TravTalk India Online Magazine
In a strategic move showcasing India’s continuous growth in outbound travel and MICE tourism, Worldwide Cruise Associates (WCA) has partnered with Travstarz Global Group as its exclusive Sales and Marketing Partner for the Indian market.
The leading global marketing and operations division for cruise lines worldwide, WCA, announced the collaboration of TravsStarz’ strong presence in the Indian travel sector with its comprehensive cruise expertise. Founded in 1989, WCA brings more than 36 years of operational expertise across sea, river, and expedition cruises, including complete handling of shore excursions, transfers, and bespoke programmes. With a specialised focus on group travel, cruise charters and MICE, the partnership aims to unlock new business opportunities for India’s rapidly expanding cruise travel segment.
Speaking on this major milestone for both market pioneers, Steve Bloss and Diana Bloss, co-founders of WCA, said, “We are thrilled to form a partnership with Travstarz Global Group, given their well-established expertise in the Indian B2B market. India is rapidly growing into one of the most significant cruise markets in the world, and this collaboration comes at an opportune time. Our specialisation in cruise charters for groups and MICE events, alongside our commitment to providing comprehensive service from planning to execution, will allow us to cater effectively to the needs of Indian clients seeking unique travel experiences.”
With an impressive portfolio that includes global frontrunners in cruise tourism, including Avalon Waterways, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and many others — WCA offers corporate events, incentive trips, conferences, and themed cruises. Backed by decades of expertise and trusted partnerships, they offer strategic advisory and highly competitive contract negotiations, ensuring smarter planning and measurable cost efficiencies for clients.
Complementing this expertise, Travstarz Global Group, a Trip.com Invested Company, is recognised as a trusted leader in the Indian travel industry, backed by a strong nationwide distribution network and long-standing trade partnerships.
“Partnering with WCA, a pioneer in the cruise sector with over three decades of experience, is an exciting development for Travstarz Global Group,” said Pankaj Nagpal, Managing Director of Travstarz Global Group. “Through this collaboration, we aim to tap into the burgeoning segments of luxury and leisure cruise bookings in India, as well as cater to MICE operators seeking bespoke cruise and charter options worldwide. Our goal is to become the preferred partner for agents and operators in India by bridging their clients with exceptional cruise offerings. As the Indian cruise market continues to expand, this partnership promises enhanced access and opportunities for travel agents and tour operators seeking to offer innovative cruise solutions to their clientele.” He added that as India’s cruise tourism sector matures, the partnership will unlock greater access and new revenue opportunities for the travel trade.
