Royal Caribbean sets up French cruise arm
This follows the US company targeting the Spanish market through local partner Pullmantur.
The new cruise brand is to be called CDF Croisieres de France, initially running one ship from next May.
The French initiative will see the former Hapag Lloyd vessel Europa, currently operating as Holiday Dream for Pullmantur, be converted to serve the French market.
The 376-cabin ship will undergo a euro 30 million overhaul and be re-named Blue de France.
Sailings wil start next May in the Mediterranean with departures from Marseille, followed by Caribbean itineraries from the Dominican Republic in winter 2008-09.
French will be the launguage used on board and the shipwill offer French cuisine and entertainment.
The French division’s managing director Brigitte Tissier said: “We are thrilled with this opportunity to enter the French cruise market with a custom-tailored brand for French cruisers.”
Royal Caribbean chairman and CEO Richard Fain said: “We have high demand for the product, a ship tailor-made for the market, and a highly talented team to lead the effort.”
by Phil Davies
Chitra Mogul
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