Holland America Line, the premium market brand in Carnival Corp & plc group, says it is partnering with BBC Earth, the television channel, the software provider Utrip and experiential travel expert AFAR Media to enhance its product.
“Through the innovative and breathtaking programming that is a signature of BBC Earth, guests will be taken closer to the ocean and natural world through groundbreaking concerts, films, shows, children's activities and theme cruises,” the cruise company said in a statement. The BBC Earth programme is set to roll out across Holland America Line's fleet starting in April 2016 and will be on all ships by September 2016.
"Holland America Line cruises are all about experiential travel and venturing to all corners of the globe, and this exclusive partnership with BBC Earth will make that a richer, more rewarding experience for our guests," said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line's president, in the statement.
Through integration into the Holland America Line website, the software Utrip platform will offer a novel way to personalise content in new Destination Guides being created in partnership with travel authority AFAR Media.
Passengers will be able to browse the information on their own or utilise the Utrip functionality to select desired ports of call, highlights and activities ashore. They will then receive customised recommendations on the line's cruise itineraries, port highlights, as well as shore excursions tailored to their interests.
The experiential travel expert AFAR Media will help cruiser passengers to plan, choose and prepare for the perfect cruise vacation. Through the collaboration, AFAR will provide “Destination Guides” for all of Holland America Line’s ports of call and scenic cruising areas — totaling approximately 400.
The Destination Guides will be available on Holland America Line’s website, giving guests the most comprehensive information accessible to travelers in the cruise industry. AFAR will utilise its vast network of local experts to curate the content, providing travelers with authentic recommendations for top attractions, restaurants and shopping experiences in each destination.
