LOS ANGELES — Viking River Cruises is implementing a new commission structure, effective June 9: Viking will pay commission on every aspect of a client’s booking – from cruise and air to shore excursions, port charges, taxes, fees, travel protection plans and more.

“This unprecedented commission policy was developed with input from leaders in the travel agency community, and it is very simple,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman of Viking River Cruises.

“If an agent sells a Viking River Cruises itinerary, they earn a commission on all of it. Our partners will be paid for everything they sell.”

In addition, to the industry-exclusive payment on air, port charges, taxes and fees, Viking will offer many other commissionable upgrades – such as Premium Economy or Business Class air upgrades, beverage packages, gift orders and more – to make the most out of the guests’ river cruise experience while increasing the agents’ profit from the reservation.

“Unlike other river and ocean cruise lines, there are no exceptions,” said the line. The new commission program will apply to all new 2010 and 2011 bookings, and Viking will continue to pay commissions 29 days prior to departure.

Since Viking started its operations 10 years ago, the company has provided the most inclusive cruise pricing in the industry. Thus, brochure prices include shore excursions with each program, use of wi-fi (where technically available) and also port charges, an industry exclusive. Air prices are also inclusive of governmental fees and charges as well as airport transfers.

Starting with the 2010 season, Viking’s promotions feature complimentary wine with dinner. This new commission program is an extension of the all-inclusive formula and provides additional earning potential to the travel agency community.

“Since our inception, Viking has prided itself on its relationships with the travel agent community, and with this program we reaffirm this commitment,” adds Hagen. “Currently, our average commissions are more than $1,000 per booking; by commissioning everything, earnings will increase by an average of $100, and agents will have an even greater incentive to sell Viking. Now the world’s leading river cruise line has the world’s leading commission program.”

Information on 2010 and 2011 itineraries, dates, pricing and additional travel agent benefits is available on the company’s travel agent portal at www.vikingrivercruises.com/agents. Agents who have registered at Viking’s travel agent portal can also create their own co-branded Viking website, allowing them to give clients access to current Viking information but featuring their own agency name, contact information and logo.

For additional details, contact Viking River Cruises toll-free at 1-877-66VIKING (1-877-668-4546).