Nicko Cruises Selling Guide 2024

SELLING GUIDE time to discover

Exceptional VALUE Inclusive PRICING

THE AWARD-WINNING NICKO CRUISES EXPERIENCE

For more than 30 years the nicko brand has been synonymous with unforgettable river travel experiences by providing exceptional service with a personal touch and at the best value for money.

As a small-ship specialist, offering both river and ocean programmes, we pride ourselves in offering a culturally immersive experience in the destinations we visit mixed with relaxing moments of well-being and enjoyment with likeminded people.

Our promise to our guests is expressed in our slogan:

Small ships. Great experiences.

We continue to invest in our fleet with two new innovative river vessels, nickoVISION and nickoSPIRIT and our newly refurbished VASCO DA GAMA. Our river vessels are designed for 126-220 guests and our ocean ship caters for a max 1,000 guests creating an intimate cruising experience.

Our river cruise itineraries feature all the European rivers including the Rhine & Moselle, Seine, Rhone & Saone, Danube, and the Douro.

Whilst ocean cruising, VASCO DA GAMA, offers a variety of individual, unique itineraries stretching across the world.

Our inclusive pricing offers a cruise to suit all budgets giving guests piece of mind.

As a specialist in small ship cruising, we not only draw on our own experience, but also on an international network of partners so that we can implement nicko’s slow cruising philosophy, “time to discover…” which allows guests all the time that they need, to take in the natural beauty of the world!

RIVER HIGHLIGHTS

With over 30 years of river cruising experience, we believe that we are experts in delivering exceptional river holiday experiences. We have set the standard for river cruise journeys, with our destination focussed and culturally enriching itineraries on the great waterways of Europe.

Experienced Itinerary Planning

These seamless journeys bring your clients closer to history as they sail past extraordinary landscapes into the centre of charming villages and iconic cities.

Wide Choice of Destinations & Holiday Durations

Offering a wide choice of river ships, combined with interesting itineraries ranging from 4 to 16 day holidays, your guests can choose from a 4 day “Advent on the Rhine” sailing to a 16 day “Serenity on the Danube” itinerary.

Award-winning

Award-winning nickoVISION has been redefining standards for innovation and style ever since her launch, with light-filled rooms and a modern, stylish design that catches the eye immediately.

Choice of Three Included Restaurants & Open Dining Policy

Our newest river ships nickoVISION and nickoSPIRIT have raised the river cruise benchmark to a new level with three inclusive restaurants to choose from and an open dining policy.

Culturally Immersive Excursions

Excursions are at the heart of every nicko river cruise holiday. Nicko river cruises are committed to delivering amazing experiences ashore. At nicko cruises we believe that personal encounters are the best way to discover new countries and their people. Your guests will be offered a comprehensive selection of interesting shore excursions that allow guests to explore the culture, meet the people and gain a detailed understanding of the countries and the regions that they pass through on our river cruise itineraries.

Redefining standards & innovation

THE DANUBE

“Queen of European Rivers” and crossing through ten countries the Danube is quite justifiably one of the most popular destinations in the world for river cruise enthusiasts. Carving a path through some of Europe’s most beautiful natural landscapes and celebrated cities, a river cruise along the “Blue Danube” is a must.

THE RHEIN

Flowing through six countries, explore one of Europe’s best loved rivers. Discover grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns, turreted fortresses, spectacular scenery, and the famous vineyards. Visit the middle Rhine which is a UNESCO World heritage site.

THE DOURO

Sun drenched vineyards accompany the “Golden River” as it stretches across 490 miles. The “Douro Valley”, with its romantic villages, steep vineyards and fascinating views is one of the most beautiful regions of Portugal with UNESCO World Cultural Heritage status.

THE RHONE, SAONE & SEINE

These rivers bring out the best of France’s colourful south and magical north. The Rhône has a culture of elegance and fine dining matched with superb wines from these regions. The Saône is the largest tributary of the Rhône and offers picture postcard type towns and villages towards Lyon. The Seine is just as beautiful as you journey from Paris you will experience the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Elysees from a new perspective as you journey along into Normandy.

RIVER DINING

MULTIPLE DINING VENUES REGIONAL SPECIALITIES

Our love and dedication to detail is evident in the design of our modern ship restaurants. It reflects our commitment to making every single aspect of the dining experience special.

Our newest river vessels nickoVISION and nickoSPIRIT both offer three alternative dining options. All three are “included” restaurants, each vessel has a main restaurant, a Mario’s Grill and a third restaurant which is Manhattan on nickoVISION and The Garden restaurant on nickoSPIRIT.

From the first cup of coffee in the morning to the last glass of wine in the evening, our crew caters for your every whim.

Every nicko cruise features a festive gala dinner to complete the culinary experience.

Our chefs are committed to providing interesting menus consisting of international and regional specialities.

We not only offer a comprehensive breakfast buffet to get your day off to an excellent start, we also serve delicious dishes at lunchtime and our evening dining concept is a genuine treat.

We always offer a selection of wines from the region we are visiting, and from some of the best wine making regions in the world.

Be sure not to miss out on sampling the regional delicacies when you go ashore!

SAMPLE DINNER MENU

Starters

Truffled veal liver terrine Cranberries | Cress salad | Brioche * * *

Soup

Hokkaido pumpkin soup Foamed milk | Pumpkin seed oil * * *

Entremet

Gin-cured salmon Pancake | Caviar cream * * *

Sorbet

Mango Freeze | Blackberry Lillet

* * *

Main courses

Braised Angus beef cheeks in rich red wine sauce | Root vegetable rosemary potatoes or

Fried Dorado fillet with crispy skin | Champagne sauce

Root vegetables | Saffron rice or

Herb falafel Vegan chickpea croquettes

Avocado mash | Parsnip puree

* * *

Dessert

International cheeses Savoury biscuits | Grapes

Dark chocolate mousse with blackcurrant jam and vanilla

RIVER DRINKS PACKAGE

Our inclusive drinks package allows you to enjoy as many of the comprehensive selection of hot and cold beverages as you like between 9am and midnight. At nicko cruises we know that the perfect dining experience involves both excellent food and the accompanying beverages – whether you need a coffee with your cake or a red wine with your steak!

UNLIMITED DRINKS PACKAGE INCLUDES:

House wine by the glass (white, red and rose)

House sparkling wine by the glass

Draught and bottled beers, non-alcoholic beer

Cocktails and long drinks

House spirits

Bottled water for the cabin and daily excursions

All speciality coffees (non-alcoholic)

Hot chocolate and tea

The meals we serve are prepared with meticulous care and skill and our crew are happy to indulge you throughout the day!

Excellent ratio of crew to guests

OCEAN HIGHLIGHTS

Introducing VASCO DA GAMA, nicko Cruises ocean-going cruise ship named after the famous historic Portuguese explorer!

Small Ship

Carrying just 1,000 guests VASCO DA GAMA offers a small ship cruising experience with an excellent ratio of crew to guests.

Newly Refurbished & With Great Choice of Accommodation

Her beautifully refurbished public spaces, teak wood decks and wide choice of spacious cabins and suites offer a comfortable home from home environment to relax throughout your cruise.

Amazing Facilities

With a choice of 5 open seating restaurants, 7 bars, 2 pools, Hollywood’s Theatre, children’s facilities, spa and wellbeing and great sports facilities – this vessel has everything needed to deliver the perfect holiday experience. Two conference rooms mean VASCO DA GAMA is a good option for groups and business events.

Wide Ranging Culinary Experience With Open Dining Policy

Aboard VASCO DA GAMA guests are offered flexible mealtimes and a free choice of seating across 5 dining venues: Waterfront Mediterranean, Fusion, Club Bistro, Waterfront Restaurant, Alfresco Grill.

Exciting Itineraries & Destinations

Each of VASCO DA GAMA’s itineraries are unique and have been carefully assembled to offer guests interesting and exciting destinations delivering thrilling opportunities.

ONBOARD

With seven bars and lounges, five restaurants and spacious deck areas you will be spoilt for choice! Each area has its own unique design and atmosphere. From the colonial style of the Ocean Bar and the relaxed ambience of the Captain’s Club to the unique character of the Blue Room and the lively nightlife of the Dome Night Club, our variety of spaces offer plenty of choice and variety depending on your mood.

We have a wide range of cabins and suites to suit all our guests. Including interconnecting family cabins, suites, and penthouse suites with balconies.

All our cabins and suites are elegantly furnished and include a double bed

(which can be separated in to two singles on request), private bathroom with shower or bath, hairdryer, flatscreen TV, telephone, safe, and adjustable air-conditioning as standard.

FACILITIES INCLUDED

A healthy balance between exercise and relaxation is ideal for bringing your body and mind in perfect harmony. And you will find plenty of both on board our cruise ship.

Relax in style

Spacious wellness area with a ladies’ and a gentlemen’s sauna, as well as a steam bath, aromatherapy steam bath, heated recliners and a small pool

SHIP FACILITIES

5 restaurants

7 bars

Spa & Wellbeing Centre

Fitness Centre

Hollywood’s Theatre

Auditorium

2 Conference Rooms

Shopping Galleria

Library

The Dome & Nightclub

Children’s Play Area

Sports Area

A heated swimming pool with a sliding glass roof that can be used all year round – and two whirlpools on the Lido Deck

Coffee, tea and juices

Active enjoyment

Fitness area with state-of-the-art sporting equipment and a professional trainer

Extensive programme of courses: Yoga, Pilates, stretching and relaxation exercises and a wide range of other activities

Running track on the outside deck, jogging track, volleyball and basketball court

OCEAN DINING

NICKO CRUISES FULL BOARD

Aboard VASCO DA GAMA your clients will enjoy the best of everything… Our full board offers a wide-ranging culinary experience!

Generous breakfast at flexible meal times with free choice of seating: Club Bistro, Waterfront Restaurant

Extensive breakfast buffet with evergreen classics like our home-made Bircher muesli and eggs cooked to order in the Club Bistro – when the weather is warm, you can also eat outside on the Lido Deck

In the Waterfront Restaurant, a daily breakfast menu is served at the table

Coffee, tea and juices

Varied lunch at flexible meal times with free choice of seating: Club Bistro, Waterfront Restaurant

Creative live cooking in the Club Bistro – where you choose your own ingredients fusion style wok cookery

A wide range of options – including vegetarian and vegan – are served at the Waterfront Restaurant, with different specials available every day

Stylish dinner at flexible meal times with free choice of seating: Waterfront Mediterranean, Fusion, Club Bistro, Waterfront Restaurant, Alfresco Grill

Choice of four stylish all-inclusive restaurants with different culinary specialities: Mediterranean cuisine, Asian-European fusion, international cuisine with local dishes from the destination countries

From the afternoon to the evening, a different selection of snacks – including pizzas, sandwiches, and burgers. – are available every day in the Alfresco Grill on the Lido Deck

A sumptuous meal in the evening is one of the highlights of any holiday and is a wonderful way to bring the day to a close.

OCEAN DRINKS PACKAGES

As part of our inclusive pricing, guests will receive the Classic Drinks Package.

Guests can upgrade from Classic Drinks Package to Premium Drinks Package where all cocktails, premium spirits, and liqueurs are included, there is a cost to do this.

We also offer a Kids & Teens beverage package that is included.

CLASSIC DRINKS PACKAGE

House wine by the glass (white, red and rosé)

House sparkling wine by the glass Port, Madeira wine and sherry

Draught and bottled beers, non-alcoholic beer

All non-alcoholic cocktails

Aperitifs (e.g. Aperol Spritz/orange, Campari soda/orange)

All open non-alcoholic beverages

Natural mineral water

Filter coffee, cappuccino, espresso, hot chocolate and tea (available at: The Dome, Cappuccino’s, Blue Room, Ocean Bar)

KIDS & TEENS BEVERAGE PACKAGE

Includes all open non-alcoholic beverages (juices, soft drinks, natural mineral water, hot chocolate and tea)

SAMPLE DINNER MENU

WATERFRONT MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

Salad

Artichoke salad with lamb fillet * * *

Soup

Lentil soup with pike-perch and saffron * * *

Entremet

Fishcakes with onions and papaya-cardamom salsa * * *

Main courses

Braised veal cheeks on a bed of truffled risotto and carrots or Poached lobster tail on creamy olive polenta with artichokes * * *

Dessert

Paris-Brest – French choux pastry filled with mascarpone and blackberries

WHY CHOOSE NICKO CRUISES?

We know that there is a great deal of competition in the river and ocean cruise market.

Our company has a long history of operating successful, award winning, river cruise holidays and has expanded into ocean holidays with our exceptional ocean-going vessel, VASCO DA GAMA that will have significant appeal to existing and new to cruise customers alike. Our Inclusive Package Pricing gives your customers piece of mind.

WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH RIVER CRUSING?

Return scheduled flights (economy class) or Eurostar rail from the UK

Transfers abroad*

Welcome & farewell reception with the Captain Services of the Cruise Director and Local Guides

Sennheiser Audio Headsets on all excursions

Use of onboard facilities

All meals & snacks on board

On board gratuities

Wi-Fi

Unlimited drinks package (see page 7)

Between 2 – 6 included excursions (Premium excursions at a supplement)

Nightly onboard entertainment

All port fees and taxes

Baggage handling fees

ATOL protection for air-inclusive holidays

ABTA protection for no-fly cruises

*Local rail connection between Munich airport and Passau on our Danube itineraries.

WHAT IS INCLUDED WITH OCEAN CRUISING?

Return economy flights from London

Overseas transfers between airport and ship

All meals on board

Classic drinks package (See page 11)

Gratuities

Nightly entertainment

Baggage handling and port fees

Full ATOL protection

WHY BOOK WITH NICKO CRUISES?

Over 30yrs of experience

Award-winning and innovative new ship designs

Low single supplements

Exceptional value all-inclusive and inclusive packages

Gratuities included

Multiple dining options (new ships) and VASCO DA GAMA

Several cabin category options

Children’s Facilities on VASCO DA GAMA

ABTA & ATOL protected

Fully commissionable

Enhanced commission levels

English speaking departures

GROUP TRAVEL BENEFITS

Free tour leader cabin (subject to minimum numbers)

Additional group discounts

Flexible no-risk allocations

Deposit required on confirmation of bookings

Final balance due 90 days prior to departure

Exclusive drinks receptions and group activities can be arranged (at a cost)

Exclusive shore excursion programme available (costs may apply)

CUSTOMER DEMOGRAPHIC

Average age 45-75yrs

Generally independent travellers

Enjoy cruises, city breaks, coaching holidays

Interested in history, culture, cuisine & music

Enjoys the variety of exploring independently from the comfort of the ship combined with organised excursions

CORE VALUES AND PRINCIPALS

SUSTAINABILITY

Because we only have one planet, sustainability and respect for our environment are part of our core principles. We want to protect what we value, which means sustainable travel. It’s up to us to ensure future generations are also able to enjoy the natural and manmade wonders of the earth in all their beauty and history.

Which is why we have invested tens of millions of Euros in extensive conversion work on the recently acquired VASCO DA GAMA. Equipped with a diesel-electric hybrid drive developed by Rolls Royce and the latest propulsion technology aboard VASCO DA GAMA means it meets – and in some cases, exceeds – all the latest environmental requirements, including low sulphur fuel, for a more sustainable future.

SLOW CRUISING PHILOSOPHY - TIME TO DISCOVER...

Slowing down and enjoying the moment, our slow cruising philosophy is all about allowing guests to have plenty of time to experience everything that they would like to do on one of our holidays. It’s not about rushing; it’s about enjoying your holiday at a pace that suits you.

FRIENDLY & ATTENTIVE CREW

Whether it’s your guests’ first time travelling aboard a nicko cruise, or they’ve cruised with us many times before, they will always be warmly welcomed! Our crew are extremely friendly and attentive to your clients every need.

SAFETY

We are 100% committed to your comfort and safety. We promise to maintain the highest standards in all the destination locations we operate our ocean and river cruises. Our ship crews have extensive training and experience ensuring you are fully looked after and that you arrive at every port safely.

NICKO FLEET

Our fleet of ships have been specifically built to accommodate the nautical characteristics of each of our itineraries whether it be locks, bridges, or lakes and coastal regions.

All our ships offer a high standard of accommodation, from a classic maritime style to modern elegance.

The innovative design and new on-board concept of our newest ships; nickoVISION and nickoSPIRIT have raised the river cruise benchmark to a new level with three inclusive restaurants, an open dining policy, light flooded interiors, and modern cabins with lowerable panoramic fronts.

VASCO DA GAMA is a classic vessel that combines elegant modern flair with beautiful teak decks and a ratio of two crew members to every one guest, for a more personal atmosphere as well as a generous sense of space. Carrying just 1,000 guests, VASCO DA GAMA is never crowded, she offers amazing guest facilities including 5 restaurants, 7 bars, Hollywood’s Theatre, 2 swimming pools, sporting activities and a wide choice of accommodation. Family friendly, with kid’s clubs, interconnecting family cabins, suites, and penthouse spaces, there really is something for everyone.

We operate modern and innovative ships that accommodate a manageable number of guests. This allows us to give our guests the space they need for maximum comfort.

nickoSPIRIT

170 guests, 3 restaurants, lounge, bar with veranda, sun deck, library, gym & spa with sauna.

nickoVISION

220 guests, 3 restaurants, lounge, VISIONbar with veranda, sun deck with pool, putting green, library gym & spa with sauna.

RHEIN MELODIE / RHEIN SYMPHONIE

196 guests, restaurant, lounge with bar, library and sun deck

BELVEDERE

176 guests, restaurant, lounge with bar, sun deck, spa with sauna, whirlpool and gym equipment.

BOLERO / MAXIMA / VIKTORIA

180 guests, restaurant, lounge with bar, sun deck, spa with sauna, whirlpool and gym equipment.

DUORO QUEEN

130 guests, restaurant, lounge with bar, sun deck with pool.

BIJOU DU RHONE

150 guests, restaurant, lounge with bar, library and sun deck.

SEINE CONTESSE

150 guests, restaurant, lounge with bar, sun deck with outdoor chess.

VASCO DA GAMA - OCEAN

1000 guests, 5 restaurants, 7 bars, conference rooms & auditorium, Hollywood’s Theatre, reading room & library, casino, shopping gallery, spa, fitness centre, The Dome & Nightclub, sports deck, children’s area, jogging track, 2 swimming pools, whirlpools.

Marketing & Digital Assets

Please

Please