Riverside Luxury Cruises is looking to upskill Kiwi agents on its European river product as it reports increased local interest in its relaxed luxury offering.
Charlie Hewitt-Davies, the line’s md UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand was in Auckland this week to meet with key stakeholders. “… we know how important [the trade distribution is] and we’re here for the long-term so we want to give our partners the confidence to work with us, and reassure [agents] that we will do our utmost to look after your clients.”
. . . Hardware
The cruise line currently operates three river cruise ships, from the former Crystal fleet. There’s 110 guests on the Riverside Ravel and Riverside Debussy, and every stateroom has a panorama window, a butler and there’s a one staff member to two guest ratio.
The Riverside Mozart is a 23m wide catamaran which can accommodate 162 guests in 81 suites. Solo staterooms may be available with no solo supplement,; and there are some interconnecting cabins available, catering to family groups. A fourth ship, the Riverside Mahler is set to join the fleet in 2028, operating on the Rhine and the Danube.
“Without hesitation Riverside is the most premium [river cruise] product in the European market,” says Riverside’s ANZ manager Stewart Williams. The cruise line prides itself on its cuisine and premium wine offering and the house Champagne is Taittinger. Clients can dine at their own time, and at their own table.
Options include a la carte dining at Waterside restaurant, a tapas bar, and snacks are available through the day. A range of beverage packages is also available. In addition to the butler, there is a self-service laundry on the ships and free wifi.
. . . Relaxed Luxury
While it’s a high-end product, it’s relaxed with a country club casual standard of dress, says Williams. “It really suits that modern luxury seeking client very well, especially [in] the Australasian market.” Williams points out that it’s a German-owned English speaking company.
. . . Active
Cruise World’s Julia Miles-Cassin stresses that the Riverside product is not just for retirees, with its active options and relaxed luxury product appealing to a younger demographic. The shore excursions include a lot of active options such as cycling, golfing, walking and kayaking, as well as cultural and city tours. The group size on Riverside’s Rhine class ships is around 12-15 people per excursion, and each voyage has an included signature event.
“Even though they’re a beautiful ship, the luxury is actually about the luxury of choice,” Cassin-Miles told the agents.
“They’re really unique in their fare structure. It’s not like one of those tours where you’re all on a ship, all the same time and you stay together for two weeks. It’s a very different concept and it’s a great way to encourage independent travellers.
Current earlybird offers have up to 25% off, and agent (and companion) rates are available. There are also themed sailings. See more HERE.
