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News

Upcoming “Cruisin’ with The Goldtones” Cruise Showcases Growing Popularity of Theme Cruises

Fort Meyers-based All Aboard Travel Will Provide The Goldtones’ Fans with Additional Cruise Information at Upcoming Concerts

Fort Myers, FL (September 30, 2014)— Today, All Aboard Travel announced details regarding the first-ever “Cruisin’ with The Goldtones” cruise and outlined the special perks its clients will receive, including exclusive performances by The Goldtones. One of Southwest Florida’s most popular “Doo Wop” bands, The Goldtones are inviting hundreds of its fans on a musically-themed cruise which will depart Port Canaveral, FL, aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Freedom of the Seas on February 22, 2015. Fort Myers-based All Aboard Travel is the exclusive travel agency for the theme cruise.

“Theme cruises, whether music, wine, art or otherwise, are booming in popularity. One of our cruise line partners grew its themed departures by nearly 30% this year compared to last year in response to guest demand, and we are seeing other types of music cruises popping up across the board,” said Jody Ryland, Vice President, All Aboard Travel. “Travelers are looking for a more unique, customized experience and a theme cruise enables them to not only explore their passions more deeply, but also spend an entire week with people who share the same interests – in this case, phenomenally fun 50s and 60s music.”

The 7-day Cruisin’ with The Goldtones Caribbean cruise will feature: private parties with The Goldtones – including a sock hop and a cocktail party where the band will perform; group dance lessons led by a ‘50s and ‘60s music expert; an ice cream social; and other musically-themed activities. Tickets are available exclusively through All Aboard Travel at 800-741-1770 ext. 6413 or by emailing ssneddon@allaboardtravel.com.

In addition, a representative from All Aboard Travel will be promoting Cruisin’ with The Goldtones at a series of the band’s upcoming Southwest Florida performances, including:

  • Saturday, October 25 – Charlotte County Elks, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday, November 11 – Cultural Center, Port Charlotte, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
  • Friday, November 14 – Burnt Store Church, Punta Gorda, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The Goldtones’ fans will have the opportunity to ask questions and gather additional details about the cruise from All Aboard Travel’s travel agents, as the agency is the exclusive coordinator of the Cruisin’ with The Goldtones cruise.

“Cruisin’ with The Goldtones is a complete fan experience within a cruise. The Goldtones will be cruising the entire week, which will provide their fans with plenty of time to socialize with the group,” said Ryland. “Special, private performances are being planned along with fun daily activities that will keep the momentum going throughout the entire week. Our guests will enjoy all that they would on a regular cruise with the bonus of the group’s exclusive experiences.”

For more information about music-themed cruises and tours, including Cruisin’ with The Goldtones, contact All Aboard Travel at 800-741-1770 ext. 6413 or ssneddon@allaboardtravel.com.

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All Aboard Travel is a premier cruise and tour package agency dedicated to providing clients with the best value when cruising to destinations all over the world. All Aboard Travel offers exclusive valued cruise packages that typically include reduced airfare with pre- and post- land programs that may consist of hotels, tours and ground transportation. All Aboard Travel has been in business for more than 20 years and is based in Fort Myers, Florida. It is part of Travel Leaders Group, which is the largest traditional travel agency company in North America with approximately $20 billion in annual sales volume through over 6,000 locations.

News, Uncategorized

All Aboard Travel Recruiting “Group Leaders” for Cruise Vacations and Land Tours from the Greater Fort Myers Area

July 22 Group Leader Informational Event Is Open to the Public

Fort Myers, FL (July 1, 2014)—All Aboard Travel, Southwest Florida’s premier cruise and tour package agency, has announced it is now recruiting “group leaders” for future cruise vacations and land tours. Interested individuals are invited to an educational session at Perkins Restaurant & Bakery at 12300 S. Cleveland Avenue, Fort Myers, on Tuesday, July 22, 2014, at 9:30 a.m. Two of All Aboard Travel’s Group Specialists will conduct an informal workshop to explain the duties of a cruise group leader and how organizations – such as senior communities, churches, volunteer organizations, youth and sports groups, and clubs built around certain shared affinities and interests – can benefit from traveling together. Attendees will also learn the many ways in which All Aboard Travel makes travel planning easy for groups.

“Group leaders play a crucial role in the ultimate success of a vacation among a group of individuals with a similar hobby or interest. The group leader works hand-in-hand with one of our designated All Aboard Travel travel agents to determine the cruise ship and itinerary or tour best suited for the specific needs of the group. They can also serve as a significant promoter of the cruise group within their community,” stated Jody Ryland, Vice President, All Aboard Travel. “Group leaders are typically outgoing individuals who enjoy social activities and networking, and this is a fantastic way for a member of nearly any group to get involved and promote greater interaction within organizations of all sizes.”

During the Group Leader Informational Event on July 22, participants will learn about the benefits of being a cruise or tour group leader and about the advantages of traveling with a group. For example, depending on the number of people traveling together, the group may earn a lower price on the trip that can be shared with members. Plus, the group or organization can earn points from a cruise line to host an exclusive cocktail party or receive amenities based on the number of individuals joining the group. Additionally, group leaders can earn a stipend from All Aboard Travel based on the group size and the length of the vacation.

Ryland added that group leaders are often surprised by how many details are handled directly by All Aboard Travel on behalf of the group.

  • An All Aboard Travel staff member makes a presentation to the group outlining the full trip, providing a range of pricing based on group size, showing travel photos of the destinations and cruise ports, as well as providing their expertise on the cruise ship and itinerary.
  • All Aboard Travel creates promotional materials for each group highlighting the specific cruise or tour, ports of call and array of shore excursion options.
  • All Aboard Travel is responsible for handling all details for booking the trip and answering any questions before, during and after the vacation.
  • All Aboard Travel conducts a group meeting prior to the departure date. During this session, travel documents are distributed and a “question and answer” session is held to address any lingering questions participants may have.

“While the group leader’s role is to serve as a liaison, that individual also experiences plenty of free time to enjoy their vacation,” said Ryland. “Ultimately, there are many advantages for people to travel together – namely, group travel is a tremendous way for organizations to build camaraderie and strengthen the community. Traveling as a group is fun, and when you are aboard a cruise ship or exploring a new destination, away from the stress of daily life, you are able to experience a positive side of your neighbors and colleagues that you otherwise might not get to know.”

To reserve a space at the upcoming group leader informational event, call Mary Stephan, All Aboard Travel Group Specialist, at 800-741-1770, extension 7825. The event is free but space is limited. For more information about traveling as a group, contact All Aboard Travel at 866-329-8944 or contact@allaboardtravel.com. Or, the agency can be visited in person at 12530 World Plaza Lane #1 in Fort Myers.

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All Aboard Travel is a premier cruise and tour package agency dedicated to providing clients with the best value when cruising to destinations all over the world. All Aboard Travel offers exclusive valued cruise packages that typically include reduced airfare with pre- and post- land programs that may consist of hotels, tours and ground transportation. All Aboard Travel has been in business for more than 20 years and is based in Fort Myers, Florida. It is part of Travel Leaders Group, which is the largest traditional travel agency company in North America with approximately $20 billion in annual sales volume through over 6,000 locations.

News, Uncategorized

South Florida’s All Aboard Travel Offers Insights on What Makes Trans-Atlantic Cruising Unique

All Aboard Travel Highlights Variety of Options for Crossing “the Pond;” Key Differences between Trans-Atlantic Cruises and Other Types of Voyages, Along with Cost Savings

Fort Myers, FL (May 28, 2014)—As the prime season for booking autumn trans-Atlantic cruises gets underway in earnest, All Aboard Travel, Southwest Florida’s premier cruise and tour package agency, is educating local residents on the vast options for crossing the Atlantic via cruise ship, including a wide range of cruise lines, price levels and lengths of the trip. Additionally, the travel agency has provided a visual breakdown of how trans-Atlantic cruises differ dramatically from 7-day sailings of the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe. According to All Aboard Travel’s travel agents, the peak reservation period for cruises crossing the world’s second largest ocean is from late May to early June, for departures in October and November, when cruise lines are repositioning ships for the busy Caribbean winter cruising season.

Is a Trans-Atlantic Cruise for You?

There are vast differences between a trans-Atlantic cruise and other types of cruises, such as those in the Caribbean, Alaska or even the Mediterranean. “Most notably, during a trans-Atlantic crossing, you will be at sea for at least six consecutive days versus a 7-day Caribbean cruise when you may only have one or two days at sea,” said Jody Ryland, Vice President, All Aboard Travel. “The top trans-Atlantic cruises are renowned for providing guests with a myriad of options from respected, widely-known speakers on a variety of topics and live music performances to luxurious spa facilities, casinos and more. Although most of the ships provide children’s programming, far fewer children sail on trans-Atlantic cruises. Passengers should plan accordingly for the extra time at sea and take advantage of this opportunity to relax and truly disconnect from their day-to-day lives.

Comparison of Trans-Atlantic Cruise Experience Versus Other Popular Cruise Itineraries:

7-Day Trans-Atlantic Cruise* 7-Day Caribbean, Alaska or Europe Cruise
Flights Involved One-way flight Depends on home port; could be within driving distance, or roundtrip if Alaska or Europe
Days at Sea At least 6 consecutive Up to 3
Destinations At embarkation and debarkation* 3-5 destinations
Onboard Activities Ship’s “typical” activities, plus onboard speakers, personal projects, card games, etc. More emphasis on destinations themselves, although cruise lines also offer many onboard activities
Passenger Demographics Couples, solo travelers, special interest groups, fewer families More families, especially in Caribbean

*Some crossings can be longer, such as 12 days, in which case there would be additional ports near the beginning or end of the voyage.

Trans-Atlantic Cost Savings

All Aboard Travel’s travel agents indicate there is a misconception about the expense involved in trans-Atlantic cruises, and that they can actually cost less than other types of cruises. Here are four reasons trans-Atlantic cruises can be a better value:

  1. Passengers save money because they only need to purchase one-way airfare.
  2. All Aboard Travel purchases in bulk and provides package prices to its clients, which combine airfare, the cruise and the land tour.
  3. Cruise lines often price trans-Atlantic cruises at a lower rate than their regular fares in Europe or the Caribbean. For example, one particular 14-day trans-Atlantic sailing has a starting price of $799 (plus package taxes and fees), and includes a 2-night hotel stay in Copenhagen, Denmark, prior to the cruise, when booked with All Aboard Travel. The cruise line is quoting a 14-day Northern Europe itinerary on the exact same ship, departing less than one month earlier, at well more than double the trans-Atlantic price.
  4. Due to the variety of cruise lines that offer trans-Atlantic crossings, this provides an opportunity for cost savings. “The tour packages that we create involve some of the most popular and in-demand ships plying the world’s waterways – the same ones on which you can relax and sip a margarita in Key West or Cozumel. The general public’s stereotype of trans-Atlantic cruising is that it is reserved for the rich and famous with black tie events every night, but that is not always the case,” said Ryland.

Cruise Packages Provide Greater Variety

All Aboard Travel (www.allaboardtravel.com) currently features 10 trans-Atlantic cruise packages available for fall 2014. They include four different cruise lines and a variety of pre-cruise land packages, with the total vacation length ranging from 13 to 25 days. “The packages we are providing in 2014 are varied and robust,” said Ryland. “One of the top attractions of our trans-Atlantic packages is that we provide extra nights in a European port city prior to the cruise, or even a more extensive land tour option. For example, All Aboard Travel’s 25-day ‘Italian Silhouette’ package includes a 9-day scenic land tour of Rome, Sorrento and Capri, Italy, prior to the cruise aboard Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Silhouette.” All Aboard Travel’s cruise consultants can also expertly arrange “cruise only” vacations that involve a traditional 7-day crossing on Cunard – the world’s most renowned trans-Atlantic cruise line.

“Our travel agents play a critical role in educating clients about how trans-Atlantic cruises are affordable as well as unique compared to the cruises out of South Florida,” added Ryland. “Because of our expertise in this area, we are able to match the right ship and vacation experience to the right client, particularly for residents of South Florida looking for something a little more extraordinary.”

For more information about trans-Atlantic cruises, contact All Aboard Travel at 866-329-8944 or contact@allaboardtravel.com. Or, the agency can be visited in person at 12530 World Plaza Lane #1 in Fort Myers.

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All Aboard Travel is a premier cruise and tour package agency dedicated to providing clients with the best value when cruising to destinations all over the world. All Aboard Travel offers exclusive valued cruise packages that typically include reduced airfare with pre- and post- land programs that may consist of hotels, tours and ground transportation. All Aboard Travel has been in business for more than 20 years and is based in Fort Myers, Florida. It is part of Travel Leaders Group, which is the largest traditional travel agency company in North America with approximately $20 billion in annual sales volume through over 6,000 locations.

News

River Cruises Steal the Show at Local Travel “Open Houses” Hosted by Ft. Myers-Based All Aboard Travel

Fort Myers, FL (April 2, 2014)—Several distinct cruising trends among Ft. Myers and Southwest Florida travelers emerged during All Aboard Travel’s recent travel open houses. Primarily, local travelers are enthralled by European river cruises – and those wishing to explore Europe’s most historic and alluring destinations via a river cruise in 2014 will need to act extremely quickly – and Southwest Florida travelers are flocking to the world’s largest cruise ships, viewing them as “floating resorts” and, in some cases, not leaving the ship during the entire course of a 7-day cruise. All Aboard Travel, Southwest Florida’s premier cruise and tour package agency, hosted 16 informative small group sessions led by representatives from eight different cruise lines during the month of March.

 

“Our river cruise bookings have increased substantially; they are up 14% compared to sales at this point last year. There are many travelers who wish to visit Europe but who may not be interested in a packaged tour or the rigors of unpacking in each destination,” said Jody Ryland, Vice President, All Aboard Travel. “The beauty of a river cruise is that the ships docks in the heart of these charming, historic European cities, and travelers enjoy a tour – which is included in the cost of the trip – and then return to the ship for delectable, local cuisine, entertainment, and a restful night’s sleep. Waking up in a new city each day of the journey while enjoying deluxe accommodations is an incredible treat, as well as one of the reasons why river cruising is the number one trend we are seeing at All Aboard Travel for 2014 and 2015.”

 

Due to Southwest Florida’s proximity to the Caribbean, bookings for cruises to this region continue to be quite strong. However, Ryland emphasized that brief, inexpensive Caribbean sojourns are not top of mind for most clients. “We can divide our Caribbean cruise clients into two general categories. One group is attracted to the stunning new mega-ships such as Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas as well as Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway. These ships have become destinations unto themselves by offering many exciting features, dozens of dining venues, and even Broadway shows enticing many passengers to skip the ports of call and remain on the ship for the duration of the cruise to fully enjoy all of the amenities. The second group of clients is attracted to the slightly smaller ships that explore more unique Caribbean destinations that the larger ships cannot get to.”

 

Based on client feedback from the recent open houses, Ryland also noted that many clients have their eye on even more exotic destinations, with a high level of interest in not only the Mediterranean, but other European highlights such as Iceland and The Netherlands. The open houses enabled area travelers to speak with cruise line representatives about the latest ships entering the market in 2014 and 2015. They also had the opportunity to speak one-on-one with All Aboard Travel’s cruise travel agents, who have first-hand experience with innumerable ships and destinations.

 

“It’s really a joy for the clients to come into our agency because they can sense our excitement for them. We tell them about the places they can’t miss when they visit Aruba or Australia, or any place in between,” said Laurie Mulligan, Support Specialist, All Aboard Travel. “While we are always accessible via phone or email, we encourage our customers to pay us a visit, anytime of year, for valuable face-to-face insights. It really helps us build even stronger relationships with our clients who view us as their trusted vacation advisors.”

 

All Aboard Travel also announced Frederick and Michela Corelli of Cape Coral, FL, as the winners of a certificate for a Carnival Cruise Lines cruise for two. “I’m thrilled about winning the free cruise – I couldn’t believe it! But more importantly, I’m so impressed with everyone at All Aboard Travel and how they handle themselves so professionally,” said Frederick Corelli. “The personal touch they provide makes me feel good about the next cruise I’ll be planning with them. I know that if I have any questions about an upcoming trip, or encounter any problems when I’m traveling, they will help us take care of it.”

 

For more information about All Aboard Travel, the agency can be visited in person at 12530 World Plaza Lane #1 in Fort Myers. By phone, call 866-329-8944, or contact@allaboardtravel.com.

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All Aboard Travel is a premier cruise and tour package agency dedicated to providing clients with the best value when cruising to destinations all over the world. All Aboard Travel offers exclusive valued cruise packages that typically include reduced airfare with pre- and post- land programs that may consist of hotels, tours and ground transportation. All Aboard Travel has been in business for more than 20 years and is based in Fort Myers, Florida. It is part of Travel Leaders Group, which is the largest traditional travel agency company in North America with approximately $19 billion in annual sales volume through over 6,000 locations.

News

All Aboard Travel to Host Cruise-Focused Open Houses with 8 Cruise Lines for Fort Myers-Area Travelers throughout the Week of March 10

Fort Myers, FL (March 6, 2014)—Fort Myers-area residents interested in learning about the wide variety of cruise options available to them are invited to attend one of 16 individual sessions offered through eight participating cruise lines at All Aboard Travel, Southwest Florida’s premier cruise and tour package agency, March 10-14. The free events will occur at All Aboard Travel’s headquarters, located at 12530 World Plaza Lane #1 in Fort Myers, FL. The travel agency will feature representatives from ocean and river cruise lines for intimate presentations highlighting the industry’s newest, most innovative ships, fascinating cruise itineraries and more. The events are open to the public, but advance registration is required – by calling 800-741-1770 – and space is very limited, with a maximum of 12 attendees at each presentation.

 

“Due to the overwhelming popularity of our inaugural open house program last year, we are thrilled to announce another series of events – not only for our existing clients but anyone who has an interest in learning about cruising,” said Jody Ryland, Vice President, All Aboard Travel. “Space is filling up fast because people are excited to speak one-on-one with cruise line representatives, along with our expert agents, who can answer every question imaginable about cruising. Plus, all attendees will receive up to $750 off their next cruise vacation. After each presentation, they can sit down with our knowledgeable All Aboard Travel agents who can assist them in crafting the ideal, personalized cruise vacation and handle all of the details. This way, the client only needs to be concerned with what they will pack to take with them on their upcoming trip.”

 

Here is the schedule for All Aboard Travel’s 2014 cruise open houses:

 

Monday, March 10

  • Viking River Cruises: 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line: 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.

 

Tuesday, March 11

  • Carnival Cruise Lines: 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
  • Royal Caribbean International: 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.

 

Wednesday, March 12

  • Avalon Waterways/Globus (river cruising and tours): 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
  • Oceania Cruises: 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.

 

Thursday, March 13

  • AmaWaterways (river cruising): 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

 

Friday, March 14

  • Princess Cruises: 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

 

Each open house will include a 30-minute presentation from a cruise line representative, plus ample time for questions and answers. In addition to the cruise vacation booking discount of up to $750, there are some additional perks for open house participants, including a chance to win a Carnival Cruise Lines cruise for two and door prizes from the various participating cruise lines, along with light refreshments.

 

Ryland added that the open houses will fill up quickly, due in part to some major developments in the Florida cruise market this year. “Most notably, Norwegian Cruise Line’s sparkling new Norwegian Getaway is now based in Miami year-round. Because it is an easy drive to the port, summertime cruises are even more accessible to Southwest Florida residents. And for those who want to go further afield, the incredible excitement over European river cruising is generating interest in cruising like I’ve never seen before.”

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All Aboard Travel is a premier cruise and tour package agency dedicated to providing clients with the best value when cruising to destinations all over the world. All Aboard Travel offers exclusive valued cruise packages that typically include reduced airfare with pre- and post- land programs that may consist of hotels, tours and ground transportation. All Aboard Travel has been in business for more than 20 years and is based in Fort Myers, Florida. It is part of Travel Leaders Group, which is the largest traditional travel agency company in North America with approximately $19 billion in annual sales volume through over 6,000 locations.