Costa Cruises, Europe’s number one cruise line, goes the extra mile to accommodate Home Based agents — a segment that is highly regarded by the line.
First and foremost, Costa knows the value of communication. To that end, Costa Sales Development Managers are easily accessible to Home Based agents, meeting them on an individual basis to discuss the many valuable tools and resources that are available to them.
Agents can receive training in groups or, soon to come, via Web conferencing.
Costa ships are available for booking through all major GDS systems, including, most recently, SABRE. Moreover, in 2006, Costa is slated to launch its own booking system, Costa Click.
Home Based agents can also benefit from Costa’s FIT incentive program called Circolo d’Amici, which allows them to earn higher commissions based on the number of passengers booked.
Costa’s fleet of 10 highly rated ships offer 76 tantalizing itineraries to appeal to a wide variety of international passengers. With 102 ports of call, Costa goes out of its way to offers its guests the best of Europe along with outstanding Italian Style hospitality.
The line has a comprehensive year-round Europe program, and its shoulder season cruises are especially popular with Americans. Value pricing is available, and tourist attractions are less crowded than they are during the high season — which means that guests have more time to experience the real Europe!
Excitement is building for the July 17 debut of the line’s new 112,000-ton, 3,000 passenger flagship, Costa Concordia. Its inaugural season will begin with 7-night cruises to Italy/Spain/Tunisia/Malta July 23 through Nov. 19, sailing from Civitavecchia (Rome) and to Egypt and Greece for 10 and 11 nights Nov. 26 through Dec. 27. The ship boasts a 20,500-square-foot wellness center stretching over two decks which is the largest spa of its kind at sea.

Other Costa itinerary news:
Costa Romantica will alternate two 7-night itineraries from May to October, sailing from Civitavecchia (Rome).
Northern Europe and Baltic Cruises: This summer, Costa will reach a milestone when it positions both the Costa Magica and Costa Classica in the North Sea simultaneously, along with the already established Costa Atlantica — a 40% increase in cruises to this area.
Another plus for home based agents: Costa has marketing materials available for download and ordering at www.costacruises.com/groupsupport.