Sales Goals Met? Celebrate in Seattle and Set Off on an Alaskan Cruise
Many organizations offer incentives to employees for a job well done. And, while this is especially true and most common in the sales industry, more and more companies are looking for ways to treat their strongest players, beyond compensation.
But here’s the problem. Many companies fail to come up with unique destinations. They stick to trips to the Caribbean or maybe an overseas trip every other year. And while many incentive winners are just happy to have the opportunity for a company-paid vacation, the chances are that they, too, would appreciate a trip to somewhere they might not have planned on their own.
In fact, according to the Incentive Research Foundation, 70% of event planners are looking for new destinations they haven’t had before. And if you fall into that bucket, we’re here to encourage you to consider Seattle as your next incentive trip destination.
Why Seattle for Your Next Company Incentive Event
You might be wondering why we would suggest a U.S.-based destination for your company’s next incentive event. And the answer is simple—Seattle is a gorgeous destination with plenty of space for any meetings or conference-related events tied to the trip. Plus, Seattle is the hub for many other activities, including fine dining, Space Needle visits, Mount Rainier excursions, and, wait for it—Alaskan cruises.
Okay, we get it. Why Seattle instead of one of those tried-and-true locations in the Caribbean, Mexico, or Europe? Well, as we suggested earlier, Seattle’s scenic beauty and abundant space make it excellent for meetings and group activities. Beyond conference rooms, Seattle offers an impressive lineup of things to do. Visit iconic spots like the Space Needle for panoramic city views, take a stroll through Pike Place Market to experience local flavors and culture, or embark on a day trip to Mount Rainier for breathtaking mountain views and outdoor adventures.
Seattle also offers top dining options, from fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants to chef-driven eateries around the city. Plus, it serves as a starting point for even greater adventures—Seattle is a main departure port for Alaskan cruises, adding a unique extension to your event. Major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Carnival, depart from the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91, making Seattle the gateway to unforgettable Alaskan explorations.
Combining Your Seattle Incentive Trip with an Alaskan Cruise
Many companies want to plan cruise offerings for their incentive trips, but the typical southern-bound trips aren’t always the best fit. And while we’re not here to say that those cruises aren’t fun—who wouldn’t love a week-long booze cruise—these aren’t always the best environments for a company-sponsored event.
But Alaskan cruises are a bit different. These cruises come with a typically tamer crowd. And the scenic views from the ship are unparalleled. Imagine cruising along majestic waterways or towering glaciers. It’s like nothing else you or your team may ever experience.
So, how do you make it happen? We’ve got some tips ready.
Kick Off with a Day of Exploration in Seattle
Begin the event with a day or two in Seattle. We can help you organize an evening welcome reception at a local restaurant or hotel with views of the city skyline. For team activities the next day, consider a private tour of Pike Place Market, a visit to the Space Needle, or a guided excursion to Mount Rainier for a taste of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. You can even work with destination event planners, such as the team here at Event Experience, to coordinate a day trip to the San Juan Islands.
Incorporate Team-Building Activities
Set aside time for team-building, such as a group cooking class featuring Seattle’s fresh seafood ingredients, a private brewery tour, or even a kayaking excursion in nearby waters. This adds bonding moments and a sense of adventure to the trip.
Set Sail on a 3- or 5-Day Alaskan Cruise
Wrap up the Seattle experience with a cruise to unforgettable destinations like Sitka, where wildlife and cultural sites await, the picturesque town of Ketchikan, known for its totem poles, or a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, famous for its lush gardens and charming downtown. A shorter 3-day or extended 5-day cruise adds the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation.
Work with a Destination Event Planner to Make Your Seattle Incentive Event a Success
Planning a destination-based incentive event can require a lot of organization. And, there are a lot of nuances that go into planning an event with a cruise tacked on. But it is possible, and it is so much easier when you work with a local Seattle-based event planning company like Event Experience.
We’re well-versed in what it takes to create an incentive event that your entire team will remember. Trust us, they’ll be talking about this event more than last year’s event in the Caribbean because it’s something they may never have thought to plan on their own.
Ready to get started creating an amazing experience for your top employees? Contact us today.
See more in