You can spot a Viking ad a mile away, and that’s not just because of their signature red logo. It’s because Viking knows exactly who they are, who they serve, and how to make clients (and advisors) feel like they’re part of something special. If you want to take your travel marketing from “meh” to magnetic, Viking’s approach is a playbook worth stealing.
Let’s break down what makes them unstoppable, and how you can apply their best moves to your own business, Travel Marketeering style.
Viking’s not shy about it: their ideal guest is 55+, curious, and appreciates a child-free, casino-free, intellectually stimulating cruise. They don’t try to be all things to all people, and that’s their superpower. They even say, “No kids under 16, no umbrella drinks, no problem.”
Do this:
Get Viking-level specific about your dream client. Age, interests, style, budget—write it down. When you know exactly who you’re serving, every marketing move gets easier (and way more effective).
Viking doesn’t want you to just “sell Viking,” they want you to OWN IT. Their Travel Advisor Academy isn’t just a learning platform; it’s a badge of honor. Why? Because clients don’t book what they don’t know you offer.
Too many advisors lose bookings because clients didn’t even know they specialized in Viking. Viking fixes that with digital badges, certificates, and marketing tools that scream, “I’m your Viking expert.”
Do this:
Stop being your clients’ best-kept secret. If you’re a pro at a certain cruise line, destination, or style, make it obvious—on your website, emails, socials, everywhere.
Advisors who “plug into Viking” aren’t chasing one-off bookings; they’re building a pipeline of loyal, repeat clients. Viking’s product is so dialed-in that guests routinely book 3–5 cruises after their first. That’s not luck, that’s strategy.
Their advance booking culture and loyal following mean advisors earn recurring revenue, while Viking boasts record-breaking capacity and revenue.
Do this:
Prioritize products with strong loyalty and repeat patterns. Every Viking client could be five bookings over five years. That’s how you build a business that lasts.
Viking’s BDMs don’t just hand out brochures; they show up with actual strategies, marketing tools, and answers. Their commission structure is clean, fair, and transparent. That’s why they’re voted #1 for advisor support, year after year.
Do this:
Align yourself with suppliers who treat you like a partner, not a number. Ongoing training, real marketing help, and commissions that make sense—don’t settle for less.
Viking owns “The Thinking Person’s Cruise.” They’re not afraid to say what they’re NOT (no casinos, no kids, no fluff) so they can be crystal clear about what they ARE. Their clients know exactly what they’re getting, and they’re willing to pay for it.
Do this:
Don’t race to the bottom on price. Position yourself as the advisor for discerning travelers seeking value, depth, and experience. The right clients will find you, and stick with you.
Ready to “think like Viking”? Here’s your move:
Viking’s success isn’t a fluke; it’s the result of bold choices, relentless focus, and true partnership with travel advisors. Their playbook is open. The question is: are you ready to run with it?
Want more personal, actionable travel marketing strategies? Stick around. The best in the business aren't just selling travel—they're Travel Marketeers.