Norwegian Cruise Line has launched “Partners First Onboard,” a new initiative specifically designed to give travel partners more opportunities to experience Freestyle Cruising firsthand. The new program, developed as part of the company’s “Partners First” corporate philosophy, offers special booking fares and a customized onboard experience for travel partners.

“With Partners First Onboard, we are inviting our travel partners to sail with us to experience Norwegian’s freedom and flexibility for themselves since our product is unique to the industry,” said Camille Olivere, Norwegian’s vice president of sales, Americas. “The more our partners educate themselves on Freestyle Cruising, the better they are able to pass that knowledge on to their customers, which is an advantage for everyone involved.”

As part of “Partners First Onboard,” special booking fares on Norwegian’s fleet of 11 ships are exclusively available to travel partners enrolled in NCL University, the line’s online educational program (to participate in NCL U, partners may join by visiting www.ncluniversity.com).  These rates are offered in three different tiers, so as partners move through the educational program and achieve certain status they receive more advantageous pricing.  In addition, more sailings will now be available to book in advance rather than the traditional last minute offers, allowing partners to better plan ahead. As an added convenience, requests can now be submitted online making the process quicker and more efficient.

All qualified travel partners sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line are included in the onboard portion of the program automatically when booking a reduced agent rate.  If paying full fare, they just need to notify the reservations agent when booking the cruise.  Once booked, the travel partner will receive a pre-cruise letter from Olivere that gives an overview of the ship, useful pre-cruise information, as well as personal recommendations from Olivere for dining and shore excursions.  Once onboard, partners will receive a $50 dining credit to experience one of Norwegian’s specialty restaurants, along with other amenities and surprises. They are also provided with contact details for the Onboard Cruise Consultant in order to learn more about Norwegian’s product and the Freestyle Cruise Rewards Program.

After the cruise, travel partners will receive a letter from Olivere encouraging them to connect with Norwegian on Facebook and Twitter to share their Freestyle Cruising experience. They will also receive a personal call from their Business Development Specialist or Manager to discuss feedback from the cruise and future opportunities with Norwegian.