Virgin Voyages has announced it has increased agent commission to 16 per cent.

The increase is not a limited-time offer, the line confirmed.

The news comes as the line prepares for the soft launch of Scarlet Lady in October. The ship’s original maiden season was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic. A second ship, Valiant Lady, is scheduled to follow next year.

In a message to travel agents, the line said: “Our commitment to delivering an extraordinary experience begins with you, and that means putting our money where our mouth is by raising our commission for First Mates to a number set to boost your bottom line: 16 per cent.

“When you put in the work of helping your clients customise their epic experiences by adding extras like on-board credit, shore excursions, hotel stays, voyage protection, spa treatments, and premium WiFi, you’ll be rewarded for that work. You even earn commission on selling a Bar Tab, which is our answer to a drinks package.”

Virgin Voyages has a policy of no non-commissionable, which means that no portion of the base voyage fare is set aside, deducted or excluded.

Virgin Voyages president and chief executive Tom McAlpin said: “Our First Mates are a true extension of our team, and with a deep and long history of making our industry a success for so many years, we recognise how important their role is.

“We have listened to our First Mates and they have told us what they need in order to be successful during this time. In turn, we are investing in our relationship by increasing our commission structure to 16 per cent and honouring their role as essential pillars of the travel community.”

The line’s associate vice-president of sales Shane Riley added: “At Virgin Voyages we’re delighted to reaffirm our commitment to our travel partners by launching ‘Brilliant To Do Business With’.

“This includes raising commission to 16 per cent, and this sweet 16 isn’t a short-term promo, it’s here to stay. The world is changing and so are we, but our partnerships still mean the world to us.”