Norwegian Cruise Line appoints first BDM for Ireland market
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced the appointment of Aaron Fletcher as its first dedicated business development manager for Ireland.
Fletcher – who has 16 years’ experience in travel – will work with Norwegian Cruise Line UK & Ireland senior director of sales Gary Anslow to drive the line’s growth strategy in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Fletcher joins NCL from Travel Solutions of Belfast, where he has held the position of cruise manager since 2016.
During that time, Fletcher led the cruise department and helped drive growth of the tour operator’s cruise product. Prior to Travel Solutions, Fletcher spent five years at Oasis Travel, as well as a five-year stint at Thomas Cook.
NCL said it had set its “sights on increasing its market share in the region”. To that end, Fletcher will work on strengthening NCL’s awareness among Irish customers and building relationships with agents and tour operator partners.
Norwegian Cruise Line UK & Ireland senior director of sales Gary Anslow said: “We are delighted to welcome Aaron to NCL. He joins us with a wealth of industry experience, and he is a passionate advocate for our brand.
“From discussions with our partners, it’s clear the Irish market represents a significant growth opportunity for NCL and we firmly believe Aaron’s appointment will enable more Irish agents and operators to grow with us as we increase our fleet to 23 ships by 2027.”
Fletcher added: “It’s an exciting time to be appointed business development manager for Ireland at NCL as we approach the August launch of Norwegian Prima, our 18th ship and the first of the six ground-breaking Prima-class vessels.
“Alongside my new team, I look forward to supporting NCL’s market growth in Ireland, building on the very strong relationships already in place.”
NCL added that it will host a travel agent roadshow event in Dublin on 22 March.
Trade partners will have the opportunity to meet Anslow and Fletcher, and learn more about the line’s latest updates and tips on how to grow their NCL business.
