Delegates at this month’s Ace UK Cruise Convention will be introduced to a new ship launched this month by little-known French operator Compagnie Du Ponant.
The 260-passenger four-star Le Boreal will be in Southampton on June 26. Agents have already signed up to go on board and it has proved to be one of the most popular ship visits.
The line was so keen to show the ship to UK agents during the convention that it altered a planned port of call in Dartmouth.
Head of UK sales Claire Hancer said: “Cruising is growing all the time and many people have been there, done it and bought the T-shirt, and they are looking for something niche.
“We offer different destinations and a relaxed environment.”
In its inaugural season, Le Boreal will sail itineraries in the Mediterranean, the Adriatic, the Baltic and the Black Sea.
It is also equipped and licensed to sail in the Antarctic Ocean.
Hancer said the Compagnie Du Ponant offered an informal style of cruising and expected Le Boreal to bring down the company’s average age of passengers from 55-plus.
A younger clientele is expected to be attracted by the ship’s contemporary interior design and relaxed atmosphere.
A number of themed cruises are planned, including one for families. Hancer also hoped it would attract more international business.
The UK Cruise Convention will take place on June 24-26.
