blog post

Being a Cruise Planners agent has its benefits and one of the best, most valued benefits, is the company’s strong relationship with its cruise line partners. Day number two of Cruise Planners’ 2010 Convention kicked off on Friday morning with the most anticipated session so far – the cruise line executive panel. 

Industry executives Vicki Freed, Royal Caribbean International’s SVP Sales; Dondra Ritzenthaler, Celebrity Cruises’ SVP Sales; Edie Bornstein, Azamara Club Cruises’ VP Sales & Marketing; Lynn Torrent, Carnival Cruise Lines’ SVP Sales & Guest Services; Lee Robinson, Princess Cruises & Cunard Line’s VP Sales; and Camille Olivere, NCL’s VP Sales, spoke to agents about the hot topics in the cruise industry today. 

Moderated by Michelle Fee, CEO and co-founder of Cruise Planners/American Express, executives were candid and open with the audience sharing their thoughts on the upcoming changes in the cruise industry, how cruise lines need help from travel agents to sell cruises and how internally some cruise line companies have changed their policies while others have not.

Executives praised agents for their skills in educating the consumer about cruise ships and what they offer today’s savvy cruise traveler. Lynn Torrent noted a majority of consumers choose to book cruises only through travel agents, which in turn, keeps the industry alive and business growing.

In closing, Michelle asked the executives what they think is leading the current consumer trends and what cruisers are really looking for when they book a cruise vacation. Executives shared their thoughts with Cruise Planners agents and home office team describing what’s most important for the cruiser – quality, entertainment, consistency, reconnecting with family and friends, along with memorable moments and value.