AmaWaterways launches an inclusive pricing strategy to streamline bookings, responding to feedback from travel agents.
- Previously offering flights as optional, they now integrate them into standard pricing for enhanced convenience.
- The new pricing covers European river cruises and destinations like the Mekong and Nile rivers.
- Prices include flights from major UK airports, overseas transfers, meals, drinks, and excursions.
- Cruise-only options remain for those seeking flexibility or longer travel plans.
In a move to simplify and enhance the booking process, AmaWaterways has adopted flight-inclusive pricing as a standard for UK travellers. This shift comes as a response to travel agents who suggested that bundling flights with cruises would save time and provide a seamless experience.
Historically, AmaWaterways offered cruise-only rates, with flights as an optional add-on. However, effective from April 3, all bookings will include return airfares from London or Manchester, as well as overseas transfers from the airport to the ship, thereby presenting a comprehensive package to the traveller.
This new initiative covers a wide range of AmaWaterways’ cruises, encompassing European river journeys and further afield, such as voyages on the Mekong, Nile, Chobe, and Magdalena rivers. The revision in pricing strategy aligns with the company’s goal of meeting trade demand, thereby making the booking process more efficient for travel agents and clients.
AmaWaterways ensures full transparency in pricing by including flights within the standard package, thus providing customers with a clear understanding of the total cost of their holiday prior to booking. For instance, a five-night ‘Majestic Capitals of the Danube’ cruise, departing Vienna for Budapest, is priced at £1,975 for a December departure, while a seven-night ‘Best of Holland & Belgium’ cruise, leaving from Amsterdam in November, starts at £2,549. These rates cover flights, meals, drinks during lunch and dinner, a cocktail hour, and a selection of excursions.
Furthermore, the company maintains flexibility by continuing to offer cruise-only options. This caters to clients who may prefer integrating the cruise as a segment of a more extensive travel itinerary, or who require customisation in their travel arrangements, such as opting for business class upgrades or regional flights.
In highlighting the benefits of this new pricing model, Jamie Loizou, Managing Director of AmaWaterways, stated, ‘Our mission is to make it as convenient and efficient as possible for agents to reserve an AmaWaterways river cruise for their clients.’ This underscores the company’s commitment to simplifying the booking process while still accommodating individual preferences.
AmaWaterways’ new flight-inclusive pricing model aims to enhance transparency and convenience, catering to both agents and travellers.
