Riviera Travel is preparing for its largest wave season campaign, aiming for a 30-35% boost in trade river cruise sales year-on-year.
Between January and November 2023, Riviera’s river sales surged by an impressive 134% compared to the same period in 2022.
A Strategic Push in River Cruising
Riviera Travel is making a concerted effort to enhance its presence in the river cruise market. The company’s head of trade for the UK and Ireland, Tom Morgan, has revealed that they are actively working to expand their river cruise offerings. This strategic initiative comes at a time when most agents typically experience a slowdown in sales, but not for Riviera. Their sales numbers have remained robust, showcasing the brand’s strong market position and growth potential.
Investment in Co-marketing Solutions
In anticipation of the wave season, Riviera has announced plans to significantly increase investments in co-marketing solutions with its trade partners. This move is set to bolster their growth strategy and enhance market penetration.
Riviera’s approach includes the introduction of its largest trade prize incentive programme to date, slated for early 2024. This initiative is expected to further solidify relations with partners and stimulate river cruise sales.
Tom Morgan remains optimistic about achieving a 30-35% increase in river cruise trade sales. The incentive programme is part of a broader strategy to maintain momentum in the thriving river cruise sector.
Expanding European River Cruise Programme
Riviera has unveiled its European river cruise programme for 2025, maintaining 2024 pricing to attract more customers. This move includes launching 16 itineraries with over 260 departures from March to November.
The programme features 15 itineraries dedicated to solo travellers and 32 new themed offerings, ensuring a diverse range of choices for different customer segments.
Noteworthy among these is the eight-day Blue Danube cruise, priced at £1599 per person. It includes tours of iconic destinations such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Budapest, providing a comprehensive travel experience.
Will Sarson, Riviera’s head of product, highlighted that the 2025 programme is designed for those who wish to explore Europe’s waterways at a relaxed pace.
Achievements and Recognitions
Riviera Travel’s recent achievements were highlighted at the 2023 Wave Awards, where the company secured four accolades. These recognitions underscore Riviera’s commitment to excellence and innovation in the river cruise industry.
Such accolades not only enhance the company’s reputation but also reinforce customer trust and loyalty. Winning these awards reflects Riviera’s dedication to maintaining high standards in its offerings.
These achievements are seen as a testament to Riviera’s strategic growth and effective market engagement, establishing it as a prominent player in the river cruise sector.
A Bright Outlook for River Cruises
The river cruise market continues to grow, with increasing numbers of travellers opting for this mode of exploration. Riviera is well-positioned to meet this demand, thanks to its diverse itinerary offerings and competitive pricing.
Riviera’s focus on providing tailored experiences and maintaining customer satisfaction is central to its growth strategy.
Looking ahead, Riviera is set to capitalise on the rising interest in river cruising, aligning its offerings with customer expectations and market trends.
The company’s proactive approach, combined with its strong market presence, suggests it will continue to thrive in the competitive river cruise landscape.
Future Plans and Innovations
Riviera’s forward-thinking strategy includes exploring new opportunities for innovation and growth, ensuring it remains at the forefront of the industry.
The company is committed to continuously enhancing its cruise experiences through feedback and market research.
Riviera’s dedication to innovation and excellence positions it to meet future challenges and leverage opportunities in the evolving cruise market.
Conclusion
Riviera Travel is strongly positioned for growth in the river cruise sector, fueled by strategic investments, innovative programmes, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
The company’s strategic initiatives and robust growth strategies signify a promising future in the river cruise market.
Riviera’s focus on excellence and customer-centric offerings will likely continue to drive its success in this expanding sector.
