Emerald Waterways is seeing strong growth from the Canadian market, with more bookings on the way thanks to air deals for remaining 2017 sailings, says Emerald Waterways Brand Manager, Canada, Nicole Henry.

1. Is Europe rebounding well for Emerald Waterways in terms of forward bookings for 2017 and 2018?

“We definitely have seen bookings for Europe pick up. While 2017 did not turn out as strong as we would have hoped given all events, we still had double-digit growth, with three new ships being launched. We feel incredibly successful with our Europe business and can already see 2018 trends coming on strong.”

2. How is the Canadian market performing?

“The Canadian market is up year over year and continues to capture extra percentages of overall business for Emerald Waterways worldwide.”

3. What consumer promotions do you have in the Canadian market right now that you want travel agents to know about?

“We are currently offering included return flights on all our remaining 2017 inventory when guests book a balcony suite, or they can fly for $795 if they book an Emerald Stateroom when they book and deposit before March 31, 2017. We have also just released our 2018 Europe River Cruising preview brochure, where guests can book now and travel in 2018 at 2017 prices, plus they can save up to $1,000 per couple when they book and deposit before April 31, 2017.”

4. What is the Emerald Waterways difference?

“Our state-of-the-art Star-Ships are one of the newest fleets on the rivers of Europe and we are proud to have won for the second year in a row, Best River Line for Value by the editors at Cruise Critic. Our range of unique itineraries combined with our range of inclusions are designed to offer the flexibility and freedom so guests can tailor their river cruising experience and explore the way they want to.

“Guests will enjoy all onboard meals and complimentary beer and wine served with lunch and dinner, an almost daily guided exploration with local English speaking guides and our EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE excursions provide the opportunity for guests to experience some of Europe’s more unique and cultural activities such as an afternoon tea with a local Slovakian family, or a guided biking tour along the banks of the Danube.

“This is all included in the price offering, what we call Emerald’s Exceptional Value. Plus for guests who want to explore even further, our optional ‘Discover More’ excursions give guests the opportunity to experience a different part of the region, such as a day tour to Salzburg or the medieval town of Cesky Krumlov.”

5. What’s in it for travel agents?

“We are committed to working with the agent community and offer customized training and hosted fams throughout the year. In addition to this, our consumer information sessions are being held around the country. This is a great opportunity for agents to save time and earn more commission without the hassle or expense of hosting their own show. They can send their clients along to learn about an Emerald Waterways cruise and we’ll have product experts on hand to help answer any questions and decide on the right cruise of them, plus they can save up to $500 per couple if they book on the day. If your guests choose to book on the day, we will hand the booking over to your agency so you earn the commission.”