Vista launches specialist touring division

This comes after a record-breaking year for the firm

B2B tour operator Vista is celebrating a record-breaking year following its rebrand in 2023, with cruise sales now accounting for over a third of business - a significant leap driven by a specialist team and strong industry partnerships.

Building on this momentum, Vista has launched a new dedicated Touring team, expanding its offer in the fast-growing escorted, independent, and small group touring market. The new Touring team will also support Hays Travel’s strategy to achieve an even split between short-haul, long-haul, and cruise bookings.

Kathleen Molloy, head of Vista sales, said: “It’s been a record-breaking year for Vista since our 2023 rebrand, with trading stronger than ever. 

"Cruise sales have grown dramatically – going from just over 20% to now making up over a third of our business - thanks to our dedicated cruise team and strong operator relationships, led by Head of Cruise, Catriona Parsons.

“Building on this success, we’re excited to launch a specialist Touring team, expanding into escorted, independent, and small-group tours. 

£We have seen rapid growth in traveller demand for authentic experiences - from safaris in Kenya to wine tours in Australia – and agents need someone with experience at the end of the phone to help create bespoke itineraries in response to their customers’ requests,” she said.

Vista’s new Touring division is headed up by Heather Hutton, who brings over a decade of expertise and will offer agents expert support, backed by exclusive offers and ongoing training.

The Touring division head joined Vista five years ago and has worked hard to share her knowledge and experience with colleagues in the team.

She has worked in travel for 18 years, with the last 12 spend in tour operating - specialising in touring most of this time, including whilst at Travel2, and has dealt with multiple touring and destination management companies throughout the world. 

Molloy added: “Our customers want more than a holiday; they want authentic adventures, and we have built a team of true experts to support our agents and help customers explore the world. 

"The Vista Touring team are all highly experienced, skilled and well-travelled. Many of them have been in the industry for over 15 years. 

"We have specialists in travel to Africa, Asia, USA, and Australia and New Zealand – as well as all-rounders who love travel and are great on all destinations – a few of them love nothing more than a tricky ‘round the world’ trip!

The firm also announced the launch of fam trips which have been rolled out as part of its news announcement.