Leading Estonian ferry operator Tallink is to launch an online bookings service powered by CarRes, the world`s leading e-commerce system for cruise and ferry operators.
CarRes is provided by Carus Travel Systems, a subsidiary of Anite Travel Systems, the travel industry`s leading e-commerce pioneer. Carus will manage Tallink`s system on an ASP (application service provider) basis, facilitated by Carus` managed data centre in Mariehamn, Finland.
Tallink, which operates routes Estonia-Finland and Estonia-Sweden, chose the CarRes reservations and check-in system to handle bookings for its entire passenger and freight operations - an estimated 3 million passengers on more than 7000 departures a year.
A record-breaking installation saw the Stockholm-Tallinn and Kapellskär-Paldiski routes launched in just five days, with Estonia and Finland to follow later in 2001.
CarRes uses Internet Protocol (IP) technology, making the solution fast, scalable and cost-effective. Its Oracle modular database technology allows an unprecedented level of flexibility in selling every component of the ferry and cruise experience, and enables selling across multiple new and emerging distribution channels. The intuitive GUI front-end delivers unparalleled ease-of-use, reducing booking time and increasing productivity.
CarRes will allow Tallink to offer customers full booking and payment over the internet. Travel agents will enjoy fast browser-based bookings through a user-friendly reservations extranet, also accessible through Tallink`s website.
Said Tallink managing director Keijo Mehtonen: “We were looking for an e-commerce provider with a modern ferry passenger and cargo booking solution that could handle our electronic booking needs now and in the future. We were especially impressed with CarRes` ability to handle complex products and itineraries and to manage all types of advance booking.
“Carus` competence, flexibility and ability to offer a world class booking solution were the key factors in our decision,” he continued.
Commented Carus` managing director Anders Rundberg,: “The incredible roll-out time for our new customer is proof of both CarRes` excellent credentials and our ability to swiftly deliver exactly what the modern ferry operator needs. This deal confirms CarRes as the leading e-commerce enabled reservations platform for cruise and ferry operators.”
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