Virgin Voyages Enhances Group Bookings Program
Virgin Voyages is set to make group bookings easier and more rewarding for travel advisors with an updated program that promises greater flexibility and a range of enticing perks. Now known as the “Circles, Groups, and Weddings” program, this refreshed initiative is based on direct feedback from travel advisors who have been instrumental in the company’s record-breaking performance. The revamped program is designed to streamline the booking process and provide extra benefits that enhance the overall guest experience.
“We made a commitment to our travel advisor community to always take feedback and turn it into action,” said Nirmal Saverimuttu, Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Voyages. “This new program is a direct result of listening, learning and making improvements. The travel advisor community is everything to us as we build this brand together and celebrate a record-breaking wave season.”
One of the key features of the updated program is the elimination of rigid requirements for Circles bookings. There is now no required cabin minimum and no mandatory deposit, which makes it easier for travel advisors to secure bookings without the constraints of previous policies. Additionally, the program now offers richer combinability with initiatives such as My Next Virgin Voyage, along with robust price and promotion protection. To further reward travel advisors, those who book at least 10 cabins will have the option to choose between a 2 percent bonus commission or a complimentary balcony cabin.
For group bookings, which cater to advisors who already have a group of travelers ready to set sail, the program now requires a minimum of eight cabins but still removes the need for an upfront deposit. This change is coupled with an extended 30-day hold period that gives groups ample time to finalize their travel plans. Group bookings also come with onboard bar tab options and the same level of price and promotion protection available under the Circles program.
In addition, the new program extends its benefits to wedding bookings, targeting groups that plan to attend wedding celebrations aboard one of Virgin Voyages’ ships. For wedding bookings, there is no minimum cabin requirement, and these reservations are similarly eligible for a 30-day hold along with onboard bar tab options and promotion protection. This flexibility is intended to make it easier for travel advisors to coordinate large, memorable celebrations while enjoying the exclusive benefits of the updated program.
The changes are already showing positive impact on the company’s performance. “Thanks to our incredible travel advisors, we are having a record wave season with a more than 60% increase in revenue from February of last year, and a more than 80% increase coming specifically from our dedicated travel partners,” Saverimuttu stated. This significant boost in revenue underscores the critical role that travel advisors play in driving business growth for Virgin Voyages and highlights the importance of creating a supportive and efficient booking environment for them.
By reimagining its group booking processes, Virgin Voyages is not only easing the administrative burden for travel advisors but also enhancing the value proposition for their clients. With an emphasis on flexibility, attractive incentives, and protective measures for pricing and promotions, the new “Circles, Groups, and Weddings” program is poised to become a key tool in strengthening relationships with travel advisors and boosting the overall guest experience. As Virgin Voyages continues to innovate, its commitment to collaboration with travel partners sets a new benchmark in the cruise industry, ensuring that every journey begins with excellence and ends with lasting memories.
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