TDC cruises to success

Transat Distribution Canada (TDC) reports that its 3rd Annual Cruise Academy was, by all accounts, a big success. In all, 23 preferred partners joined more than 100 TDC travel professionals and TDC staff on-board the Oasis of the Seas for a week of cruise training in combination with on-board and port activities. Training sessions were offered in both French and English at either a beginner or advanced level to ensure the maximum benefit to both participants and supplier partners. TDC’s vice-president marketing and industry relations, Susan Bowman observed that: “The Cruise Academy has now evolved into one of the highlights of the TDC training calendar for both beginner and advanced cruise sales specialists. Always high in demand, this year’s event filled immediately and we already have a waiting list for next year.” As for what TDC agents attending the event thought of, well Sarah McDougall of Marlin Travel in Kemptville, said: “I was in the beginner’s classes and although I still have much more to learn, I feel more confident than ever when it comes to selling cruises. I was a first time cruiser and the entire experience was the perfect opportunity to gain the knowledge needed to improve my cruise business. I am positive that my cruise sales will increase due to the training that TDC and our preferred suppliers provided. Well done.” However, in this day and age, it’s all about results and TDC is clearly committed to that goal, pointing out that it tracks individual cruise sales its Cruise Academy. After last year’s event, TDC counsellors who attended increased their sales by 26.4% — considering that TDC’s national average is sales growth of 13% — that a darn fine result by anyone’s standards. Lisa Connell, director of sales & marketing, Canada, Royal Caribbean International & Azamara Club Cruises, said that “As host of the 2012 TDC Cruise Academy, Royal Caribbean International was truly impressed by the professionalism and enthusiasm shown by the TDC participants. One of the highlights for us was the chance to showcase The Oasis of the Seas as a truly unique cruise experience. Having been awarded our 2011 Partner of the Year Award, TDC continues to demonstrate their commitment to providing their network with the best possible training in order to maximize sales within the cruise market.”