Hello, future cruise specialist! If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your love for travel into a rewarding career-one where you help others book unforgettable ocean adventures-then becoming a Princess Cruise travel agent might be the perfect voyage for you. Whether you’re new to the travel industry or looking to specialize, Princess Cruises offers a world of opportunity, support, and fun for motivated travel professionals.
Princess Cruises is one of the world’s leading cruise lines, renowned for its exceptional guest experience and strong support for travel agents. With top-tier training, advanced booking tools, and a generous commission structure, Princess makes it easy for agents to grow their business while helping clients create magical memories at sea.
Let us walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a Princess Cruise travel agent-from getting started and training, to maximizing your earnings and marketing your services. We’ll cover the exclusive OneSource Academy, the powerful POLAR Online booking tool, and answer the most common questions aspiring agents have. Get ready for a fun, informative, and actionable journey!
Why Become a Princess Cruise Travel Agent?
The cruise industry is booming, and there’s never been a better time to become a travel agent specializing in cruises. Princess Cruises stands out as a premium brand with a loyal guest base and a stellar reputation. Here’s why focusing on Princess Cruises is a smart move:
-
High Demand: Millions of travelers search for cruise vacations every year, and many want expert guidance.
-
Top-Tier Training: Princess offers one of the best training programs in the industry, giving you the knowledge and skills to succeed.
-
Advanced Booking Tools: With POLAR Online, you get direct access to Princess’s reservation system, making booking and managing cruises a breeze.
-
Competitive Commissions: Princess pays a solid 10% base commission, with opportunities for bonuses and perks.
-
Exclusive Perks: Complete training and you could earn a free graduation cruise-yes, you can get paid to cruise!
-
Growing Your Business: Specializing in Princess can help you stand out, attract more clients, and build a reputation as a cruise expert.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Princess Cruise Travel Agent
Ready to set sail? Here’s how to launch your career as a Princess Cruise travel agent.
1. Choose a Host Agency
Unless you’re opening your own agency (which requires licensing and significant investment), your first step is to join a host agency. Host agencies provide:
-
Legal framework and licensing
-
Higher commission rates through established relationships
-
Training and mentorship
-
Booking platforms and technology
-
A supportive community
Look for a host agency with strong cruise partnerships, especially with Princess Cruises. Ask about their training, commission splits, marketing support, and reputation. Many host agencies offer cruise-specific training and certifications that will help you hit the ground running. Here at Yeti Travel we offer all the latest tools and the highest commission rates out there! Be sure to ask us about joining!
2. Register with Princess Cruises
Once you’ve joined a host agency, it’s time to register with Princess Cruises via their OneSource portal. Here’s how:
-
Visit OneSourceCruises.com and select “Register Agency.”
-
Fill out the registration form with your agency details.
-
Print, sign, and submit the confirmation form along with your agency letterhead, IRS W-9, and proof of business.
-
Wait for your temporary login credentials, which will be emailed to you.
Once registered, you’ll have access to all the resources Princess Cruises offers travel agents, including the POLAR Online booking tool, OneSource Academy training, marketing materials, and more.
3. Complete Required Training
While no formal degree is required, successful cruise agents are passionate about travel, detail-oriented, and great with people. Princess’s OneSource Academy (Princess Academy) is your go-to for learning everything about their ships, itineraries, and sales strategies.
The Academy offers a tiered training program that takes you from beginner to expert, with rewards at each level-including a free graduation cruise when you reach the top tier.
4. Consider CLIA Certification
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) offers certifications that boost your credibility and knowledge. While not required, CLIA certification is the gold standard in the cruise industry and can help you stand out to clients. CLIA members also qualify for bonus commissions on select Princess bookings.
OneSource Academy and POLAR Online
OneSource Academy
Princess Academy is a comprehensive, award-winning training program available through the OneSource portal. It covers everything from ship features and destinations to advanced sales techniques and marketing strategies.
Benefits:
-
Gain deep knowledge of Princess products and experiences
-
Learn how to match clients to the perfect cruise
-
Access marketing resources and sales tips
-
Progress through four training tiers, earning perks and recognition
-
Reach the Commodore level and earn a free graduation cruise
POLAR Online
POLAR Online is Princess’s advanced booking tool, giving you direct access to their reservation system. With it, you can:
-
Search sailings by price, destination, and more
-
View all available fares and promotions
-
Upsell clients to higher stateroom categories
-
Manage group bookings and amenity points
-
Handle payments, changes, and special requests
Mastering POLAR Online will make you faster and more efficient, impressing clients and boosting your earnings.
How Much Can You Earn as a Princess Cruise Travel Agent?
Princess pays a 10% base commission on the cruise fare portion of bookings. You can earn more through:
-
CLIA Member Bonuses: $50 per stateroom for eligible bookings
-
Group Bookings: Block space for 10+ guests and earn extra perks
-
Sales Programs: Take advantage of cruise sale events, military benefits, onboard booking programs, and referral incentives
Most cruise agents earn between $16 and $22 per hour, with top performers earning much more-especially those who specialize and build a strong client base.
Marketing Your Princess Cruise Business
Princess Cruises provides a robust suite of marketing tools through OneSource:
-
Digital brochures, images, and logos
-
Seasonal marketing guidance (what to promote and when)
-
Co-op marketing funds to help pay for advertising
-
Ready-to-use sales programs and promotions
To attract clients, focus on building your online presence. Use SEO strategies to rank for keywords like “Princess Cruise travel agent,” “best Alaska cruise agent,” or “family cruise expert.” Share your personal cruise experiences, client testimonials, and destination tips on your website and social media.
Tips for Success as a Princess Cruise Travel Agent
-
Cruise Yourself: Take advantage of travel agent rates and FAM trips to experience Princess firsthand. Your stories and photos will help you sell.
-
Master the Tech: Invest time in learning POLAR Online and the OneSource portal.
-
Target Groups: Specialize in group bookings-family reunions, weddings, corporate events-for higher commissions.
-
Build Relationships: Network with other agents, Princess reps, and happy clients to grow your business.
-
Stay Current: Keep up with new ships, itineraries, and promotions so you can offer the latest and greatest to your clients.
FAQ: Top 15 Questions About Becoming a Princess Cruise Travel Agent
1. What qualifications do I need?
No formal degree is required, but a passion for travel, people skills, and attention to detail are essential. Training is provided by Princess and host agencies.
2. How much can I earn?
Most agents earn $16–$22 per hour, with higher earnings possible for specialists and top performers.
3. How do I register with Princess Cruises?
Join a host agency, then register your agency with Princess via the OneSource portal.
4. What is POLAR Online?
It’s Princess’s advanced booking tool for travel agents, allowing you to search, book, and manage cruises.
5. How does commission work?
You earn a 10% base commission on cruise fares, plus bonuses for certain bookings and programs.
6. What is the OneSource Academy?
Princess’s award-winning training program for travel agents, with multiple tiers and rewards.
7. Do I need CLIA certification?
It’s not required, but it boosts your credibility and qualifies you for bonus commissions.
8. Can I work from home?
Yes! Most travel agents work remotely, using online tools like POLAR and OneSource.
9. How do I find clients?
Start with friends and family, use social media, optimize your website for SEO, and leverage Princess’s marketing tools.
10. What are group bookings?
Booking 10+ guests together earns you extra perks and higher commissions.
11. What makes Princess Cruises unique?
Award-winning training, great support, advanced tools, and a premium cruise experience.
12. Can I get travel agent rates?
Yes, Princess offers reduced rates and FAM trips so you can experience their cruises.
13. How do I market my services?
Use Princess’s marketing materials, focus on SEO, and share your cruise experiences online.
14. What support does Princess offer?
Training, booking tools, marketing resources, and a dedicated agent support team.
15. How do I move up in the Academy?
Complete courses and book cruises to progress through training tiers-reach Commodore for a free cruise!
Your Princess Adventure Awaits
You’ve just charted your course to becoming a Princess Cruise travel agent. With Princess’s industry-leading training, advanced booking tools, and generous commissions, you have everything you need to build a rewarding career helping others discover the magic of cruising.
Start by joining a reputable host agency (like Yeti Travel), registering with Princess, and diving into OneSource Academy training. Master POLAR Online, market your services, and don’t forget to experience Princess Cruises yourself-after all, the best way to sell a cruise is to sail on one!
So, ready to set sail on your new career? The ocean of opportunity is waiting. All aboard for adventure, success, and a whole lot of fun!
