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Wardrope returns with dedicated cruise agency
Former MyTravel Cruise Store managing director Gary Wardrope has opened his own cruise travel agency.
The Get Cruising centre in Tunbridge Wells provides customers with service in person, by telephone or online at http://www.getcruising.co.uk/.
Lines of brochures racks are replaced by large plasma screens, sofas, an in-store bar and a coffee area, with personalised print outs of itineraries.
The agency has joined the Hays Travel Independence Group
Wardrope claims to be bucking the current travel industry trend towards online sales by investing in a customer centre.
He said: “In my experience, people will research cruises on the internet – but will then want some personal advice before making the booking.
“Coming into the Get Cruising centre and or calling one of our experienced staff will give them the reassurance that they need.”
Customers will be offered a personal advisor to help them to select the appropriate cruise line, ship, cabin and itinerary to suit their individual or family’s needs.
Wardrope added: “Most people simply don’t realise what great value cruising can be. Cruisers enjoy luxury food, accommodation and entertainment galore, and because a ship is a floating hotel, they can visit numerous exciting locations without the hassle of changing accommodation and catching transport.”
He praised the “operational expertise” of Independence Group, saying: “They have the best commercial deals in place already so as an independent newcomer you don’t have to do the legwork with suppliers.
“Having their backing also made a huge difference to my start-up costs, as I could rely on their bonding, low cost online credit card authorisation, telephone and computer networks.
“The Hays Independence Group deal has given credibility to Get Cruising with suppliers and customers as they know their money is protected. Also by outsourcing the key back office functions, we can concentrate on the front customer facing points that are absolutely key to success.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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