A-Rosa has partnered with Aviate to offer ATOL-protected packages to the trade.
The partnership means that for the first time travel agents in the UK will be able to make bespoke package bookings through A-Rosa, across the line’s whole collection of European river cruises.
The operator added that it is looking to “exponentially expand its reach in the UK market as part of its growth strategy”.
Aviate, which is part of the Travel Innovation Group, will now act as A-Rosa’s trade reservations department in the UK, handling all stages of the booking process and bonded under Aviate’s ATOL licence.
A dedicated new reservations number has been set up, which agents will be able to call to make their clients’ package bookings.
In addition, agents will be able to book packages for all types of clients – such as couples, groups of friends and families, and multi-generational groups – including flights, transfers and pre or post hotels as desired. Rail options are expected to follow in due course.
A ‘milestone moment’ for A-Rosa
A-Rosa managing director Lucia Rowe said: “This is a big step forward for us and a milestone moment in our UK expansion plans.
“For several years, agents have been asking us to find a way for them book fully ATOL-protected packages through us, for our entire river cruise portfolio.
“We have listened and I am delighted we now have a solution through Aviate, who are a trusted and well-respected name in the industry.
“This is the obvious next step for us and it really is all about choice. Many agents have a preferred supplier they book our cruises through and this will continue to be an important channel for us.
“But for those agents who want the flexibility of being able to book packages through us across our entire portfolio of dates and itineraries, all with full ATOL protection, this is the perfect, easy to sell solution.”
Aviate chief operating officer Jayne Bond added: “We’re delighted to power A-Rosa’s expansion to the UK trade. Our unique airline relationships, plus more recent successes in cruise packaging, position Aviate perfectly to offer competitive flight elements with A-Rosa’s European sailings.
“Echoing our dedication to innovative trade solutions and unrivalled service, A-Rosa’s ambition to change the river cruising landscape presented the ideal partnership for us.”
A-Rosa will soon welcome the latest addition to its fleet, A-Rosa Sena, which will launch in May 2022.