Advantage Travel Partnership CEO Julia Lo Bue-Said is to become the first British godmother of an AmaWaterways river vessel.
She will bless the 102-passenger AmaDouro at a ceremony in Porto, Portugal on April 12.
Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways said: “A huge part of our success is due to our very important trade partners and Advantage has been incredibly supportive of us as we continue to grow our brand in the UK.
“Julia is therefore a welcome addition to our family of godmothers.”
AmaWaterways UK managing director Stuart Perl added: “Our UK office opened only two years ago, but in that time, we have built close relationships with the UK travel trade, increasing our brand awareness and leadership in the market.
“We have seen a 30% increase in revenue from last year and nearly 40% increase in forward bookings year-to-year.
“These achievements would not be possible without the incredible support we have received from our travel industry partners, and we are proud to have Julia as our first UK godmother.”
Lo Bue-Said said: “I am very excited to take on this role and truly humbled to be AmaWaterways’ first UK godmother.
“This honour comes during a milestone year as Advantage celebrates our 40th anniversary.
“AmaWaterways’ commitment to the UK trade is testament of the opportunities developing partnerships create, and we fully support their commitment to drive more business through our members.”
AmaDouro will be based in Porto, joining sister ship AmaVida on the Douro river, running seven-night cruises.
The vessel is the first of three new ships that will be added to AmaWaterways’ fleet this year, with AmaMora to sail on the Rhine, and AmaMagna on the Danube.