Travelweek - June 2nd, 2022

CAA Travel’s upcoming hiring blitz follows incredible 475% increase in bookings

By Cindy Sosroutomo

TORONTO — A tell-tale sign of prosperity for any company, in any industry, is a sizeable staff. So for CAA Travel, its upcoming hiring blitz is proof that the company – and the travel industry at large – has finally turned a corner on the long road back to post-pandemic recovery.

Next month’s hiring blitz, which is specific to CAA South Central Ontario, CAA’s largest of eight independent clubs with over 2.2 million members, comes perfectly timed with the ramp up of international travel following the easing of Canada’s travel rules earlier this year and the reopening of borders around the world. And though bookings for CAA have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels, the hiring of 20 new call centre travel consultants indicates that business is back on the upswing.

“We have seen a significant increase in bookings year to date, with trips booked with CAA Travel increasing by 475% between Jan. 1 and May 24, 2022, compared to the same period in 2021,” says Catherine Sieniewicz, AVP Travel and Retail, CAA South Central Ontario (SCO). “Over the last eight months, CAA has experienced a significant increase in Canadians seeking the help of our travel consultants and we expect this service will remain in high demand.”

This is obviously welcome news to CAA SCO, which comprises 33 storefronts from Kingston to Windsor and Sault Ste. Marie, employing some 90 travel consultants plus an additional 20 in the call centre. Like many organizations at the start of the pandemic, CAA Travel was forced to adapt to new challenges, says Sieniewicz, making the well-being of its associates, members and customers priority number one.

“When the pandemic hit, CAA pivoted quickly and provided travel consultants with the opportunity to be retrained and licenced to work in our home and auto insurance business, if that was of interest to them,” she adds. “Some took on the opportunity to be retrained and start something new, and many stayed in travel to support members and customers. And for those who decided to stay within travel, CAA proudly continued to pay commissions for travel consultants throughout the pandemic to make sure they were financially taken care of during a difficult time.”

The company’s investment into its agents paid off. When the first signs of recovery appeared in fall 2021, followed by a significant increase in travel bookings and enquiries in March 2022 as a result of Canada’s relaxed travel restrictions and lowered Level 3 travel advisory, CAA SCO’s agents were ready to handle the upswing. Today, CAA SCO’s Call Centre is fielding an average of 500-600 calls per day.

“While many Canadians are choosing to stay close to home, CAA continues to see increased sales of travel and travel insurance, and an incredible increase in Canadians eager to start travelling again,” says Sieniewicz, adding that some of the destinations of interest include USA, Canada, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Cuba. “Like many Canadians, CAA is looking forward to the future of travel. We are optimistic that travel will rebound in 2022 and into 2023."

Next month’s hiring blitz, which will see candidates “gain access to extensive paid learning and development opportunities including technical training and the opportunity to get licenced, provided by CAA,” says Sieniewicz, comes on the heels of the launch of CAA Travel’s new Premier Collection, part of CAA’s Extraordinary

CATHERINE SIENIEWICZ

Explorations collection of unique travel adventures for sophisticated travellers. Featuring the very best of Canada, from the Rocky Mountains to Quebec and the Maritimes, Premier Collection tours allow Canadians to explore their own backyard in luxury and style, with a flight on CAA’s exclusive new private charter-jet service – offered in partnership with Air Canada – also included. Charter-jet service features such upscale amenities as VIP priority airport check in, access to the Maple Leaf Lounge, superior business class-style cabin and services, gourmet in-flight meal with drink service, spacious leather seats, and CAA Premier Tour group exclusivity on flights.

“We are always looking at new ways to engage travellers, and we are always looking to hire the very best in the travel industry,” says Sieniewicz. “Whether it’s making sure we are promptly there to rescue members from the side of the road, helping customers save on insurance coverage that meets their lifestyle needs, or simply providing more value to their membership through rewards and member benefits, CAA continues to find ways to be there for our customers and members.”

We asked Virgin Voyages if they would ever launch a cruise line for families

By Cindy Sosroutomo

TORONTO — Kids are calling “bull$#!t” on Virgin Voyages’ latest video campaign, which is exactly what the cruise line set out to do.

Inspired by founder Sir Richard Branson’s grandchildren, the minute-long video is an 80s-style power ballad sung by the very people Virgin Voyages won’t let onboard its cruise ships – kids. Poking fun at its own nokids-allowed policy, the adults-only cruise line has been making waves within the cruise industry, which is largely known for being family friendly, since its U.S. debut in October 2021. And now, with its third ship, Resilient Lady, set to launch in August following the recent debut of second ship Valiant Lady this past March, Virgin Voyages is leaning even harder into its fun and sexy persona that has already made it a household name.

But what about families? Is there any hope on the horizon that kids will one day be welcomed onboard?

We asked Justin Terry, Virgin Voyages’ Senior Director of Growth and Brand Marketing, whether Virgin Voyages would ever consider launching a cruise line exclusively for families, similar to its current line for adults. “Never say never,” he tells Travelweek, leaving the door open for any

possible scenario. But Terry is also quick to remind us that the company has successfully carved out a niche in the cruising industry, and that it intends to remain in the adults-only segment.

“Our CEO, Tom McAlpin, actually came from Disney Cruises and you can often see the parallels we’ve created for the adults-only segment and how Disney offers a similar and fantastic experience for families,” he says.

Terry acknowledges that the adults-only market is certainly more niche in the cruising world than the family cruise market, but that’s no cause for concern for the company. In fact, Virgin Voyages is banking on the fact that it’s different from all other major cruise lines.

“We are confident in our ability to deliver an incredible, exclusively adult experience,” he says. “We sought out to create a differentiated product, and our culinary offerings, cocktail programs, onboard amenities and even our entertainment cater to an adult audience. Sailors seem to be loving that aspect of sailing with Virgin.”

With international travel now on the rebound, and the U.S. cruise industry well on its way to recovery since resuming cruises last summer, Terry believes that the appeal of an adults-only vacation is even greater now, post-pandemic.

“We’re one of the only major ocean cruise lines to offer adults-only experiences, so I think the appeal of that has gained a lot of traction with both new and experienced cruisers.

Parents who were used to sending their kids to school found themselves home with their little ones all day. As much as parents adore their children, it’s healthy to have some time spent with only adults,” says Terry.

And once onboard, these parentssans-kids can expect a truly unique experience complete with exclusive access to the line’s Beach Club at Bimini, Rock Star Suites, resident DJs, a karaoke lounge, a record shop, an arcade and much more.

“There’s a reason the brand is called Virgin Voyages – we offer more than just a cruise,” says Terry. “We hope our Sailors walk away having the best vacation of their lives and we realize that’s a tall task. We’ve worked to curate an epic onboard experience, set against some of the world’s most incredible backdrops, and I think we’re succeeding.”

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AQUATIC CLUB

Elite Sports Tours wants to bring travel agents along for the ride with commissionable product

pre-planned sports tours from the Toronto area that include bus transportation, hotel, tickets and pre-game tailgate for football. The pre-planned trips focus on following the Toronto-based sports team (Maple Leafs, Raptors, Blue Jays).

Travelweek: Why and when did the company get started - was there a gap in the market?

By Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — It’s a good time to be a sports fan in Canada - even if some fans, including anyone cheering on the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers, are having a better time of it these days than fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Not only are the NHL and NBA playoffs underway, but baseball season is also in full swing, and football season - the CFL at least, if a deal is struck - is just weeks away.

Add those big league North American draws to the long list of other massively popular sports played both here and around the world, and you’ve got an opportunity to package travel to games pretty much year round.

And as any sports fan can tell youor anyone who lives with a sports fan knows - this is an extremely devoted fan base that needs little urging to splurge on a dream trip to see their favourite team play live.

It’s a niche that many travel advisors may have overlooked, but especially now in these post-pandemic

days of bucket list travel, and as more and more agents look to extend their client base, it can be a lucrative opportunity.

Tim Macdonell, who heads up Elite Sports Tours, says packages typically include hotel accommodations and tickets to premier sporting events across North America. Custom trips are available.

The best news? The company is launching a new platform in the in the coming months, and Phase 2 will include a travel agent login and commissionable product. “It would be a great tool for agents,” says Macdonell in this exclusive interview with Travelweek.

Travelweek: For the uninitiated, can you tell us what Elite Sports Tours offers to travellers?

Macdonell: “Elite Sports Tours offers fully customizable travel packages for clients including hotel accommodations and tickets to premier sporting events across North America. In addition to our custom packages for groups of any size, we offer

Macdonell: “Elite Sports Tours started in January 2008. We saw an opportunity in the market to better serve the sports tourism market. With very little options available to consumers in one of the largest markets in Canada, we saw an opportunity to provide an experience to sports fans that wasn't available. Curating experiences for sports fans like ourselves and making them available to the average fan.

TIM MACDONELL, CEO, ELITE SPORTS TOURS, AT ALLEGIANT STADIUM IN LAS VEGAS

“There was definitely an opportunity to help fans in the Toronto market to travel to see their team play on the road. As our client base grew and the power of the internet, we were able to expand into other markets across North America and provide custom hotel and ticket packages for sports fans.”

Travelweek: Is there a typical formula for package sports events with Elite Sports Tours, or are the packages very customizable?

Macdonell: “The pre-planned trips are tailored to premium events. However our custom packages are fully customizable. We are excited in 2022 we will be launching a brand new booking platform for clients to search for any combination of tickets, hotels and flights in real-time on our website platform. It will give sports fans the ability to build their dream trip, get the pricing right away and have the ability to book their package online. It's something we have been working hard at during the pandemic and are excited to launch.”

Travelweek: Can you tell us about how travel advisors can mark up your package prices to generate revenue? And we understand Elite Sports Tours will launch a new travel agent login / commissionable product in the coming months?

Macdonell : “It's completely up to the agent. Some of them charge their

client a flat fee, others decide to add the margin they need to work with.

“In the fall of 2022 we plan on having a travel agent booking system available that will allow agents to get commissionable rates upon approval as an official agent.

“This will be part of our new booking platform. So check back in the fall with what will be a great option for travel agents to offer a new product line to their clients and make commissions.

Travelweek: What are some of the biggest upcoming sports events on the calendar that you're getting a lot of requests for?

Macdonell: “Las Vegas for football is always a popular one. The NFL does a great job with their scheduling and often teams only visit specific cities once every eight years. So for the sports

fan looking to cross every stadium off their list, each season provides them with a new opportunity. However, Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles (being the new state-of-the-art stadiums) are popular ones. Plus, who doesn't like a trip to Los Angeles or Vegas — why not both?”

Travelweek: Can you share one of your most memorable sport event trips, either that you've put together for yourself, or that Elite Sports Tours has put together for clients?

Macdonell : “Personally, the Super Bowl in Los Angeles at SoFi Stadium was a memorable experience being a Los Angeles Rams fan. Seeing them win the Super Bowl at home, inside one of the most incredible stadiums in the NFL, was priceless.

“As for clients, I would say that we often put together trips for clients that are their 'bucket list' trips that they have always dreamed of. Seeing the team they grew up their entire life watching on TV and finally making the trip to see a game at that team's home stadium. When we get the emails/reviews back from those clients, it always touches the heart. Being able to provide those experiences to clients on a daily basis is what makes running Elite Sports Tours so special.”

For more details see EliteSportsTours.ca

ELITE SPORTS TOURS CEO TIM MACDONELL AT T-MOBILE ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS FANS AT METLIFE STADIUM, NJ

DESTINATIONS

Barbados has lifted its testing requirement for fully vaccinated travellers, as of May 25, 2022. Those who’ve completed a full series of COVID-19 vaccines are no longer required to take a COVID-19 test to enter the country. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley says the change comes as over 70% of the eligible population in Barbados is fully vaccinated. Speedier processing times at Grantley Adams International Airport will be one benefit of the new rules, she added, not to mention the positive impact it will have on Barbados' tourism industry. Unvaccinated travellers are still required to present a negative COVID-19 test to enter Barbados. Also as of May 25, masks are only mandatory indoors and on public transportation.

According to the latest stats from the Turks and Caicos Islands Tourist Board, the destination is well on its way to recovery. The islands welcomed 138,762 air arrivals in the first quarter of 2022, and also saw 173,151 cruise arrivals in Q1 2022. Turks and Caicos first reopened its cruise sector in December 2021 and welcomed 25,573 cruise arrivals that month, about 21% of the 117,827 cruise arrivals in December 2019. The islands then received 173,151 cruise visitors in Q1 2022, about 62% of Q1 2019 levels. The first three months of the year, respectively, saw 27, 24 and 28 ships call on Turks and Caicos.

RESORTS

The Grand Lucayan in The Bahamas is one step closer to being officially sold. According to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (BMOTIA), an offer has been accepted for the purchase of the beachfront resort, located in the city of Freeport. Electra America Hospitality Group (EAHG) has entered into an agreement with Lucayan Renewal Holdings to buy the resort for US$100 million. The deal is part of an initiative called ‘The Return of the Grand Life to Grand Bahama,’ which aims to restore the destination to its former glory. Nearly $300 million in renovations is planned for the resort. EAHG also plans on revitalizing the resort’s golf course by adding a country club and villas. A casino, bars and restaurants as well as a variety of pools, spas and fitness facilities are also in the works. Construction is set to begin this summer and will be completed by 2025.

CRUISE LINES

The first day of bookings for Cunard’s newest ship was the busiest booking day in a decade, says the luxury cruise line. Queen Anne, Cunard’s fourth ship, will call at more than 32 ports in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Northern Europe during its maiden season. Its maiden voyage on Jan. 4, 2024 has already sold out, and demand for Princess & Queens Grill Suites proved especially strong across each of the 10 published new voyages, says the cruise line. Its three busiest booking periods in the last 10 years have now occurred since March 2021, with the launch of Cunard's U.K. sailings, its summer 2023 program, and now Queen Anne’s maiden program.

Windstar Cruises is celebrating its highest-grossing week of cruise sales since the start of the pandemic, marking a significant bounceback in small-ship cruising. The milestone week, which was also one of the biggest in company history, follows the Windstar Week Sale from May 3-13, featuring itineraries to the Mediterranean, Tahiti, Northern Europe, Alaska, Asia, Greece, Australia & New Zealand, the Holy Lands and more.

TURKS & CAICOS

BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS

Canada Jetlines gets stage 2 approval from CTA

TORONTO — Canada Jetlines has met the Canadian Transportation Agency’s financial requirements.

It’s one of the last hurdles Canada Jetlines needed to clear before take off. At last word, following its first A320 aircraft reveal in March 2022, Canada Jetlines was still planning to start flights in the coming months with a network that will eventually include U.S., Mexico and Caribbean destinations as well as Canadian cities. In April 2022 Canada Jetlines announced Toronto Pearson as its hub.

Canada Jetlines got its Stage 1 licensing approval from the CTA in March. The formal CTA commercial license will come following the issuance of the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) by Transport Canada.

Says Eddy Doyle, CEO, Canada Jetlines: “This is an important milestone for Canada Jetlines as we are approaching the completion of the AOC process with Transport Canada...We are confident that we will operate our first commercial flight this summer and plan to announce our commercial schedule in the coming weeks.”

IATA urges feds to drop Canada’s last remaining travel-related COVID-19 restrictions

MONTREAL — IATA is calling out the Canadian government, urging it to take measures to reduce delays for inbound and outbound passengers at Canadian airports.

Peter Cerda, IATA’s Regional Vice President for the Americas, says IATA has written to the Canadian government with a call-to-action for federal ministers to make immediate moves to reduce the unwieldy delays at immigration and security at Canada’s international airports.

“Aviation, along with travel and tourism, were hit particularly hard during the COVID-19 pandemic and even more so in Canada, due to the very strict border control measures implemented by the government. Following the easing of many of these restrictions, demand is coming back and it is clear that people want to travel. We can therefore ill afford to have passengers subjected to unacceptable wait times both on arrival in the country or on departure,” said Cerda.

He added: “The relevant authorities must urgently consider removing the

last remaining travel related COVID-19 restrictions and work with the industry on policies and processes which will allow passengers to pass through airports with no undue delay.”

Delays for passengers both inbound and outbound at Pearson Airport and other major gateways across the country have made headlines here at home and outside of Canada too, with tales of missed flights, hours-long tarmac waits and flaring tempers putting a damper on travel’s much-needed recovery.

IATA notes that passenger wait times at security screening at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport have doubled and, in some cases, quadrupled, while passengers on nearly every second international arriving flight were subjected to immigration delays. Some had to wait on the aircraft for up to three hours before disembarking. Over the past four weeks, the travel plans of around 100,000 passengers per week have been disrupted, according to IATA’s estimates.

IATA’s ask from the Canadian government includes:  • Introduce dedicated immigration lanes for arriving international passengers who did not provide their required health and vaccination details in advance through ArriveCAN. CBSA data shows that the immigration process for passengers where the ArriveCAN details need to be collected on arrival takes 3-5 minutes as compared to 15-30 seconds in cases where the data has been supplied in advance, says IATA.

DEMAND IS COMING BACK AND IT IS CLEAR THAT PEOPLE WANT TO TRAVEL.

• Upgrade the mobile app version of ArriveCAN to include the immigration and customs related questions so arriving international passengers can submit their relevant information in advance of arrival (IATA notes this is currently only available on the web based ArriveCAN in Toronto and Vancouver).

• Relocate on-arrival random testing facilities from the terminal / airport and/or offer a home testing option.

• Ensure that both CBSA and Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) have the staffing required to offer an efficient immigration and passenger screening process.

Air Transat offers first look at its winter 2022–2023 routes

MONTREAL — Air Transat is sharing first details about its routes for winter 2022–2023.

The airline will have more than 50 destinations in its network for the winter season. More routes will be available through its codesharing agreements.

The winter 2022–2023 flight schedules are now available on Transat Agent Direct. New destinations will be announced in a few weeks.

“Our customers want and need to travel,” says Michèle Barre, Vice President, Network, Revenue Management and Pricing of Air Transat. “Our response to their expectations is unique, of high quality and rich in options. We are offering an unprecedented range of destinations on four continents for this coming winter as we continue to develop and strengthen our air network.”

Air Transat will offer direct flights from eight cities across the country: Toronto, Hamilton, London, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Moncton & Halifax.

Flights to the South as always will be complemented by package offerings at 300+ properties.

From Toronto to the South, Air Transat will offer direct flights to Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, the D.R., Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, and St. Maarten.

From Montreal, Air Transat will expand its services to the South, including to Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico (Puerto Vallarta and Cancun), as well as in the D.R. (Punta Cana). It will also operate direct flights to Guadeloupe, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Panama, the Caribbean, and El Salvador, as well as Cuba, where direct

flights to Havana are back in service.

“Travellers from our other gateways will once again have access to the most popular vacation destinations,” says Air Transat.

To the U.S., Air Transat will offer flights to Florida from Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City and Halifax. Eyeing further expansion into the U.S. market, Air Transat also announced a major increase in its offering from Montreal to Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Orlando, plus resumed direct flights to Tampa. The carrier will also maintain its service to New Orleans and extend service to L.A. year-round.

And to Europe, Air Transat’s winter 2022-23 lineup will include direct flights from Toronto to Faro, Glasgow, Lisbon, London, Manchester, and Porto. Also offered will be direct flights between Montreal and France, Portugal and Spain, as well as the UK, along with year-round flights to London. Air Transat will also offer its nonstop flights from Montreal to Marseille for the holidays until January 8, 2023, and the following day for the flight back to Montreal. France will also be accessible from Quebec City.

This winter Air Transat will also operate domestic flights between Toronto and Montreal and between Montreal and Vancouver.

Karine Roy-Camille is Martinique’s new Deputy Director of the Americas

The Martinique Tourism Authority (MTA) has announced Karine Roy-Camille as its new Deputy Director of the Americas Office. Based in Montreal, Roy-Camille will help ensure the continued implementation of Martinique’s tourism strategy for the entire Americas market, along with New York-based Muriel Wiltord, MTA’s Director of the Americas. As a former regional councillor Roy-Camille brings with her more than 30 years of experience in Martinique’s tourism sector. She previously served as Commercial Director of SMCR Voyages from 1986-2013, as well as President of the Martinique Cruise Tourism Group from 2008-2010. More recently, she was President of the MTA from 2010-2015, and Director of Tour Operators of Foyal Tours from 2013-2020.

VisitScotland celebrates new and returning WestJet flights

By Meg Griffith

TORONTO — VisitScotland welcomed travel trade, media, and alumni of schools in Scotland to its event at the Westin Harbour Castle on May 31, to celebrate new and returning direct flights to Glasgow and Edinburgh with WestJet.

Gary Cox, Head of Aviation of the Scottish Government along with Monica Stevenson, Team Lead, Travel

Marketing, Events and XM at WestJet, and Keith Campbell, Market Manager - Canada & Golf at VisitScotland, were all on hand to spread the news.

Cox shared the excitement with WestJet’s new Toronto connections. “Scotland is now open for business. My flight to Toronto this morning was full, and our fantastic attractions as well as our hospitality sector are open. We are very much looking forward to welcoming visitors with just a passport and a plane ticket!” he said.

WESTJET FLIGHTS

Also discussing the new routes and increased connectivity between Canada and Scotland was Monica Stevenson, sharing that on average, Scotland receives upwards of 100,000 Canadian visitors annually. Meanwhile the UK is Canada’s second largest inbound tourism market.

WestJet’s service highlights include, new for summer 2022, 4x weekly service Toronto — Glasgow (May 30 - Sept. 30) and 3x weekly service Toronto — Edinburgh (June 2 - Oct. 1). Returning for summer 2022 is WestJet’s Halifax — Glasgow service, 3x weekly (May 31 - Oct. 27).

“We’re seeing very positive signs of recovery, and last week alone we had our highest number of guests since pre-pandemic and flew close to 55,000 guests. As we look ahead, compared to 2019 we have increased our seat capacity in the summer to Scotland by 130%, and we’re pleased to share these services and are excited to keep this connectivity going,” said Stevenson.

This summer WestJet will serve 43 domestic, 23 transborder, 16 Caribbean and eight transatlantic routes, marking a 94% restoration of pre-pandemic service.

SCOTLAND IS CALLING

This year VisitScotland launched a new global marketing campaign: ‘Scotland is Calling’. The campaign highlights the warm welcome, proximity of cities to unspoiled nature, landscapes, live events, romantic and

mysterious history, ancestry links, and so much more that Scotland has to offer. All these elements welcome visitors to explore the destination and see why Scotland is calling.

YEAR OF STORIES 2022

Also this year, VisitScotland is celebrating stories written, inspired by, or created in Scotland for its ‘Year of Stories 2022’.

Visitors can look forward to various events by community groups, museums, heritage sites, and other visitor attractions with storytelling at the heart of it. The Year of Stories invites travellers to tell and find their own stories through their adventure in Scotland.

For more information, go to visitscotland.com.

The notification, issued Friday, May 20 as the work week was winding down before the long weekend, is in accordance with the mergers and acquisitions provisions of the Canada Transportation Act.

“The Minister of Transport has determined that the transaction raises public interest considerations related to national transportation. As such, a public interest assessment of the proposed transaction will be conducted with input from the Commissioner of Competition, who will assess impacts on competition,” says the statement, posted on Transport Canada’s site.

News of the proposed WestJetSunwing deal broke on March 2, just as the travel industry was in its first very early days of recovery mode following Canada’s first phase of eased travel restrictions effective Feb. 28.

TORONTO — The federal government says it will conduct a public assessment of the proposed deal between the WestJet Group and Sunwing.

If approved, the deal will see the WestJet Group acquire Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines, with a new tour operating business unit created under the WestJet Group, to include both Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations Inc., and led by Sunwing CEO Stephen Hunter.

The deal is anticipated to close in late 2022 and includes SellOffVacations and Vacation Express (Sunwing’s tour operator arm in the U.S), but not Blue Diamond Resorts.

Transport Canada says the public interest assessment will include consultations with the air industry and other stakeholders, other government departments, other levels of government, as well as the public: “Canadians are encouraged to have their say on letstalktransportation.ca.”

Transport Canada opens the proposed WestJet-Sunwing deal to feedback from the public

CANADIANS ARE ENCOURAGED TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON LETSTALKTRANS PORTATION.CA.

EDINBURGH CASTLE

The assessment will include an analysis of the economic benefitsor challenges - resulting from the proposed transaction.

Normally Transport Canada has up to 150 days to complete the public interest assessment. But Transport Minister Omar Alghabra has the authority to grant an extension should extra time be necessary, and he has, with an additional 50 days tacked onto the deadline. “Considering the size and scope of the proposed transaction, an extra 50 days has been granted to both Transport Canada and the Commissioner of Competition, to ensure sufficient time for thorough analysis and assessment,” says Transport Canada.

Transport Canada now has up to 200 days (until December 5, 2022) to complete the public interest assessment and submit it to Minister Alghabra, who then provides a recommendation to the Governor in Council (Cabinet).

The statement notes that Minister Alghabra’s recommendation will incorporate the findings of the Commissioner’s report on competition considerations. It also notes that “there is no legislated timeline for the Minister to make his recommendation or for the Governor in Council to make a final decision.”

Holland America extends WorryFree Promise, launches Canada Super Sale

SEATTLE — Holland America Line is extending its Worry-Free Promise to Dec. 31, 2022, for all cruises booked by Sept. 30, 2022.

Passengers who make a new booking by Sept. 30, 2022, for itineraries that depart on or before Dec. 31, 2022 can cancel for any reason up to 30 days before departure and receive a Future Cruise Credit.

Holland America Line has also added the COVID-19 Protection Program, offering further peace of mind for passengers within 30 days of embarkation who may be unable to travel because of a positive test for COVID-19. Under the program, which also applies to bookings prior to Sept. 30, 2022, that depart on or before Dec. 31, passengers who cannot travel due to a positive test or new governmental travel restriction will be eligible for a Future Cruise Credit.

In addition, the cruise line has launched a ‘Canada Super Sale’ featuring savings of up to 20% on select cruises. Running through 2022, the sale is valid on select 2022 Alaska, Canada and New England, Pacific Coast,

NOTICE - VIRTUAL ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

TAKE NOTICE THAT the Annual General Meeting of the members of the Travel Industry Council of Ontario (“TICO”) will be held online at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 for the purpose of:

(a) receiving the financial statements for the previous financial year, together with the Auditor’s Report;

(b) receiving and considering the Annual Report;

(c) appointing the auditors for the Corporation and authorizing the Board of Directors to fix the auditor’s remuneration; and

(d) transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

The deadline for providing written notice of any motions to be made at the meeting has now passed. Only members in good standing are entitled to participate in and vote at the meeting. Members of the public are invited to attend. Anyone wishing to access the webcast (voting member or public guest) is required to register at https://live.webcastplatform.com/go/TICOAGM2022. Registration will close on June 24, 2022 at 5 p.m.

The Agenda, Minutes from the AGM on June 29, 2021, the 2022 Business Plan, and the 2022 Annual Report containing the audited financial statements as at and for the fiscal period ended March 31, 2022 will be made available on the webcast platform in advance of the meeting. We encourage you to login to the webcast platform to review the materials and test your video prior to the meeting. Meeting materials will also be made available on TICO’s website. Members who will not be attending the meeting are invited to submit written requests for proxies.

DATED at Mississauga this 26th day of May 2022.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Tracey McKiernan / Secretary

55 Standish Court, Suite 460, Mississauga, Ontario L5R 4B2 Tel: (905) 624-6241 Fax: (905) 624-8631 Toll-free: 1-888-451-TICO e-mail: tico@tico.ca Website: www.tico.ca

Hawaii and Panama Canal cruises that sail to or from a Canadian homeport (Vancouver, Montreal or Quebec City). Cruises to Mexico roundtrip from San Diego, California are also included.

“With travel opening up Canadians are looking to cruise, but the current exchange rate can make that challenging,” said Beth Bodensteiner, chief commercial officer of Holland America Line. “With our Canada Super Sale, a Holland America Line cruise is more accessible to our Canadian guests, and we’re featuring a variety of destinations that include one of our Canadian homeports so air travel also is cost-efficient. We look forward to welcoming more of our neighbors to the north onboard.”

Garneau resigns as VIA Rail Canada’s President and CEO

TORONTO — Cynthia Garneau has stepped down from her role as VIA Rail Canada’s President and CEO. In a statement Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said:  “I would like to thank Ms. Garneau for her service and her work over the past three years in contributing to the modernization of VIA Rail, and adapting VIA Rail operations during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, while always ensuring the health and safety of employees and passengers. I wish Ms. Garneau the best of luck in her future endeavours.”

Garneau herself added: “After three wonderful years of diverse achievements, exciting challenges, and enriching encounters, I leave VIA Rail with a sense of accomplishment. I had given myself the objective to obtain confirmation for the HFR project, and with the procurement process now underway, my train has arrived at its destination. It will now be up to another driver to lead the organization through the next steps.

Martin R. Landry, who for the past eight years has served as VIA Rail’s Chief Commercial Affairs Officer, will ensure business continuity as he takes over operations.

Surging demand for Le Boat in Canada as travel reopens

By Kathryn Folliott

TORONTO — Le Boat’s fifth summer on the Rideau Canal comes with news of more vessels and ramped-up demand, with the May - October 2022 season already 70% booked.

The popularity of the luxury houseboats is fuelled not just by Canada’s reopened borders, beckoning vacationers from the U.S., Europe and beyond to sail our sparkling waters, but also by Canadian travellers.

So many Canadians who discovered Le Boat over the past two years of ‘staycations’ have come back as loyal customers, says Le Boat’s Marketing Manager, North America, Lisa McLean.

And this time, knowing how great the product is, they’re smarter about booking longer sailings. “The first year of COVID-19, people said they’d ‘give it a try’ and booked maybe three or four nights,” said McLean in a desk side interview with Travelweek on May 26. “Then at the end of the three or four nights many were calling us asking if they could book more nights, they loved it so much.”

Now they’re booking a week, 10 nights, even multiple weeks, she says. “This year we have a lot of 3-week bookings. People are treating it like a cottage.”

Already popular in Europe for years, Le Boat launched on Rideau Canal in May 2018, with 16 boats. Now in 2022 Le Boat has 30 Horizon vessels sailing the Canadian waterway. Vacationers can choose from 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom models, all the way up to a 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom option that sleeps 12. The big double cabins and ensuites are two big selling points, says McLean.

While the pandemic was devastating across the board for the global travel industry, there were glimmers of good news for some companies, especially a company like Le Boat here in Canada. While the luxury houseboat concept was gaining

LE BOAT’S MARKETING MANAGER, NORTH AMERICA, LISA MCLEAN AND GLOBAL SALES AND MARKETING DIRECTOR, ANDREW LE DUC

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traction with Canadians pre-pandemic, bookings really took off in this market when staycations were, by necessity, the only option.

Canadians looking for vacation options in their own backyards quickly got over their hesitation about steering their own ship, so to speak. Anyone taking the helm of a Le Boat cruiser doesn’t require any special licenses or experience. “Everyone is nervous at first but they quickly get the hang of it,” says Le Boat’s Global Sales and Marketing Director, Andrew Le Duc.

New markets found Le Boat over the past two years too. While previously in Canada the company’s typical demographic was 55+, in 2020 and 2021 “we saw a huge increase in families,” said McLean.

Le Boat has also seen a huge uptick in bookings from the trade. The company hosted more than 35 webinars for travel advisors over the past year. Commission is 10%, with the potential for overrides.

Le Boat’s flexible cancellation policy allows for full refunds, future cruise credits or rebookings. This year’s sailings on the Rideau Canal started Victoria Day weekend and run through Canadian Thanksgiving weekend.

While the Rideau Canal is still the option on offer, Le Boat is also a couple of years into a look at Ontario’s

Trent-Severn Waterway as a possible new market.

If this summer is too soon for some clients looking to try Le Boat, there’s always next year. But book sooner than later, say Le Duc and McLean. Already sales from the Canadian market are up 138% for 2023.

More details at leboat.ca.

Air North, Yukon’s Airline added to connectair by Air Transat

MONTREAL — Air Transat has added Air North, Yukon’s Airline, to its virtual interlining service, connectair by Air Transat.

Travellers can now combine Air Transat and Air North flights, making it easy for clients to fly to or from Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Yellowknife and Whitehorse.

This latest addition brings the total number of partners accessible through the platform to eight, and the number of additional destinations available in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, Central and South America, and

Canada to more than 245.

“We’re delighted to offer our passengers the opportunity to seamlessly connect between award-winning airlines,” said Ben Ryan, Chief Commercial Officer at Air North, Yukon’s Airline. “For example, passengers on our newest route to Toronto will have access to new connections to Montreal, as well as destinations in over 25 countries. And for Air Transat’s customers, much of Canada’s North is now within easy reach, giving them the opportunity to experience the culture, adventure, and incredible amenities found in the Yukon and Northwest Territories - and enjoy with our authentic Yukon hospitality along the way.”

Air Transat’s connectair was launched in November 2021. To start using the service go to connectair.airtransat.com.

Japan reopening June 10 to tour package travellers, including Canadians

TORONTO — At long last Japan is preparing to reopen its doors to travellers from some 98 countries, including Canada.

The new policy takes effect June 10, 2022.

While earlier the Japanese government had announced the country’s reopening would be limited to travellers from the U.S., Australia, Thailand and Singapore, it updated that announcement on May 26 with word that 98 countries would be included on the green-light list.

The caveat is that travellers must be part of pre-packaged tour groups. But after more than two years of pandemic closures, it’s a big step forward, and very positive news for travel companies in Canada selling package trips to Japan.

IT WAS ANOTHER SOLD OUT AFFAIR FOR TL NETWORK, WHICH HOSTED ONE OF ITS MONTHLY MIXERS IN TORONTO. TAKING PLACE MAY 18 AT THE PAN PACIFIC HOTEL, THE EVENT WAS A HUGE SUCCESS, WELCOMING 16 SUPPLIERS AND 65 TL NETWORK MEMBERS WHO WERE ABLE TO NETWORK AND MINGLE DURING A MINI TRADE SHOW AND COCKTAIL HOUR BEFORE A SIT-DOWN DINNER DURING WHICH MEMBERS LEARNED ABOUT SUPPLIER PROMOTIONS.

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JNTO President Seino Satoshi issued a statement in the wake of the reopening news.

“Despite the pandemic, we have worked with people in inbound tourism to prepare for its recovery. We will welcome the return of international tourists to Japan as the first step in the recovery of inbound tourism,” he said.

“I wholeheartedly welcome the accelerated pace at which the international community is preparing for the

recovery of travel for tourism purposes. The government has announced a policy on Japan initiating action to join that effort. I take this as a first step toward the recovery of inbound tourism to Japan.

“JNTO is working with local governments and DMOs in Japan, as well as domestic and foreign travel agencies, airlines, and other organizations, to prepare for the resumption of inbound travel. In anticipation of major international events, such as the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in December of this year, the Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) in 2023, and Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, we will step up our efforts to release information on tourism.”

He added that the JNTO plans to roll out promotions in light of Japan’s updated policy on accepting inbound visitors.

For more information go to www. japan.travel/en/ca.

Riu Latino scheduled to open Oct. 1, 2022 in Costa Mujeres

TORONTO — Sunwing is eagerly anticipating the opening of Riu Latino, the latest resort from RIU Hotels & Resorts in Mexico.

The adults-only property is scheduled to open Oct. 1, 2022 on a prime location on Costa Mujeres.

Rates lead in at $1,455 per person, taxes and fees included, for a seven-night stay in a Courtyard view room, double occupancy, departing from Toronto on Oct. 5, 2022.

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WE HAVE WORKED WITH PEOPLE IN INBOUND TOURISM TO PREPARE FOR ITS RECOVERY.

Agents can earn STAR Agent Reward Points that convert to cash on all RIU Hotels & Resorts bookings.

Says Samantha Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer at Sunwing: “RIU Hotels & Resorts is beloved by Sunwing customers for its top-notch service, amenities and incredible experiences offered at exceptional value. Available exclusively to Canadians through Sunwing for over a decade, RIU is highly respected in the market and considered one of the top-rated hotel chains among our customers. We look forward to continuing to build on our successful partnership together and many more years of providing our valued Sunwing customers with unforgettable vacation experiences

at their favourite RIU resorts, now including the new Riu Latino.”

She adds that Riu Latino has a large stretch of beach, six outdoor pools (two have swim-up bars), an on-site spa with steam room, relaxation pools and therapeutic massage treatments, plus fitness facilities and daily fitness programming with RiuFit.

Water sports include kayaking, snorkelling or catamaran rides along the Caribbean Sea, in addition to unlimited access to the on-site Splash Water World water park with slides. Live music and shows keep things hopping day and night.

Exclusive RIU-topia inclusions with every booking include welcome cocktails and in-room mini-bars restocked regularly, and unlimited reservation-free dining at six on-site restaurants. RIU’s Adults Only extras include premium brand drinks, and, for added fees and upon request, a specialty wine list and a romantic outdoor dinner. And spacious accommodations feature courtyard and oceanview rooms, two-bedroom rooms and swim-out rooms.

Carnival in talks to sell Seabourn

TORONTO — Carnival may be looking to offload its Seabourn cruise brand, reports multiple consumer outlets.

David Giersdorf

is American Queen Voyages’ new acting president

American Queen Voyages has kicked off its 10th anniversary year with a new acting president at its helm. David Giersdorf, a travel and cruise industry veteran, will serve as acting president for a term of up to 18 months. In his new role, he will develop and implement American Queen Voyages’ overall business strategy and report directly to Kevin Rabbitt, chief executive officer of parent company Hornblower Group.

Prior to his appointment, Giersdorf served as an advisor to the cruise line for nearly three years, during which he supported the acquisition and reimagining of its independent shore excursions business, Venture Ashore, and more recently, the successful launch of Ocean Victory, the company’s Alaska Expedition experiences.

The cruise conglomerate is currently in preliminary discussions to sell the ultra-luxury cruise line to the Saudi sovereign wealth fund. The value of the potential deal has not been made public. According to CNBC, which first broke the news, Carnival refuses to comment on speculation.

The Saudi sovereign wealth fund, also known as the Public Investment Fund, previously purchased a 5.1% stake in Carnival in 2020, according to FactSet.

Carnival Corporation first made an investment in Seabourn in 1991 before acquiring 50% of the company in 1996. It then acquired the remainder of Seabourn in 2001. Seabourn

RIU LATINO

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currently operates a fleet of five ships, with a sixth vessel, Seabourn Venture, debuting later this year. A seventh ship, Seabourn Pursuit, is currently under construction and is scheduled to debut in 2023.

The news comes two weeks after Carnival Corp. priced a private debt offering of US$1 billion in senior unsecured notes at an interest rate of 10.5%.

ACTA seeking speakers for 2022 Travel Industry Summits

TORONTO — ACTA has issued a call for speakers and suggested educational sessions for its 2022 Travel Industry Summits.

Taking place in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal this September, this year’s Summits will focus on the theme ‘Forever Forward,’ restarting and rebuilding the travel industry. Travel agents, independent travel agents and agency owners will learn how to create a new road map of recovery for the industry.

People

Interested speakers can review the requirements and submit a proposal by June 3, 2022 by going to https:// www.cognitoforms.com/ACTA23/ SpeakerApplicationForm.

"This is an opportunity to share your expertise and inspire travel industry professionals as we connect in person this year,” said Wendy Paradis, ACTA president. “ACTA is seeking both travel industry and special interest professionals to contribute new topics and innovative ideas as we work to rebuild our industry following unprecedented challenges throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The ACTA 2022 Travel Industry Summit dates are:

Toronto: Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2022 Vancouver: Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022 Montreal: Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022.

Ensemble shareholders approve acquisition by Navigatr Group

TORONTO — The proposed acquisition of Ensemble Travel Group by Navigatr Group has been approved by Ensemble shareholders.

First announced in April 2022, the deal will see Ensemble remain a standalone entity within Navigatr Group. It will continue operations in the U.S. and Canada.

Discover the World welcomes new National Sales Managers, Canada

Discover the World has announced two new National Sales Managers in Canada: Kim Barbisan and Kevin Pohlmann. Barbisan, who has worked in the travel industry for 40 years, will lead all sales and marketing for Tradewinds Voyages and Hebridean Island Cruises. Prior to joining Discover the World, she served as Members Service Director for TRAVELSAVERS and Ensemble, Area Sales Manager for Air Canada Vacations, and Director of Sales for Cruise Strategies Ltd. Most recently, she worked for WestJet/WestJet Vacations as a Business Development Manager.

Pohlmann with him vast experience in the aviation sector. He previously served as Regional Sales Manager Western Canada for Cathay Pacific Airways, and most recently as a Business Development Manager for WestJet. In his new role as Regional Sales Manager, he will oversee the Singapore Airlines account, expanding trade relations in Western Canada and securing corporate business contracts for the airline.

Navigatr Group, led by founder and CEO Jeff Willner, is the parent company of tour operator Kensington Tours along with retailers Travel Edge and Travel Edge Network, plus tech division TripArc. Navigatr Group has also acquired a number of wellknown travel brands over the years and folded them into the group’s operations. They include The Travel Network, Worldview Travel and Horizon & Co.

In the days leading up to the announcement, Florida-based Hickory Global Partners mounted a war of words on the deal, accusing Ensemble of lack of transparency, after it said its own bid for the consortium wasn’t presented to Ensemble’s members.

However, Ensemble shareholders voted in favour of the acquisition by Navigatr, a deal that Ensemble CEO David Harris says will yield benefits to members and suppliers alike creating a new and innovative consortium model.

THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE YOUR EXPERTISE AND INSPIRE TRAVEL INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS AS WE CONNECT IN PERSON THIS YEAR.

Vancouver’s Sanjay Goel, President, Cruise Connections, said he couldn’t be more excited about the acquisition. “It represents an opportunity to bring together the best of each company for what is going to be a stronger consortium. Members like me and others, will be able to deliver better deals through pricing power, and better value with enhanced inclusions. All of this with improved commissions, and profitability. After what we’ve been through the last two years, the timing of this deal is perfect.”

Harris will assume the role of Chairman of Ensemble Travel Group post-acquisition.

Says Harris: “We are very pleased that the shareholders saw the myriad opportunities this deal offered for them from access to new technology and resources to the ability to streamline supplier contracts and

programs. Among the many benefits is that Ensemble members will be able to transact as they have always done, but with access to additional revolutionary travel  platforms such as ADX, which offers agents instant commission visibility, one click insurance and more to improve efficiencies and earnings.”

Michael Johnson, previous President of Travel Edge, is set to take on the role of President of Ensemble Travel Group.

“As I have come to know the Ensemble team and members over the past several months, I am more confident than ever of the value that this new consortium model represents,” said Johnson. “It’s been very gratifying to hear from members about their excitement at the additional opportunities and resources that will be available to them to grow and enhance

their businesses. The new Ensemble is truly poised for significant network growth to deliver for all of our stakeholders.”

four of Azamara’s ships are sailing again, including the new Azamara Onward

MIAMI — All four of Azamara’s ships are now back in service and sailing again.

This year the independent cruise line will visit 362 unique ports around the world, with 392 overnight stays, 862 late nights, and over 3,000 shore excursions, nearly 1,000 of which have been created since the pandemic began.

Azamara’s newest ship, Azamara Onward, celebrated its launch with a naming ceremony and traditional christening in Monte Carlo earlier this month. Following the ceremony, Azamara Onward embarked on an 11-night maiden voyage through the Med.

Meanwhile, Azamara Journey has returned to service with a 10-night Greece Intensive voyage, and Azamara Pursuit has departed on a five-night Grand Prix Weekend voyage. Both

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set sail May 26. And Azamara Quest has embarked on a nine-night Spring Med & Grand Prix voyage.

Azamara’s four ships will stay in Europe this summer, before heading to Asia, Australia, South America, and more global destinations.

Convicted: Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc.

INDUSTRY COMPENSATION FUND

In addition, Mahmood Bashir was convicted of one count of being an officer or director and failing to take reasonable care to prevent the corporation from committing an offence.

This misappropriation of consumer funds resulted in consumer loss after Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc. declared bankruptcy. The Travel Industry Compensation Fund reimbursed 63 consumers of Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc. more than $277,000.

— After being charged by TICO in 2021, Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc. has been convicted on eight counts of failing to deposit consumer money into a trust account, and three counts of failing to issue receipts to consumers.

MISSISSAUGA

The Court found that Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc. routinely purchased travel services from travel wholesalers on credit instead of paying for those purchases using the funds received from customers.

Instead of depositing consumer payments into a TICO-designated trust account, Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc. used consumer payments to pay down an existing business debt.

Bashir has been sentenced in Court to a two-year probation and is prohibited from applying for or engaging in activities as a registered Travel Agent, as defined in the Travel Industry Act, 2002. Bashir was also sentenced to 200 hours of community service.

The court ordered Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc. to pay $25,000 in

THE TRAVEL

REIMBURSED 63 CONSUMERS OF ALBARKAH TRAVEL AND TOURS MORE THAN $277,000.

restitution to the Travel Industry Compensation Fund, on top of the $25,000 in restitution that has already been paid.

In addition, TICO has recovered more than $68,000 from wholesalers who extended credit to Albarkah Travel and Tours Inc. for travel services, which was not compliant with trust accounting rules. These funds partially offset payouts to consumers with eligible claims against the Travel Industry Compensation Fund.

Three big wins for Trevello (TPI) at AIC Hotel Group’s Showstopper Awards

TORONTO — Trevello (TPI) travel advisors took home three awards at AIC Hotel Group’s recent Showstopper Awards, including a National Agency Award win.

Denise Tansley and Jen Langlois were both honoured with Gold Awards for 2019 production at the recent gala event, held at Hard Rock Punta Cana.

Trevello (TPI) was also recognized as a Double Platinum Agency for collective bookings made by all of its Advisors.

“We appreciate the recognition from the AIC group, and we’re extremely grateful and look forward to continuing the fantastic relationship we have built with them over the years,” said CEO Zeina Gedeon.

“I could not be prouder of our advisors. It’s amazing to see the travel industry recognizing them for their achievement, and we will always be by their side to support and help them grow their businesses.”

Tansley is a travel advisor based in Nova Scotia. “It’s such an honour to be awarded the Hard Rock Shop Stoppers GOLD award for 2019. It’s always a pleasure to book clients to their amazing properties. It’s been a tough couple of years and to be recognized again is very uplifting and certainly gives light to us as agents!” said Tansley.

And Jen Jackson-Langlois, a travel advisor based in Ontario, added: “I am

so grateful for receiving this award from Hard Rock. Thank you to all my clients for trusting in me to plan the trip of their lifetime. It feels amazing to be recognized after the challenging past two years in the industry.”

Windstar cancels Asia cruises for fall 2022

MIAMI —  Windstar Cruises has announced the cancellation of cruises in Asia for fall 2022 due to ongoing uncertainty over the reopening of ports in the region.

The cancellations impact seven scheduled itineraries on the all-suite Star Breeze, including a crossing of the Pacific from Alaska to Japan, two ‘Grand Japan’ sailings, ‘Island Hopping through Japan,’ ‘Windstar Crew Hometowns: Philippines and Indonesia,’ Hidden Indonesia & the Great Barrier Reef’ and ‘Edge of the Outback.’

Instead, Star Breeze will extend its Alaska season with an additional itinerary (‘Alaskan Splendors’) in late August, followed by ‘West Coast Epicurean Extravaganza’ down the coast of the United States, a trans-ocean voyage from San Diego to Tahiti, and five sailings in French Polynesia.

During October 2022, Windstar will celebrate its 35th anniversary of operations in Tahiti, where it was one of the first lines to offer overnight cruises in the region. All sailings aboard Wind Spirit and Star Breeze in Tahiti will join in the celebration with special events during cruises.

On Nov. 11, 2022, Star Breeze will depart for a trans-ocean journey to Sydney, arriving on Nov. 22 for a scheduled charter cruise. The shift

LAST MONTH CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE WELCOMED ITS TWO MILLIONTH PASSENGER SINCE IT RESUMED OPERATIONS IN JULY 2021. THE PASSENGER AND THEIR FAMILY BOARDED CARNIVAL FREEDOM IN PORT CANAVERAL ON MAY 19 AND WERE GREETED BY CAPTAIN MARIO IMBIMBO AND OTHER CREW MEMBERS. CARNIVAL WAS THE FIRST MAJOR U.S. CRUISE LINE TO HAVE A FULL FLEET BACK IN GUEST SERVICE SINCE THE INDUSTRY’S RESTART LAST SUMMER.

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will make the Dec. 4 ‘Tasman Sea Treasures: New Zealand Fjords & South Australia’ itinerary Windstar’s first commercial cruise offered in the region. This year marks the first time Windstar will be offering itineraries to New Zealand and Australia, visiting small, rarely visited ports of call like Middle Percy Island.

Viking’s new Octantis ship now sailing the Great Lakes

LOS ANGELES — Viking Octantis, Viking’s new purpose-built vessel, has kicked off its inaugural season in the Great Lakes.

Designed specifically for this region, the Viking Octantis is fresh off a roundtrip voyage through the Welland Canal, a key section of the St. Lawrence Seaway that connects Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, making it the largest passenger vessel ever to transit the canal. The ship will remain in the Great Lakes until early October 2022, sailing a variety of itineraries between Toronto and Duluth.

A second expedition vessel, the Viking Polaris, will debut later this year and will join the Viking Octantis in the Great Lakes for the 2023 season.

Viking will be operating four new itineraries in the Great Lakes for the 2022-2023 season:

• Undiscovered Great Lakes (8 days): This itinerary sails from Thunder Bay to Milwaukee, allowing guests to explore the Apostle Islands and Keweenaw Peninsula, kayak through sea caves, visit Kakabeka Falls, and stroll the car-free streets of Mackinac Island.

• Great Lakes Explorer (8 days): Sailing from Milwaukee to Thunder Bay, highlights include the boreal forests of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Mackinac Island, and coastal wetlands replete with birdlife.

• Niagara & The Great Lakes (8 days): This voyage from Toronto to Milwaukee provides a close look at the lakes’ shipping history. Guests will marvel over Niagara Falls, keep watch

for migratory birds at Point Pelee and explore sheltered bays and woodlands with a team of experts.

• Canadian Discovery (13 days): Sailing from New York to Toronto, this voyage highlights the region’s colonial past while cruising along the St. Lawrence River. Guests will view the dramatic cliffs and wildlife of the Saguenay River Valley and take part in shore excursions in each port.

In 2023, Viking will also be adding a new 15-day voyage, ‘Great Lakes Collection,’ that sails from Toronto to Duluth and includes such highlights as Niagara Falls, the famous Soo Locks and the dense boreal forests that line the shores of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan.

MSC Cruises Canada has appointed Patrick Collins as Business Development Manager for Ontario and Atlantic Canada. Based in Toronto, Collins comes to MSC Cruises as an experienced cruiser with extensive knowledge of the trade community in Eastern Canada. He started his career coordinating large tour groups for a leading coach and holiday provider in Ontario, and most recently was part of the business development team for one of Canada’s largest Arctic and expedition cruise companies. Collins can be reached at Patrick.collins@msccruises.ca.

VIKING IN THE WELLAND CANAL

Credit: Viking

Travel agent community & JTB show support at Jam-Walk 2022

By Annie Cicvaric

TORONTO — A beautiful morning greeted the walkers that came out for an early kick-off start for the 12th annual Jam-Walk in Toronto on May 28 to support the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation.

This year’s Jam-Walk welcomed a record turnout of 100+ walkers, including 20 from the travel agent community, who were laced up and eager to participate and show their support.

The Consul General of Jamaica, Lincoln Downer, was also up for the task and joined in the festivities. Downer has completed almost a twoyear stint in Canada, and is currently based in Toronto.

The Jam-Walk this year carried special meaning, as Jamaica celebrates its 60th anniversary of independence.  This year also marks Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation’s 25th school build project  in Jamaica.

“The charity was created to enhance education in Jamaica and support teachers and students alike and we’re very fortunate for all the support we’ve received over the years,” said board member and President of sponsor Kisko Products, Mark Josephs,

who led the opening event comments.

To date, Helping Hands has made a significant impact on local communities by constructing purpose-built schools for pre-kindergarten children, primarily from ages two to five. In addition, new facilities accommodate different class sizes, kitchens, nursing stations and indoor washrooms.

This year was a record-breaker as Helping Hands raised over $75,000. And the Jamaica Tourist Board team alone made a concerted effort and raised over $5,000. Funds raised will go towards the 25th school build in Jamaica next year.

“We were humbled by the outpouring of support for the Helping Hands Foundation from our Canadian travel agent community this year. As we celebrate Jamaica’s 60th anniversary of independence in 2022 and

Helping Hand’s 25th school build, we put some lofty goals in place this year — and we’re pleased to report we exceeded them! The Jamaica 60 theme is ‘re-igniting a nation for greatness,’ and this year’s Jam-Walk was a true expression of that sentiment,” said Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Jamaica Tourist Board Canada.

The 5km route included a picturesque waterfront stroll from Toronto’s Palais Royale, along the boardwalk to the Palace Pier Park Bridge (also known as the Humber Bay Arch Bridge) and back. In addition, all participants were treated to a delicious post-walk lunch, complete with fried fish and festivals.

For more details about the Helping Hands Jamaica Foundation check out www.helpinghandsjamaica.com.

ACV announces new General Manager, Sales for Eastern Canada

Air Canada Vacations has appointed Marco Gagnon as its new General Manager, Sales – Eastern Canada. In his new role, he is responsible for the implementation of ACV’s sales strategy in the Quebec and Atlantic markets, and will oversee the Area Sales Managers and engage travel agent partners on company products. Under his leadership, the Eastern Canada Sales team consists of Jean-Luc Tremblay, Judy Munden and Helena Silva. Gagnon takes over the reins from Guy Marchand, who has elected to retire at the end of June.

JAM-WALK 2022, TORONTO

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