TORONTO — Avalon Waterways has unveiled its 2022 European itineraries, marking the earliest release in the company’s history to meet travel demand.

Stéphanie Bishop, managing director for Avalon’s parent company, Globus family of brands, says that clients are making travel plans much further ahead with travel credits issued as a result of this year’s suspension of operations due to the global pandemic.

“Thanks to a large number of travellers resetting 2020 vacation plans with Letter of Credit, early 2021 sales tied to a Panorama Suite upgrade offer, as well as an increased interest in river cruising as an alternative for big ship cruising, we’re enjoying a wave of new bookings for 2021,” she said. “We are anticipating this surge to continue so are opening several 2022 Europe itineraries to ensure travellers have access to the vacations and departure dates they crave.”

In addition to releasing a robust selection of 2022 itineraries, Avalon has also unveiled a ‘Suite, Safe & Sound’ guide, providing travellers with in-depth insight into the small-ship river cruise experience.

“Our guests are interested in cruising without a crowd, exploring new cultures with ease and sailing in intimate settings,” said Bishop. “Aboard our award-winning Suite Ships, travellers enjoy the company of an expert Cruise Director, great crew-to-passenger ratios, the personalized attention they deserve and seamless dock-and-go sightseeing. Setting sail with Avalon is a wonderful way to explore the world.”

To further reassure clients, Avalon has launched its 2021 Peace of Mind Travel Plan and Avalon Assurance program, its new health and safety guidelines developed by its Global Health & Safety team in partnership with IGI Limited and long-time industry consultant Ian Greaves. These protocols have also been approved by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA).

Finally, along with its 2022 itineraries release, Avalon is offering those who book early a complimentary Panorama Suite upgrade. Onboard the company’s Suite Ships, guests on two full decks can enjoy these 200-squrae-foot suites, each of which features a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows that open seven feet wide (the widest-opening windows in cruising) and convert into open-air balconies.

On the allure of Panorama Suites, Bishop added: “Even seasoned cruisers have never seen – or experienced – the world like this.”