Consoli in Egypt (Source: Michael Consoli)
TravelPulse caught up with Cruise Planners Franchise Owner Michael Consoli, godparent to one of seven Viking river ships named in Amsterdam last week. Godfather to Viking Sekhmet, which will ply the waters of the Nile River, Consoli has served as the No. 1 Viking advisor producer for upward of 10 years. In all, the 25-year industry veteran has booked approximately 4,500 cruises throughout his career.
Before the naming ceremony, Consoli created a video for his clients explaining why being a godfather is such an exceptional honor and experience. At press time, the video has received more than 1,500 views.
TravelPulse(TP): Could you describe what it felt like serving as a godfather to a Viking?
Michael Consoli (MC): River cruising has been such an important part of my career, and Viking has been an incredible partner throughout that journey. Being asked to serve as godfather of Viking Sekhmet is one of the greatest honors of my career. I have spent years introducing travelers to Viking and helping them experience the world in a meaningful way. To have my name forever connected to a Viking ship, particularly one sailing the Nile, is incredibly special.
TP: What was your thinking behind the video you created?
MC: I created the video in an effort to thank my clients and bring them along on the experience. This incredible recognition would never have happened without the trust, loyalty and support of our amazing clients – and my amazing team, so I wanted to take a minute to thank them all.
For more than 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of helping people explore the world, create unforgettable memories and experience places they once only dreamed of visiting. This honor may have my name on it, but it’s possible because of my entire team, the Cruise Planners family and my loyal clients.
I have a loyal client base, and many of them watched the video when I emailed it to them in my thank-you email. So many clients have been excited to learn about the maritime history and lore related to blessing a ship.
TP: Will you be sailing on Viking Sekhmet’s inaugural sailing?
Consoli in Egypt (Photo Credit: Michael Consoli)
MC: While it’s not the inaugural, I have a group sailing through my Wanderlust Society, my private, hosted invite-only groups.
TP: How are your Sekhmet bookings faring?
MC: Egypt books at least 18 months in advance and some inventory is already sold out. Luxury and river cruises are selling fast, especially around peak travel dates.
Egypt and the Nile River offer a culturally immersive and educational experience that our luxury travelers desire to explore. Many of our well-traveled guests have sailed Europe’s rivers and are eager to explore more of the world in Viking’s comfort.
TP: What are Viking's strongest selling points?
MC: Viking is able to cater to our luxury river cruise clients who are intellectually curious, crave light adventure, cultural immersion (food and wine, culture lectures, access to museums and well-educated guides) and more – all that small-ship, luxury cruising offers.
We love traveling with our clients, experiencing the products firsthand and creating amazing itineraries for my Wanderlust Society.
TP: What makes Viking such a great partner for your agency?
MC: Viking invests in the guest experience and its ships with genuine care, and I’m honored to join Viking’s list of cruise industry leaders as godfather of the Viking Sekhmet!
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