In the four months since the launch of the company’s new “Partners First” philosophy, Norwegian Cruise Line has made significant progress in continuing its commitment to put travel partners first.  In a recent Vacation.com survey, nearly 75 percent of partners believe Norwegian is making a substantial investment in its initiatives and over 70 percent stated that they are more likely to sell Norwegian Cruise Line than they had been in the past. In addition, Norwegian’s post-call survey, given to travel partners interacting with the company’s reservations team, showed a more than 90 percent satisfaction rate. 

“Travel partners are our top focus and we are continuously looking for new ways to enhance our Partners First commitment,” said Andy Stuart, executive vice president, global sales and passenger services.  “The feedback from partners has so far been very positive, but we don’t want to stop here.   We want to continue to find ways to strengthen the communication and relationships.”

Norwegian has further committed to their Partners First philosophy by making travel partners the central focus of a recent ad campaign launched in various trade publications. The ads showcase actual travel partners and testimonials. The latest advertisement, launched this week, features real feedback received from partners.  One of the featured testimonials from travel partner, Dorothy Pennycooke, of Rance Cruises and Tours in New York, states, “No other cruise line supports travel agents like Norwegian.”

Also new on the Partners First web site is the first in a series of videos where Norwegian’s executives cover industry-specific topics and company policies relevant to partners.  Some of the subjects explored are Sales Support, Trade Engagement, Travel Partner Friendly Group Policies and Service, among others.  These videos complement Norwegian’s chief executive officer Kevin Sheehan’s message of the company’s enhanced commitment to travel partners.

The company has continued to take more steps to make it easier for travel partners to do business with the line.  In addition to the millions invested to enhance booking technology, rate quotes are guaranteed so partners can book with confidence. Norwegian also has the most competitive group booking policy, with more flexibility and the longest lead time, making it easier for partners to find the right package and offer the most compelling prices to their clients. This coupled with the fact that there is no price advantage for guests to book directly with the cruise line, means that travel partners have a competitive advantage over all other channels.