Explora Journeys Launches ‘By Appointment’ Service for Advisors

Explora Journeys, the new ultra-luxury cruise line from the MSC Cruise Group that will debut in 2023, has officially launched its industry-first, “By Appointment” service for travel advisors.

The service allows advisors to set up an appointment with an Explora Journeys customer experience representative online, giving them quick and easy access to someone who can help schedule an exact appointment time with Explora and avoid waiting on hold.

Appointments, which currently are being conducted in English with additional languages expected to follow, are each scheduled for 30 minutes and give advisors the opportunity to reserve a spot on the waitlist for the brand’s debut season in 2023 with no obligation. A follow-up appointment can be made where advisors can convert those waitlist options into a deposited booking, which will earn them a commission payment shortly after.

Travel advisors can register for their appointment by visiting the Explora advisor portal.

For the team at Explora Journeys, the service, along with other advisor-first moves that the line has already announced including rolling commission payments and an 18% overall commission on an all-inclusive fare, allows it to provide advisors the same luxury experience it provides its guests onboard.

“One of our key points of differentiation is how we support our global travel advisor community. We wanted to totally remove on-hold time and put the control in the hands of our travel partners. The result is, they get to speak to our dedicated Ambassadors at their convenience and, waitlist suites for their valued clients exclusively before we open for public sale later this year. Initial industry feedback recognises our service as being “best in class” for which we are most proud,” Chris Austin, the chief sales officer of Explora said.

For advisors who aren’t yet familiar with Explora, Austin described the brand as the “top of the pyramid” of the luxury cruise market. The first ship, Explora 1, will debut in 2023. That will be followed by three more ships, each launching in consecutive years through 2026.