#Japan #Tokyo #VELTRA #Yomiuri Travel #cruise booking

Yomiuri Travel and VELTRA Unite for Exclusive Cruise Experiences

In a significant move aimed at enhancing cruise travel options for Japanese customers, Yomiuri Travel Co., Ltd., a member of the Yomiuri Shimbun Group, has partnered with VELTRA Co., Ltd. This collaboration aims to launch a dedicated cruise booking platform under the VELTRA Cruise system, specifically tailored for Yomiuri Travel's clientele. Notably headquartered in Chuo, Tokyo, both companies are set to provide a seamless online booking service for various cruise journeys.

Background of the Partnership

Established in 1962, Yomiuri Travel has built a robust nationwide presence by offering localized travel services that start from the customers' own neighborhoods. Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of cruise products covering both domestic vessels, such as Asuka II and III, and international cruise lines like Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Cunard.

On the other hand, VELTRA has solidified its reputation as one of Japan's largest online travel agencies (OTA), showcasing approximately 22,000 tours across 150 countries. With plans to fully roll out its cruise reservation system, VELTRA Cruise, in 2025, it aims to advance a white-label B2B model that allows partner companies to create branded cruise booking sites.

The partnership between Yomiuri Travel and VELTRA intends to leverage Yomiuri's extensive reach and sales proficiency in the cruise market, combined with VELTRA's technological advancements and booking infrastructure, ultimately expanding this market sector further.

Key Objectives of the Partnership

1. Utilizing Yomiuri's Customer Base: By tapping into the robust customer foundation of the Yomiuri Shimbun Group, the partnership aspires to increase cruise travel accessibility for regions with previously limited exposure to such options.

2. Merging Online Convenience with Professional Consultation: Customers will benefit from a dedicated site that offers 24/7 real-time availability checks and bookings. By integrating the expertise of cruise consultants with cutting-edge booking technology, the process will ensure a comfortable experience, even for those venturing on their first cruise.

3. Balancing Guided Tours with Online Booking: In addition to Yomiuri Travel's strength in guided cruise packages, the collaboration will enhance options for customers who wish to book cruises directly online. This adaptability caters to the increasingly diverse travel preferences of consumers.

Statements from Company Leaders

Yoshikatsu Kodama, manager of the Overseas Cruise Planning Group at Yomiuri Travel, expressed enthusiasm regarding the partnership. “For many years, we’ve offered a variety of travel services from day trips to polar cruises, catering to our clients' needs. Cruise travel is a unique experience characterized by onboard entertainment and diverse port activities, making it appealing to all ages. With this new partnership, we are proud to introduce a highly convenient online booking system that allows easier access to cruise vacations.” He added that the collaboration will enrich Yomiuri Travel's product offerings, making previously difficult-to-access international cruises more readily available.

Kentarou Fujita, head of VELTRA’s Cruise Division, also commented, stating, “Yomiuri Travel is a leading travel agency in Japan, recognized for its long history and extensive range of offerings in the cruise market. We are thrilled to collaborate with them, utilizing our cruise reservation technology. Our combined efforts will deliver seamless, memorable experiences for an even greater number of customers.”

About Yomiuri Travel

Yomiuri Travel was established as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Yomiuri Shimbun in 1962. Holding a registration certification from the Japan Tourism Agency, the company aims to create exciting travel experiences that resonate with customers before, during, and after their journeys, offering a wide range of travel products, from day trips to overseas adventures and cruises. More information can be found at Yomiuri Travel.

About VELTRA

VELTRA Co., Ltd. provides solutions that transcend traditional travel agency frameworks, facilitating engaging experiences from planning to post-trip services. With a massive international tour portfolio and a commitment to customer satisfaction, VELTRA stands out as a trusted partner in the travel industry. For further information, visit VELTRA.