Royal Caribbean Launches New Feature on Agent Reservation System

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) is launching a new online feature designed to make group bookings easier.

An update to RCL's agent reservation system, Espresso, agents can now transfer one or more individual client bookings into group reservations, email transfer confirmations, view warning details and access additional functions to streamline their groups.

The new "group-friendly" features apply across Royal Caribbean's three major brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises.

The new functionality is touted as a time-saver for agents. A video on the Espresso site says that group bookings can be made now in a simple, three-step process.

In other words, "You can find your clients a great value in just a few clicks."

Introduced in 2015, Espresso was designed to provide an intuitive booking experience. Agent feedback has played a big part in some ongoing updates and tweaks. In fact, agent feedback is what prompted the newest enhancements. Popular options rolled out thus far include the ability to book into headquarter groups (a cooperative of travel agencies) and seamlessly redeem, share and purchase group amenity points (GAP). If agents are a few points shy of an amenity, they can purchase them through Espresso as well. Additionally, agents have access to a side-by-side comparison of individual and groups pricing and availability.

According to RCL, more updates to Espresso are in the works for later this year. In the meantime, agents can learn more about what Espresso currently offers by visiting bookespresso.com/efficiency. The dedicated travel agent website Cruisingpower.com offers training and up-to-date tools and resources, including Espresso.

"The investment in reinventing and improving the entire booking experience for travel partners is further testament to RCL's commitment to helping agents sell more cruises, earn more commission and grow their business," said the company.