YTB has advised its affiliates that Norwegian Cruise Line ceased taking new bookings from YTB, effective Jan. 20.

Kim Sorensen, president of YTB Travel Network, said NCL more than a year ago elected not to renew its contract with YTB, a move that had the effect of reducing commissions to YTB's affiliated referring travel agents by nearly 40%.

In turn, he said, YTB's bookings for NCL dropped.

Sorensen said, "We regret the action but [NCL] represents a very small percentage of our cruise business."

In the announcement to its associates, YTB said NCL will pay all commissions due on bookings made prior to Jan. 20 and that both NCL and YTB will service those bookings as usual.

As to the future, YTB said, "during these difficult economic times it is important that YTB and our affiliates and RTAs focus on our preferred suppliers (such as Carnival) for all of your travel needs."

Previously, the RCCL brands had ceased doing business with YTB, as of November 2007.