How to Become an Independent Travel Agent for Cruises

An independent travel agent works closely with clients and cruise lines to ensure vacation package itineraries are tailored to fit the travelers needs. As a travel agent, you must know the destinations of the cruise ships and the key points of interest offered by each of the lines. Some cruises are planned to accommodate families, others are for senior citizens or singles, while still others appeal to people of all ages. One of your jobs as an independent travel agent is to attend to the small details an inexperienced traveler may overlook, such as weather conditions at the time of travel, or currency exchange rates at the ports along the way. Through education and experience, you will learn how to book the entire package and prepare your client for his ideal vacation.

Instructions

1

Enroll in a travel agency training program that teaches you how to become a travel agent. The course should include sound business and marketing skills, customer service training, working with the cruise lines and information about the travel industry as a whole. The course should also include information about obtaining passports, visas and the necessary documentation your clients need when traveling. Contact your local technical school for information about hospitality service and management programs offered, which generally include travel and tourism courses.

2

Contact your state and local commerce department for a list of regulations required to work as a travel agent in the state; some states require travel agents to submit a bond or proof of financial security. Most states require you to register as a travel agent or obtain a travel agent business license. Business licensing requirements and fees are usually posted on your state's official website. For instance, Ohio has the Ohio Business Gateway, which provides information for new and existing businesses.

3

Complete your training program and apply for the licenses required by your state. Further your travel network by joining travel agent associations like the Outside Sales Support Network or the American Society of Travel Agents (see Resources).

4

Research the cruise lines to familiarize yourself with the packages available to your clients. You may want to book a cruise for yourself to see the accommodations and amenities each cruise line offers. Certain cruise lines, including Disney, offer travel agent training programs for agents working for them. The Disney Travel Agent website contains training and marketing tools (see "Resources").

5

Contact each cruise line you wish to promote and ask what discounts, special offers and types of tours are available to your clients. Request a formal contract with each cruise line company to guarantee your clients receive the promotions you arrange when booking the cruise. Many cruise lines, such as Holland America, have travel agent information on their websites.

6

Request feedback from your clients after their vacations to ensure the cruise lines are meeting service standards.