Corporate Travel Destinations

If you have heard of incentive cruises but are not entirely sure what they are, then you might have a lot to think about when you discover what an incentive cruise is. Simply put, an incentive cruise is a cruise that is offered as an incentive for meeting certain goals or criteria/criterion. Incentive cruises can be offered to employees, partners, suppliers, customers, and even potential recruits. Here are some interesting thoughts regarding incentive cruises from multiple points of view:

• Employees and recruits tend to view incentive cruises as a major perk and fringe benefit, and it can also be considered a source of inspiration. Those workers that meet the requirements to go on an incentive cruise are often the standard to which other employees hold themselves.
• Partners and supplies may value their business relationship more with partners that show a willingness to build rapport and look at the big picture. This could prove vital in cases where globalization or other factors shift the position of a company in a volatile market.
• Valued customers may feel a similar connection to a company that shows just how much their business is valued by offering incentive cruises to their top clients. In some industries these types of incentives are even the norm, but in others that are niceties that separate the serious players from the rest.

According to the American Society of Travel Agents, the top corporate travel destinations include states such as Florida, Nevada, and California. Cities such as Orlando, Las Vegas, and San Francisco are popular destination sites, and trips to cities such as these can ideal for corporate incentive travel. However, when incentive planning for employees that perform over and above par, corporations may want to consider offering an incentive cruise for these top-notch employees. A cruise event is a break from the norm of land-based venues, and the lure of exotic destinations may be more motivating for many employees.

Top incentive cruise destinations for meetings at sea include the Bahamas, Aruba, the Virgin Islands, and Barbados. These Caribbean destinations are perfect getaways, and can help employees relax and unwind. Because the Caribbean is within close proximity of the U.S., 3-4 days cruises can be easily arranged. Corporate meetings held at sea can be very productive as employees are given the opportunity and venue to think creatively without the limitations of office walls. This time away from the office may be when some a corporations employees are the most innovative and imaginative. Other popular cruise destinations include Vancouver and Whistler, Australia, and Croatia.