Expedia Cruises News & Blog

In early April, we welcomed over 500 Franchisees, Vacation Consultants, travel industry executives, and Corporate team members aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Odyssey of the Seas for our annual Expedia Cruises™ ANCHOR event. The six-day conference featured an action-packed agenda with executive keynote presentations, workshops, travel partner one-on-ones, and panel discussions. These sessions focused on the booming travel industry, new technology for our Vacation Consultants and Franchisees, and strategies to help them prepare for the year ahead.

"Each conference represents a unique moment when our entire industry and system are united in the same space. Our Franchisees, Vacation Consultants, Corporate executives, and industry thought leaders gather to share best practices, build relationships, and drive the industry forward. "– Matthew Eichhorst, President of Expedia Cruises.

Our conferences are thoughtfully crafted with our Franchisees and Vacation Consultants in mind. We run dual tracks with workshops tailored for each group, aiming to provide maximum value as they take time away from their Centers to focus on their business. We organize a variety of educational workshops, inspiring keynote speakers, and fun networking events. Plus, there's plenty of downtime in the sun! By the end of the week, our Franchisees and Vacation Consultants return home with a renewed and elevated level of excitement for their business and the travel industry as a whole.

At Expedia Cruises, we’re all about celebrating our successes and making fun a priority – it’s truly at the heart of what we do. This year’s ANCHOR conference was no exception, as we ensured a perfect balance of fun and work! Amidst training, learning, and networking, we hosted cocktail parties, dinners and enjoyed beautiful and sunny ports in Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Royal Caribbean’s private island, CocoCay. We also organized various theme nights throughout the week.

Our Franchisees and Vacation Consultants embody our mantra of Stronger.Together® and cherish the time spent together while celebrating our collective and individual achievements.

"As a relatively new Travel Consultant I was nervous about making the investment for ANCHOR. I’m so glad I did. I learned more in 6 days of fun than in 6 months of training. I connected with numerous suppliers and became much more informed about their products. I was inspired by the leadership presentations – especially from our Expedia team. I networked with experienced agents and franchisees and learned all sorts of techniques and strategies to grow my business. I was re-enforced with my belief in the Expedia Cruises brand. I enjoyed Playing to Win and feel Stronger.Together. " – Expedia Cruises, Vacation Consultant.