APT has launched a new booking policy for agents wishing to book 2021 river cruises and tours.

Guests who book a 2021 holiday by 30 September 2020 will receive coverage and protection on new bookings at no charge.

In addition, guests can secure their booking for only £250pp. APT will also allow guests to change the date of the 2021 booking up to 100 days prior to departure and rebook to a new date with no change fee.

APT’s UK & Europe managing director Paul Melinis said: “In these challenging times the strength of our trade relationships have been clear to see, as we worked closely and successfully with our agent partners to manage suspended bookings. The great news is that in the past few weeks we have seen bookings for 2021 pick up momentum.

“The introduction of our new Covid Flexible Booking Cover provides extra comfort for both guests and agents giving them confidence to book with a trusted brand, which has been operating holidays for more than 90 years.”

APT has also released a series of health and safety protocols that will be in force when it returns to service.

Measures include pre-screening for all guests, staff and crew, the removal of shared items on board and closed public toilets. Face masks will also be available on request.

In addition, all staff and crew will undertake industry-recognised covid-19 training in areas of health and hygiene, and an in-house training programme is under development for the APT Travel Group’s international crew members, drawing on initiatives from around the world.

Self-service buffets, table spices, cutlery baskets and communal baskets will be removed on all tours and cruises, and all escorted touring will adhere to social distancing requirements.

High-use touch points will be cleaned regularly with hospital-grade cleaning products. Measures will be implemented across all APT and Travelmarvel holidays for all upcoming programmes.