More: Big Interview: Virgin Voyages’ bosses Tom McAlpin and Stacy Shaw
Agents will be able to earn commission on every part of a Virgin Voyages booking once the line goes on sale next month.
Any component, such as flights, hotel stays, shore excursions, spa treatments, premium package or onboard credit will be commissionable.
Research carried out by Virgin Voyages with agents – or ‘FirstMates’ as they are known by the new line – helped shape the sales strategy.
Virgin Voyages is introducing a base commission of 10% on the entire transaction, but agents can earn an additional revenue of up to 6% if they hit certain targets throughout the year.
Gratuities will also be included in the fare which also covers restaurants, group fitness classes, and basic beverages.
Agents and customers can hold cabins for 24 hours with no money down and accommodation will be held for seven days if 20% is paid.
Voyage dates and names on bookings may also be changed without penalties or fees being incurred by agents.
Virgin Voyages’ president and chief executive Tom McAlpin said the line was committed to “getting rid of the things that annoy” agents.
Stacy Shaw, Virgin Voyages’ vice president of sales, said: “While the debate is often about this percent versus that one, the underlying issue travel professionals have is not being compensated for their hard work on the entire sale.
“With Virgin Voyages you will be.”
Any agent that registers on dedicated trade platform – FirstMates.com – before February 14, when the line’s inaugural programme goes on sale, will enter a competition to win afternoon tea with Sir Richard Branson.
Long-haul specialist Virgin Holidays became a direct-sell only tour operator after 30 years of selling through the trade in 2015.
The move was met with widespread anger among the travel agent community at the time.
Virgin Voyages is building four ships which are slated for delivery from 2020.
More: Big Interview: Virgin Voyages’ bosses Tom McAlpin and Stacy Shaw