Two days after winning three awards at this year’s NTIA Awards, APT says it will invest ‘significantly’ in new initiatives designed to help agents book more groups.
Announced this morning, investment will see the tour operator host additional nationwide workshops to showcase its main APT product as well as its sister brands.
Through the sessions, agents will learn how to build on regular F.I.T. group bookings by using their inclusive cruise packages as an opportunity to engage with local membership and community-based organisations looking to host a group departure.
Both brands are offering highly competitive special group’s terms for travel agent bookings with as little as 10 passengers. For most destinations the additional booking incentive of a free additional cabin will be offered for every 11th passenger booked.
Group travel is already popular aboard APT and Travelmarvel’s Europe and Asia river cruise departures.
In addition, APT is also offering group and charter bookings aboard its fleet of three small ocean-going ships (which will also be featured in the upcoming workshops) which offer guests a choice of cruise styles, Boutique or Expedition, to some of the world’s most enticing destinations.
Heading up the new Groups business offering across both brands, APT and Travelmarvel Channel Strategy Manager Damian Borg said cruise is one of the fastest growing areas for group travel. Specifically for the company, MICE trips has tripled in size over the last decade.
“We operate some of the most highly regarded river ships and small ocean cruise ships in the world.”
Damian Borg, APT and Travelmarvel Channel Strategy Manager
“As such travel agents are assured of the highest quality travel experience, exceptional customer service and a high level of repeat bookings.
“We are committed to working with our travel industry partners to deliver the exceptional financial benefits that we know can be achieved through these markets.”
Sessions will start on 4 August in Sydney at the Harbourview North Sydney. It will travel to the Novotel Parramatta on 5 August followed by Brisbane, Pacific Golf Club at Carindale on 6 August; Melbourne, Rydges CBD – 12 August; Melbourne, Novotel Glen Waverley – 13 August; Adelaide, Stamford Plaza – 1 September; and Perth, Crown Plaza – 2 September.
Space is limited so agents are urged to register clients onto the events as soon as possible. Click here to register or call 1800 655 440.
