Windstar Cruises has created a new multi-tier travel agency recognition program designed to reward top-producing agencies with a top 10 Platinum distinction, a top 11-20 Gold award, and a 21+ Silver category.
Officially dubbed Club 180 in reference to the cruise line’s tagline “180 Degrees from Ordinary,” recognition through this program comes in the form of a number of amenities travel advisors can offer their clients (such as complimentary WiFi and shipboard credit); additional marketing and sales support from Windstar (including advance notice on promotions and new product launches); priority service (such as a dedicated phone line); and benefits for travel advisors themselves when sailing on Windstar (including complimentary WiFi and laundry service), with varying levels of benefits for the three tiers.
Inaugural members for the new Club 180 program have already been selected based upon 2018 sales production; however, membership will be renewed annually, with an opportunity to add new members in December 2019.
“Club 180 recognizes domestic North America travel sellers, not consortium,” said Windstar’s v.p. of sales Steve Simao, CTC, in press materials. “It is based primarily on top sales, though select travel agencies may be included in the program based on the history of our partnership and their overall support of the Windstar brand.”
In recent years, Windstar has put a renewed focus on its relationship with travel professionals and travel agencies through various initiatives such as the Star Promise program, which launched in 2016 to help advisors increase sales and book more efficiently. Windstar’s Travel Advisor Hub, which grew out of that Star Promise program, has also been a resource for those advisors interested in expanding their Windstar business. Simao recommends that those interested in becoming a top agency with Windstar start with the line’s travel agent website for tips and training to become a top producer in Windstar’s new Club 180.
For more information, visit windstarcruises.com. If you’re in need of some ideas on what new cruising experiences to book for your clients this year, click here.
