I had the opportunity to catch up with Holland America Line's Vice President, North America Sales Eva Jenner to get her perspective of the brand's new partnership with "O, The Oprah Magazine" in an interview below.
How do you think the partnership with "O, The Oprah Magazine" will resonate with travel professionals and consumers? Are you already starting to see any response?
"Since the values of our two brands align so well around our collective belief that lives full of discovery help us reach a greater understanding and become our best selves, we think this is a match made in heaven."
"Already, our announcement is generating a lot of positive attention and interest in Holland America Line and the new programming we will offer."
"We know that as additional elements of the partnership are finalized, there will be even more energy and excitement that our travel partners can leverage to sell Holland America Line cruises: such as, the names of the Super Soul 100 thought leaders who will be on board the four 'Adventure of Your Life' cruises and the July 15 'Share the Adventure' cruise."
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From a psychographic and demographic standpoint, how do Holland America Line cruisers and "O, The Oprah Magazine" subscribers match up?
"We match up very well. 'O, The Oprah Magazine' Editor in Chief Lucy Kaylin said in the recent press announcement of our partnership that the magazine is dedicated to personal growth, finding joy and developing richer connections and inspiration. And we know their readers love to travel."
"Holland America Line is committed to delivering authentic content, thoughtfully-designed programming and itineraries that help travelers immerse themselves in the destination and build a connection with the people and places they visit."
"So, the programming onboard Holland America Line inspired by 'O, The Oprah Magazine' will truly be a uniquely inspiring experience at sea. This will be in addition to all the other great activities and programs we currently offer on board."
In many cases, it's the female head of the household who makes cruising vacation plans. Do you foresee this collaboration influencing those decisions?
"'O, The Oprah Magazine' has a readership of more than 18 million consumers each month with the majority being female, and we do know that women are often the primary decision makers of travel."
"Beyond the five specific theme cruises that feature enhanced programming inspired by the magazine, the new activities that are being developed through this partnership-some of the many activities offered on cruises in North America through 2018-could certainly be appealing to both women and men. [That] includes meditation, tai chi, healthy cooking demonstrations, an onboard book club and more."
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Are you expecting the theme cruise with Oprah onboard to sell out quickly? What percentage of cabins remain?
"Alaska has always been one the most-desired cruise destinations and the exciting addition of Oprah Winfrey joining the July 15, 2017, sailing on ms Eurodam is generating a great deal of attention as you can imagine. We highly encourage anyone who is interested in joining this cruise to book soon. Travel agents can provide great value to their interested customers by ensuring they don't miss out."
"It's a truly remarkable opportunity as guests will have the opportunity to be inspired by Oprah herself at a very special presentation. This will be offered at no additional cost but will require booked guests to sign up in advance if they would like to attend."
"There will also be an opportunity to purchase tickets to an exclusive charity fundraising dinner on board with Oprah at the Pinnacle Grill. Capacity for this dinner is very limited, and cost is to be determined. Tickets for both of these events will be available starting on April 11, 2017. More details on these exclusive opportunities will be sent to booked guests and their travel agents in advance of this date."
Do you hope a Holland America Line cruise will soon become one of Oprah's "favorite things"?
"Of course, our goal is for Oprah and all of our guests to have an amazing Alaska cruise experience! As Oprah has proclaimed 2017 to be her 'Year of Adventure,' Alaska will most certainly provide a stunning and unforgettable experience of a lifetime for her and everyone on board."
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