Travel agents know that not all cruise passengers are created equal. Some want more excursions, or more dining options. Some just want something different.

Carnival Cruise Lines has decided to put their own twist on the cruise experience, and the result is Carnival Journeys. This series of cruises features longer, one-of-a-kind itineraries not found on any other cruise line.

Journeys sailings include unique elements, like more exotic ports-of-call, locally-inspired entertainment and cuisine, and enrichment courses provided by Carnival’s “Academy of Fun.”

The ports-of-call include less-visited locations like Martinique, Tobago, Costa Rica and Colombia. Each of the tropical destinations offers historical attractions, natural landmarks and distinct cultural experiences.

The onboard experiences are meant to enhance travelers’ understanding of the visited ports through the Journeys ‘Local-tainment’ and ‘Authentic Eats’ programs. Passengers can expect performances from local musicians and dancers, and preparations of regional specialties from notable area chefs.

For those that crave some food for thought while vacationing, or simply want to brush up a new skill, The Academy of Fun offers an enlightening series of classes for no extra charge. Passengers can learn the basics of photography, social media or even celestial navigation.

In addition to highlighting local flavors, Journeys cruises take the “Throwback Thursday” concept a step further with their Throwback Sea Days. Passengers will be taken back to 1987 with retro deck games, movies, events and dining options — including the midnight buffet.

Carnival Journeys debuts October 4, 2015 onboard Carnival Dream, which disembarks from New Orleans and sails to San Juan, Puerto Rico. The sailings depart from 9 other convenient North American cities including Los Angeles, New York, San Juan, Galveston, and Miami.

With cruises ranging from nine to 15 days, Journeys cruises give travel agents a new, highly profitable market segment to target.

“These new cruises also offer our valued travel agent partners a tremendous new sales opportunity and a great way to earn enhanced commissions based on the longer cruise duration,” said Carnival’s President, Christine Duffy, in a press release.

Carnival hopes to attract a new clientele with their Journeys cruises, and hopefully ramp up demand for their regular cruises with this new customer base.

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