2013 RIVER CRUISE SALES SURGE ON YANGTZE & MEKONG RIVERS

[HostDave]

LITTLETON, Colorado – August 8, 2012 – According to Avalon Waterways, Asia is witnessing a swell in river cruise sales for 2013. In fact, the award-winning river cruise company’s cruise sales in China for next year are up nearly 90 percent. Vietnam and Cambodia are showing even more promise with river cruise sales on the Mekong up more than 150 percent for 2013.

“As more travelers adopt river cruising as their preferred travel style, they want to broaden their experiences,” said Patrick Clark, managing director of Avalon Waterways. “Our new ships and itineraries on both Mekong and Yangtze Rivers give them the luxury they’re looking for, coupled with the exotic and enriching experiences they desire.”

THE YANGTZE RIVER

Coursing over major distances, the Yangtze is the longest river in Asia. Avalon travelers sail approximately 650 miles through the most impressive stretch of the river featuring the Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge. Enhancing its Yangtze River offerings in 2013, Avalon is partnering with Century Cruises to offer travelers’ two new ships and exclusive experiences.

“With help from Century Cruises, we are providing our travelers the most personalized, VIP experience available on the Yangtze River,” said Clark. “Limiting Avalon travelers to 20 people on each Century ship, we are providing them exclusive perks as well as Small Group Discovery excursions in each city.”

On ship, Avalon travelers will enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in the VIP restaurant on the Sun Deck as well as complimentary wine, coffee and tea. They will also have reserved seating for evening entertainment.

Off ship, in 2013, Avalon passengers will be offered private excursions in China’s less-visited cities such as Chengdu where guests will visit the Giant Panda Research Base and Lijiang – where its medieval Old Town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Century Paragon (2012) and Century Legend (2013) are the most advanced ships cruising the Yangtze. They feature a state-of-the-art propulsion system that decreases emissions as well as a pillar-less, multi-function lounge for unobstructed views, a large indoor swimming pool and staterooms with more than 300-square-feet of living space, including private balconies.

THE MEKONG RIVER

To meet demand for exotic cruises in SE Asia, Avalon Waterways is also providing travelers cruises on the NEW Avalon Angkor (2012). “Named after Angkor Wat and featuring only 16 staterooms, this is the first- and only- passenger ship built to cruise all the way from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, exclusively eliminating seven hours of drive-time on land for travelers,” said Clark.*

Designed and constructed by traditional craftsmen, the Avalon Angkor has a colonial charm and is hand-finished in brass and teak. This ship delivers an amazing indoor/outdoor experience for cruisers. Its Avalon Deluxe Staterooms measure 172-square feet and open to the outside with floor-to-ceiling, sliding glass doors with louvers, so cruisers will never miss the passing scenery. Cruisers aboard the new Angkor will also enjoy the Open-Air Lounges with panoramic views and 24-hour bar as well as spacious dining room, relaxing massage services and fitness equipment.

“With the Angkor, Avalon takes cruisers to difficult-to-reach villages, providing them a unique experience with immersive access into the diverse cultures and histories found in Vietnam and Cambodia,” said Clark. “The Mekong excursions we provide cruisers, including a visit to Phnom Penh – the sight of the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and one of the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields – as well as onboard lectures, are not only eye-opening but also life-altering.”

Early Booking Incentive: Save $300 per couple on select 2013 Avalon China river cruises.