At Travelmax, like all agencies, we believe it’s so much easier to sell something once you’ve actually seen it in person. We have many clients who will travel on our recommendations alone. They believe if it’s good enough for us, it’s good enough for them.
Having videos and images to hand always helps us when converting. Since we’ve been on Star of the Seas, Travelmax has already booked three families – and we have two more bookings pending.
Clients range from the parents wanting to do something special for their daughter’s 18th so they have an epic – with a capital E – final family holiday together, to the man who works in a bank and follows us on social media who asked one of my colleagues if we could get him onboard so his that first cruise experience is one that comes highly recommended by us.
The atmosphere and energy onboard Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is simply electric. It’s a unique space that has a buzz like few other places, let alone cruise ships. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s all go, go, go. The ship is so vast passengers can find plenty places to wind down and relax.
When I say there is something for everyone onboard this ship, I truly mean it. I can’t imagine a person that would come on and not find something they love about it, whether that’s their exchanges with the crew, the comfortable beds or the array of activities available. Star of the Seas really is sure to satisfy everyone’s needs.
There are endless selling points I could list. However, if a client came into Travelmax wanting to cruise the Caribbean with their family, these are the three Star of the Seas features I’d focus on to whet their appetite and hopefully get them booking.
Family-friendly staterooms
This ship is completely designed for families. It has accommodation options that sleep up to eight guests. Everyone can stay together without feeling cramped.
My top sales tip is we’ve all seen the Ultimate Family Townhouse. Don’t just assume your clients can’t afford it. If the top suite grade is available, start here when talking to your customers and work your way down.
By the time you reach their preferred option, it’ll feel like a bargain. The ship holds its value so we want our clients to experience convenience on their holiday.
And remember, if all the family are kept happy and entertained its smiles all round.
Sizzling entertainment
This ship has Broadway-style productions, live music, ice skating, climbing walls, mini-golf and arcades, the list goes on.
Star of the Seas is perfect for multi-generational family groups too. My tip when selling would be to ask each family member what’s most important to them and match it to a specific activity.
This is super easy as there is so much choice. When everyone hears “their” thing, they’re instantly sold.
The ’Surfside’ neighbourhood
This family-focused area, which Royal calls a "neighbourhood", has splash parks and a family pool with casual dining options just a few steps away. It’s perfect for parents who want the kids entertained while still being close by.
With clients, try to position the Surfside Neighbourhood as a “holiday within a holiday”. It’s not new because it launched on Star’s sister ship, Icon of the Seas, but it’s a key onboard feature.
Families can spend an entire day at Surfside, which makes it easy, stress-free and removes the risk of any tantrums from sore legs having walked miles around the ship.
As we all know, no two clients are ever the same, but the beauty of this ship is that it really can cater to everyone’s needs.
We were really impressed by The Hideaway area – both on the ship and on land at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a call included in every Star of the Seas sailing.
To have the luxury of such a private and exclusive adults-only area is a dream for those child-free travellers.
