Cruise Planners: Navigating Success in Travel Franchising

Established in 1994, Cruise Planners is a prominent home-based travel advisor franchise network in the United States. Founded by Michelle Fee, the company is headquartered in Coral Springs, Florida.

Since its inception, Cruise Planners has empowered entrepreneurs to operate their own travel agencies, offering a comprehensive range of travel services, including cruises, land tours, and all-inclusive resort vacations.

Cruise Planners began franchising in 1999, providing franchisees with access to award-winning marketing strategies, cutting-edge mobile technology, dynamic hands-on training, and powerful lead-generating tools. This support system enables franchise owners to effectively serve clients and grow their businesses from virtually anywhere.

What sets Cruise Planners apart from the competition is its commitment to innovation and comprehensive support for franchisees. The company offers professional coaching and development, ensuring that franchise owners are well-equipped to succeed in the dynamic travel industry.

Additionally, Cruise Planners has established strong partnerships with leading travel providers, enhancing the range of options available to clients and reinforcing the company's position as a trusted powerhouse in the franchise and travel industries.

Training

Cruise Planners provides a comprehensive training program for its franchisees:

1. Mandatory Initial Training Program
   At least one owner must attend and complete a six-day, in-person Initial Training Program conducted near Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This program also includes required online orientation modules. Failure to complete this training within the specified timeframe may lead to termination of the agreement.
2. Additional Training
   Cruise Planners may require additional training or seminars for franchise owners or their associates, based on the franchisor's discretion. The franchisee is responsible for all associated expenses, including travel, lodging, and meals.
3. Online Associate Virtual Training
   A Virtual Training Program is available for associates at an additional cost. This training is conducted through Cruise Planners' online training software.
4. Ongoing Training and Support
   Franchisees are provided with access to operations and training materials in written or electronic formats. Updates or changes to these materials are shared as needed to ensure ongoing alignment with company standards.

Territory Protection

Cruise Planners does not offer exclusive territory rights to its franchisees. Franchise agreements explicitly state that franchisees may operate their businesses in close proximity to one another, as the franchisor reserves the right to grant additional franchises without regard to geographic limitations.

This means that franchisees could potentially face competition from other franchisees or even company-owned businesses in the same area. While the lack of territorial protection allows for flexibility in franchise placements, it may lead to market saturation in certain regions.

Franchisees are advised to review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) thoroughly to understand how proximity to other franchisees might impact their operations. This approach reflects Cruise Planners' focus on promoting an open and competitive market environment for all franchisees.