Avalon Waterways Invests in More River Cruise Growth
Avalon Waterways is investing millions of dollars in the fast-growing river cruise segment. The company inked a five-ship deal with the Den Breejen Shipyard in Holland. The Avalon Scenery, launched in April, was the first ship delivered as part of this deal, with four sister vessels scheduled for christenings in the next two years: The Avalon Affinity and Avalon Creativity in 2009 and two more ships in 2010. With these deliveries, Avalon will boast 10 luxury vessels in Europe, averaging two years in age. "In five short years Avalon has established itself as a major European river cruise operator," said Patrick Clark, managing director of Avalon Waterways. "Our ships are more modern in design, showcasing contemporary appointments and state-of-the art technology. They also house the largest staterooms available. Except for our junior suites, all staterooms measure 172 square feet, and 90 percent boast floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic sliding glass doors."
Other amenities and features on Avalon's new ships include flat-screen televisions, large closets, beds that can be configured as two twins or one queen, Egyptian cotton linens, mini-bars, safes, laundry and ironing services, a fully equipped fitness room, library, hair salon and gift shop, as well as a club lounge and large Jacuzzi pool on the Sky Deck. "Avalon serves passengers unlimited complimentary local wine with all onboard dinners and features regional entertainment, as well as provides the most impressive land programs available, coupled with a ‘best-in-class' English-speaking staff that caters to our clients' desires," said Steve Born, vice president of marketing and customer care for the Globus family of brands. "It's no wonder nearly 100 percent of our cruisers say that we've met or exceeded their expectations on trip."
Avalon also has focused its efforts on a wide range of cruise itineraries in Europe, Egypt, China and the Galápagos, including themed offerings such as music-inspired getaways, holiday vacations and a Food & Wine cruise series, created with Burt Wolf. "The investments we've made in Avalon -- from ships and itineraries to staff support -- are delivering great returns, not only in customer satisfaction but also in sales," Clark said. "Our 2008 bookings are up 20 percent over 2007 and 2009 numbers are looking even better, already up 30 percent, year over year." Earlier this month, Avalon unveiled website enhancements, including a virtual tour of the Avalon Scenery to showcase the "Avalon Difference," as well as new print advertising. Those booking a cruise between now and Aug. 31 can receive $400 off the air-inclusive price or $225 off the cruise-only price of a 2009 Globus or Avalon Waterways cruise. For more information, call RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899