Silversea Expeditions joins Atas to ‘nurture’ agents
Silversea Expeditions has joined the Association of Touring and Adventure Suppliers (Atas) to promote its range of luxury expedition and destination-specific cruises.
The line’s expedition fleet currently includes Silver Cloud, Silver Explorer, Silver Wind and new ship Silver Origin, which was purpose-built for the Galapagos Islands and launched last June.
Key destinations are Antarctica, the Arctic and Galapagos – and, during a typical year, its expedition ships will visit all seven continents.
Peter Shanks, managing director at the cruise line – part of the Royal Caribbean Group – said: “Silversea Expeditions are the ultimate adventure holiday – we believe there is a terrific opportunity for travel advisors in this fast-growing sector.
“UK travel agents are so vital to our business today and for our substantial future growth –joining Atas is just one example of our commitment to supporting them.”
Seven of the cruise line’s 10 ships are currently back in operation and the full fleet is set to return this summer.
“We have ambitious growth plans, as demonstrated by launching three new Silversea ships over the last 12 months,” added Shanks.
“Guests are keen to return. They are looking to sail for longer, looking to trade up to better suites and our iconic ‘bucket list’ expedition destinations of Antarctica, the Arctic and Galapagos have never been in higher demand.”
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He said Silversea has offered expedition cruises for the past 15 years and its onboard expedition teams offer “the perfect experience” for Atas agents to promote.
“We want to showcase to travel agents the wide range of expedition experiences we offer as the leader in the sector – and as Silversea is reassuringly expensive, the earning opportunity for travel agents is not to be missed,” said Shanks.
“Those agents have all the guests we need. They just don’t know they are going on a Silversea Expedition yet – but they will.”
He said bookings for 2022 are coming back “stronger than we could have expected”, adding: “Pent-up demand is driving very significant growth for 2023 and 2024 sailings – it’s the perfect time for travel agents to join the ultra-luxury and expedition cruise journey.
“We have the very best sales team in our sector, a wide range of marketing assets, training and webinar opportunities – and a real desire to welcome and nurture new travel agents to Silversea.”
Claire Brighton, account director for Atas, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Silversea to the association. Expedition cruising offers such great opportunities for travel agents.
“As Peter says, there is plenty of demand from adventurous clients to visit iconic destinations and the cruises are lucrative earning opportunities for agents.
“Silversea is committed to travel agent partnerships and joining Atas is a real demonstration of that pledge to support the trade.”
