This year the entries for the CLIA Australasia cruise awards were so good that it was a tie for CLIA best broker New Zealand— with Mondo’s Robert Schroder and Michelle Downey from Bucketlist Travel taking out the cruise honours.
For Downey it was an emotional moment as she dedicated her win to her late father, who was also a travel agent. “It was fantastic to be recognised, and cruising is such a big part of our business now,” says Downey. “But my biggest honour is to be able to carry on my dad’s legacy and I hope I’ve made him proud with this win.”
Downey says the CLIA training has been instrumental in continuing her cruise product knowledge, given the new ships coming online and the changing propositions. The winning broker now has her sights set on ensuing all her staff, too, have completed their CLIA training.
And as for what’s on her own cruise bucketlist, Downey hopes to take a cruise to see the Northern Lights. Downey also acknowledges the support of the Wanderlust team and its new cruise booking engine.
Speaking on his win Schroder says it was unexpected, but he’s grateful for the success.
Schroder has been in the industry nearly 30 years and the veteran broker is attributing his success to use of his database and referrals, and that he keeps in touch with all of his clients.
It’s also worth thinking outside of the box, he notes, especially when it comes to marketing,
Schroder is hoping to increase his product knowledge with more ship inspections and, if possible, a few voyages as well. “I’ve been on most of them when they’re in Auckland harbour and had fantastic meals onboard; I’d like to experience their day to day running.”
1: Winning broker Michelle Downey with Wanderlust’s Cath McLeod.
2: Co-winner Robert Schroder with sponsor Alice Ager from Uniworld.
