Island Escape future revealed by Thomson

Following Tui’s buyout of Royal Caribbean’s 50% share earlier this week, Island Escape will become the first ship to sail under the casual concept. The line’s other ship, Island Star, has been returned to Celebrity Cruises as part of the deal. Island Star’s programme for next summer has been taken off-sale.

Agents attending a masterclass in cruise sales were urged by cruise lines to stress the value of cruising compared to land-based holidays and focus on value over price. Cruise lines said they would improve marketing material and brochures to make it easier for agents to explain to customers exactly what was included when they purchased a cruise holiday.