Traveltek and Traverse Automation launch first agentic AI cruise search

Transforming the cruise booking experience for travel businesses

Traveltek and Traverse Automation have launched the first AI-powered cruise booking assistant, AIVA (AI Voyager Assistant).

The solution is said to understand natural language queries and delivers personalised quotes in less than three seconds.

AIVA is currently in BETA testing and will be available exclusively through iSell Connect in July 2025.

The system allows travel agents to input client requests exactly as they would be spoken, such as ‘family-friendly Mediterranean cruise in August with good kids' facilities,’ and receive tailored options instantly, eliminating the need to navigate complex search filters or contact cruise lines directly.

"AI is evolving at an extraordinary pace, and Traveltek, together with our AI partner Traverse, is shaping how it is applied in cruise technology," said Mal Barritt, CEO of Traveltek.

"The launch of AIVA next month is just the beginning. We have dozens of AI driven initiatives in motion to unlock more value from our core iSell platform, delivering real service gains and a stronger competitive edge for our customers."

Until now, even with modern booking platforms like iSell Connect, cruise searches still required agents to translate customer requests into specific search parameters - a process that could take several minutes and multiple attempts to find the perfect match.

The system processes complex cruise preferences through natural language, simultaneously analyses over 1,000 cruise options, and eliminates manual filter selection.

Agents can handle queries like ‘luxury cruise through Norwegian fjords with balcony cabins’ or ‘adults-only Mediterranean cruise with specialty dining’ without technical expertise.

The solution combines Traveltek's leading cruise API, the most extensive cruise content and connections in the industry built more than 25 years, with Traverse Automation's AI technology.

This partnership provides access to comprehensive inventory and live and/or cached pricing whilst matching travellers with ideal cruise experiences.

The technology addresses the growing gap between customer expectations for instant, personalised service and current booking capabilities.

As AI adoption separates industry winners from losers, AIVA gives travel businesses a competitive advantage through natural conversation-based booking.

“This is the kind of search capability the market has needed for a long time, and it is now made possible by recent advancements in AI,” said John O’Neill, CEO of Traverse Automation.

“It’s a future-facing breakthrough, and likely just the first of many advanced applications we’re developing as we continue to explore the full potential of this technology.

“This is the first step in a journey to simplify how front-line agents can utilise AI to aid their productivity. We want to encourage agents to embrace this innovation and not fear it.”