Celebrity Cruises ups charter programme

The cruise line introduced Jet Set Sail air charters from Stansted’s private jet terminal this summer to meet cruises in the Mediterranean.

Sarah Harraghy, Celebrity’s commercial sales director for UK and Ireland, said that its initial 2016 Jet Set Sail packages “sold out in weeks” and further flights have been added to meet demand.

“We’re now on sale for 2017 with flights available to meet more of our cruise ships, and into the later summer months,” said Harraghy. “We have got 13 flights on sale initially for 2017 and will add more.

“It’s about offering a hassle-free, exclusive experience – it’s been really popular and is consistent with our brand and unique proposition.

“Our trade partners have been key drivers of the success of the Jet Set Sail programme and it is thanks to their support that we have almost doubled our commitment for next year.”

Celebrity’s flights are being operated by Titan Airways using a Boeing 737 with 130 seats.

“The plan is to use Titan next year – we’re really pleased with the way the relationship has gone,” added Harraghy.

She said that introducing long-haul charter flights was being “considered” for 2017 and Celebrity may also look at operating services from other UK airports if they can offer similar facilities to Stansted’s private terminal.

Passengers who book a Jet Set Sail package from Stansted also benefit from an increased luggage allowance, onboard meals, transfers to their ship and priority embarkation.

A Jet Set Sail package from Stansted, including a seven-night cruise onboard Celebrity Equinox from Barcelona, starts at £1,329pp for a July 1, 2017 departure.

Celebrity has included a range of tips to help agents sell Jet Set Sail packages on its trade portal, cruisingpower.co.uk.