Travel advisors are about to face more competition for cruise sales.
Booking.com, one of the world’s largest OTA’s, says it’s getting into the cruise booking business to take advantage of the American public’s hunger for cruise travel.
Reuters reports cruise operators expect record bookings next year due to rising demand from first-time cruisers and a desire by the public to save money on their holidays.
“Online travel websites are trying to become one-stop shops for people planning vacations,” the news agency said.
"It’s not at all surprising," said Brenda Slater, co-founder of ACITA. "You can book cruises on many of the OTAs. And they are spot on, cruising is seeing a huge increase in interest. Costco, Expedia and many others have been selling cruises for a long time now, so it seems Booking.com may be later than most to the table."
Published stories suggest the move, which is part of a partnership with global travel agency World Travel Holdings, is only taking place in the U.S. But that doesn’t mean it won’t be expanded to Canada and other countries.
In a news release posted on Phocus Wire, it was reported that U.S. consumers “can now access more than 10,000 sailings on more than 30 cruise lines from 55 departure points across the globe.
“Customers can book a cruise through Booking.com online, or over the phone and live chat.”
“At Booking.com, we are committed to making it easier for everyone to experience the world, and with the United States being the largest market for cruises globally, it is important for us to meet and service this demand through our platform," said Ben Harrell, managing director, U.S. at Booking.com.
Slater said the Booking.com move begs a question.
"If people book online, why would they book with an OTA over booking direct? Why don’t consumers know that booking with an advisor, can better match passengers needs with the right cruise line? As ITA, we have massive buying power through our hosts and bookable group space. And in most cases can offer added value in onboard perks via our consortiums and our high cruise sales providers.
"Wouldn’t it be great if we, along with our cruise line partners, could educate the general public that they may be missing out?"
