Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor

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Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
Travel Market Report’s
Outlook on New to Cruise
Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
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Images and messaging for Odyssey of the Seas reflect current design concepts and may include artistic renderings and/or images of other Quantum Class ships. All ship features, experiences and itineraries are subject to
change without notice. ©2021 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador. ©2021 Silversea Cruises. Ships' registry: Bahamas. ©2021 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 21075746 • 3/25/2021
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

       Dear Travel Advisor,

       Successful advisors are increasingly trying to both expand their client base and sell
       different types of vacations to their most loyal customers. One of those types of
       vacations, which has traditionally been the most difficult to market to clients who
       haven’t experienced it yet, is the cruise vacation.

       And while COVID-19 has, perhaps, made that sell that much more difficult, the team
       at Travel Market Report wanted to do what we could to help answer the questions
       of what is the best strategy for advisors to use in order to successfully convert land
       vacationers into cruise clients. To do so, we queried over 800 advisors on what they
       found was their best strategy, including what destinations proved most attractive and
       what the best sales strategies were. The result was this Outlook on New Cruisers.

       The survey, which we sent out to our readers before COVID-19 really started to
       impact the industry, should provide the insight and the knowledge necessary for
       advisors to succeed with those clients who haven’t been brought into the cruise
       market just yet. While COVID-19 has certainly changed the landscape, we believe
       that advisors can still learn from what their colleagues have said about how they’ve
       successfully converted land vacationers into ocean goers. New methods will be
       born out of the next few months, but as the demand for cruising roars back post-
       pandemic, it’s imperative that advisors have their sales processes down, and know
       how to target that first-time cruiser.

       The bottom line is that, though the conversions could prove more difficult than ever,
       once advisors are able to make the initial sales, they’ll gain loyal repeat customers
       and will be able to introduce them to a growing world of cruise offerings. As always,
       we want to thank those who took the time to complete our survey, as well as our
       sponsor, Royal Caribbean Group. We truly hope that this will help advisors gain
       knowledge and a bedrock of skills that can benefit them now, as the industry readies
       itself for the post-COVID demand, and in the future.

       Sincerely,

       Anne Marie Moebes
       Publisher

                                                                                                3
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
2020
        IGHT-HUNDRED AND FOURTEEN (814)
         E
         TRAVEL ADVISORS LOCATED IN NORTH
         AMERICA RESPONDED TO THIS SURVEY.
                                                                      KEY
                                                                      FINDINGS
         The majority were advisors (65%) – including
         independent contractors and employees –
         while about one out of three (36%) were
         agency owners.

          he foundation of strength in new to cruise
         T
         sales is experience – 59% HAD MORE THAN              REFERRALS (86%). SOCIAL MEDIA ALSO plays
         11 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, WHILE 40% OF                 a huge role in discovery, with 68% attesting to it
         THOSE HAVE BEEN SELLING TRAVEL FOR                   as the source of new business.
         MORE THAN 20 YEARS.
                                                               IXTY-NINE PERCENT (69%) OF ADVISORS
                                                              S
         The Caribbean was decidedly the most sold           ACTIVELY RECOMMENDED CRUISES TO
          destination to first-time cruisers – 90% OF         HISTORICAL LAND TRAVELERS WHILE CLOSE
          RESPONDENTS SAID SO, FOLLOWED BY                    TO 40% OF ADVISORS proactively reach out to
          ALASKA AT 52% OF RESPONDENTS.                       either existing or potential clients for cruises.

          INETY-FOUR PERCENT (94%) OF ADVISORS
         N                                                    SIXTY-NINE PERCENT (69%) OF ADVISORS
         TICKED OCEAN CRUISES AS THE MOST                      WHO ACTIVELY PROMOTED CRUISING
         POPULAR CRUISE FOR FIRST-TIMERS. As                   TO FIRST-TIMERS DID SO BY SHARING
         expected, the most widely cited second choice         THEIR PERSONAL CRUISING EXPERIENCES.
         was RIVER CRUISES (83%). EXPEDITION                   Therefore, it was no surprise that almost an
         CRUISES was selected as the third-most                equal share of 70% of the advisors prefer
         popular first-time cruise product by 87% of the       familiarization trips as part of their cruise
         respondents.                                          training.

          espite the rise of digital marketing with actual
         D
         ship videos, THESE WERE RANKED SECOND
         BY 59% OF ADVISORS.

          mong 59% of the advisors, the most prominent
         A
         age range for first-time cruisers was 35-54
         YEARS. ALSO BRIMMING WITH POTENTIAL
         WAS THE 18-34 AGE BRACKET, WHICH WAS
         THE PROMINENT AGE GROUP FOR 22% OF
         THE ADVISORS.

         THE MAJORITY OF FIRST-TIMERS
          DISCOVERED THEIR ADVISORS THROUGH

4
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Letter from the Publisher  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Key Findings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Introduction  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Advisor Demographics
Chart 1: Advisors By Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Chart 2: Years Of Travel Sales Experience  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Chart 3: 2019 Gross Sales Volume . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

The First Taste Of Cruising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart 4: Top Destinations For First-Time Cruisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Selling First Time Cruisers By Segment  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart 5: Selling By Cruise Segment  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Cruise Preferences And The Growing Interest In River Cruising  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart 6: Cruise Preferences Among First-Time Cruisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

The Life Stage Of New Cruisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart 7: Description Of New Cruisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Who Are These First-Time Cruisers? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart 8: The Target Age Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

The Lure Of Cruising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chart 9: New Cruisers Join In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Features That Factor In For New Cruisers
Chart 10: The Appeal Of The Cruising Phenomenon  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Advisors Weigh In On Influences
Chart 11: Top Influencers For Recommending Cruise  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Fielding Questions: The Responsibility Of Developing A New Segment
Chart 12: They Come With Questions! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Chart 13: This Must Be Included, Right? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

First-Timers Heed The Recommendations Of People They Trust
Chart 14: Influential Marketing Tools In Selling Cruise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Chart 15: Advisor Influence In Selling First-Time Cruisers  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Getting Ready For The First-Timers
Chart 16: Tools To Assist In The Sales Process  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Chart 17: Key Qualifying Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

All Arrows In The Quiver
Chart 18: Sharpening The Saw  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Chart 19: Preferred Cruise Training Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Conclusion

                                                                                                                                                                                        5
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
INTRODUCTION

    Each year, an estimated 6% of North Americans make the transition from being exclusively land travelers to
    cruising for the first time. While this represents a huge influx of first-time cruisers, creating a universal profile to
    identify them can be a challenge. A new cruiser can belong to any age bracket, can choose any cruise segment,
    and can select any cabin type. They could also have a diverse range of previous travel experiences. Therein lies
    both the novelty and the challenge of this segment. As one advisor aptly sums it up, “I sent a first-time cruiser
    on a 21-day Antarctica trip. You never know!”
    However, despite the wide spectrum of new cruiser profiles throughout Travel Market Report’s Outlook on New
    Cruisers, we will reveal how to narrow your focus, identify the most likely “new to cruise” prospects, ask a
    finite list of qualifying questions, and engage in the best sales strategies, to increase your likelihood of success.
    Our findings indicate that the sky’s the limit on converting land travelers to cruisers – whether it is to ocean,
    river, or even expedition sailings. Interest in cruising is high from both existing clients and from new prospects
    who seek to find a qualified travel advisor. While there is no cookie-cutter strategy to target first timers, the
    importance of referrals is revealed to be one of the universal truths among advisors.
    A huge differential in working with new cruisers is experience. Clients, particularly first-times, look for assurance
    from a trusted travel advisor. And, while this survey was taken pre-COVID, that’s a sentiment that has also been
    boosted by the advent of the pandemic as consumers seek more answers and more expertise before making
    their vacation decisions. Consumers, now more than ever, depend on the advisor to navigate the complexities
    of pricing and promotions, as well as to understand how things like COVID could impact their plans.
    Advisors need to up their game to prepare in responding to an indefinite number of questions.
    What often begins as a self-guided online search by the traveler, ends in immense personal attention and
    handholding throughout the customer journey by the cruise specialist. Advisors are able to clearly demonstrate
    their worth, resulting in loyal repeat customers for themselves and for the cruise industry. First-time cruisers
    are looking to get a taste of the cruising world and it is the advisor’s responsibility to make a perfect match.
    While respondents took this survey before the emergence of COVID-19 and its massive impact, not only on the
    cruise industry but on the larger travel industry and the world, we still believe the insights into the thinking of
    consumers and the success of advisors in the space provide an excellent resource for travel advisors. However,
    because it is difficult to predict how the industry will look once COVID-19 has passed, we have decided to
    eliminate the prognosis section, retaining only the more ‘experiential’ elements of our advisor respondents.

6
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
ADVISOR DEMOGRAPHICS

Travel Market Report surveyed 814 travel advisors who had varying degrees of experiences and belonged to
diverse set-ups. Sixty-five (65%) of them were front line travel advisors (see Chart 1).

                                          ADVISORS BY TYPE
                                                                                       Travel Agency Owner/
                                                                                       Manager

  Travel Advisor –
  Independent Contractor

                                                                              36%
                             45%

                                                           20%                      Travel Advisor –
                                                                                    Employee

                                   Data rounded up and may not total up to 100%

                                                                                                       CHART 1 | 7
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
ADVISOR DEMOGRAPHICS

       YEARS OF TRAVEL SALES EXPERIENCE

                                                                                 Less than 2 years
                                         12%
                 22%
                                                                                 3-5 years

                                                        14%
                                                                                 6-10 years

                                                                                 11-15 years

          18%                                                                    16-20 years
                                                      14%
                                                                                 20-30 years

                         8%             11%                                      30+ years

              Data rounded up and may not total up to 100%

  The respondents represented a good mix of experience – from less than 2 years to more than 30 years. This brings
  out a variety of advisor perceptions about the first-time cruiser. An impressive 60% of advisors had more than
  a decade of experience (see Chart 2). This is a true testament to their knowledge and ability to provide feedback
  on servicing first-time cruisers.

8 | CHART 2
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
ADVISOR DEMOGRAPHICS

Looking back at total 2019 sales, 59% of respondents had over $500,000 in sales with one-third selling more than
$1 million (see Chart 3).

                                     2019 GROSS SALES VOLUME

       Do Not Want to Discuss

        Not Sure/Do Not Know
                                                                           12%

                   $4 Million +                               4%
                                                            3%
        $2.1 Million-$4 Million                            3%
                                                                                                    41%
        $1.5 Million-$2 Million                           6%

                                                             10%
        $1 Million-$1.5 Million

                                                                                    22%
          $500,000-$999,999

               Up to $499,999

                                     Data rounded up and may not total up to 100%

                                                                                                       CHART 3 | 9
Travel Market Report's Outlook on New to Cruise - Based on the Voice of the Travel Advisor
THE FIRST TASTE OF CRUISING

                                                     The ‘first cruise’ destination plays an important role for
                                                     both the advisor as well as the client. It offers cruise lines
                                                     a chance to make the ultimate first impression that will
                                                     convert a first-time cruiser into a lifetime cruiser.
                                                     Among the advisors surveyed, more say their first-time
                                                     cruisers take a cruise to the Caribbean rather than to
                                                     any other destination at a whopping 90% (see Chart 4).
                                                     Alaska (52%) and Europe (31%) followed at a fairly distant
                                                     second and third choice, respectively, for top destinations
                                                     requested by first timers.

                               TOP DESTINATIONS FOR FIRST-TIME CRUISERS

                  Carribean                                                                     90%

                     Alaska                                      52%

                    Europe                      31%

                    Mexico                     29%

                     Hawaii              12%

          South America             5%

               South Pacific        5%

                       Asia        3%

10 | CHART 4
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    at a newly designed resort-style pool deck that brings island vibes poolside. Take play time to the next
     level at SeaPlex ®, with bumper cars, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, and VR games. Or kick back and watch
  all the action from above at Playmakers SM Sports Bar & Arcade. This is bolder shore exploring from Aruba
     to Curaçao to Cozumel — and even our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay — sailing the best of
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                                                     L e a r n M o re a t C r ui s i n g power.co m/L oya l ToYo uAl wa ys

Images and messaging for Odyssey of the Seas reflect current design concepts and may include artistic renderings and/or images of other Quantum Class ships. All ship features, experiences and itineraries are subject to change without notice.
                                                                           ©2021 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 21075659 • 03/17/2021
SELLING FIRST-TIME CRUISERS BY SEGMENT

   New to cruise sales have seen a progressive upswing over the past decade as upscale cruise lines dedicate their
   marketing efforts towards converting more land travelers. While 54% of first timers buy a contemporary product,
   46% purchase a cruise ranging from Premium to Ultra-Luxury (see Chart 5).

                          CRUISE SEGMENTS SOLD TO FIRST-TIME CRUISERS

                                        1%

                                   4%
                                                                        Contemporary
                          11%
                                                                        Premium

                                                                        Deluxe or Upper Premium
                                                    54%
                        31%
                                                                        Luxury

                                                                        Ultra-Luxury

                    Data rounded up and may not total up to 100%

12 |   CHART 5
CRUISE PREFERENCES AND THE GROWING
   INTEREST IN RIVER CRUISING

                              Not surprisingly, a majority of advisors (94%) sold ocean
                              cruises to first-timers, followed by river cruises at 83%,
                              and expedition at 87% (see Chart 6). Despite being second,
                              river cruises have all the makings of becoming the premier
                              choice even for the neophyte--the demand is there and
                              it is really a matter of raising awareness about cruising
                              as an option, whenever it exists. Most travelers simply
                              aren’t aware yet that cruising is indeed a vacation option.
                              Another reason that river cruising has so much poten-
                              tial for attracting first time cruisers is they are very land
                              focused, highlighting the geography, culture and history
                              of a region. As one river cruise company declares, “ocean
                              cruising takes you to countries, river cruising takes you
                              through countries.”
                              One final point on selling river and even expedition cruis-
                              ing to first timers, is the all-inclusive pricing. Smart agents
                              will point out the all-inclusiveness when selling luxury lines
                              to first timers as most river and expedition cruises tend
                              to include excursions, drinks, and low or reduced airfare.

   Cruise Preferences Among First-Time Cruisers
TOP SELLER              SECOND CHOICE                           THIRD CHOICE
   1%                                                                    2%
  5%                      12% 5%                                              11%

   94%                       83%                                   87%

                Ocean       River         Expedition

                                                                                 CHART 6 | 13
THE LIFE STAGE OF NEW CRUISERS

   So, who are these first-timers? Fifty-five percent (55%) of advisors converted couples into first-time cruisers,
   followed by friends and family at 46% (see Chart 7). For an industry that was built on retirees, seniors now lag
   behind and represent just 32% of all new cruisers, according to respondents.

                                       Description of New Cruisers
                                            PROMINENT GROUP TYPES

                            Couples                                                                          55%
                  Friends and family                                                             46%
          Multi-generational famiy                                                        41%
                            Seniors                                           32%
                Young professional                                           31%
                     Empty nesters                                          30%
                            Groups                                23%
                         Millennials                             22%
                    Nuclear families                  12%
                      Solo travelers             9%
                           Students        2%
                   Corporate clients       2%
       Incentive/ conference groups       2%
                              Other      1%

14 |    CHART 7
WHO ARE THESE FIRST-TIME CRUISERS?

                                        Nearly 60% of first-time cruisers fall between 35 and 54
                                        years of age, whereas almost a fifth of the advisors report
                                        that millennials are their first-time cruiser target (see
                                        Chart 8). That shows that the first-time target audience
                                        has shifted from seniors to millennials and pre-empty
                                        nesters. Only 21% are 55-plus, which is rather surpris-
                                        ing to an industry that has made its name sailings baby
                                        boomers for almost three decades.
                                        And it’s going even younger! As per CLIA, Generation-Z
                                        is set to become the largest consumer generation by the
                                        year 2020 — outpacing even the millennials. Families
                                        (46%) and multi-generational groups (41%) crack the door
                                        of opportunity wide open when selling to first timers.
                                        Overall, the trend in new cruisers is going to younger and
                                        more active clients who value experiences over things.

                The Target Age Range
                        AVERAGE CLIENT AGE

                        1%
                     4%                                        18-24 years
                                  21%
         16%
                                                               25-34 years

                                                               35-44 years

                                                               45-54 years
      25%
                                                               55-64 years
                                     34%
                                                               65+ years

     Data rounded up and may not total up to 100%

                                                                                        CHART 8 | 15
ADVISOR QUOTES
                                              AND ‘BEST PRACTICES’
                                              SELLING NEW TO
                                              CRUISE
                                               First time cruisers expect the same
Many first timers want the shorter             as an all-inclusive. That is where the
cruises, preferably river cruises or           biggest market changeover is.
something where they are not out in
the middle of the ocean.                       A precious part of selling a cruise is
                                               to bring upfront the benefits that the
Our first-time cruisers are looking            customer may have never thought
for something exceptionally niche;             about is complimentary on a ship.
such as river cruises and expeditions          When do the “good times” happen
(Galapagos, Asia and Antarctica)               and where? It is all over the ship and it
                                               is complementary.
Each and every person has dreams.
I make them a reality and come                 I am honest and do not over-
equipped with facts and prices that are        exaggerate. I show photos and videos
hard to find elsewhere. In other words,        for first-time cruisers to understand
I put in the time to know the client.          the concept of cruising. I usually
                                               place my clients mid-ship and not
If you can find out what makes a               higher than 5-6th on ship for first time
family/person happy then it is easy to         cruisers.
sell the ship company that is a twin to
his desires.                                   My approach depends on the
                                               customer’s level of travel experience.
Most 1st timers have zero clue about
what is included or not. It is a very          I have made visual aids for my cruise
different experience and takes at least        rookies. They like to be informed so
an hour to explain.                            I walk them through a typical cruise
                                               journey so they will know what to
Some do think alcohol is included, but         expect. I am there for them during the
I clarify that early in the sales process.     entire booking process to answer their
                                               questions and handle any add-ons, sell
Most people are looking for more of a          ups, excursion questions, etc.
true ‘all inclusive’ experience, so they
can do something different other than          I am prepared to spend as much time
a land vacation at a real all-inclusive        as required with first time cruisers. I
property. They want a vacation from            take them by the hand and lead them
thinking about their spending and              through the cruise process.
worrying about costs, etc. They want
it taken care of ahead of time. Cruises        It all depends on the client. Each
would be even more popular if they             approach is personalized. There is no
truly were all-inclusive like that of their    cookie cutter sales strategy that will
competing resort suppliers.                    work when selling clients a cruise.
Qualify, ask questions about what they
liked or didn’t from previous vacations.

Personal approach - get them to trust       I ease up with hitting a first-time
me. I am interested in finding the best     cruiser with flat in the face with
fit for their travel style.                 ‘everything’ that is great about a
                                            cruise. A good slow approach works
I let them lead the conversation. I like    for me giving them enough information
to listen to them and offer answers in      to ask other questions. I try to answer
a non-sales way. I don’t want to force      the questions they ask and pour on
anyone into something they don’t            some information they did not know to
want.                                       ask about. Nice surprises sell.

I explain how they can visit so many        I try to take the confusion away by
destinations in one week. I also work       explaining everything and if there are
on upselling them – for $X (a price)        beverage packages included, I send
you can be in a balcony and it will         them links to what is included in the
spoil you. I go into how much fun the       beverage package they have.
entertainment is and how the staff
is just incredible. I paint a picture for   As most of my first-time cruisers
them.                                       are referrals through joining a group,
                                            I share information catered to their
I walk them through the cruise from         questions and concerns. They already
home, day-by-day on the cruise and          want to go but fear of the unknown
back home. Education is key!                may be gripping them. Asking and
                                            answering questions along sharing
A lot of handholding. But I do take         other experiences helps to calm this
extra time with them, to make them          fear.
feel comfortable and I do provide
them with solutions to any issues they      Find out what their perfect trip would
think they may have on a cruise. By         be and where, and always ask their
addressing them and being upfront           budget.
with them, they begin to feel more
comfortable, and appreciate my              I like to listen to what they are
honesty and openness about all things       wondering about first, or what they are
cruise related. I do not “sugar-coat”       hoping for on the trip.
the realities of a cruise. Honesty is
certainly the best policy, I believe.       Unless a client insists on a particular
They go forth being “more educated          cruise line or voyage, I always want
cruise passengers”.                         to learn more about the stories
                                            they want to tell when they return.
I tell them they only have to unpack        Then use my advisor skills to make
once and can use the ship as their          recommendations. There is no one
hotel for the whole week or more            size fits all.
if they are traveling to multiple
destinations.
THE LURE OF CRUISING

  Friends and family recommendations play a
  key role in motivating a first-timer, which in
  turn underlines the ‘word-of-mouth’ strategy
  that continues to be the backbone of gener-
  ating new cruise sales. Advisor recommen-
  dations came in at number four with 39%
  respondents checking the option (see Chart
  9). The second-highest rank source for new
  cruisers is self-motivation (57%). Whether
  they got the idea from a friend, colleague, or
  another advisor, online search plays a key
  role in influencing and piquing a new cruis-
  er’s interest.
  This serves as a reminder to always ask
  every land-based client as they may have
  been considering cruising for some time. It’s
  worth mentioning that nearly 40% of clients
  are motivated by their travel advisor. Advi-
  sors clearly play a strong role in bringing new
  entrants into the category.

                                           New Cruisers Join In
                       MOTIVATIONS TO TAKE A FIRST-TIME CRUISE VACATION

          Friends and family recommendations                                               60%
                   Motivated to try a first cruise                                       57%
                      Personal/special occasion                                    48%
                      Advisor recommendations                                39%
    I need a vacation (stress, need to get away)                            37%
                        It suits my family needs                      22%
        Close to home vacation for drive market                       21%
                  It will make my spouse happy                  11%
                 I need to use my vacation time            7%
                                       Weddings       4%
                                           Other     1%

18 | CHART 9
INTRODUCING OUR NEWEST
    CARIBBEAN AND EUROPE SAILINGS.
    We’re excited to announce that two of our revolutionary ships,
    Celebrity Edge ® and Celebrity Apex®, will be island-hopping
    in the Caribbean and cruising through the islets of the
    Mediterranean as soon as this summer.
    Your clients can now choose from a variety of 7-night to
    12-night sailings in some of the most stunning destinations in
    the world. They can explore pristine beaches and ancient
    architecture, swim or snorkel in the clear turquoise water, and
    it enjoy it all at their own pace.
    On board the award-winning Celebrity Edge and Celebrity
    Apex, they’ll have extraordinary experiences at sea, including
    beautifully designed spaces, luxurious accommodations,
    globally-inspired menus, and exceptional service.

NOTICE: Prior to booking, please consult all applicable U.S. Centers for Disease Control travel advisories, warnings, or recommendations relating to cruise travel, at cdc.gov/travel/
notices. If a certain threshold level of COVID-19 is detected onboard the ship during your voyage, the voyage will end immediately, the ship will return to the port of embarkation,
and your subsequent travel, including your return home, may be restricted or delayed. Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by
ship and destination, and are subject to change without notice. Due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination
experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.
©2021 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.
FEATURES THAT FACTOR IN FOR NEW CRUISERS

                                                              Once a client is motivated to consider cruising, our research
                                                              reveals some interesting facts about what features most
                                                              interest them. It may surprise you to know that 78% of
                                                              respondents were most interested in pricing, promotions,
                                                              and deals (see Chart 10).
                                                              However, when you consider that most start their research
                                                              online, those self-motivated clients who have a genuine
                                                              curiosity about cruising are led to pricing and promotions
                                                              by the cruise lines themselves.
                                                              Ports of call and itinerary tie price as a top motivator for
                                                              newbies. Land travelers who are not yet familiar with
                                                              life onboard are highly influenced by the destinations a
                                                              ship sails to.
                                                              Ease and convenience appeal to 58% and is worth mention-
                                                              ing in a sales process, especially when compared to a
                                                              land vacation.
                                                              Shipboard amenities play a role more than half the time
                                                              and can be leveraged to appease the wide range of needs
                                                              within the large family market.

                       The Appeal of the Cruising Phenomenon
                                  TOP FEATURES FOR FIRST-TIME CRUISERS

                             Price, promotions or deals                                                           78%
     Ports of call visited as part of the cruise itinerary                                                        78%
                                 Ease and convenience                                               58%
                                   Shipboard amenities                                           54%
                          Interesting shore excursions                                    44%
                             A variety of dining options                                42%
                                 Entertainment options                                 40%
                                            Scenic views                    24%
                              Looking for an adventure                     24%
                                                   Other     1%

20 | CHART 10
ADVISORS WEIGH IN ON INFLUENCES

Shifting to the advisors’ perspective, they view
the same features as important in the buying
decision. Promotions and price, ports, and
itinerary all factor in at over 69% of the time.
However, the most important factor that influ-
ences their recommendation is the experience
and reputation of the cruise line. Seventy-five
percent (75%) of advisors who responded
stated that this was critical to what influenced
their buying decision (see Chart 11).

                           TOP INFLUENCERS FOR RECOMMENDING CRUISE

   Experience and reputation of the cruise line                                                 75%
                             Promotions/price                                             69%
                         Ports visited/itinerary                                          69%
                          Shipboard amenities                                      59%
                                    Size of ship                                55%
                         Duration of the cruise                              50%
                              Customer service                            45%
                       Onboard entertainment                        40%
                                    Age of ship                    39%
                     Local BDM/ Sales Support                32%
                            Cruise ship reviews              31%
                       Onboard dining options               30%
                       Onboard guest services            26%
                          Higher commissions       20%
                    Variety of shore excursions    20%
                              Shore excursions     18%

                                                                                         CHART 11 | 21
NEW
                                                                                          ITINERARIES
                                                                                           2022/2023
                                                                                           Now,
                                                                                           more all-inclusive than ever.

Welcome to an exceptional season of luxury sailing featuring our new collection of 2022/2023 itineraries. Our largest ever, your clients are able to choose
from over 300 breathtaking journeys across all seven continents, with 660 destinations in 114 countries and over 60 new ports of call. The numbers are only
half the story, however, as this rich collection features enhanced classic itineraries and magical overnights in iconic destinations. With five unprecedented
Grand Voyages and stunning new expeditions across the Indian Ocean and on the Amazon River, your clients will find a new favorite corner of the world with
us. And - for the first time ever - they’ll enjoy shore excursions available to them in every port of call, now included with every voyage.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR SILVERSEA AREA SALES DIRECTOR OR OUR SALES SUPPORT TEAM AT 1.800.722.9955
FIELDING QUESTIONS: THE RESPONSIBILITY OF
           DEVELOPING A NEW SEGMENT

                                                                          Naturally, first-time cruisers will
                                                                          have many questions. According
                                                                          to the survey, the biggest concern
                                                                          for them was the kind of inclusions
                                                                          they would get (86%). For 70% of
                                                                          the advisors, their clients were curi-
                                                                          ous about additional charges (see
                                                                          Chart 12). Close to 60% had ques-
                                                                          tions about the inclusion of alcohol.

                              They Come with Questions!
                FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY FIRST TIME CRUISERS

                  What is included in the total price                                                   86%
                   Are there any additional charges                                          70%
                         What is the cost of alcohol                                  59%
                           Do they need a passport                                    58%
                 Is there a charge for internet/ WiFi                              54%
              What are the available dining options                 31%
                          Is there a charge for food                31%
Will the dietary concerns, preferences be catered to          19%
         How can they celebrate a special occasion           18%
         How to use currency onboard and in ports            16%
                                               Other    1%

                                                                                                   CHART 12 | 23
A DV ENT URE T HE
WO R L D OVER WITH
ROYA L CA RIB B EAN
Calendars all across the country are waiting to
have vacation dates filled in. And with newly
released Royal Caribbean global adventures for
2022 and 2023, your clients can gear up for their
most exciting vacay yet.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        The new Odyssey of the Seas
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        Sailing from Fort Lauderdale, November 2021

                                                                                                   Bermuda, Canada, New England, Eastern and
                                                                                                   Southern Caribbean, plus Perfect Day at CocoCay.
                                                                                                   Baltimore and Boston also get in on the action in 2022,
                                                                                                   serving as home ports for Enchantment of the Seas
                                                                                                   and Voyager of the Seas, respectively.

  Confucius Shrine —Nagasaki, Japan                                                                                                                                                                            Sk y Pad ®

A N AWES O ME WAY TO SE E ASI A                                                                                                                                                                            ADVENTU RES THAT G O ALL OU T
Just a few years ago, Spectrum of the Seas made                                                                                                                                                            For your clients who want to cash in a few
headlines as the first Royal Caribbean Quantum                                                                                                                                                             more vacation days, the 2022-2023 season is
Ultra Class ship. And in 2022, your clients can                                                        Per fect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas                                                                    packed with adventures that go full-throttle. The
experience Spectrum out of Beijing for the first                                                                                                                                                           new Odyssey of the Seas and four
time ever, on 4 to 7-night itineraries to iconic                                                   SPE CTACU LAR SHORTS                                                                                    Oasis Class ships — Oasis, Allure, Harmony
Japanese ports like Nagasaki and Sasebo. They                                                                                                                                                              and Symphony of the Seas — plus other Royal
                                                                                                   When it comes to short getaways, Royal Caribbean
also have the option to set sail from exciting                                                                                                                                                             Caribbean classics are set for 7 to 11-night sun-
                                                                                                   delivers escapes that certainly go the distance
Shanghai.                                                                                                                                                                                                  soaked getaways from four Florida ports as well
                                                                                                   in travel memories. The 2022-2023 collection
                                                                                                                                                                                                           as fun-filled Galveston and vibrant San Juan. Your
                                                                                                   includes eight ships sailing 3 to 4-night cruises
NEW A DVENTURES FROM                                                                                                                                                                                       clients can visit top-rated destinations like St.
                                                                                                   to the Caribbean’s most popular destinations,
T H E NORTHEAST                                                                                    including Grand Bahama Island, Cozumel, Perfect
                                                                                                                                                                                                           Thomas, Aruba, the Dominican Republic and
                                                                                                                                                                                                           beyond, plus more stops at private destination
Speaking of east, look to the northeastern U.S.                                                    Day at CocoCay and beyond. Your clients can
                                                                                                                                                                                                           Perfect Day at CocoCay. The choices are many,
where there’s no shortage of Royal Caribbean                                                       also gear up for four and 5-night cruises across
                                                                                                                                                                                                           but each offers a trip of a lifetime.
vacations to quench your clients’ thirst for                                                       the Western Caribbean and Mexico. And with
discovery. From Cape Liberty, longtime family                                                      home port options that include Miami, Orlando,
favorite Adventure of the Seas returns along
                                                                                                                                                                                                           Learn more and download
                                                                                                   Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and Galveston, your
with Quantum Class stunner, Anthem of the                                                          clients have never had more adventures at their                                                         your marketing assets at
Seas, for a range of 4 to 11-night sailings visiting                                               fingertips.                                                                                             LoyalToYouAlways.com/deployment/

    *All features are subject to change without notice. Images and messaging for Odyssey of the Seas reflect current design concepts and may include artistic renderings and/or images of other Quantum Class ships. All ship features, experiences and itineraries are subject to change without notice.
                                Images and messaging for Perfect Day at CocoCay may include artistic renderings. Perfect Day and CocoCay are registered trademarks of Royal Caribbean. ©2021 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 21075658 • 03/17/2021
Wonder                                                      RETURNS
                                                                                                                                                       A NEW WORLD IS WAITING

                                                                                              The newest in our award-winning Edge® Series, Celebrity ApexSM
                                                                                              spends its inaugural summer sailing through the Mediterranean.
                                                                                              There’s no better time than right to book your client’s fantastic
                                                                                              summer vacation with family and friends. Especially because
                                                                                              when they book any stateroom on a Mediterranean sailing,
                                                                                              drinks, Wi-Fi and tips are Always IncludedSM.

                                                                                                  EXPLORE THE GREEK ISLANDS
                                                                                                  With gorgeous sun-drenched beaches, awe-inspiring
                                                                                                  natureal landscapes, exceptional cuisine, and fascinating
                                                                                                  mythology, the Greek Islands have captivated travelers
                                                                                                  for centuries. Discover the rich colture and history that
TREAT YOUR FAMILY
                                                                                                  awaits on a remarkable journey.
Step aboard and experience the unparalleled
luxury of The Retreat®, complete with stunning suites,
a private restaurant, and an exclusive sundeck and
lounge where the whole family can unwind. There’s
no better way to make new memories in the Old World.
Plus, book The Retreat and enjoy a shore excursion
credit, premium drinks, streaming Wi-Fi, tips, and an
onboard credit to use however you choose.

NOTICE: Prior to booking, please consult all applicable U.S. Centers for Disease Control travel advisories, warnings, or recommendations relating to cruise travel, at cdc.gov/travel/notices.
If a certain threshold level of COVID-19 is detected onboard the ship during your voyage, the voyage will end immediately, the ship will return to the port of embarkation, and your subse-
quent travel, including your return home, may be restricted or delayed. Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by ship and destination, and are
subject to change without notice. Due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries.
These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.
©2021 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador.
NOW, MORE ALL-INCLUSIVE THAN EVER

                                                                                                                Embrace the brilliant thrill of an all-inclusive cruise

ENJOY THE BEAUTY OF HAVING IT ALL
It’s all included with Silversea. Yes, that’s right. Everything. From shore                                INCLUDED SHORE EXCURSIONS
experiences to 24-hour gourmet dining, butler service to award-winning
entertainment, first-class wines to premium spirits, it’s all in there.                                    Shore excursions are currently included on all
Whether your clients want to enjoy the in-depth discovery of a destination                                 Expedition voyages and, beginning on June 2022,
or simply be pampered by their butler, they can relax in the knowledge                                     one excursion per port, per day will be included on
that there will be no extra price tag at the end of their cruise. It simply                                Classic voyages.
doesn’t get any better than this.

                                                                                                           INCLUDED AIR
                                                                                                           Roundtrip air is now always included in the cruise
                                                                                                           fare. Business upgrades are also available in select
                                                                                                           destinations.**

                                         Savour our chefs’ culinary creativity   ** Air Credit available for clients that do not wish to purchase air through Silversea.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR SILVERSEA AREA
SALES DIRECTOR OR OUR SALES SUPPORT TEAM AT 1.800.722.9955
CAPTIVAT E YO U R C LI E N TS W I T H

   A New Way To Cruise

                                                                                                                                                                                     Santorini, Greece
                                                                                              Athens, Greece

Immersive Travel Redefined                            letting your clients unpack just once and
                                                      sending them to a balanced mix of marquee
With Azamara®.                                        and hidden gem ports in one single country.
                                                      Invite them to open a treasure chest of
When it comes to luxury clients who are new
                                                      authentic moments on our 10-night Greece
to Azamara, we know they crave authentic,
                                                      Intensive Voyage and explore new cultures
local experiences that allow for deeper

                                                                                                                                                            Ionian Islands, Greece
                                                      from their boutique hotel at sea. Our three
immersion. That’s why each one of our
Azamara voyages is infused with the promise of        sister ships are perfectly sized to cross oceans
Destination Immersion® — in-depth travel              and sail through intimate rivers, visiting smaller
experiences that connect people with the              ports that larger ships can’t reach, such as the
heart of local culture. With our carefully            tiny island of Patmos or the medieval village of
crafted itineraries featuring unique port visits,     Monemvasia.
longer stays, and more overnights than any
other cruise line, your clients will have more time
to absorb the history, arts, cuisine, and customs         In-depth travel                                      It's more than a cruise, it's a specialized travel
                                                                                                               experience that reveals both the hidden gems and
                                                          experiences that
that make each place so special.
                                                                                                               iconic landmarks of a destination — all while
                                                                                                               being led by local experts. Invite them to uncover

                                                           connect people
Adding a layer of storytelling will definitely
                                                                                                               Athen’s mythological wonders before traveling
inspire your clients to embark on new
                                                                                                               through Northern Greece — the home of
experiences that only Azamara voyages can

                                                          with the heart of
                                                                                                               Meteora’s ageless monasteries and generations-
offer, such as those found in our all our
                                                                                                               old vineyards.
Mediterranean voyages. Inspire them to unravel
authentic moments every day in a new
destination and see a city’s true colors come to            local culture.                                     Whether your clients are new to cruising or
                                                                                                               are seasoned luxury travelers, Azamara brings
life. We take this one step further with our
                                                                                                               them closer to meaningful travel experiences
bespoke      cultural   evenings     that     bring
                                                      Our global guests come to us for the Destination         that will leave them with a fresh perspective.
entertainment and artistic encounters alive, giving
your clients a glimpse of the sights, sounds and      Immersion® experiences and the way we bring
moves of the destinations without leaving the ship.   each port to life, but they return to Azamara for
                                                      the unforgettable hospitality on board. From
We also know that sometimes visiting a few            the international crew members who smile                       To learn more, call 877.222.2526
ports within a destination is not always enough,      with genuine warmth, to the host of inclusive                        or visit Azamara.com
especially for those who crave the road less          amenities, such       as    beverages, gratuities
traveled. That is why we pioneered the                concierge services, self-service laundry, and
concept of Country-IntensiveSM Voyages—               more.
FIELDING QUESTIONS: THE RESPONSIBILITY OF
                 DEVELOPING A NEW SEGMENT

  Shedding further light on the complexities of cruis-
  ing, are the new cruisers’ perception of inclusions.
  Among 72% of the advisors, their clients incor-
  rectly believe that soft drinks are included in the
  pricing, while 44% perceive the same for alcohol
  (see Chart 13).
  “Most first-timers have zero clue about what is
  included or not. It is a very different experience
  and takes at least an hour to explain,” an advisor
  added as a side note.
  On the other hand, the experienced advisor knows
  the advantage of being able to explain the many
  benefits of the shipboard experience. For example,
  while 87% expect that food is included, a skilled
  advisor will draw out the quality and variety of the
  dining options.

                                 This Must Be Included, Right?
                       ITEMS FIRST-TIME CRUISERS EXPECT INCLUDED IN PRICE

                                  Food                                                       87%
                         Entertainment                                                 77%
                           Coffee & tea                                              72%
                             Soft drinks                                             72%
                          Room service                                         58%
                                Alcohol                                  44%
      Transfers to and from the airport                            36%
                Cabin steward or butler                           32%
                  Specialty restaurants                     26%
                      Shore excursions                17%
                           Trips ashore              15%
                                 Airfare            12%
                           Wine tasting        6%
                Pre- or post-night hotel      5%
                                  Other     2%

28 | CHART 13
Awaken Inspiration
                               By Land ­ Sea
Meteora, Greece

        TRANSFORMATIONAL PATHS
        OF DISCOVERY AWAIT.
       At Azamara® we connect adventurous spirits with people and cultures in the world’s most remote
       corners through immersive itineraries, longer stays, and more overnights in harder-to-reach ports.
       Sometimes, visiting a few ports within a country is not enough. That’s why we have pioneered the
       concept of Country-IntensiveSM Voyages— itineraries that include the most iconic destinations as
       well as hidden gems, all within a single country. Our signature Destination Immersion® experiences
       go beyond the realm of cruising in ways that transform even the most seasoned travelers.
       Explore Further SM

                                         INCLUSIVE AMENITIES

  To learn more, call 877.222.2526 or visit Azamara.com
  ©2021 Azamara. Ships Registered in Malta.
FIRST-TIMERS HEED THE RECOMMENDATIONS
                OF PEOPLE THEY TRUST

  Eighty-six percent (86%) of advisors said their first-time cruise clients found them through word-of-mouth. This was
  followed by social media at 68% (see Chart 14). These two influences are built on the same principle, that consum-
  ers are more likely to engage with someone they know, like, and trust – especially now with so many unanswered
  public health questions and concerns around COVID-19. In the new COVID-19 world, health and safety is likely to
  become the overriding concern for most consumers and advisors will need to weave commentary regarding new
  protocols and cruise line practices into their sales process. Advisors can create raving fans based on high quality
  of service they are able to offer, and you can share client stories on your social media channels.

                         INFLUENTIAL MARKETING TOOLS IN SELLING CRUISE

            Word of mouth, referral                                                                    86%

                      Social media                                                       68%

                       Cruise event                                                57%

                        Advertising                                          52%

                  Digital marketing                                          52%

                       Networking                                 37%

                             Other                       24%

30 | CHART 14
FIRST-TIMERS HEED THE RECOMMENDATIONS
               OF PEOPLE THEY TRUST

Advisors play a very proactive role in selling cruises. Sixty-nine percent (69%) suggest cruise to clients looking
for new travel ideas, 38% reach out to existing clients, and another 35% reach out to new clients, all in an effort
to suggest a cruise vacation (see Chart 15). Forty-one percent (41%) of advisors state that new cruisers find them.
This is a testament to both the advisors’ experience and to the fact that new cruisers are looking to book through
a trusted travel advisor.

                       ADVISOR INFLUENCE IN SELLING FIRST TIME CRUISERS

         Clients come to me seeking new travel
                                                                                                         69%
      ideas, and I propose a first cruise vacation

                    New to cruise clients find me                                    41%

      I actively reach out to existing clients who
              have never taken a cruise vacation                                 38%

     I actively reach out to new potential clients
                              for a cruise vacation                            35%

     I do not actively promote first time cruises,
                but offer it if my clients ask for it                 25%

                               I do not sell cruises    1%

                                                                                                   CHART 15 | 31
GETTING READY FOR THE FIRST-TIMERS

  As much as things change, some things stand
  the test of time. Deck plans have always been
  a staple in helping customers make their final
  cruise decision (see Chart 16). Three in four
  (75%) advisors state that they are still one of
  the most important resources when selling
  to a first timer.
  This is because factors such as cabin location
  and ship layout help new cruisers visualize
  their experience and make a well-informed
  decision before putting their money down.
  Other useful sales tools include ship videos
  (59%) and sharing first-time cruiser specific
  FAQ tools (58%).

                            Tools to Assist in the Sale Process
                                        PROMINENT SALES RESOURCES

                        Deck plans                                          75%

                       Ship videos                                    59%

      First-time cruiser FAQ tools                                    58%

                             Maps                               32%

       Content and shared stories                           30%

                      Testimonials                        28%

                     Brand videos                         27%

                      Packing tips                  21%

                     Group guides             7%

                             Other          5%

32 | CHART 16
GETTING READY FOR THE FIRST-TIMERS

Despite adventure and experience being on top
of the clients’ minds, advisors need to strike
a balance between their clients’ wish list and
their budget. According to our survey, 80% of
advisors asked their clients about their budget
before recommending the best cruise option
(see Chart 17). A similar share of advisors also
probed the travelers’ past vacations. This is
a successful strategy as it allows agents to
create context when explaining the value of
a cruise vacation.
A very close third strategy for ensuring that the
client gets the right cruise package is asking
the main reason for taking the trip (76%). This
allows advisors to weave in special occasions,
along with a host of benefits that address their
vacation ‘why.’ Sixty-eight percent (68%) of
advisors ask clients why they chose a specific
cruise line. This can be extremely helpful in
gauging whether it would be a perfect match
or a complete mismatch.

                                     Key Qualifying Questions
                    WAYS TO RECOMMEND CRUISE FOR FIRST-TIME CRUISERS

                                                Ask budget                      80%

                          Ask for past vacation experience                      79%

                     Ask what is most important for their
                  vacation and ensure the line can deliver                     76%

                              Ask why they chose this line               68%

     Ask lifestyle questions such as where they live, dine,
         entertainment choices, etc best option for them                 68%

                        Ask who referred them to this line         43%

                                                     Other    4%

                                                                           CHART 17 | 33
ALL ARROWS IN THE QUIVER

  Sixty-nine percent (69%) of advisors first
  turned to sharing their own personal cruise
  experience with their clients to convince them
  to cruise (see Chart 18). You can see from
  the research that cruise advocates are both
  passionate and proactive about building up
  their cruise business. Forty-seven percent
  (47%) have taken specific training and ask for
  referrals. A significant number of our experi-
  enced advisors participate in industry trade
  events for new ships, send newsletters to
  clients, network in their community, and share
  content and stories, to name a few.

                                                    Sharpening the Saw
                                           PROMOTION TO FIRST-TIME CRUISERS

                   Share my personal cruise experience                                                      69%
         Undertaken training to be aware of new cruise
                                              products                                                47%
                              Ask my clients for referrals                                           47%
          Participate in trade events to learn about new
                                          cruise products                                           45%
           Send newsletters/e-mails to my clients who
                         have not taken a cruise vacation                                       41%
                              Network in my community                                         37%
                               Share content and stories                                31%
                                                Advertise                         26%
              Participate in local fairs, malls, markets to
                                        attract new clients                     22%
             Host groups and invite clients to join them                        21%
    Call my clients who have not taken a cruise vacation                  16%
        Organize meet-and-greet events with potential
                                         new clients                     14%
                                  Host group departures                 13%
                                       None of the above           5%
                       Cross market with other retailers           4%
                                                    Other     1%

34 | CHART 18
ALL ARROWS IN THE QUIVER

Fam trips took the top spot at 70% followed by online training at 60% (see Chart 19). Similarly, up to 60% of the
respondents undertook some type of training in selling cruises in the last 12 months.

                              PREFERRED CRUISE TRAINING PROGRAMS

            Familiarization trips                                                                  70%

                 Online training                                                         60%

                      Webinars                                                          58%

         Office training by BDM                               28%

                  Live seminars                          24%

              Printed materials                         23%

                     Hq training         4%

             None of the above      1%

                          Other      3%

                                                                                                     CHART 19 | 35
CONCLUSION

For many travel consultants, selling a cruise to a first-timer can be challenging, and rightfully so. It is a
complicated booking with many itineraries and cruise lines to consider before they can match to the client.
They also have to field a lot of questions. But advisors must take heart; it’s not as difficult especially since
cruising has become as accessible today as any land-based vacation package.
COVID-19’s impact on the industry has certainly changed things in the short-term and possibly the long-
term, and while it may make the task even more difficult for travel advisors, we can still expect to see the
number of first-time cruisers increase over the coming years, as more and more people realize the benefits
and value a cruise holiday offers. This is largely due to the brilliant work travel advisors and cruise compa-
nies put in to encourage more travelers to choose cruise – often for the first time. To attract the first-time
cruiser, the entire cruise product needs to be addressed in more creative ways to convert non-cruisers away
from independent travel. Cruising is still a Baby Boomer industry in North America but advisors need to
seriously look at younger travelers as a growing part of the consumer mix.
Reflecting this evolution, cruise lines are looking to modernize their offerings by providing more variety
in dining and entertainment, more onboard activities and shore excursions that involves the local culture.
They’re also investing in technology with apps that appeal to the tech-savvy consumer and improve the
passenger experience. Even the décor on ships is evolving to make it more ‘Instagram-able’. The onus of
educating the first time cruiser, therefore, lies on the advisor and they must fall back on their experience
and ingenuity to spot a prospective cruiser.
TH R E E B R AN DS .
                         LI M ITLE SS P OSSI B I LITI E S .
                                                                               ROYAL CARIB B E AN ®
                                                                               ODYSSE Y OF THE SE AS S M
                                                                               It’s time to see just how far adventure can take your clients.
                                                                               Introducing the newest Royal Caribbean® gamechanger,
                                                                               Odyssey of the SeasSM. They can spring into action on the Sky Pad®,
                                                                               or soak up the sun at a newly designed resort-style pool deck
                                                                               that brings island vibes poolside. Take play time to the next level
                                                                               at SeaPlex®. Or kick back and watch all the action from above at
                                                                               PlaymakersSM Sports Bar & Arcade. This is bolder shore exploring
                                                                               to every corner of the eastern, western and southern Caribbean —
                                                                               arriving November 2021 in Fort Lauderdale.

                                                                               CE LE B RIT Y CRUISES
                                                                               CELEBRIT Y APEX
                                                                               With an innovative outward-facing design and visionary spaces
                                                                               that stand apart from anything else at sea, the new Celebrity
                                                                               ApexSM will revolutionize the way your clients experience the world.
                                                                               They can discover the unparalleled luxury of The Retreat®.
                                                                               Unwind in transformational accommodations that blur the
                                                                               boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Soar above the
                                                                               sea on the Magic Carpet®. Surrender to the carefree pleasures of
                                                                               the Rooftop Garden. And embark on a culinary journey through an
                                                                               unrivaled collection of restaurants, bars, and lounges.

                                                                               SILVE RSE A
                                                                               SILVER MOON
                                                                               Silver Moon pushes the limits of what’s possible in luxury, with an
                                                                               all-inclusive and intimate design that makes your clients feel like
                                                                               the ship is their very own. Your guests will be pampered by our
                                                                               signature butler service in the spacious all-suite accommodation.
                                                                               They will also enjoy a wealth of venues, including the all-new
                                                                               S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste), where guests have the opportunity
                                                                               to experience gourmet cuisine and delicious cocktails that will
                                                                               change with every place visited, as well as other culinary activities.
                                                                               Every day brings a discovery, on Silver Moon.

Images and messaging for Odyssey of the Seas reflect current design concepts and may include artistic renderings and/or images of other Quantum Class ships. All ship features, experiences and itineraries are subject to
change without notice. ©2021 Celebrity Cruises Inc. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador. ©2021 Silversea Cruises. Ships' registry: Bahamas. ©2021 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas. 21075746 • 3/25/2021
Please go to the following link to view the downloadable pdf version of this outlook:
                                                      https://www.travelmarketreport.com/library/tmr/newtocruise_outlook.pdf

Travel Market Report is a leader in the North American travel agency community with over 100 years of experience. Our award
winning editorial team leverages scientific data to uncover compelling insights and an “Outlook” on the future for travel advisors.
Travel Market Reports’ highly engaged audience is ideal for customized research on your behalf.

RESEARCH AUTHORS:
VIDEC                                        Dan McCarthy, Editor
Anne Marie Moebes, Publisher

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUTLOOK RESEARCH PLEASE CONTACT SALES:
Brian Israel, Associate Publisher, bisrael@travelmarketreport.com or
Jennifer Arango, Regional Director of Sales, jarango@travelmarketreport.com
                                                                                                                                 11427_03/30/21
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