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Size matters in the cruise industry, and this year more than $4.7 billion was invested in 15 new (and some extremely large) ships, which is a great sign for travel agents.

Andy Stuart, Executive VP of Global Sales & Passenger Services for Norwegian Cruise Line revealed what the cruise industry is doing to continue to innovate and stand out. He chatted about new localized ports, exotic products and new staterooms.

All of these new innovations and investments have created a lot of buzz about the cruise industry in general, which ultimately drives cruisers to reach out to CP agents to close deals. Agents need to be prepared to sell these products, like Norwegian’s new Epic.

When talking about the Epic, he focused on the entertainment and family elements including: Legends in Concert, Blue Man Group, Ice Bar, Water park with Epic’s Plunge and new staterooms. All great experiences for CP agents to sell!

Andy said consumers are changing – they are looking for more tomorrow than they had yesterday and it is up to agents to enhance the industry buzz and continue with the industry’s excitement.

He also said cruisers expect their experience to better, faster, 24/7 and to be done immediately. This concept of instant gratification is what the world is turning to, so Andy suggests agents get involved with online communities and stay connected with social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter to keep on top of their game. 

Want more wit and cruise industry news from Andy? Follow and interact with him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/NCLAndy.

- Caitlin Murphy