Two major cruise lines are trying out new online consumer
promotions to keep their ships full.
Princess Cruises is luring employees of businesses with a link
on its Web site. The Princess Corporate Affiliate program,
according to the site, is “an exclusive agreement between your
company and Princess Cruises to provide you with substantial
savings. These discounts are exclusive to participating company
employees and their traveling companions.”
Steve Cosgrove of Dynamic Cruises and Tours in Southlake, Texas,
said he ran across the promotion while browsing Princess’ site.
He said he became concerned because he may have clients who work
for companies that may sign up, and he’s not sure whether Princess
is requiring direct bookings in order to get the discounts.
Cosgrove directed those questions to his regional Princess rep, who
said he knew nothing about the program.
Norwegian Cruise Line, meanwhile, is teaming up with United.com
for a promotion in which consumers who book air tickets online
receive a $200 discount per stateroom on a seven-day Caribbean
cruise, plus a $50 onboard credit. The discount is available only
on NCL’s Sky, Norway and Sun.
