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| Travelers ‘Optimistic About the Future,’ With Majority Of Cancelled Cruises Due to Lockdown Rescheduled for 2021, Says European Waterways. (Pictured above: Anjodi Hotel Barge on the Canal du Midi) |
By Anthony Diaz (Anthony@herman-almontepr.com)
While health concerns have severely impacted the travel industry worldwide
this year, travelers are “unquestionably optimistic” about the future, says
European Waterways, a luxury hotel barge cruising specialist with vessels that
navigate the inland waterways of Europe and the United Kingdom. The
company, which recently launched its season following the reopening of borders
by EU nations, reports that pent-up demand is leading to brisk booking
activities for 2020. Meanwhile, advance bookings for 2021 are currently up
170% compared to last season. This includes more than 90% of Americans
who rescheduled for next year after their cruises were cancelled due to
government border restrictions.
“Travelers want to travel,” says Derek Banks, managing director of European
Waterways. “For many people, hotel barge cruising is a once-in-a-lifetime
experience, and they want to do it at the first opportunity they get.
They are especially attracted to our excursions, which do a ‘deep dive’ into
the fascinating history, cuisine, and architecture of the regions we cruise,
many of which contain UNESCO World Heritage Sites.”
Booking With Confidence
European Waterways credits an excellent reputation that has consistently earned
them Five-Star reviews from customers. In addition, to address the
uncertainties of today’s travel environment, the company offers a “Book with
Confidence” policy that provides greater flexibility in rescheduling future
cruises, should they be impacted by government restrictions. The health and
safety of guests are also top priorities, with strict protocols in place that
include crew and passenger temperature checks as well as deep cleaning and
disinfecting of all cabins and public surfaces on the boats.
10% Off 2021 Cruises
As an incentive for new guests, European Waterways is offering 10% off advance
bookings for 2021, valid on select departures and based on availability.
Eligible vessels include the 12-passenger Spirit of Scotland, which cruises the
legendary Caledonian Canal in the Scottish Highlands. In addition to
exceptional views of the Highlands, the cruise treats guests to traditional
Scottish cuisine and a range of the country’s best whiskies. Another
eligible vessel, the 8-passenger Anjodi, cruises the 330-year-old Canal du
Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“In the age of social distancing, hotel barge cruising is ‘in the right place
at the right time,’” says Banks. “We sail the picturesque canals and
waterways through often unspoiled countryside, in the less populated regions of
the country. Since most boats hold just six to 12 guests, social distancing is
easier, if necessary, with exclusive excursions and private tours arranged
during less crowded times. Families and small groups often book the whole
vessel and have it all to themselves.”
About European Waterways
Hotel Barging is a boutique, unique experience which offers an immersive,
all-inclusive “gentle voyage of discovery” that focuses upon the culture,
history, fine wine and gourmet cuisine of the region. With a six- to 20-person
capacity and 1:2 crew ratio, European Waterways are able to provide an
impeccable level of on board service and can transport their guests on the
intimate inland waterways that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This
fascinating network of smaller canals allows for flexibility, spontaneity and
ample opportunity to hop off and explore the beautiful surroundings via
bicycle, or on foot. In addition to this there are daily, chauffeured
excursions “off the beaten track” to a wide variety of enthralling locations,
from exquisite wine tastings to private tours of stately homes. With over 40
years’ experience and a fleet that spans nine countries it is the largest
luxury hotel barging company in Europe. For more information, call
1-877-879-8808 in the U.S. and 1-877-574-3404 in Canada, or visit
www.europeanwaterways.com.
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