Become a Virgin Voyages Specialist
- Alynetta Beck
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
How to Become a Virgin Voyages Travel Agent Through a Host Agency
If you've ever dreamed of booking luxurious, adults-only cruises while earning commissions and perks, becoming a Virgin Voyages travel agent through a host agency might be the perfect opportunity for you. Virgin Voyages, known for its unique, modern approach to cruising, partners with travel advisors (also called First Mates) to help guests book their perfect voyage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started.
Step 1: Understand the Role of a Host Agency
A host agency acts as an umbrella organization that provides independent travel agents with resources, accreditation, and support. By joining a host agency, you gain access to:
Established relationships with cruise lines like Virgin Voyages
Higher commission rates
Training and marketing tools
Booking platforms and customer support
Step 2: Research and Choose a Host Agency
Not all host agencies are the same, so it's important to find one that aligns with your business goals. Some key factors to consider when selecting a host agency include:
Commission structure
Monthly fees or startup costs
Access to Virgin Voyages training and support
Reputation and reviews from other travel agents
Email me at hertravelexperience2@gmail.com to learn more about my host agency.
Step 3: Register as a Travel Agent
Once you’ve chosen a host agency, you’ll need to complete their registration process, which typically includes:
Filling out an application
Paying any required fees
Completing any required training
After registering, you’ll receive access to your host agency’s booking platform and resources.
Step 4: Complete Virgin Voyages First Mates Training
Virgin Voyages offers a dedicated training program called First Mates SeaCiety, designed to educate travel agents on:
Virgin Voyages' unique offerings and ship details
Selling strategies and marketing tools
Booking processes and guest experiences
By completing this training, you’ll become an official First Mate, giving you direct access to Virgin Voyages' travel agent portal and exclusive perks.
Step 5: Start Booking and Earning Commissions
With your training complete, you can begin promoting and booking Virgin Voyages cruises. Use the marketing tools provided by your host agency and Virgin Voyages to attract clients through:
Social media marketing
Email newsletters
Travel expos and networking events
Step 6: Take Advantage of Perks and FAM Trips
One of the biggest perks of being a First Mate is access to Familiarization (FAM) trips, where you can experience Virgin Voyages firsthand at a discounted rate. This allows you to better sell the experience to your clients. Additionally, Virgin Voyages offers generous commission structures, often paying up to 16% on bookings with no commission reductions on taxes and fees.
Step 7: Grow Your Travel Business
As you build your expertise and client base, you can expand your business by:
Offering group cruise bookings
Specializing in themed cruises (e.g., wellness, food & wine, or entrepreneur retreats)
Partnering with influencers or businesses to promote Virgin Voyages
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Virgin Voyages travel agent through a host agency is a fantastic way to tap into the booming cruise industry while working on your own terms. By selecting the right host agency, completing First Mates training, and actively promoting Virgin Voyages, you can build a successful and rewarding travel business.
Are you ready to set sail on your journey as a First Mate? Start researching host agencies today and take the first step toward becoming a Virgin Voyages travel agent!
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