Chances are you have never heard of Atlas Ocean Voyages, and that’s probably because the new luxury expedition cruise line has yet to officially launch. However, the brand is certainly one that should be on your radar thanks to its expansive set of perks for both advisors and customers, as well as its signature deep-dive itineraries.
The first of five ships — World Navigator — is scheduled to set sail in July 2021 followed by sisters World Traveller and World Seeker in 2022, and World Adventurer and World Discoverer in 2023.
The brand’s claim to fame is multifaceted. First for travel advisors is Atlas’ “Get Paid Now” approach that immediately grants advisors up to a $750 gift card per booking with deposit while clients receive up to $2,000 in savings. The agent incentive is in addition to the line’s usual 15% commission on all summer 2021 and winter 2021/22 reservations.
"The current travel atmosphere is dynamic and complex, but what is important and clear is that we must maintain our unwavering support for our valued travel advisor partners,” said Alberto Aliberti, president of Atlas Ocean Voyages, in a press release. “We must recognize that travel advisors are losing earnings due to cancellations but continue to have bills and expenses. Atlas’ Get Paid Now program will immediately help professional travel sellers get through this industry downturn. We have previously faced adversities together, and Atlas Ocean Voyages will support our distribution partners through this challenging sales environment.”
The current travel atmosphere is dynamic and complex, but what is important and clear is that we must maintain our unwavering support for our valued travel advisor partners.
For guests themselves, Atlas touts its “All Inclusive All the Way” philosophy, which extends to prepaid gratuities; alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks; Wi-Fi internet service; L’Occitane bath products; shore excursions in select ports; gourmet dining; binoculars and butler service in suites; and complimentary airfare for all passengers from major U.S. and Canada gateways.
“With All Inclusive All the Way, travel advisors are earning full commission on cruise fares that include air — so, no noncommissionables,” said Brandon Townsley, vice president of sales and trade partnerships for Atlas Ocean Voyages, in a press release. “We are unwavering in our support for travel advisors and this product-definition change creates a more compelling selling point for our valued partners.”
Once onboard, the experience is an intimate one, with only 98 ocean-view suites and staterooms, most sporting verandas. Ensuring safety and health in remote destinations are the ships’ Polar Category-C and Ice Class-1B certifications, as well as extensive hygiene standards.
Most recently, Atlas tacked on included emergency evacuation and return-to-home insurance for additional peace of mind.
“Because safety and the health of our guests is our top priority, we are proud to be the first cruise brand to include emergency medical evacuation and return-to-home insurance as part of every booking,” Aliberti said.
Inaugural voyages aboard World Navigator will head to the Holy Land, Black Sea and Mediterranean Sea on seven- to 24-night routes in summer 2020 and to the Caribbean, South America and Antarctica on nine- to 13-night itineraries in winter 2021/22.
As for tours on land, Atlas offers its “Max Shore” program of so-called “vacations within vacations:” complimentary three- to six-day terrestrial adventures. Air and land transportation, lodging, meals and drinks are all included on such voyages.
“No other cruise brand offers an included, multiday overland adventure like Atlas Ocean Voyages does with Max Shore,” Aliberti said. “Essentially, we’ve combined two unforgettable, travel experiences — a luxury cruise and a fascinating land tour — into one without compromising either. Usually, tour extensions are at an additional cost and require more days pre- or post-cruise, but Max Shore includes the extended, overland adventure for guests without having to extend their travel time.”
Available Max Shore itineraries encompass a 16-night “Black Sea in Full” departure with a three-day/two-night land portion from Odessa to Kiev and Pripyat, Ukraine, including Chernobyl; as well as a 24-night “Comprehensive Anatolia & The Holy Land” journey with a six-day/five-night land section through Israel and Jordan, including Petra.
Finally, Atlas is now accessible on more than 6,000 personal travel agency websites powered by Passport Online.
The Details
Atlas Ocean Voyages
www.atlasoceanvoyages.com
