This Week in Cruise - New Sales and Outreach at Major Lines

Holland America Line and Seabourn promoted Eva Jenner to VP, North America field, charter and incentive sales, where she will report directly to Mark Kammerer, SVP, marketing and North America sales. In this position, Jenner will lead the development and execution of trade distribution programs and initiatives that support the revenue goals for both brands in North America. Prior to her promotion, Jenner was director, legal and assistant general counsel supporting both Holland America Line and Seabourn. In that role, she worked with the North American and international sales teams to develop sales initiatives and charter and incentive programs. Jenner also played a role in the development of the ethics and compliance programs for the companies.

“Eva’s strong knowledge of our operations, charter and incentive business, distribution channel structure and processes will be a valuable asset to our sales organization,” Kammerer said. “Her approach to building and maintaining relationships will ensure her success in this new executive leadership role.”

Carnival Cruise Lines is connecting further with travel agents with the launch of a new travel agent outreach program, Carnival Conversations, designed to increase dialogue and strengthen ties with travel agents through roadshow events, agency visits and daily feedback opportunities on GoCCL.com, the company’s travel agent Internet portal. Beginning July 1, the line will launch a marketing campaign to build awareness for the program and a road show series will kick off in New York City on July 12. 

Travel agents may participate in Carnival Conversations by attending in-person events such as road shows led by the line’s senior sales executives, in-agency seminars, seminars at sea, trade shows and conferences. During these events, Carnival's sales team will listen to travel agents and provide corresponding solutions and feedback. In addition, as an added element to the in-person events.

“Many travel agents have expressed that they’re frustrated with changes we’ve made in recent years,” said Lynn Torrent, EVP of sales and guest services. “Our goal with Carnival Conversations is to do a better job of listening and responding to travel agents regularly so that we're on top of the issues that matter to them most.”

Kiki Tauck Mahar, the wife of Tauck CEO Dan Mahar and the daughter of Tauck Chairman Arthur Tauck, was invited aboard Le Soleal in Venice, Italy as Compagnie Du Ponant's guest of honor. She joined company officials and other dignitaries for the maiden voyage of Compagnie Du Ponant’s new luxury small ship, Le Soléal. Mahar is godmother to the new 264-passenger, 466-foot ship, which she officially christened last December. As the celebratory overnight cruise concluded on Sunday, the Le Soléal embarked on its first commercial sailing.

“Seeing Le Soléal enter service marks another great milestone in Tauck’s long and successful partnership with Compagnie Du Ponant," Mahar said. "Tauck has been providing superior travel experiences to our guests for 88 years, and the elegance, sophistication and quality of Le Soléal will allow us to continue that wonderful tradition.”