For over 15 years, Spliethoff, a leading Dutch ship-owning company, has relied on BCD Travel to manage the complex travel needs of its 2,600 seafarers worldwide. With a fleet of 130 ships sailing under the Dutch flag, ensuring smooth and efficient travel logistics is crucial for the company’s operations.
A partnership built on loyalty and trust
Erwin Meijnders, HRM Crew Department at Spliethoff, describes his relationship with BCD Travel in one word: loyalty. Since 2008, BCD Travel has been more than just a travel provider, they have been a strategic partner. “We have seen them as our partner for travel for many, many years,” says Meijnders. “And we are building up a new relationship to make it happen for many more years to come.”
The unique challenges of seafarer travel
Managing travel for seafarers is no ordinary task. Crewmembers often embark on long journeys, crossing multiple climate zones in a single trip. “They travel with a lot of luggage because if you’re on the ship, you go from summer to winter to summer easily in one trip,” Meijnders explains. Additionally, seafarers require special visa arrangements and flexible routing options, making expert travel support essential.
More than just booking tickets
For Spliethoff, travel management is about more than just booking tickets—it’s about finding the best market solutions and providing reliable advice. “Selling a ticket? Everyone can do that,” says Meijnders. “Giving good advice, providing market solutions—that’s where you add value.”
A future of continued collaboration
Looking back on 15+ years of collaboration, Spliethoff is proud of the strong foundation they’ve built with BCD Travel. The trust, reliability, and deep understanding of their unique travel needs have made this partnership invaluable.
With a shared commitment to excellence, BCD Travel and Spliethoff are set to navigate the future of maritime travel together, ensuring seafarers reach their destinations efficiently, comfortably, and with the support they need.
Want to hear from Erwin Meijnders directly? Watch the 2-minute video to learn firsthand how BCD Travel supports Spliethoff’s global operations.
