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Adding two vessels, Riviera River Cruises offers agent booking prize

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Ahead of introducing William Wordsworth and George Eliot in the spring, Riviera River Cruises unveiled a sales incentive for North American travel agents.

UK-based Riviera has been making a push on the North American market, recently expanding its stateside team by hiring veteran cruise executive Marilyn Conroy as VP sales and marketing for North America.

Win a free cruise

The North American agent who books the most cabins with Riviera during February and March will receive a free cruise for two aboard one of the line's new vessels.

The prize will be awarded to the agent with the most cabins booked on cruises departing in 2019. New bookings made between Feb. 1 and March 31 are eligible, however, group bookings do not apply.

The free cruise includes one double-occupancy cabin on the Emerald Deck and a complimentary drinks package. The winning agent can choose any seven-night itinerary aboard William Wordsworth or George Eliot in 2019, subject to availability.

Another free cruise in a random drawing

Additionally, Riviera will award a free seven-night cruise on any itinerary to an agent selected at random from among those who complete the Travel Agent Academy specialist course between Jan. 1 and March 31.

Having launched eight new vessels, including George Eliot and William Wordsworth, since 2017, Riviera’s fleet of 12 is one of the youngest in Europe.

Rhine and Danube sailings

George Eliot’s first departure is scheduled for April 4 on the 'Amsterdam, Kinderdijk & the Dutch Bulbfields' itinerary. The vessel will operate primarily on the Rhine River. William Wordsworth will operate exclusively on the Danube, first departing April 5 on the 'Blue Danube' itinerary.

The 443-foot William Wordsworth is an all-suite ship, while the 361-foot George Eliot is a new, smaller class of vessel with cabins and suites. Both are decorated with rich, sustainable hardwoods, gleaming brass, polished copper, sparkling glass, intricate wrought iron and elegant lighting. Amenities include a panoramic observation lounge, main restaurant, wellness area, boutique and sun deck.

A second, smaller restaurant on both, The Bistro, offers a more casual lunch and dinner with an open kitchen and panorama windows that can allow for alfresco dining. William Wordsworth is also equipped with a fitness center and spa.

William Wordsworth’s 88 suites measure at least 183 square feet. The vessel can accommodate 167 passengers and 44 crew. Diamond and Ruby Deck suites bring the French balcony inside with views from floor-to-ceiling, sliding-glass windows. Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Diamond Deck have floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors that open onto a small private balcony.

George Eliot’s 70 cabins and suites measure at least 161 square feet. The vessel can accommodate 132 passengers and 36 crew, making it ideal for charter groups. Diamond and Ruby Deck cabins and suites bring the French balcony inside with views from floor-to-ceiling, sliding-glass windows. Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Diamond Deck have floor-to-ceiling windows plus sliding doors that open onto a small private balcony.

Riviera offers 13 itineraries on nine rivers and waterways, including new exclusive departures for solo travelers next year.