Opening the Clia Riverview Conference on Sunday (12 March) in Vienna, Jamie Loizou, who is also chair of Clia’s River Cruise Working Group, said 2023 represents "a huge opportunity" for the industry.
"We are in the midst of a fantastic wave period for the river industry, and we are on the verge of something big," he told delegates.
"2023 represents a huge opportunity for river cruising to have its best year ever, due to the value, the choice and the support the sector offers."
The first step to capitalising on these opportunities, Loizou explained, is to display the value the sector has to offer against a land-based trip.
"Hotel prices in Europe’s major cities have sky-rocketed, and when cruising through Europe, customers will take in numerous cities for a fraction of the price," he said.
On average, a European river cruise will cost around 30% less than an equivalent land-based trip, Loizou said.
The product range on offer in the river cruise sector, he continued, will also play a key part in attracting new customers.
"Guests have become much more demanding, and in 2023 there will be 20 new ships across the river and ocean industries," he continued.
"The Mekong and the Ganges are coming back strong due to the pent-up demand, and the future for exotic river cruising is very bright. All of these options offer more choice to the consumer, which will be key to boosting business this year."
The support provided by agents "underlines" the value and choice of river cruising, Loizou added. "The 14 river cruises that are represented [at the Clia Riverview Conference] work together – and with you – to make this sector successful.
"We want to work with you to increase our businesses, there are online training modules and options available, and the support of the sector would be far less impactful if it weren’t built on the commercial desire of all of us to sell."
