Tauck has claimed record advance river cruise bookings from the UK as it introduced a new purpose-built vessel on the Douro River in Portugal.
The 84-passenger Andorinha features a pop-up restaurant that rises from the stern of the ship on hydraulic lifts and can be lowered when approaching low bridges.
The ship was christened as part of its debut sailing as the US operator stepped up its programme as travel restrictions ease.
Andorinha is running two itineraries on the Portuguese river this year, with an eight-day cruise designed for families added for next year.
Vice president, global sales and partner relations Steve Spivak said: “The Andorinha’s christening comes as Tauck is enjoying significant growth with river cruising among its UK clientele.
“For 2022 we are seeing our strongest advanced river bookings ever from the UK market; more than twice that of 2020.
“We are thrilled to see such a robust recovery led by our loyal guests.”
The vessel was christened by company president Jennifer Tombaugh and chief culture officer Sharyn Cannon.
Tauck chief executive Dan Mahar said: “We already had incredible demand for our planned debut on the Douro in 2020.
“With those travel dreams deferred to this year, and with all the other pent-up demand for travel resulting from Covid, interest in our Douro cruises is unprecedented.”