Norwegian Cruise Line will now pay travel advisers commission on previously non-commissionable fares or fees (NCFs), the first major contemporary cruise line to do so, for reservations booked outside a 120-day window. But agents who want to take advantage of this must submit a marketing plan before year-end.
NCFs are the non-commissionable parts of the fares that are typically bundled as part of the cruise fare but excluded from commission. They are fees and charges – for example port fees for a ship docking in a certain port of call. Currently, all cruise lines pay agents commission on the voyage fare less the NCFs but now NCL is leading the way by starting to include the NCFs in the calculation of commission.
For agents, it should mean an increase in commission of between 2% and 8%.
The cruise line says the move will further help travel partners establish a stronger relationship with their clients and increase brand loyalty, resulting in repeat business and higher earning potential.
“Our travel partners are incredibly important to us and our business; it is a true partnership,” says Nick Wilkinson, Regional VP Business Development Middle East & Africa at NCL.
The payment of NCFs will come into effect on January 1, 2023 for new reservations made 120 days prior to sailing for cruises departing May 1, 2023 and onward. To qualify for the NCF commission, travel agents will need to submit a marketing plan to their NCL Sales Support Team by December 31, 2022.
