Fred Holidays has launched Fred Bridge Holidays, a new programme aimed at the 300,000-plus bridge players in the UK.
The breaks have been developed with Declan Treanor, a consultant with years of experience of organising and hosting bridge holidays and can cater to beginners or seasoned players.
Solo travellers are catered for, with a singles meeting at the start of the holiday, hosts to ensure that everyone has a partner and special singles rates available for each trip.
English Bridge Union-qualified directors lead sessions and run seminars or workshops twice a week to help players sharpen their skills.
There are also hosts who can make up a table as needed and introduce fellow travellers.
Bridge consultant Declan Treanor said: “I am delighted to be working again with the Fred Olsen Travel Group, having successfully collaborated with them in taking hundreds of veterans to Normandy on Boudicca for the 75th anniversary of D-Day whilst chairman of Arena Travel.
“We both recognised a gap in the bridge holiday market for the flexibility of tailor-made holidays and are very excited to launch Fred Bridge Holidays.
“Developing high quality bridge holidays has been my passion for many years and as a bridge player I know what works.
“Every hotel we are using is one I have stayed at and know meets the needs of bridge players including those who may have mobility concerns.
“We are starting with a full overseas holiday programme and will add UK destinations in the coming months.
“By being flexible on duration and having the only flight centre in this niche market, we offer a compelling level of service for the discerning bridge holidaymaker.”
Currently, Fred Bridge Holidays are available in Croatia, Ireland, Italy, Madeira, Malta, Menorca, Poland, Portugal, Tunisia, Turkey and the UK.
The first departure is on September 26, which is a seven- or 14-night stay at the four-star AluaSoul Menorca, with prices from £995 per person.
It includes all meals and drinks, Club Classic bridge programme with a bridge programme and seminars, services of an EBU-qualified director and bridge hosts, and airport transfers on main changeover days.
Fred Holidays can also arrange flights if required.
