CroisiEurope is opening a UK call centre to enable agents to book flight-inclusive packages for the first time and is expanding its trade sales team.

From 1 March, Skipton-based specialist agency Blue Water Holidays will handle a call centre on behalf of the French river and ocean cruise line, which has more than 50 vessels in its fleet.

In addition, CroisiEurope is recruiting a Business Development Manager (BDM) to support agents in the Midlands, the north of England and Scotland.

The new BDM will manage existing trade relationships as well as source new ones, reporting in to UK Sales Director John Fair.

The BDM will also support the business in ‘delivering strategy and core initiatives’, CroisiEurope added.

John said: “With strong sales and increased interest in our river, ocean, coastal and hotel barge products, now is the perfect time to invest in the UK and further reinforce our commitment to this very important market.

“We’re really excited to be working with Blue Water Holidays who will be managing our call centre. I’m confident that they can help us with our expansion plans in the UK.”

CroisiEurope is also targeting growth in its coach and group travel business, which is headed up in the UK by Gabrielle Alam.