NEWSWIRE: Ensemble partners with Crystal & Tully Luxury Travel, launches “Luxe Circles”

Ensemble is expanding its footprint in the luxury sector through new partnerships made with Crystal and Tully Luxury Travel, and a second member community called “Luxe Circles.”

"In today's world, redefining luxury is about more than mere opulence; it's about personalization, exclusivity, and authenticity,” said Michael Johnson, president of Ensemble, in a news release. “Modern luxury is not one-size-fits-all, but a tailor-made experience that resonates with individual desires and values. It's a seamless blend of comfort, innovation, and meaningful experiences that transcend traditional definitions.”

“As we update and modernize our understanding of luxury, we are committed to offering choices that go beyond elevating standards but lead to unique, memorable experiences that are as diverse as our members’ clients themselves."

New Crystal partnership

The new partnership with Crystal will include an onboard amenity program for Ensemble-member clients, Ensemble-hosted sailings, access to travel advisor reduced rate voyages, enabling members to experience Crystal firsthand.

To celebrate the news, Crystal is Ensemble’s featured Partner of the Month, which includes training webinars, enhanced marketing initiatives and additional benefits including a contest to win a free trip with Crystal for bookings made in January.

“Ensemble is an ideal partner with a great network of agencies across North America,” said Vice President, National Accounts, Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal Kim Guimaraes. “We are excited to kick off our relationship being recognized as their ‘Partner of the Month’ and look forward to welcoming Ensemble advisors and clients onboard in the coming months.”

Crystal was acquired in 2022 by A&K Travel Group, including its two ocean vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.

The reimagined ships boast larger, updated suites and finishes, new wellness offerings, and complimentary dining - including the return of UMI UMA - the only dining experience by Michelin-Star Chef Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) at sea.

Crystal’s plans also include building four new ships – two similar ocean liners and two expedition ships.

Tully Luxury Travel

Following an extensive search process, Tully Luxury Travel’s commitment to Ensemble as its consortium partner reflects its belief that “Ensemble has emerged as a leading travel partner that understands and can accommodate the specific needs of luxury agencies.”

“At Tully Luxury Travel, we pride ourselves on offering our clients the very best travel experiences possible. We have always been able to differentiate ourselves in the marketplace with our exceptional service and access via our coveted travel partner relationships,” said Mary Jean Tully, founder and CEO of Tully Luxury Travel. “As a member of Ensemble, we look forward to being able to further strengthen those relationships, forge new ones, and by extension be able to offer richer and more memorable luxury travel experiences to our global clientele."

Ensemble’s membership specific to the luxury/premium market also includes Travel Edge Network, the largest luxury host agency that includes more than 1,000 advisors and affiliates.

Launch of Luxe Circle

Ensemble launched its “Circles” communities in 2023 with its first group dedicated to members in the Adventure sector.

The new Luxe Circle will be comprised of a select group of members in luxury along with a group of Rising Stars who are working to grow their business in the category.

Plans to expand the Circles communities include a group for advisors specializing in Celebrations including destination weddings and honeymoons, Pride for those who specialize in travel for the LGBTQ+ community and another for Family travel.

READ MORE: Jamaica Tourist Board & Ensemble team up to promote luxury travel

Ensemble’s expansion in luxury also encompasses a strategic partnership that was announced in September 2023 with the Jamaica Tourist Board to spotlight the island’s high-end tourism products.

This includes access to exclusive training programs and marketing materials on Jamaica’s various luxury offerings as well as opportunities this year to participate in curated FAM trips to explore Jamaica’s upscale hotels, attractions, and concierge services.