French river cruise line CroisiEurope pursues U.S. customers

French river cruise line CroisiEurope pursues U.S. customers

By Michelle Baran
 
European river cruise operator CroisiEurope is expanding into the U.S. market with a website and call center devoted to U.S. retailers and clientele. 

The 38-year-old CroisiEurope is based in Strasbourg, France, and has a fleet of 30 ships, including several barges and coastal cruisers, which sail in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Belgium, Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, Vietnam and Cambodia. 

In 2014, the French company is introducing an open bar onboard its ships, except on Christmas and New Year’s cruises. CroisiEurope is also adding itineraries in Cyprus and Israel, as part of its coastal cruises division, as well as throughout Europe. 

In 2015, the company will be adding a fourth vessel on Portugal’s Douro River and will be exploring more development possibilities in Asia. 

CroisiEurope is a family-run business and employs a multilingual crew. 

Sunsail rebrand to broaden appeal

Sunsail rebrand to broaden appeal

By Phil Davies

Sunsail rebrand to broaden appealYachting specialist Sunsail is seeking to encourage more holidaymakers onto the water with a brand revamp.

The new brand identity is being unveiled this week in an effort to appeal to a wider customer base.

Research by the Tui-owned operator found that potential customers find it difficult to engage in sailing holidays due to a long list of perceived barriers to entry – it’s expensive, it’s too hard, it takes too long to learn, it’s cramped and uncomfortable and it’s “not for me”.

The company’s priority is to cater for the needs of ‘new to sailing’ consumers by helping them to more easily discover and experience the range of activities and holiday options available in destinations.

Sunsail provides a fleet of more than 800 yachts in 27 locations worldwide and runs a Beach Club in the Mediterranean.

The new brand identity reflects that “whoever has an experience with Sunsail has a sense of personal fulfillment,” the company said.

Head of global marketing Simon Conder said: “It is important that Sunsail retains its established values but at the same time develops a new and modern identity.

“The rebranding exercise will ensure that we get the right message out there. We feel it’s important to let people know what Sunsail stands for and ultimately make it easier for our current and potential clients to choose our brand and products.

“The brand identity now reflects and supports the leading position and landscape for Sunsail.

“Sunsail shares with its customers an incredible enthusiasm for sailing and its holidays offer zest, vitality and, above all, fun for all”.

Prices start at £399 per person for a seven-night Beach Club holiday on a half board basis at Sunsail Club Vounaki in Greece including flights from Gatwick, transfers and watersports.

Cunard managing director pays tribute to Sir David Frost

Cunard managing director pays tribute to Sir David Frost

By Hollie-Rae Merrick

Cunard managing director pays tribute to Sir David FrostImage via Shutterstock

Tributes have been paid to broadcaster Sir David Frost who died of a suspected heart attack while on board Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth.

Frost, 74, was onboard the ship to give a speech on Saturday according to the BBC.

Peter Shanks, managing director of Cunard Line, said: “Sir David Frost was a remarkable journalist and broadcaster. Cunard had a proud association with him over many years.

“On behalf of us all at Cunard Line I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, family and friends.”

Queen Elizabeth left Southampton on August 31 on a 10-day Mediterranean cruise to Civitavecchia (Rome).

A statement on BBC News said: “His family are devastated and ask for privacy at this difficult time. A family funeral will be held in the near future and details of a memorial service will be announced in due course.”