Uniworld launches 2021 preview collection

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has launched its 2021 Preview Collection this week, earlier than in previous years and with a range of offers – the result of a recent upturn in search, bookings and brochure requests for 2021 holidays, the company said.

The company saw website traffic spike 2,000 per cent after its Danube cruise appeared on an episode of Channel 5’s Cruising with Jane McDonald. The last three weeks have also seen triple digit growth on search for Portugal, Italy and France cruises for 2021 travel.

“We are seeing the green shoots of optimism for a bounce back in 2021, as clients new and old look forward to the travels that 2021 will bring them,” said Chris Townson, Uniworld’s UK managing director. “We anticipate that despite the challenges of 2020, there will be opportunity for both the luxury and the river cruise sectors, as people looking to cruise go for an option that allows them to stay close to the shore. We also hope that with the enhanced health and hygiene protocols that we have already announced, customers will be able to book in the confidence that every touch point will be managed with intention, respect and utmost care.

“We have put some great pricing out in the market place to encourage people to book early – with pent up demand from 2020 and the re-bookings we have made from the suspensions this year, we imagine capacity will be tight so encourage agents to book early for their clients to avoid disappointment.”

All bookings for European river cruises made before 31 July 2020 will receive a 10 per cent early booking discount, while all bookings made on Uniworld’s Exotics programme – India, China, Mekong and Egypt – will receive a complimentary one way business class flight upgrade in addition to the 10 per cent discount.

An example itinerary includes:

Uniworld’s 8-day Venice and the Gems of Northern Italy cruise aboard the new S.S. La Venezia costs from £2,069 (down from £2,299) per person, including return flights and airport transfers. The price includes seven nights’ full board accommodation, all drinks including premium spirits and a full programme of activities such as a private after-hours visit to St Mark’s Basilica and pasta-making in Bologna. This price is valid if booked before 31 July 2020.