Aqua Expeditions launches trade loyalty programme

Small-ship cruise line Aqua Expeditions has launched a new loyalty programme with the aim of “recognising and rewarding the company’s most valued trade partners”.

Circolo Aqua has been created for both individual agents and partner companies, including tour operators and DMCs, offering exclusive, tier-based rewards.

The rewards system is split into four tiers, with tier placement based on gross revenue for agents and net revenue for tour operators and DMCs.

All rewards are issued in Miles, which agents can redeem towards Aqua Expeditions travel or future bookings.

Advisors will be rewarded travel vouchers each January based on the previous year’s gross production. The non-transferable coupons will be valid for two years and the agent must travel on the booking.

For partner companies, backend commission credit can be earned, which is calculated as a percentage of net production.

The programme officially debuted last week and will retroactively apply to all qualifying bookings with departure dates from January 1, 2025. First rewards will be issued in January 2026.

Circolo Aqua is fully integrated into the line’s Agent Portal, so agents can access real-time tracking of tier statues, Miles earned, upcoming rewards and more.

Francesco Galli Zugaro, Aqua Expeditions’ founder and chief executive, said: “Circolo Aqua is more than a loyalty programme – it’s a curated circle of our most trusted trade partners.

“We wanted to celebrate the individuals and companies who drive our growth by offering meaningful rewards and recognition, structured with the same care and attention to detail we bring to every voyage.”