CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. have launched a video asset library consisting of so-called “vlogs”-- blogs comprised primarily of video content. Twenty-six videos are live now on the two trade groups’ websites, with 35 yet to be loaded by year’s end.
The new vlogs were introduced last Friday to agents attending the annual CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. conference onboard the new Regal Princess.
“Our home-based agents are trying to promote cruising to their clients, they want their clients to engage with the content on their websites and video is really important,” said Drew Daly, general manager of network engagement and performance, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc.
Vacation Planning on the Go
The “vlogs” provide consumers a first-person look at what it’s like to stay at a resort or travel on a cruise by showcasing destinations, cruise lines and the experiences available for both. The “vlogs” also provide background information and insider tips.
Daly made the case for video this way: “When the client is viewing mobile apps on their smart phones, they can click on our sites, view the videos and engage with the content, even if they’re sitting in the middle of Starbucks.” He said it helps showcase what the groups offer as “boutique travel agents.”
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| New "vlogs" -- blogs comprised primarily of video content -- are now up for clients to peruse on the CruiseOne, Cruises Inc. and individual agent websites. |
“These videos are a game-changer in the travel industry,” believes Rosemarie Reed, vice president of marketing for CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. “We recognize the increased role video plays when consumers are researching vacations and these vlogs will be a crucial aspect of the decision-making process.” She stressed that the CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. videos drive emotion and create a connection with the viewer by being fun and engaging.
CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. cited Google studies that show online travel video usage is increasing 55 percent and that video is very influential in the early stages of the travel planning process, particularly when clients are just beginning to think about a trip and the destination. According to the same study, 90 percent of travelers take action after viewing an online travel video.
“With only three percent of the population ever having taken a cruise, first-time cruisers are important to the growth of the industry and these ‘vlogs’ are essential to getting that first-time cruiser onboard who wants to know exactly what to expect on their vacation before booking,” noted Debbie Fiorino, senior vice president, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc.
The vlogs can be found on www.cruiseone.com, www.cruisesinc.com and on the more than 1,500 individual agents’ websites under the dropdown menus for Cruise Lines, Explore More, Cruise Destinations, The Experience and Resorts & Tours.
For more information for agents or potential travel agents, visit www.cruiseonefranchise.com and www.sellcruises.com.