American Queen Voyages will pay travel advisors on previously non-commissionable fees (NCFs) when the company debuts more inclusive fares in 2023.
The new pricing structure will feature the inclusion of port charges, taxes, services fees and onboard crew gratuities beginning Jan. 2. American Queen will pay travel advisors commission on those bundled fares, which include what were previously NCFs.
American Queen is the latest cruise line to say it will pay commission on NCFs, after Norwegian Cruise Line and American Cruise Lines made the move in November.
American Queen said it created the bundled pricing structure after travel partners said that customers want "a convenient all-in-one price package." The only fees that will not be included in the new bundled prices are optional premium shore excursions, top-shelf alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and boutique purchases.
"After listening to feedback from our travel partners, we knew this new pricing structure was the best way to bundle port charges, taxes, service fees and gratuities into one advertised fare, while offering an increased commission opportunity to our valued cruise travel agents.," said Cindy D'Aoust, president of American Queen Voyages, in a statement.