Globus-owned Avalon Waterways has launched its 2013 program after claiming sales growth in 2012 of 40%.
Globus managing director Stewart Williams described this year’s targets as “insane” but said the appetite for river cruising – and for its “suite ships” – saw the company exceed those targets.
More modest growth is expected in 2013 which will see the addition of two new ships, the Avalon Expression and Artistry II.
It will take its fleet to 12, five of which have the suite ship concept which first entered the market with the introduction of the Panorama last year.
In launching the program in Sydney yesterday, Williams said river cruising has moved beyond the “war on balconies” between Scenic and APT with Avalon carving out its own niche and targeting the baby boomer market with contemporary product.
Marketing managing Christian Schweitzer said the potential of the product remains high with river cruising currently attracting only a fraction of the numbers who go ocean cruising.
Avalon’s 2013 season features 30 European itineraries ranging from eight to 13 days.
