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R11 Travel continues to support the Brazilian operations of Corazul Cruceros, according to a recent interview.
After cancelling its inaugural season in the Mediterranean due to commercial challenges, the new Spanish cruise line is planning to launch service in Brazil later this year.
Speaking with Portal Panrotas, the R11's CEO Ricardo Amaral said that guests and travel agents do not face any risks when booking a cruise with the new brand.
"Our contract with Corazul stipulates that payments will only be made once the ship begins operations. The funds remain with us until the cruise departs. Therefore, there is no financial risk for those booking through R11," he told the Brazilian travel news website.
The Brazilian travel operator serves as Corazul's sales partner in Brazil, as part of the company's strategy of not offering direct-to-consumer sales.
Amaral noted that the challenges faced by the cruise line in the Mediterranean are real, adding that even large brands are being affected.
"The European market is clearly under pressure. You see established companies offering promotions, bonuses and incentives to stimulate sales. When even premium brands like Celebrity Cruises make this move, it shows there is demand pressure," he told Panrotas.
He also praised what he called a proactive decision to cancel the season in Europe, noting that Corazul prioritized transparency.
Amaral also said that the company has experienced executives on its team, noting that the Spanish market currently has a void left by local brands that went out of business.
"They sought out their own ship and created an interesting concept for this audience," he continued.
"Taking over a ship is not a simple operation; on the contrary, it is a highly complex process. And they are experienced professionals who understand the operation and the product experience," Amaral explained.
Amaral added that the cancellation of the European season could result in a longer and more complete season in Brazil.
"This could be positive for the market, especially during periods when we normally don't have vessels down here," he stated.
Corazul currently plans to start its Brazilian season in late October, kicking off a series of three- to seven-night cruises to destinations around the country. The itineraries depart from Santos, Rio de Janeiro and Recife.
Fuente: cruise industry news
