Author: Shawon Hannan

Cruise Plus has successfully hosted an educational initiative aimed at broadening the industry knowledge of travel agents in the cruising sector.Conducted over two days, the event saw participation from 40 agents and 18 suppliers, providing an enriching platform for learning and networking.Cruise Plus, a part of dnata Travel Group, recently orchestrated an educational event at its headquarters in Leyland, Lancashire. Over two days, 40 agents had the opportunity to engage with 18 suppliers, offering an expansive view into the dynamic world of cruising. This initiative aimed at broadening the agents’ understanding of various cruise sectors including ocean, luxury, river, and…

A new trade-only website has been launched by Inspire My Holiday, aiming to fill a gap in the market. This platform is designed to assist travel agents in matching destinations with client needs, enhancing the efficiency of their service delivery.The website, deemed the ‘Inspire My Holiday Trade Hub’, offers a singular platform for agents. It allows seamless browsing of trade partners and provides direct pathways for making inquiries, promising to save agents significant time and effort.Understanding the Need for a Trade-Only PlatformThe inception of the trade-only platform by Inspire My Holiday addresses a specific market demand for streamlined services. This…

Almost 8,000 passengers aboard P&O Cruises enjoyed the thrilling spectacle of England’s semi-final victory last night. P&O Cruises continues to innovate by screening significant events at sea, such as the upcoming Euros final.P&O Cruises recently provided its passengers with the excitement of live sports by screening England’s triumphant semi-final win against The Netherlands. This event was broadcasted to nearly 8,000 passengers across its fleet. Such initiatives exemplify how cruise lines are enhancing on-board experiences to meet passenger expectations for entertainment.The live broadcast took place on seven ships, utilizing diverse venues such as theatres, bars, and the SkyDome on Arvia. This…

In a significant move, Spa Travel, a well-established agency based in Boston Spa, has transitioned from the Elite Travel Group to become a member of The Travel Network Group.This strategic shift is poised to leverage the extensive resources and support offered by TTNG, enhancing Spa Travel’s ability to exceed customer expectations.With roots dating back to 1980, Spa Travel has been serving the Boston Spa community with distinguished travel services for over four decades. The agency boasts a formidable team whose combined expertise exceeds 100 years in the travel industry, with several members having dedicated more than 30 years to the…

MAG airports are gearing up for what promises to be a bustling summer, having reported significant growth in passenger numbers for June. The group, which includes Manchester, Stansted, and East Midlands airports, recorded a substantial year-on-year increase in travellers.In June alone, the airports collectively managed 6.3 million passengers, marking a 7% rise compared to last year. Such figures highlight the post-pandemic rebound and suggest a positive trend for the peak holiday season.Strong Performance Across AirportsManchester Airports Group (MAG) has reported encouraging growth figures, signalling a solid start to the summer season. June saw a 7% increase in overall passenger numbers.…

MSC Cruises has announced a significant expansion of its Fly & Cruise programme for summer 2025, focusing on the Mediterranean. This expansion will see a 30% increase in available packages, enhancing travel options for holidaymakers in the United Kingdom.Partnering with budget airlines, MSC Cruises offers flights to key Mediterranean cities, making this region more accessible. The effort signifies a strategic move to support growing demand and strengthen relationships with airline partners.Expansion Details and Strategic PartnershipsMSC Cruises is committed to expanding its Mediterranean Fly & Cruise programme by 30% for the summer of 2025. By partnering with budget airlines like Jet2…

Viva Cruises fortifies its trade channels through a partnership with Traveltek.This collaboration is set to revolutionise cruise distribution by granting agents enhanced access to vital data.Viva Cruises has strategically enhanced its distribution capabilities by collaborating with Traveltek, a leading travel technology provider. This partnership offers travel agents enriched access to vital cruise data, including flat file pricing, itineraries, and ship content for Viva’s fleet. Such advancements are poised to streamline operations and bolster customer engagement through improved service provision.Viva Cruises possesses a growing fleet of nine ships navigating seven different rivers. With its own-build vessels, Viva One and Viva Two…

Recent months have seen a notable trend in travel bookings as Jet2 reports a rise in late bookings. This shift in consumer behaviour prompts the company to adapt its pricing strategy.With a significant increase in annual profits by 33%, Jet2’s approach to keep prices appealing demonstrates its ability to navigate the dynamic market conditions effectively.Jet2, the UK’s largest holiday group, has reported a substantial 33% increase in pre-tax profits to £520 million for the year ending March 31. Revenue soared by almost a quarter to £6.2 billion, showcasing strong financial health. Passenger numbers rose by 9% to 17.72 million, supported…

The Aman Group has initiated the construction of its inaugural ultra-luxury yacht, marking a significant expansion into marine travel.A collaboration with Cruise Saudi, this vessel promises unrivalled luxury and is set to redefine opulent marine experiences upon its launch in 2027.The Aman Group has embarked on a monumental journey with the construction of its first ultra-luxury yacht. The 183-metre vessel, set to debut in 2027, represents a pioneering step in the world of opulent marine travel. In collaboration with Cruise Saudi, the project promises unrivalled luxury with an emphasis on privacy and exclusivity. This venture marks a significant expansion for…

The Supreme Court has issued a ruling in a landmark case concerning flight delays caused by crew sickness. This decision impacts airlines and passengers alike.In what is being hailed as a significant victory for air passengers, the court concluded that airline staff illness does not qualify as an ‘extraordinary circumstance’, mandating compensation for affected passengers.Landmark Court RulingThe ruling came from the Supreme Court in the case of Lipton vs. BA Cityflyer, establishing a precedent that airline crew illness cannot be deemed an ‘extraordinary circumstance’. This clarification means passengers affected by delays or cancellations due to such illnesses are entitled to…