The program applies to clients who used a travel agency for their holiday at sea and who book their next sailing while onboard. The original travel agents who booked their voyages will receive full commission for any new booking made on board.
New aspects of the program for guests include a reduced ‘onboard-only deposit’ starting at $100 per person for their next cruise, greater flexibility to allow customers to change a reservation based on their needs prior to final payment, as well as an extended ‘best price guarantee’ timeframe.
Existing benefits of MSC’s ‘Future Cruise Program’ include: up to $200 in shipboard credit for a customer’s next cruise; double points for the line’s loyalty program, MSC Voyagers Club; the ability to combine market offers with the rewards scheme; and the chance to choose from the best selection of cabins and suites.
According to MSC Cruises, the newly enhanced program will allow agency resources to be better allocated and provide funds to foster new clients.
“We believe that the new Future Cruise Program is an extension of an agency’s business as we at MSC Cruises continue to build loyalty with our valued travel partners,” said Achille Staiano, SVP Global Sales. “We are confident that this new initiative will be a win-win for both the trade and cruise holidaymakers as we know that highly satisfied guests on board our fleet of 22 ships means that travel agents have highly satisfied customers.”
Staiano added that guests of MSC Yacht Club, the company’s ‘ship-within-a-ship’ premium concept, have a strong propensity to book their next cruise while on board.
“Looking ahead, I can see the scheme’s enhancements being of even wider appeal to agents and consumers alike,” he said.
Guests onboard MSC Cruises’ ships have access to information and best offers through MSC’s dedicated onboard Future Cruise teams. Every new booking will generate an email confirmation of the booking to a travel agent.
Full details of the new ‘Future Cruise Program’ are available at MSC’s website for travel agents, MSC Book.
