Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled a refreshed fare structure designed to give agents a stronger value proposition when selling NCL across Australia and New Zealand, introducing a streamlined cruise-only option alongside its popular value-add inclusions.
The new model features a simplified ‘Just Cruise’ fare, with the option for guests to enhance their holiday by adding NCL’s inclusive Free at Sea bundle – delivering what the line describes as the best value at sea.
Backed by guest insights and aligned with the evolution of NCL’s ‘It’s Different Out Here’ brand identity, the structure is aimed squarely at empowering agents with greater flexibility in how they position and package NCL, while creating clear pathways to drive both conversion and higher-value bookings.
Simplicity and flexibility
The new ‘Just Cruise’ fare is designed for clients seeking simplicity and flexibility. It includes what NCL says are the essentials guests value most – world class complimentary dining, award-winning entertainment and stylish staterooms. Guests can upgrade to Free at Sea for AU$59/NZ$69 per person, per day, unlocking premium beverages, specialty dining, shore excursion credits and a Wi-Fi package.
The cruise line says the approach enables agents to tailor the NCL offering to different client types, while maintaining strong revenue potential through defined upgrade levers.
“Evolving our refreshed fare structure is a natural extension of our ‘It’s Different Out Here’ brand identity, which is grounded in freedom, flexibility and choice,” NCL APAC VP and managing director, Ben Angell, said.
“Guest and trade research tell us that travellers want more control over how they cruise, and this new approach delivers exactly that. Introducing a cruise-only fare makes it easier for guests to choose how they holiday. It’s all part of our commitment to making cruising with NCL simpler and more flexible whilst delivering the value guests love.”
New structure makes selling easier
NCL APAC senior director of Sales Strategy and Operations, Damian Borg, said that for the trade, the new structure makes selling NCL easier and more appealing to a wider range of customers.
“Agents can now lead with the Just Cruise price and then easily step guests up through Free at Sea – which includes the best beverage package at sea – for just AU$59/NZ$69 per person, per day. From there, guests can opt for Free at Sea Plus, delivering exceptional value and commission opportunities. We are confident this simplified model, combined with a clearer value story, gives agents a more compelling way to position NCL in the market.”
Key trade advantages include a new and simplified cruise-only fare designed to win enquiries earlier and compete more effectively, as well as clear differentiation between base fare and optional upgrades to make explaining – and selling – value easier for clients.
Agents will also benefit from strong upsell opportunities through Free at Sea (FAS) and Free at Sea Plus (FAS+) upgrades, with commission available on Free at Sea where commissionable pricing applies.
From short getaways to long-haul adventures, NCL’s globally diverse itineraries offer agents more opportunities to match the right fare to the right client, supported by competitive lead-in pricing and a simplified value story.
Agents are invited to join NCL’s training webinar on Wednesday 4 March – register here.
