The move means, for the first time, travel agents in the UK will be able to make bespoke package bookings through A-Rosa on its entire collection of European river cruises.
 
The firm said it has entered into the partnership in a bid to "exponentially expand" its reach in the UK market as part of its growth strategy.
 
The new partnership will see Aviate act as A-Rosa’s trade reservations department in the UK, handling all stages of the booking process and bonded under Aviate’s Atol licence.

A dedicated new reservations number has been set up, which agents will be able to call to make their customers’ package bookings.
 
The bespoke packages include flights, transfers and pre- or post-hotels. Rail options are expected to follow in due course. 

Lucia Rowe, managing director for A-Rosa River Cruises, said the move was a "big step forward" for the line and a "milestone moment" in its UK expansion plans.

"For several years, agents have been asking us to find a way for them book fully Atol-protected packages through us, for our entire river cruise portfolio," Rowe added.

"We have listened, and I am delighted we now have a solution through Aviate, who are a trusted and well-respected name in the industry."