Riverside rolls out advisor rewards, training and AI tools

Riverside Luxury Cruises has introduced a series of new advisor-focused initiatives, including a rewards program, updated training and a new AI-powered support tool.

The updates were introduced throughout May as part of Travel Advisor Appreciation Month.

"One of the things I love most about this industry is the relationship we have with our travel advisor partners," said Jennifer Halboth, CEO of Riverside Collection Americas. 

"They are truly an extension of our team, and we're always looking for ways to make it easier, more rewarding and more fun to work with Riverside. Whether it's better education, smarter tools or recognizing our top-producing partners, we're focused on helping advisors sell more confidently and grow alongside us."

As part of the rollout, Riverside launched its new Star Rewards Program, a tiered recognition program for top-performing advisors in North America based on annual revenue performance.

The tiers include Rising Star, for the top 15 per cent of advisors; Shooting Star, for the top five per cent of advisors; and Rock Star, for the top two per cent of advisors.

Each tier includes perks such as travel credit, enhanced welcome gifts, Riverside merchandise bags, onboard credit to share with clients and exclusive first looks at news and promotions.

More than a dozen advisors who achieved Rock Star status were recognized for their support and partnership with the brand.

Riverside has also refreshed its Riverside Education Program, with a more structured learning path aimed at helping advisors sell the brand throughout the client journey.

The updated curriculum includes modules on the Riverside brand, ships and suites, destinations and itineraries, onboard experience and service standards, culinary offerings, pricing and packages, groups and bookings, and advisor tools and resources.

The program also includes an enhanced resource library with refreshed product positioning, selling guidance, pricing and package information and improved navigation.

Advisors who complete the program gain access to Riverside's travel advisor rates. 

Advisors who previously completed the program are encouraged to revisit the updated modules, but do not need to retake the certification to maintain advisor rate access.

Riverside has also introduced a new AI-powered Advisor Concierge within its Riverside Education Program platform.

Connected to live systems, the chatbot provides real-time information on pricing, availability, itineraries, excursions and more.

The tool includes an advisor-focused Agent Mode, offering selling support and resources. 

A Consumer Mode is planned for a future rollout, with the goal of inspiring travellers while directing bookings through advisors.

The chatbot is available 24/7.

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