Windstar Cruises is to implement artificial intelligence-powered personalisation platform and recommendation engine Utrip to enable guests to plan their shore excursions prior to their cruise.
Guests will be able use Utrip’s interactive filters to select their preferences in seven key areas – arts and culture, outdoors, adventure, shopping, history, relaxation, and food and wine – to receive personalised recommendations for onshore activities in each port they will visit. The platform will deliver suggestions for restaurants, parks, museums, attractions and more, as well as photos and maps. In addition, guests will be able to create a 'wish list' of activities and share their favourited options with fellow cruisers, family and friends via e-mail and social media.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Windstar and give its cruisers a destination-centric port discovery tool that’s as innovative as it is engaging,” said Gilad Berenstein, Utrip CEO. “With the platform, cruisers can dream about destinations and future sailings, be inspired by the on-the-ground experiences that await them, and plan and book shore excursions in a way that is easy, enjoyable and personal.”
Windstar plans to trial Utrip over a six-month period, during which guests will be able to find onshore activities in the 30 ports of call that are included on six select itineraries in Asia, Europe and the Caribbean. The cruise line will then use guest feedback to refine the platform and extend it to cover other ports.
“We are excited to give our guests another great way to personalise their vacation and further enrich their destination experience,” said John Delaney, Windstar president. “The user-friendly platform shares a robust amount of information on activities and places to inspire our well-travelled cruisers so they can discover the absolute perfect shore excursion in every port.”
| Caption | Utrip helps guests to choose activities, dining venues, parks and more before embarking on their cruise (Image: Windstar Cruises) |