Cruise Planners Franchise Owner Follows His Heart To His Dream Career

Blog December 20, 2024 6 min to read

Nick Pena has been a dedicated Cruise Planners franchise owner since 2014. Nick’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and a desire to break free from the corporate grind. After a successful 16-year career in pharmaceutical sales, Nick made a bold move to achieve the independence and work-life balance he craved. Now based in Orlando, Nick shares how his passion for travel, a pivotal life experience, and the supportive culture of Cruise Planners have helped him build a thriving business on his own terms. Read on to discover his inspiring story, insights on franchising, and advice for those looking to take control of their future. In his own words, Nick shares his journey to Cruise Planners franchise ownership.

Meet Nick Pena—Cruise Planners Franchise Owner Since 2014

I am Cuban-American. I lived in Miami my whole life but moved to Orlando four years ago. Before entering the travel industry, I worked in Pharmaceutical Sales for 16 years. In my spare time, I enjoy cruising, traveling, and reading.

What made you decide to look into purchasing a franchise?

I needed to break free from corporate life. I still vividly remember my last year working for a big company. It was one of the most challenging times of my life—my mom and grandpa were in two different hospitals at the same time. Yet, my boss refused to let me visit them during working hours—which I thought was heartless.

Determined, I would sneak away during lunch breaks to see my grandpa, parking my car out of sight at the hospital to avoid being spotted by my manager. That was the turning point. I realized I needed a change. I didn’t want to work for a heartless corporation. Independence and freedom became my priorities.

Becoming a franchise owner gave me exactly that. I left the corporate grind and, for the first time, felt liberated and empowered. I could visit the hospital every day, spending precious time with my loved ones. My grandpa passed away a week later, but his memory and that experience became my fuel to push forward and build a life on my terms.

My “why” is simple: I vowed never to be in that powerless position again. Today, I control my time, my income potential, and my destiny. I put my heart into my own business every day.

Did you use FBR’s website or other online resources to compare franchise opportunities?

Yes! I explored the FBR website and compared franchise opportunities. I also reached out to Cruise Planners Franchise owners I found online. I wanted genuine insights and firsthand experiences from real franchise owners. Hearing their perspectives was invaluable in shaping my decision.

Every single one of them had great reviews about their journey. They spoke with such enthusiasm and fulfillment—it was contagious! Their passion and positivity left a lasting impression, reinforcing that this path was right for me.

Financing can be an intimidating factor for aspiring entrepreneurs. How did you finance your franchise?

I was fortunate to have savings, which meant I didn’t need to secure any loans to start my business. Thankfully, the cost of owning a Cruise Planners franchise is quite reasonable. I set a personal goal to recoup all my initial expenses—including the franchise purchase, investment in a computer, marketing, and more—within the first six months. Not only did I achieve that goal, but I exceeded it.

How does Cruise Planners support and encourage your success?

Franchisor support is incredibly important. While I’ve worked hard and taken a strategic approach to building my business, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without the exceptional training, support, and technology provided by Cruise Planners.

Coming from a polished Fortune 50 company for most of my professional career. I needed an environment where I could thrive—a place that offered structure and world-class training. Cruise Planners was the perfect fit, combining that professionalism with a family-like culture.

I still remember my first unannounced visit to their home office in Coral Springs, FL. The welcoming culture I experienced there was genuine, and I was instantly sold. That was on a Thursday. By Friday morning, I was back with my cashier’s check in hand, ready to take the leap. I’ve never looked back, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What are you most proud of and why?

One of my proudest accomplishments has been earning a place in the coveted “Millionaires Club,” which recognizes the top-performing franchises in the Cruise Planners network. I still remember attending my first franchisee convention and watching these incredible individuals being honored at the front of the room. I knew right then and there that I wanted to join them.

I shared this goal with my franchise coach (provided by Cruise Planners) and set a clear plan in motion. Two conventions later, I was inducted into this prestigious group—and I’ve never left it, qualifying every single year since.

Many people thought I was crazy to walk away from a six-figure salary, a full suite of benefits, and even a company car. But today, I’m just as successful and earning just as much—if not more. The difference is that I’m fulfilled, living my best life, and doing it on my terms.

Being an entrepreneur and empowering others to pursue this path has been one of the greatest honors of my life, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud of.

What advice would you give to potential Cruise Planners franchise buyers?

Follow your gut—that’s the first piece of advice I’d give. When I discovered Cruise Planners, I instantly knew it would be my new home. That feeling of certainty guided me.

Next, you need a plan, a goal, and the drive to see it through. Follow the systems the franchisor has put in place—they know exactly what’s needed to help you succeed. Everything you need is right there; it’s as simple as using the tools provided and leveraging the support available to you.

Finally, you have to believe in yourself. I never doubted that I would be successful. I knew it, I believed it, and it became my reality. We’re all destined for greatness—we just need to discover where ours lies.