One hundred twenty-five (125) Canadian travel advisors participated in the Avalon Waterways and ACTA 2023 European River Cruise Summit, which set sail the weekend of 21OCT. On board the Avalon Vista in Amsterdam, they are experiencing river cruising and the "Avalon difference" for a week of educational workshops and networking sessions to help grow their business.
Avalon Waterways' president, Pam Hoffee, expressed her enthusiasm: "I'm thrilled to get to introduce the joys of Avalon and river cruising to advisors here on the Rhine River," she said. "There's nothing like stepping onboard the Avalon Vista for the first time in Amsterdam and getting to sail through postcard-perfect scenery and exploring each port, following personal interests. The Canadian advisor community is incredibly important to us, and it's been exciting to have the opportunity to partner with ACTA on our inaugural river cruise summit to showcase this robust – and profitable – travel style to so many, first-hand."
The Ships of Avalon
David Berry from Travel Agent Next Door said of the Panorama Suites, "Experiencing the Panorama Suites first-hand was a highlight, and I was genuinely taken aback by the spaciousness of the bathrooms and the top-notch amenities."
Michele Smith of Trevello and MLS Custom Travel agreed. "The Panorama Suites, with beds facing the mesmerizing views, showcase the thoughtful layout and design of the Suite Ships. That, on top of the enlightening learning sessions, relaxed networking, top-tier excursions, and entertainment onboard have truly elevated the experience."
ACTA Sets Sail for Success
"One of the many reasons we partnered with Avalon to put together this first-ever European River Cruise Summit was to provide Canadian advisors with a place and platform to experience a river cruise, learn about selling them and ultimately, maximize their earning potential," said Wendy Paradis, president of ACTA. "This summit has delivered breathtaking views and 'to dos' but has also provided our advisor community with invaluable networking, enriching education experiences and inspiration to grow their business."
Carolyn Bechard from Travel Best Bets agreed with this sentiment, "Experiencing Avalon's relaxed luxury and impeccable service first-hand is crucial for us as travel advisors," she said. "Meeting with the Avalon and ACTA teams – as well as Air Canada and Manulife – and connecting with fellow Canadian advisors onboard has been incredible. And the Rhine Gorge? Simply breathtaking!"
Hoffee expects the enthusiasm of first impressions – including those around Avalon's "discernable differences" – will carry through the week.
"The feedback so far speaks volumes," said Hoffee. "Advisors are genuinely impressed by our diverse excursion choices, authentic local entertainment, unparalleled service and staff, fantastic dining experiences and, of course, our signature Panorama Suites that offer breathtaking views, right from bed. Many have inquired if this is the standard cruise experience their clients can expect, and I'm proud to say, 'yes' – this is Avalon."
More information on Avalon Waterways website.
