AmaWaterways is launching an Olympic-themed incentive to boost bookings for French river cruises.
- Agents booking French itineraries during the Olympic Games can enter a draw for exclusive prizes.
- The top booking agent secures a European cruise for two, while others enjoy wine or shopping vouchers.
- Demand for French cruises is up by 158% in early 2024, prompting new itinerary introductions.
- The initiative aims to leverage France’s elevated global profile during the upcoming international event.
AmaWaterways has debuted an exciting new incentive scheme for agents, connecting the thrill of the upcoming Olympic Games with their celebrated French river cruises. This initiative is designed to harness the heightened interest in France during this global event, offering opportunities for agents to increase sales and earn substantial rewards in the process.
Agents placing bookings for any French itinerary during the period of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, spanning 26 July to 8 September, are automatically entered into a draw. The first prize grants the winning agent a European river cruise for two, offering a memorable and professional opportunity to explore Europe’s waterways. For the agent finishing in the runner-up spot, a case of exquisite French wine awaits, and the third-place agent receives a £50 Love2Shop voucher as a token of appreciation for their efforts. Furthermore, the agency with the most bookings will be rewarded with a celebratory evening out, capping a successful campaign with a social gathering valued at up to £250.
AmaWaterways has reported considerable growth in their French itinerary bookings, marking a 158% increase in the first half of 2024 compared to the corresponding period in 2023. This surge has encouraged the introduction of new itineraries, including the ‘Flavours of Burgundy’ for 2024 and a ‘Grand Seine and Bordeaux’ cruise experience, scheduled for 2025. These offerings aim to cater to the rising demand and expand the experiential options available to travellers eager to explore the rich tapestry of France’s cultural and scenic offerings.
Andrea Stafford, Sales Director at AmaWaterways, articulated the importance of France’s continued appeal, noting the spotlight on various Olympic venues beyond Paris, including Bordeaux, Marseille, and Lyon. She highlighted that the international attention on these locations presents a significant opportunity for agents not just to earn commissions but also to achieve recognition through the incentive program.
In supporting agents, AmaWaterways provides a comprehensive suite of marketing resources – encompassing social media reels, images, videos, and special offers – designed to maximise engagement and conversion opportunities. Additionally, to enhance their effectiveness, business development managers are conducting training sessions, alongside a specialised France-themed webinar scheduled for 25 July. This educational push underscores the company’s commitment to equipping agents with the necessary tools to succeed.
The new Olympic-themed incentive underscores AmaWaterways’ strategic approach to capitalising on global events to drive business growth.
