Royal Caribbean International (RCI) recently shared its top-performing travel agencies of 2023, and MEI-Travel, established in 1998, was named West Partner of the Year. It’s hard-earned and well-deserved recognition, and it represents sales that RCI congratulates.
“These are extremely exciting times for the entire cruise industry — cruise lines and travel partners alike,” said Vicki Freed, senior vice president of sales, trade support and service for Royal Caribbean International. “The sky’s the limit at Royal Caribbean, and the strong performance we’ve seen is thanks in large part to our valued travel professionals and their incredible knowledge when it comes to matching their clients with the right vacation experience.”
These are extremely exciting times for the entire cruise industry — cruise lines and travel partners alike.
To hear more about Seattle-based MEI-Travel — which has a team of more than 120 advisors across the country — we talked with Beci Mahnken, president and CEO of the agency.
How does it feel to be recognized as RCI’s West Partner of the Year?
On behalf of the entire MEI-Travel team, we’re ecstatic to receive this award. Our travel advisors work diligently to deliver expertise, ease and value for our clients, and it is an extraordinary honor that fills us with immense pride and gratitude. [The award] serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team — it’s not just a validation of our efforts, but also a reflection of the strong partnership we've built with Royal Caribbean.
What about RCI makes it the cruise product to be selling right now?
Royal Caribbean is an ideal cruise product due to its innovative approach, top-tier amenities and commitment to the needs of the guest. With a diverse fleet of ships catering to various preferences and a focus on sustainability, Royal Caribbean meets the evolving demands of today's travelers, making it a compelling choice for those seeking memorable cruise experiences.
What other cruise lines and segments is MEI-Travel most selling right now, and why?
We have a variety of advisors who curate vacation experiences for individuals, groups and families. Each of these guests have different ideas of what the perfect vacation looks like, and cruises are coming out on top for overall value. Sales are trending up for several cruise lines, from Royal Caribbean to Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages and [others] in the luxury space, as well.
Beci Mahnken, president and CEO of MEI-Travel
Credit: 2024 MEI-TravelHow would you describe MEI-Travel as an agency? What sets it apart?
MEI-Travel stands out by not just booking travel, but crafting tailor-made and unforgettable experiences. With a team of seasoned experts curating personalized itineraries, we place a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction that builds lasting relationships with clients, suppliers and partners. And we leverage partnerships to create unique experiences for families and groups, forging connections and turning moments into cherished memories.
Passion is the driving force behind a successful travel business.
What advice would you share with fellow agents looking to improve their business?
Passion is the driving force behind a successful travel business. My advice to fellow advisors looking to enhance their business is to cultivate an unwavering passion for the products they promote. Immerse yourself in the details, intricacies and unique offerings of the destinations or experiences you sell.
When your passion for a product is palpable, it becomes infectious, creating a genuine connection with clients and inspiring their trust. Keep abreast of industry trends, continually educate yourself and let your enthusiasm shine through in every interaction. In a field where emotions and dreams play a pivotal role, a heartfelt passion for your product can elevate your business, turning each transaction into a transformative journey for both you and your clients.
What do you foresee for the future of cruise travel sales?
The future of cruise sales appears promising as a post-COVID-19 surge in enthusiasm for cruising takes center stage, captivating a wide variety of clients across multiple generations. The industry's innovative offerings, coupled with an increased commitment to sustainability, are poised to cater to the evolving preferences of travelers from different age groups, ensuring that cruise sales continue to thrive in the years to come.
