American Cruise Lines Promises to Protect Travel Agent Commissions
by Jessica Montevago /
As part of its new “Travel Advisor Assurance Plan,” American Cruise Lines will protect travel advisor commissions for bookings impacted by COVID-19.
The small-ship operator has suspended cruise operations through April 30, 2020.
Earlier this month, American rolled out flexible new options for guests and has now bundled them into the Travel Advisor Assurance Plan for agents.
One of the new options, “Cruise with Comfort” provides guests the ability to cancel for any reason up to 24-hours prior to the start of their cruise package and to receive vouchers equal to 100% of the amounts paid. It applies to all new and existing bookings on cruises departing through Aug. 31, 2020.
Guests booked on any cruises that have been suspended by American will have the option to receive a full money-back refund or cruise vouchers equal to 125% of all amounts paid for their cruise package. Cruise vouchers must be used for travel before Dec. 31, 2021.
American has been contacting guests and travel advisors directly about their options for cruises suspended due to COVID-19.
Advisor commissions that could be impacted by either Cruise with Comfort or suspended operations will be 100% commission protected for cruise vouchers issued. Commissions will be paid based on the original sailing date for any payments made toward commissionable items.
“Our travel advisor partners have appreciated our commission policy in particular, because it compensates them sooner than later for their efforts,” said Susan Shultz, VP of Trade Relations. “Plus, Cruise with Comfort has helped advisors sell, because it allows guests the ability to cancel their cruise up to 24-hours before the cruise begins.”