Virgin Voyages, the new adults-only cruise brand from Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group, reports that it will eliminate non-commissionable fares. The cruise line made the announcement as part of a number of details on its programs for travel agents that the cruise line released ahead of its 2020 debut.
No part of a booking with Virgin Voyages is non-commissionable, the cruise line said, so travel agents will earn across their client's entire transaction, including on all add-ons like flights, hotel stays, voyage protection, shore excursions, spa treatments, any premium package, onboard credits and taxes and fees.
Other programs for travel agents, which the cruise line developed based on feedback from the agent community, includes a base commission of 10 percent on the entire transaction. Additionally, all travel agents or affiliated organizations can earn a Red Hot Bonus paid annually on sailed revenue up to an additional 6 percent if they meet certain production thresholds.
For clients, the cruise line says that all gratuities will be included in the base fare. Also included will be all eateries, group fitness classes and basic beverages. The cruise line will also not charge penalties or change fees. Clients and travel agents will be able to hold cabins for 24 hours with no money down once they have placed a 20 percent non-refundable deposit. They will also have a grace period of seven days during which they can change their mind for any reason at all. Voyage date and names on bookings can also be changed without penalties or fees.
Virgin Voyages' travel agent website, FirstMates.com, is registering travel agencies and individual travel sellers in advance of the company's opening for bookings on February 14. Starting February 5, the website will offer all of the line's travel agent tools, including downloadable digital and in-store marketing materials, interactive learning materials and more. All individual travel agents who register to do business with Virgin Voyages before February 14 will have the opportunity to enter to win afternoon tea with Sir Richard Branson.
Virgin Voyages will also host a learning campaign beginning February 6 called Cabin Fever, which will help agents learn about cabins and RockStar Suites, which the line says will be a key product differentiator.
For more agents can reach out to [email protected] or 1-833-VVSAILS.
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