Two travel agents recently embarked on a Cunard fam trip aboard the Queen Mary 2, aiming to dispel common misconceptions.
The voyage from Southampton to New York provided a firsthand experience, revealing the brand’s diverse offerings beyond its perceived traditional image.
Many often perceive Cunard as strictly formal, yet this experience proved different.
Danny Forsythe observed that while formal activities are available, the overall vibe is relaxed and friendly, catering to varied age groups on board.
Helen Smith noted that Cunard is more than just ballgowns and tiaras, offering numerous opportunities for both glamour and relaxation.
As a newcomer to Cunard, Forsythe valued the treasure hunts and interactive sessions, which fostered group camaraderie.
Smith, on her first fam trip, appreciated the flexibility in activities, allowing her to explore guest interests and routines at her own pace.
Experiencing the brand personally provided Forsythe with invaluable insights for training purposes.
Smith emphasized the advantage of having tangible experiences to draw upon when discussing activities with potential customers.
Such firsthand knowledge enhances the authenticity of their sales strategies, helping debunk myths for clients.
Though not directly selling cruises, Forsythe plays a pivotal role in educating in-house trainers about the Cunard experience.
These insights are then shared with the sales team, aiding in a more genuine portrayal of Cunard offerings.
Smith ensures her daily reflections on the voyage serve as a personal resource for future client interactions.
The director of UK sales, Tom Mahoney, highlights the importance of fam trips in immersing agents in the Cunard brand.
The extended programme for 2023 reflects Cunard’s dedication to providing more agents with these invaluable experiences.
By hosting agents on multiple voyages, Cunard aims to strengthen its agent relationships and promote accurate brand representation.
Cunard’s strategy of expanding fam trips aims to further integrate agents into its brand ethos.
With additional voyages planned, more agents will gain deep insights, fostering improved customer engagement and sales outcomes.
The Cunard fam trip successfully changed perceptions, equipping agents with firsthand experience to share with potential clients.
This initiative underscores Cunard’s commitment to enhancing agent understanding and advancing its brand image.