A range of luxury-focused advisors got to sail on the line’s inaugural ship as part of the programme, launched in May 2023 to ‘highlight the importance of the travel community for the company’s long-term success’ and equip agents with the tools needed to sell Explora I.

Travel advisors automatically became ‘Pioneers’ by making one booking during the line’s inaugural year of operation. Once awarded the status, they were invited to attend a complimentary ‘Insider First Look’ voyage between August 2023 and May this year to experience the product first-hand and help better promote it to clients. 

The line said a major objective of these complimentary voyages was to increase brand awareness in the UK and Ireland by introducing Explora Journeys to land-based luxury travel specialists, such as Emma Mackley Private Travel, Quality Travel, Park Lane Travel, Never a Wasted Journey and a number of Gold Travel Counsellors, as well as agents already seasoned in cruise.

Advisors on these ‘robust’ fam trips were allowed to bring a guest of their choice, with rates being extended for those who wanted to travel with children.

“We believe the best way for an advisor to truly experience our brand is for them to enjoy it as their own personal holiday with a family member or friend,” Priti Mehta, head of sales at Explora Journeys, told TTG Luxury. “We also allowed travel partners to upgrade their suite for a reduced charge if they wished to bring two children, or offered a second suite at an advisor rate so that they could travel as a family.”

Advisors were also asked to join Explora Journeys for one hosted dinner and to attend a business session during their time on board. “Where possible, the advisor’s guest was also invited to join us for dinner, creating an even more relaxed and informal dining experience,” Mehta added. 

They were also given access to a suite of sales tools and benefits, including the opportunity to offer money-saving incentives and on-board spending credit to clients.

Pioneer status also awarded agents a number of benefits, including access to Explora Journeys’ Travel Advisor Fares for personal travel and a special referral benefit for referring other advisors to the brand. A bonus commission on all new bookings made by the referred agent in 2023 was also awarded.

The luxury line, part of MSC Group’s cruise division, is poised to launch Explora II this summer, with a further four Explora ships scheduled over the next four years through to 2028.