Windstar Cruises Launches Onboard Booking Program

For the first time in its history, Windstar Cruises will allow guests to book future trips onboard a current sailing, and will credit the original travel agency of record for any new bookings. The cruise line announced its new Onboard Cruise Consultant (OCC) program this week.

“This is one more example of Windstar’s commitment to travel agents and our guests,” Windstar President John Delaney said in a statement introducing the program. “In addition to the obvious benefits, our guests will be offered the extra value of our Yacht Club Membership, which provides additional value, savings, and special courtesies.”

Whenever an agent’s client books with an OCC onboard a Windstar sailing, the travel agent of record will get full credit and commission for the booking. The agent will also get an email from Windstar with an invoice and itinerary for the guest.

Also, Windstar said, each OCC is a fully qualified cruise industry veteran with ship experience and tenure.

Those booking through Windstar’s OCC will get to take advantage of a reduced deposit —starting at $200 per booking instead of the normal 15 percent of the cruise fare — as well as 5 percent savings for both Onboard/Welcome Home and Yacht Club members.

The program will be officially launched onboard Windstar’s Star Legend during its current itinerary from Bangkok to Hong Kong. Three more ships will offer the program within the next few months — Star Breeze, Star Pride, and Wind Surf.