It was back in November of last year that we announced the re-opening of our European river cruise and select touring product to the Irish market. The news, revealed at a special event in Dublin with key trade partners, was the culmination of a long-held ambition, and evidence of our desire to grow Riviera Travel to bring our brand to more people than ever before.
Fast forward to now, just over seven months later, and we’ve been blown away by the response, with agents showing a real desire to engage and learn more about our product.
Our experience in the English market has shown us that regular, face-to-face engagement is a winner, with agents appreciating our ‘boots-on-the-ground’ approach and opportunity to build relationships with their key account managers. It’s our aim to replicate that strategy in Ireland, putting the trade team at the front and centre of agents’ minds.
And so, this summer, we will host a special travel agent dinner – location and date to be revealed – where eight trade partners will have the opportunity to hear about our latest updates, how we intend to boost support, connect with the team and network with their peers.
Our trade team is now stronger than ever, with Chris McCloskey and Amanda Docherty joining this year as key account manager for Ireland, and key account manager for homeworkers, respectively.
This investment allows us to drive engagement and awareness, which is even more paramount as we prepare to welcome two new ships to the river cruise fleet in 2025. The 178-guest Riviera Radiance and 114-guest Riviera Rose promise to elevate our offering to the next level, with our largest-ever suites on Radiance and other new amenities and public spaces across both ships.
We’ve also added to our river cruise and escorted tour programmes for next year. We have our biggest-ever programme of Christmas and New Year cruises for December; new solo-dedicated voyages; and combination itineraries, giving guests the opportunity to merge two back-to-back departures. Suffice to say, we need the trade fully behind us to maximise the opportunities these will provide.
I’m often heard saying, ‘I love the trade’. And I get it; some people may scoff and claim it’s an easy thing to throw around. But it’s the truth. I started out as a travel agent, so I fully understand the pressures of the job, the always-on mentality and the dedication required to build client relationships. That’s why when I say our commitment to the Irish market is steadfast, I mean it.
Vicky Billing is head of trade and partnerships at Riviera Travel
