Holland America Line is set to substantially increase its engagement with travel agents by hosting 430 ship visits in 2024, marking a notable 23% increase from the previous year.
This initiative aims to provide travel agents with firsthand experience of the Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam, and Zuiderdam, enhancing their ability to sell these cruises effectively.
Expanded Opportunities for Agents
In a move set to enhance agent knowledge and sales capabilities, Holland America Line has announced an increase in ship visit engagements for 2024. The renowned cruise line will host 430 travel agents, marking a significant 23% rise from the 350 spots offered in 2023.
These visits will provide agents with the chance to explore Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam, and Zuiderdam. They offer an invaluable opportunity for hands-on experience, which is essential in understanding the unique offerings of Holland America Line. Agents will be hosted in key locations including Dover, South Queensferry (Edinburgh), Liverpool, Belfast, Newcastle, and Cork.
Detailed Itinerary of Ship Visits
The first ship visit will take place on April 20, 2024, aboard Nieuw Statendam in Dover, followed by a tour of Rotterdam on April 26. Both visits are strategically scheduled to precede the ships’ ex-UK sailings from Dover in 2025.
June will see three visits: Nieuw Statendam on June 19 and Rotterdam on June 21, both in South Queensferry, followed by Nieuw Statendam in Liverpool on June 26. These visits will further agents’ understanding of the fleet’s features.
Agents will also have the opportunity to explore Nieuw Statendam in Newcastle on July 18, and Zuiderdam in Cork on August 8 and in Belfast on August 10.
Enhancing Trade Knowledge
Karen Farndell, Sales and Marketing Director for Holland America Line, highlighted the feedback received from their 2023 ship visit programme as a driving factor for the expanded 2024 schedule.
“Following the fantastic feedback we received regarding our 2023 ship visit programme, we have decided to go one better and provide even more opportunities for agents to get onboard this year,” said Farndell, emphasising the significant role of these visits in helping agents broaden their knowledge.
The comprehensive tours will include guided ship inspections and a luncheon, enabling agents to experience firsthand what makes Holland America Line distinct.
Strategic Importance of Location Choices
The decision to include new locations such as Newcastle and Cork highlights the strategic importance of these visits.
Choosing these sites allows Holland America Line to reach a broader segment of the travel trade, further supporting agents in varying regions with tailored information.
This strategic move is expected to enhance the agents’ capacity to market the cruise line’s itineraries effectively, particularly in preparation for the 2025 ex-UK sailings from Dover.
Complementing Tools for Trade
These ship visits are part of a broader strategy that includes trade-friendly tools to support sales and generate enquiries. Holland America Line offers a range of resources designed to equip agents with the necessary insights and selling points.
The visits are meant to complement existing tools, ensuring that agents have a well-rounded understanding of the cruise line’s offerings. This approach underscores the line’s commitment to supporting trade through education and hands-on experience.
Such initiatives play a pivotal role in building confidence among agents, ultimately translating into better customer service and higher sales figures.
Future Prospects and Developments
Looking ahead, the 2025 ex-UK sailings from Dover are a central focus for Holland America Line, making the 2024 ship visits crucial in the lead-up.
The advanced scheduling of these visits illustrates a keen attention to detail and planning, ensuring agents are well-prepared to promote new itineraries.
Farndell noted the seamless integration of these visits with the line’s broader educational and marketing strategies, reinforcing their importance in the overall sales process.
Registration Details
Details on how agents can register for these ship visits will be released soon. The announcement is eagerly anticipated by the trade community.
These visits represent a significant opportunity for agents to gain deeper insights and practical experience, adding substantial value to their professional expertise.
The expanded ship visits programme in 2024 underscores Holland America Line’s commitment to trade education and support.
Through these strategic engagements, the cruise line aims to equip travel agents with robust knowledge and firsthand experience, ultimately driving sales and enhancing customer service.
