Merit Travel has announced today that they have acquired Vancouver-based CruiseExperts Travel. Continuing their focus on niche travel segments, the purchase grows and strengthens Merit Travel’s cruise business and their relationships with cruise suppliers.

 “We’re very excited to have the team at CruiseExperts Travel join the Merit family.” Says Jason Merrithew, president of Merit Travel. “Our business aligns really well, with both teams sharing a passion for cruise vacations and a relentless client-focused approach. We’re confident our teams will integrate seamlessly.”

“We’re enthusiastic about seeing CruiseExperts Travel grow under Merit Travel management.” said Blaine Lambert, co-owner of CruiseExperts Travel. “Merit Travel has the skillset and resources to continue to grow in the cruise market.”

Denis Lim, co-owner of CruiseExperts Travel adds “Their strategy of focusing on developing travel specialists will ensure our current and future cruise clients are in good hands.”

This is the first acquisition for Merit Travel since Japan’s H.I.S. Co. made an investment in the company, which saw Merit’s Canadian founders, Michael Merrithew and Louise de Grandpré, retaining an ownership share and remaining in place to operate the business.

"Merit’s niche specialists have earned the reputation as leading providers of golf and ski vacations, adventure travel, extended stays and hosted group tours.” said a release from Merit Travel. “With the wealth of knowledge and experience gained through this acquisition, Merit now solidifies their position as a ‘go-to’ provider of cruise vacations.

“In the always competitive and growing cruise market, we anticipate increased ability to capitalize on superior buying power with the goal of providing our clients with some of the most competitive cruise vacation options on the market today.” says Merrithew.

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