C&K affirms Hurtigruten commitment

COX & Kings has confirmed that it continues to work closely with Hurtigruten, following changes to the Norwegian cruise line’s distribution deals in the local market ( Travel Daily 26 Oct).

Hurtigruten has moved to a global partner model, which sees the brand represented by a number of local operators rather than a single exclusive GSA.

C&K said its Scandinavian specialist division Bentours had over 25 staff across Australia and NZ, with the team offering the “most comprehensive and dedicated sales and marketing specialists” for the cruise brand.

The new Bentours 2019/20 brochure also features a dedicated Hurtigruten 32-page polar insert, the company said, with the key focus being the Norway coast, Antarctica and the Arctic regions.

Sister C&K company Tempo Holidays will also offer

Latin American and Antarctic expeditions as part of the group’s ongoing relationship with Hurtigruten.

Cox & Kings has also confirmed plans to extend the Australian-founded Bentours brand into other global markets through its worldwide operations.

“This allows for distribution of our multiple independent and escorted small group tour products which have Hurtigruten cruise embedded within,” a company spokesperson told CW.

The Bentours “Follow the Lights” and “Chase the Lights” itineraries, which feature Hurtigruten cruises, are now being offered for sale through Cox & Kings global offices, including the United States.

A current Bentours Hurtigruten incentive offers the chance for agents to win a spot on a Norway famil departing 21 Nov for cruise bookings made this month.