TORONTO — The 2023 European River Cruise Summit, hosted by Avalon Waterways and ACTA, is officially underway with 125 Canadian travel advisors on board.
Setting sail this past weekend from Amsterdam on the Avalon Vista, the Cruise Summit – ACTA’s first ever – follows Avalon’s seven-day ‘Romantic Rhine’ itinerary and includes a choice of excursions, Happy Hours, local entertainment on board, educational workshops and networking sessions to help advisors grow their business.
Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways, says she’s thrilled to be able to introduce the joys of Avalon to participating advisors, many of whom are new to river cruising.
Magma & Monks excursion
Biking excursion
“There’s nothing like stepping onboard the Avalon Vista for the first time in Amsterdam and getting to sail through postcard-perfect scenery and exploring each port, following personal interests,” says Hoffee. “The Canadian advisor community is incredibly important to us, and it’s been exciting to have the opportunity to partner with ACTA on our inaugural river cruise summit to showcase this robust – and profitable – travel style to so many, first-hand.”
Wendy Paradis, president of ACTA who’s also on board, adds: “One of the many reasons we partnered with Avalon to put together this first-ever European River Cruise Summit was to provide Canadian advisors with a place and platform to experience a river cruise, learn about selling them and ultimately maximize their earning potential.
“This summit has delivered breathtaking views and ‘to dos’ but has also provided our advisor community with invaluable networking, enriching education experiences and inspiration to grow their business.”
A SUITE SHIP
While on board the Vista, advisors can fully enjoy the many amenities of Avalon’s signature Suite Ships, including two full decks of Panorama Suites featuring the industry’s only Open-Air Balconies.
Said David Berry from The Travel Agent Next Door: “Experiencing the Panorama Suites first-hand was a highlight, and I was genuinely taken aback by the spaciousness of the bathrooms and the top-notch amenities.”
Michele Smith, Trevello, MLS Custom Travel, agreed, adding: “The Panorama Suites, with beds facing the mesmerizing views, showcase the thoughtful layout and design of the Suite Ships. That, on top of the enlightening learning sessions, relaxed networking, top-tier excursions and entertainment onboard have truly elevated the experience.”
Hoffee says that feedback from advisors so far “speaks volumes,” adding that they have been impressed by Avalon’s diverse excursion choices, authentic local entertainment, dining experiences and suites.
“Many have inquired if this is the standard cruise experience their clients can expect, and I’m proud to say ‘ yes’ – this is Avalon,” says Hoffee.
SETTING UP FOR SUCCESS
In addition to taking in the sights and experiencing Avalon’s signature hospitality, travel advisors are spending the week on board participating in workshops and networking with top industry executives.
Said Carolyn Bechard from Travel Best Bets: “Experiencing Avalon’s relaxed luxury and impeccable service first-hand is crucial for us as travel advisors. Meeting with the Avalon and ACTA teams, as well as Air Canada and Manulife, and connecting with fellow Canadian advisors on board has been incredible and the Rhine Gorge? Simply breathtaking!”
The group is just halfway through their week-long journey. Up next are Heidelberg, Strasbourg and Breisbach, including the famed Black Forest.
