Lindblad Introduces Expedition 360 Full-Service Trade Program
by Dori Saltzman /Lindblad Expeditions is reaffirming its commitment to travel advisors with the introduction of its most comprehensive, full-service trade program in its 50-year history. Building on its previous Expedition 360° training platform Expedition 360 encompasses four pillars – training, service, technology and appreciation.
“Expedition cruising has never been as popular and in-demand as it is today,” said John Delaney, senior vice president of sales and revenue management at Lindblad Expeditions. “Travel advisors are our most influential partners and our brand ambassadors to guests that are looking for active exploration and wonder in secluded places far beyond the major cruise ship docks. With expedition 360, we are building a platform that will help enable and empower our dedicated travel advisors, extending the knowledge and know-how to help them earn the confidence of their customers and sell the premier, inclusive expedition experience.”
Over the next several months, Lindblad will continue to debut new features to the program, including a new webinar series, the brand’s first cross-country road show, and new travel advisor awards and incentives.
Each new or expanded feature falls under one of the four pillars, including:
Training
Building on the already-existing Expedition 360° training, the program will become a more comprehensive knowledge hub with the addition of new modules, along with the aforementioned cross-country, multi-city roadshow, and a new monthly webinar series featuring expedition speakers and special benefits.
Service
Supported by a growing sales team, Expedition 360 will also include the launch of a dedicated reservations line for travel advisors, a self-service 24/7 online support portal, and more.
Technology
Later this year, Lindblad Expeditions will transition to the Seaware platform, allowing travel advisors to seamlessly book the expedition experience, including pre- and post-sailing programs, and more with the benefit of 24/7 reservations management. Lindblad will also be launching a series of customizable guides through an interactive website, which will make it easier for advisors to share and sell a Lindblad vacation.
Appreciation
As part of Expedition 360, Lindblad is launching a new travel advisor appreciation program, implementing new travel advisor rates, and will be hosting special events for advisors onboard its fleet.
Travel advisors can sign up at 360.expeditions.com.