The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) has received what it calls “a historic level of support” from supplier partners for its Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) certification.
Among the companies, luxury cruise line Silversea is noteworthy for being the first partner to offer bonus commissions to VTAs, specifically; other partners offering extra commission include the Globus Family of Brands, AmaWaterways, Amadeus River Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Riviera Travel, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises.
Scenic and AmaWaterways are also hosting special fam trips for VTAs this year. Verified agents are also eligible for advance registration access to all of ASTA’s events, including its Travel Advisor Conference and River Cruise Expo.
Our Analysis: There’s Wide Industry Support for Advisor Certification
ASTA’s VTA program is an effort to address the lack of any formal education requirement for travel advisors in the U.S., helping separate hobbyists from serious career professionals. Seeing increased support from travel suppliers across the industry for agents who have undergone a certification program shows the need for — and value of — formal recognition of an agent’s knowledge and skills.
By offering meaningful rewards to advisors who complete the program, these suppliers will likely encourage more agents to commit to certification. And, as ASTA promotes VTAs to consumers, these advisors will then help raise awareness and respect for the profession among the wider public. Hopefully, more suppliers will lend their support to the cause, as well.
Fast Facts: Bonus Offers for VTAs
- Silversea: $100 one-time bonus commission on Classic Sailings, or $200 on Expedition Sailings
- Globus Family of Brands: $100 bonus commission per booking
- AmaWaterways: $100 extra commission per booking
- Collette: Opportunity to travel on a select Collette tour for $100 per night after completing Collette University; VTAs receive a 10% discount per client for their first booking
- Amadeus River Cruises: $140 bonus commission per booking, plus welcome amenities and a highlight dinner for groups
- Windstar Cruises: $150 extra commission per booking
- Riviera Travel: $100 bonus commission per cabin for new bookings
- Scenic and Emerald: $100 one-time bonus on any new booking made in 2025
