How to Become a Cruise Travel Agent from Home

How to become a cruise travel agent from home - family on a cruise ship

If you love cruising and dream of turning your passion into a career, becoming a cruise travel agent from home could be the perfect opportunity for you. The travel industry is booming, and cruises remain one of the most popular vacation choices for travelers worldwide. By working from home, you can enjoy the flexibility of setting your own schedule while helping others plan their dream vacations on the high seas.

Boardwalk Travel Agency is one of the very best host agencies for travel agents who are passionate about cruising—whether it’s experiencing these amazing voyages for themselves or booking unforgettable trips for clients. As a leading host agency, Boardwalk provides the tools, resources, and support you need to succeed in the cruise travel business.

With top-tier relationships with all major cruise lines, including Disney, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess, Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, Virgin, Viking, and Seabourn, Boardwalk ensures its agents have access to exclusive deals, insider knowledge, and high commission rates. This makes it easier for you to build a profitable and enjoyable business from home.

 

Why Become a Cruise Travel Agent from Home?

Working as a cruise travel agent from home offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Flexibility: You can work from anywhere, set your own hours, and determine how much or little you want to work.
  • Lucrative Income Potential: Commissions from cruise bookings can be substantial, especially for high-end and luxury cruises.
  • Travel Perks: Many cruise lines offer agents free or discounted travel opportunities to help them gain firsthand experience.
  • Personal Fulfillment: If you love travel, sharing your expertise and enthusiasm with clients can be incredibly rewarding.
  • Low Startup Costs: With the right host agency, you can start your business with minimal investment.

 

How to Become a Cruise Travel Agent from Home

 
1. Partner with a Reputable Host Agency

To get started, the best step is to join a host agency like Boardwalk Travel Agency. A host agency provides the necessary infrastructure and support to help independent travel agents succeed. This includes access to booking systems, industry connections, marketing tools, and commission structures that individual agents would not typically have access to on their own.

Boardwalk Travel Agency stands out because it offers comprehensive support for new and experienced agents, making it easier to get started and grow your business. With Boardwalk, you’ll have access to exclusive promotions, high commission payouts, and training resources that set you up for success.

2. Obtain CLIA Certification and Membership

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the leading organization representing the global cruise industry. By becoming a CLIA-certified agent, you enhance your credibility and industry knowledge.

Boardwalk Travel Agency makes it possible for actively booking agents to obtain a CLIA card. This membership provides access to training programs, industry events, and exclusive benefits such as discounted travel rates and ship inspections.

3. Learn the Cruise Industry Inside and Out

As a cruise travel agent, you must have in-depth knowledge of different cruise lines, ship features, destinations, and pricing structures. This expertise will help you match clients with the perfect cruise based on their preferences and budget.

Boardwalk Travel Agency provides its agents with extensive training, including webinars, supplier training programs, and live Q&A sessions with experienced travel professionals. By continuing your education, you’ll stay ahead in the industry and provide excellent service to your clients.

How to become a cruise travel agent from home - cruise ship on the ocean at sunset
4. Build Your Client Base

A successful travel agent needs a steady flow of clients. Here are some ways to attract and retain customers:

  • Utilize Social Media: Share your travel experiences, cruise promotions, and client testimonials to attract potential clients.
  • Create a Website or Blog: Establish yourself as a cruise expert by providing valuable content about different cruise options and travel tips.
  • Network with Friends and Family: Start by offering your services to people in your personal and professional circles.
  • Join Travel Groups and Forums: Engage with travelers in online communities and provide helpful insights.

Boardwalk Travel Agency offers marketing tools to help agents establish an online presence and attract clients, including personalized websites, social media strategies, and email marketing campaigns.

5. Book Cruises and Earn Commissions

Once you have built your client base, you can begin booking cruises and earning commissions. The more you book, the higher your earnings. With Boardwalk Travel Agency, agents receive top-tier commissions thanks to our strong relationships with the largest and best cruise lines.

Agents with Boardwalk can earn a significant percentage of the commission paid by the cruise lines. With no minimum sales requirements, you can work at your own pace and scale your business as you see fit.

 

Top Five Most Amazing Cruise Destinations

Now that you understand more about cruising and how to become a cruise travel agent from home, how about a little inspiration? Cruising offers travelers the chance to explore some of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. Here are five of the most amazing cruise destinations that your clients will love:

  1. The Caribbean – With crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant island cultures, the Caribbean is a top choice for cruise lovers. Destinations like the Bahamas, St. Thomas, and Jamaica provide stunning landscapes and endless adventure opportunities.
  2. Alaska – Known for its breathtaking glaciers, majestic wildlife, and scenic fjords, Alaska offers an unforgettable cruise experience. Passengers can witness whales, bears, and eagles while exploring natural wonders like Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage.
  3. The Mediterranean – From the historic cities of Rome and Athens to the stunning coastlines of Santorini and the French Riviera, Mediterranean cruises provide a perfect mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
  4. Hawaii – Island hopping in Hawaii allows travelers to experience the unique charm of each island, from the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island to the lush, tropical paradise of Maui and Kauai.
  5. Norwegian Fjords – For those seeking dramatic landscapes and serene beauty, a cruise through the Norwegian fjords offers towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages, making it one of the most visually stunning cruise experiences available.
Family cruise - Disney cruise destinations in 2024

 

Benefits of Working with Boardwalk Travel Agency

When choosing a host agency, you want one that offers the best resources, support, and earning potential. Here’s why Boardwalk Travel Agency is an excellent choice:

  • High Commission Splits: Earn a substantial percentage of the commissions paid by cruise lines.
  • Exclusive Cruise Deals: Access promotions and special rates that aren’t available to the general public.
  • Comprehensive Training: Receive ongoing education to enhance your industry knowledge and sales skills.
  • No Sales Quotas: Work at your own pace without pressure to meet minimum booking requirements.
  • CLIA Membership: Gain access to CLIA benefits, including industry events and certification opportunities.
  • Marketing Assistance: Get support in building your brand and attracting clients.

 

Start Your Journey Today

Becoming a cruise travel agent from home allows you to create a rewarding career centered around your love for travel. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or a full-time business, this opportunity provides flexibility, earning potential, and the chance to help others plan incredible vacations.

Boardwalk Travel Agency provides everything you need to succeed in the cruise industry. With exceptional support, access to top cruise suppliers, and high commission earnings, you can build a thriving business from the comfort of your home.

Take the first step toward living your dream! Join Boardwalk Travel Agency today and start your journey as a cruise travel agent from home.

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WE'RE HOST AGENCY FOR ALL

Starting in mid-2025, most EU countries will require foreign travelers to apply for ETIAS before traveling to Europe. In the past, most travelers with a valid passport did not require any kind of VISA to travel to EU countries. While this remains true, they will need to apply for ETIAS before traveling. Here’s everything you need to know about this new program and how you can help your clients apply before they travel.

What is ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System or ETIAS is a new travel documentation system that the EU is implementing for passport holders of 59 countries including the U.S.A. Most countries in the EU will require travelers to apply for ETIAS before visiting.

How do I apply for ETIAS?

You will apply for ETIAS on their main website. Note that they are currently not requiring travelers to submit applications at this time. Anyone traveling closer to mid 2025 should check their website for updates.

What’s required to apply for ETIAS?

Your clients will need to provide a valid passport (with at least 3 months of validity left and traveling before it expires). They will also need to pay a €7 application fee per person.

What type of travel requires ETIAS?

Your clients will need to apply for ETIAS if they are flying into a country that requires it or plan to step foot in a country that requires it. This includes guided travel, cruises and river cruises. The supplier will provide more information about ETIAS and what is required of the client before or after the booking.

Do my clients have to apply for ETIAS everytime they travel to EU countries?

No. ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your clients passports expire; whichever comes first. If your clients renew their passport, they will then need to reapply for ETIAS before visiting most EU countries.

How can I apply for ETIAS on behalf of my clients?

As a Travel Professional you can apply for ETIAS on behalf of your clients. You will go through the same application process as anyone except there will be an extra step where both the client(s) and yourself will sign a declaration of representation stating that that all parties understand you are filing on their behalf and will do so correctly.

In some cases it may be easier to have your clients apply themselves with you walking them through the steps of doing so.

When should I apply for ETIAS?

You should apply for ETIAS BEFORE you purchase tickets or make reservations.

Most applications will be processed within minutes and at the latest within 96 hours. However, some applicants may be asked to provide additional information or documentation or to participate in an interview with national authorities, which may take up to additional 30 days.

my disney experience logo

Prepare for Your Walt Disney World Vacation

Take action now to prepare for your upcoming Walt Disney World® vacation! Link your reservation and tickets to stay informed about important next steps and key planning dates, including important Know Before You Go resources.
Follow these simple steps to get started:

Register or Sign In to Start Your DisneyExperience.com

This will take you to the My Disney Experience website. Sign in using your Disney Account or create one. Then, create your Family and Friends list for your travel party. You'll need this to assign Tickets to them and to make Theme Park reservations.

Link your reservation

Once you're signed in to My Disney Experience, enter your Resort Confirmation number provided by your Travel Professional.

Please note: You'll need to verify the names of everyone on this reservation. If you need to make any modifications, we recommend you contact your Travel Professional before you link your reservation.

Link your Walt Disney World Ticket or Pass

To prepare for making Theme Park reservations, each Guest ages 3+ in your travel party must have a valid ticket linked for each day they wish to visit the Disney Parks.

Please note: If you have a room and ticket package for a select Walt Disney World Resort hotel, your tickets will be included when you link your Disney Resort reservation and you can skip Step 3.

Make your Theme Park Reservation in the Disney Park Pass System

Choose the date and Theme Park that you'd like to visit from the available reservations in the Disney Park Pass system via My Disney Experience. Please note that dates and Theme Park selections are limited and subject to availability. Remember, to enter a Walt Disney World Theme Park, each Guest ages 3+ in your travel party must have both a valid ticket for admission and a Theme Park Reservation for the same Park on the same date, for each day they wish to visit.

Review and Confirm Your Plans

Carefully review and confirm your selected park and date. Once confirmed, your reservation will appear in My Plans on the My Disney Experience website.

DOLLYWOOD

Reservations:

Agents must call to book: 1-800-DOLLYWOOD (1-800-365-5996).

Group Bookings:

865-428-6789 or [email protected]

Schedule:

Mon-Sat 7:30am - 8:00pm ET, Sun 8:00am - 7:00pm ET

Booking Platform:

Phone call with reservation center.

Private Location:

N/A

Transfer:

No

Commission Rate:

10%

Customer Service:

1-800-365-5996

Travel Insurance:

Use Allianz

FAQs:

- Agents must call in for reservations and use Boardwalk’s CLIA number (00039054).
- No commission on tickets, only on the hotel stay.
- Email invoice to [email protected]
- Submit for commission request on our website after you send in the invoice
- Commission only on DreamMore Resort and Spa, and Heartsong Lodge and Resort (10%)
- Commission paid only on Regular, AAA and AARP rates

List of places with resident sales restrictions (we cannot sell to people living in these places):

  • Cuba
  • North Korea
  • Iran
  • Syria
  • Crimea (region of Ukraine)
  • Russia
  • Belarus
  • Donetsk (region of Ukraine)
  • Luhansk (region of Ukraine)
  • Kherson (region of Ukraine)
  • Zaporizhzhia (region of Ukraine)

Boardwalk Travel agents should always offer travel insurance to each client. It will protect their travel and limit the risk of losing a customer because they were never offered a travel protection plan. Let the client be the one to reject, but every agent should offer it to every client.

7 Reasons to Buy Travel Insurance

Travel insurance isn’t just for expensive vacations. Travel insurance isn’t just for trips overseas. And travel insurance isn’t just for long journeys.

It’s essential to buy travel insurance for every trip, because you never know what might happen when you’re far from home! Every year, 55 million Americans purchase Allianz Travel Insurance to protect them against the most common travel mishaps.

Not sure if you need to insure your trip? Here are the top seven reasons to buy travel insurance.

1. Because you don’t want to lose all your money if you have to cancel your trip.

Even the best-planned trips sometimes have to be canceled. But many travel providers—such as tour operators, cruise lines and airlines—offer minimal or no refunds for last-minute cancellations. If this happens, can you afford to lose all the money you’ve spent on your trip?

One of the best reasons to buy travel insurance is having the protection of trip cancellation benefits. These can reimburse you for prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs when you must cancel for a covered reason. When you get your money back, you can book your vacation for another, brighter day.

What if you need to cancel for a reason that’s not covered? If you think that’s a possibility, consider buying the Cancel Anytime upgrade. Available on our most popular plans, OneTrip Prime and OneTrip Premier, Cancel Anytime can reimburse 80% of your lost non-refundable trip costs if you cancel your trip for almost any unforeseeable reason your plan does not already cover. That way, you can travel with confidence.

2. Because accidents can—and do—happen while traveling.

Healthy travelers often think they don’t need emergency medical insurance. The truth is, no one’s immune from illness and injury. We receive thousands of calls each year from American Allianz Travel Insurance customers who are experiencing a medical crisis during their trip, such as trauma, broken bones, heart attacks, and strokes. When you have travel insurance, you can contact 24-hour assistance for help in an emergency. Our team of experts can get you the help you need and may even be able to arrange payment in advance for covered emergency medical care.

3. Because your health insurance probably won’t work overseas.

If you get seriously sick or hurt in another country, don’t expect your health insurance card to help. “Many foreign medical facilities and providers require cash payment up front and do not accept U.S. insurance plans. Medicare does not provide coverage outside of the United States,” the U.S. Department of State warns.1 When you have travel insurance with emergency medical and dental benefits, it can pay for losses due to covered medical and dental emergencies that occur during your trip.

4. Because medical evacuations can be really expensive.

If you get seriously sick or badly hurt while traveling overseas, and you need to be taken via helicopter to the nearest high-quality hospital, the cost can be enormous. In some parts of the world, a medical evacuation can potentially cost six figures—and that doesn’t even include the expense of getting you home again.

Travel insurance with emergency medical transportation benefits can pay for you to be transported to the nearest appropriate facility if you suffer a covered illness or injury during your trip and our medical assistance team determines that the local medical facilities are unable to provide appropriate treatment. It can also pay for specialized transportation to bring you home, once your condition is stable.

5. Because travel delays are inevitable.

Airlines’ on-time stats rise and fall from year to year, but on average, around 18% of domestic flights are delayed.3 That’s not even counting the flights that are canceled! That’s why you need travel insurance with travel delay benefits, which can reimburse you for additional accommodation, meals or travel expenses and lost prepaid expenses due to a covered departure delay. You’ll be much happier if you have insurance that can reimburse you for your airport lunch or unexpected extra night in the hotel.

Here’s some even better news: You can get paid $100 per insured person, per day for a covered travel or baggage delay if you have SmartBenefits® (included with the OneTrip Prime and OneTrip Premier plans). You don’t need to provide any receipts—just proof of the delay!

6. Because a missing bag can ruin your trip.

In a recent survey, more than half of travelers said an airline had lost their luggage in the past. Just 34% of them ever got their missing bags back, and 72% said they’d lost an irreplaceable item.

When your suitcase goes AWOL, travel insurance can save the day. Baggage delay benefits can reimburse you for the reasonable additional purchase of essential items during your trip if your baggage is delayed or misdirected by a common carrier for 24 hours or more. Baggage loss/damage benefits can reimburse you for the actual price, actual cash value, repair or replacement of your lost/damaged items—whichever is less—based on the limits in your insurance policy’s letter of confirmation. Just remember: The best place for truly irreplaceable items is in your carry-on luggage, or at home.

7. Because sometimes, even expert travelers need a little help. 

One of the best reasons to buy travel insurance is the peace of mind you get from knowing help’s just a phone call away. When you face a crisis while traveling—a medical emergency, a lost passport, a stolen wallet, a natural disaster, etc.—you can always contact 24-hour assistance. Our U.S.-based team of travel experts will do everything in their power to take care of you and help make things right.