Single cruisers and onboard product boost Azamara’s sales
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Azamara Club Cruises has seen an increase in sales after a year of changing its onboard services and a surge in single customers. “It’s been a difficult trading year but we have seen an increase on onboard products such as a more inclusive approach with gratuities included, free laundry use and complimentary wine,” Azamara Head of Sales Sophie Higgins told Travel Daily. “We also have more ports of call and overnight options so guests can immerse in a destination.” This initiative, boosted by Azamara’s fly-cruise packages, has been extended by a range of cruises that coincide with international and cultural events. “There has been great interest in the Grand Prix itinerary for Monte Carlo next year and we will also be in Rio for the carnival,” said Higgins. She added that more over 50s single travellers were opting for Azamara Club Cruises. “We offer 125%, sometimes 100%, single supplement which means guests can occupy a double statesroom at no or little extra cost,” she explained. “That has worked very well because our ships are small and people can be more socialable on our relaxing, formal ships.” Destinations that were popular for the UK market included a full Mediterranean programme and the Northern Europe itineraries to the Baltics and Norwegian Fjords. Forward bookings show more interest in cruises to the Caribbean. “For 2011 our forward sales are looking healthy, up 60%, so we are really pleased,” said Higgins. “We’re getting a great response so people are booking and re-booking.” To mark the successful sales, which have exceeded Azamara’s expectations, the cruise line has launched a four day sale and extended its offers to include National Cruise Week. Its four-day sale will begin on Monday 23 August and offer an additional US$500 for selected 2010/11 cruises. Guests can also receive free flights and up to US$1000 onboard credit for an additional two months until 31 October 2010.
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