Speaking during a media call on Wednesday (15 November), Riviera’s UK and Ireland head of trade Thomas Morgan revealed river cruise bookings accounted for 60% of current trade business - with overall sales 134% up year-on-year.
“Most agents report a natural slow down around this time of year, but our bookings have remained as strong as ever,” he said. “What we’re now doing is gearing up for our biggest peaks ever.”
When asked which areas Riviera was investing in ahead of the peak sales period at the start of 2024, Morgan pointed to an increased co-marketing budget to be invested in partnership with agents, more prize incentives and more consumer events co-hosted with agencies.
He added: “In the trade sales team, we’re looking to increase sales by between 30-35% next year. We’re really optimistic that is doable.”
Morgan confirmed Riviera was recruiting a key account manager to support agents in the north of the country. He added Riviera’s decision to create a dedicated trade call centre in the summer was welcomed by agents.
“We’re proud of the fact that there is no waiting time,” he said. “Agents should not have to wait more than a few minutes.”
Meanwhile, Riviera has launched its 2025 European river cruise programme, with prices held at 2024 rates.
A total of 261 departures across 16 itineraries from March and November are available to book from Wednesday (15 November). The programme has 15 sailings aimed at solo travellers and 32 themed itineraries.
Prices for an eight-day Douro, Porto and Salamanca itinerary, with eight guided visits and tours, leads in from £1,899pp.
The starting price for a Burgundy, the River Rhone & Provence sailing, featuring seven tours and visits including a wine tasting in Beaune, is £1,499pp.
Prices include return flights with regional airport options available at no additional cost.
