Celebrity Cruises has launched a podcast series aimed at “educating, inspiring and entertaining” travel agents.

It is the latest of Celebrity’s new digital initiatives to support agents, after the launch of its selling guide and Power Up Points scheme.

The monthly ‘Conversations with Celebrity’ podcast, which the line claims is the first of its kind in the industry, will provide the latest news from the cruise line and “quick-fire training”. It will be hosted by training manager Leon Hand.

The first episode, which is available now, features Celebrity Cruises vice-president and MD EMEA Jo Rzymowska discussing her story, as well as information about the line’s Always Included concept, in which every Celebrity holiday includes wifi, drinks and tips, “putting an end to confusing promotions, complicated add-ons and limited time offers”.

Hand said: “The beauty of a podcast is that it gets you away from a screen and you can listen anywhere, at any time. Responding to how our agents are consuming information right now is important to us and it’s clear many have increased their listening in lockdown.

“Our podcast won’t just help our partners sell Celebrity Cruises, it will elevate their knowledge of the industry and underline our new luxury positioning.

“At a time when we are all distanced, I’m also hoping listeners will develop a connection to the personal and genuine stories told by each guest.”

Hand will also host educational sessions via Facebook Live, as well as Facebook-exclusive interviews to provide training support for agents. More details on trade-exclusive events and webinars will be released on the Celebrity Central trade platform.

Celebrity said the podcast is available to stream on a number of platforms, including Spotify and SoundCloud.