European Waterways Also Offers New Incentives for 2020 with 10% Off Cabins and Charters on Select Cruises When Booked by January 6, 2020 (Pictured above: Magna Carta Hotel Barge)
Statistics indicate that nearly half of all millennials travel with their kids, creating exceptional opportunities for destinations around the world that cater to families. The trend is reflected in European Waterways’ hotel barge charters, where multi-generational travel has increased 60% over the past few years, according to Derek Banks, the company’s managing director. Among the beneficiaries of the trend is the company’s 8-passenger Magna Carta hotel barge, whose cruises along England’s River Thames offer access to some of the country’s most popular family attractions that include a tour of Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, Legoland, and Thorpe Park themed resort.
“The increasing number of family charters across our fleet is one of our most exciting new booking trends,” said Banks. “With most of our barges accepting just six to twelve passengers, families are discovering that they’re the perfect size for multigenerational holidays. They’re small enough for group events onboard but large enough to give everyone space during the cruise. Meanwhile, daily excursions keep everyone entertained, while our onboard master chef cooks up meals to satisfy both the children and adults.”
To help families discover cruises in other regions covered by its fleet, European Waterways is also offering 10% off cabin and charter prices on select 2020 cruises when booked by January 6, 2020. These cruises provide their own, unique opportunities for family fun.
A Magical Cruise
Banks noted that the proximity of the Harry Potter studio tour to the Magna Carta’s route on the River Thames makes the barge ideal for every fan of the movies and books – both children and adults. As part of European Waterways’ “pick and mix” charter program, guests can substitute up to four excursions from the barge’s classic cruise itinerary, and the “boy wizard” is always a top favorite. On these excursions, they can see many of the costumes and props from the movies. They can also experience all the wonders and magic of their most iconic sets, such as Diagon Alley and the Great Hall, the latter whose real-life inspiration, The Great Hall at Oxford’s Christ Church College, is also on the itinerary.
Younger children can also explore Beale Wildlife Park, which is set on 30 acres of grounds and forests. The attraction includes miniature train rides, a toy museum and a deer park, as well as kid-friendly animals such as owls, meerkat and the llama-like alpacas. Another option is a visit to Brooklands Museum. Considered the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation, it offers an excellent history of transportation, including cars, motorcycles and planes, and features an aircraft factory, a flight simulator and the world’s first purpose-built race circuit.
More scientifically minded youngsters will enjoy a visit to Look Out Discovery Centre, which offers more than 90 science-themed activities for children. These include launching hydrogen rockets and building a life size house with giant blocks. On other outings, guests can explore prehistoric caves, take archery lessons, as well as go paintballing and canoeing. They can even waterski at Thorpe Lake Waterski, among other outdoor sports.
“There’s so much to do on a European Waterways’ family charter that the only time you’ll see disappointment in a child’s face is when you tell them the trip is over!” said Banks. “But watch their faces light up again when they get back home and tell their friends about the great time they had.”
Some excursions may require a supplemental fee. For more information on these limited-time offers, visit https://bit.ly/2v7Fpj6.
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