myths and reinforced the cruise line’s potential for diverse demographics.
