Vacation.com announced its strong support for the new qualifications that the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) recently set forth for obtaining a CLIA ID Card, which includes enrollment in or achievement of CLIA Cruise Counselor Certification. The travel services marketing organization believes CLIA's new standards add value to its membership.
While endorsing CLIA’s new ID Card qualifications, Vacation.com recognized the importance of cruise lines to continue to compensate those agents who have taken the time to develop their skills and increase sales.
“Travel agents are here to stay and with 78% of the cruise consumers making purchasing decisions via an agent, their value has been recognized in the marketplace," said Steve Tracas, president and CEO, Vacation.com. "This value will only grow as the breadth and depth of the cruise product grows and we believe that if agents were recognized for the overall cruise experience, they would prove their value with a considerable return on the cruise line’s investment.”