AmaWaterways is encouraging the trade to capitalise on strong demand for French river cruises driven by the upcoming Olympic Games with a new booking incentive
Agents making a reservation for any French itinerary during the Olympics and Paralympics, which run from 26 July to 8 September, will be entered into a draw with the winner taking home a European cruise of their choice for two people.
The agent who finishes in second place will win a case of French wine, while the individual in third will receive a £50 Love2Shop voucher.
Additionally, the agency making the most French river cruise reservations over this period will enjoy a celebratory evening out, up to a value of £250. Winners will be announced via AmaWaterways’ Trade Facebook page on 13 September.
It comes as the luxury river line reports strong demand for its French itineraries, with reservations up 158 per cent in the first half of 2024 compared with the same period in 2023.
In order to meet demand, the company has introduced a new Flavours of Burgundy itinerary for 2024, as well as a fourteen night Grand Seine and Bordeaux option for 2025.
“Over the coming weeks the eyes of the world will be on France,” said Andrea Stafford, sales director at AmaWaterways. “Every day, millions of people will be watching live streams from around the country, and this will undoubtedly bring the destination to the forefront of their minds.
“It’s not just Paris that will be hosting events, Bordeaux, Marseille and Lyon are all operating as Olympic venues and will be in the spotlight too. The agent community has a great opportunity to capitalise on France’s high profile and not only earn themselves commission but win prizes too.”
AmaWaterways offers Olympic-themed marketing materials
In order to qualify for the draw, agents need to reserve a French river cruise and qualification is automatic. Winners will be drawn at random, and the more bookings made, the more opportunities to win.
AmaWaterways has also produced a range of marketing materials including social reels, imagery, videos and offers to help agents capitalise on demand. Training sessions by AmaWaterways’ business development managers and a France themed webinar will take place on 25 July.