Toronto, May 30, 2014 –Transat Distribution Canada members set sail last week on the high seas for their fifth annual Cruise Academy. Over 100 delegates and preferred cruise partners embarked on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas from May 10 -17th.
The week long training event offered TDC members the choice of French or English classes, and two levels of education based on their past cruise product experience.
Training included classroom, workshops as well as one to one coaching sessions. New features this year included specific content around selling river cruises, deluxe and luxury as well as Weddings at Sea. In addition, the group conducted team building initiatives and a site inspection on the Carnival Glory while in Cozumel. The forum concluded with TDC management providing insights and training focused on key TDC differentiators resulting in all participants returning to the office with focused business plans on how to grow cruise sales.
“This is our fifth consecutive year running this academy and it is very inspiring to see another graduating class so motivated to return home energized and excited about growing their cruise sales. You can see their confidence grow stronger throughout the week as they become more comfortable with the content, build relationships with our partners and network with their peers.” Said Susan Bowman, VP Marketing and Industry Relations,Transat Distribution.
The Oasis of the Seas and RCI team were once again a perfect host venue for the event. Private sessions on the Flowrider, Graduation guests from the Madagascar Character team, special treats from the cupcake shop and much more, allowed the group to experience first hand all the amenities of the Oasis class experience. A scavenger hunt on board with all preferred partners allowed for everyone to get a feel for the full range of features and services on board.
Participants and partners were very impressed with the venue and content throughout the week.
“The TDC Cruise Academy exceeded my expectations. Each presenter brought a wealth of knowledge that brings a new inspiration in my vision to selling the experience of cruises. I look forward to going back to my office and sharing my new found knowledge with my clients. Spread the news – there is a cruise for everybody!” Amanda Kirkham – Branch Manager, MARLIN TRAVEL Millcroft Centre, Burlington ON
“I can say without hesitation that it was the best training I’ve ever done, bar none.” Colleen Roberts – Senior Travel Consultant, MARLIN TRAVEL Surrey, BC
“I would recommend the TDC Cruise Academy to both beginner and advanced agents. The program is balanced and designed to accommodate agents of different experience and skill levels. Both groups came away with increased knowledge and insight on how to move forward in their travel careers.” Mark Dzerowycz, Sales Manager, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Up next for TDC is their National Leadership Conference in Cancun Mexico for all owners and managers from November 15 – 22nd.
About Transat Distribution Canada
Transat Distribution Canada is Canada’s leading retail distributor of holiday travel, with approximately 600 outlets. The distribution network, which is affiliated with Transat A.T. Inc., includes the Marlin Travel, TravelPlus, Club Voyages and Voyages en Liberté banners as well as other affiliate members. Transat A.T. Inc. is an integrated international tour operator with more than 60 destination countries and that distributes products in over 50 countries.