The August episode of On Deck With Avoya, hosted by Chris Greene, Director of Network Expansion, delivered an uplifting mix of leadership insights, exciting industry news, and practical tips to help travel advisors achieve their goals. This month's conversation highlighted the future of cruising, financial growth opportunities, and strategies to finish the year strong with confidence and clarity.
Whether you're just starting out or already scaling your travel business, this episode offers something valuable for every advisor.
Featured Guests Include:
•Vicki Freed, Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support and Service, Royal Caribbean - Shares powerful updates about Royal Caribbean's newest ships and offers a timeless sales technique advisors can use today.
•Mark Francone, Chief Financial Officer, Avoya Travel - Explains how current trends and upcoming fleet expansions are opening new doors for advisors across the industry.
•Laura Burk, Director of Promotional Operations and Development, Avoya Travel - Delivers a strong reminder to reflect on your progress and prepare for a successful fourth quarter.
•Gina Hoyt, Senior Director, Avoya Travel Academy - Offers an encouraging message about the benefits of choosing a travel niche and focusing on your strengths.
Executive Insider: Vicki Freed of Royal Caribbean
Vicki Freed lit up the conversation with her enthusiasm for Royal Caribbean's new offerings and her unwavering belief in the role of travel advisors. She spoke passionately about how advisors are no longer just booking agents but instead serve as trusted guides who help clients make smarter vacation decisions.
Royal Caribbean's newest ICON Class ship, Star of the Seas, will continue the brand's tradition of creating unforgettable experiences. With exciting new dining options inspired by Thai and Cuban cuisine, and even a golden retriever named Sailor joining the crew, this ship is designed to surprise and delight every guest.
Other exciting announcements included:
• The upcoming launch of Perfect Day Mexico, a private destination filled with record-breaking attractions
• The opening of the Royal Beach Club in Nassau, which will offer a more relaxed and personalized beach experience for fewer guests
Why this matters for your business
Royal Caribbean is placing its newest ships on shorter itineraries. This makes it easier than ever for travel advisors to introduce cruising to clients who may be trying it for the first time.
Vicki's top tip for advisors: Once you've made a booking, ask your client if there is anyone they would like to share the vacation with. Vicki says this simple question often leads to another booking, and it works about one out of every four times.
Executive Insider: Mark Francone of Avoya Travel
Mark Francone shared insights from his personal journey in the industry and offered an exciting look at the future of travel. After nearly two decades with Princess Cruises, he now brings his passion for business and innovation to his role as Chief Financial Officer of Avoya Travel.
Here are a few key statistics Mark shared:
• More than 30 percent of recent cruisers are new to cruise
• Over 50 new cruise ships will be launched in the next 10 years
• Only about 2 percent of travelers worldwide have taken a cruise, meaning there is massive potential for growth
Why this insight is encouraging
Mark emphasized that Avoya is preparing for this expansion by investing in the tools, partnerships, and systems that will help advisors grow. His message was clear and hopeful: Avoya is building a strong foundation for the future and every advisor in the Network stands to benefit from that vision.
Secrets to Success with Laura Burk
Laura Burk encouraged advisors to use this moment in the year as a checkpoint. Her coaching focused on reviewing your current strategy, leaning into what's working, and making smart changes where needed.
Here are Laura's key tips:
• Take time to assess your year so far and make strategic shifts if necessary
• Start planning for the holiday season now to get ahead of your competition
• Focus your energy on the marketing efforts, partners, and platforms that have already proven successful for you
Insights from the Academy with Gina Hoyt
In this month's Academy segment, Gina Hoyt focused on the value of specialization. She reminded advisors that having a niche makes it easier to stand out, build strong client relationships, and become the go-to expert in a specific area of travel.
Her advice for new advisors
Start by exploring what excites you most about travel. When you choose a niche that matches your passion, your confidence will grow, and that leads to better service, repeat clients, and stronger partnerships.
Final Thoughts: The Season Ahead is Full of Opportunity
This month's episode of On Deck With Avoya spotlighted a powerful mix of growth opportunities, from Royal Caribbean's exciting new offerings to the financial optimism shared by Avoya's leadership. Combined with tips from our team of experts, this episode was a motivating reminder that success in travel is well within reach.
No matter your experience level or niche, Avoya provides the tools and support to help you go further.
If you're ready to take your travel business to the next level, fill out the form below to connect with one of our friendly specialists.
