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TravelMole Interview: Sam Nee, senior director, Asia Business Development, Viking River Cruises
The Los Angeles-based Viking River Cruises in March will become the first western company managing cruises in China, according to Sam Nee, senior director, Asia Business Development, Viking River Cruises. “What’s unique about our cruises is that we’re visiting many cities you can’t otherwise get to,” he told TravelMole. He estimated there are about 50 other companies offering river cruises on the Yangtze River in China. Many of the small cities along the route are accessible only by boat. The cruises offer an opportunity for travel agents who earn minimum commissions of 12%, Mr Nee said. “We have various incentives and we’re also very generous with groups with commissions up to 20%,“ he said. Viking’s new offering is the China Yangtze River Cruisetours, which will begin operating the 186-passenger Century Star in March and run through December. The cruise company was started in response to passenger demand, Mr Nee said. He also said the boat will be the most luxurious ship on the Yangtze. In addition to spacious outside cabins, all with balconies, amenities will include a gym with a sauna, massage rooms and a beauty salon. Meals onboard will range from traditional family-style Chinese cuisine to Western favorites. They will be tailored to American tastes. Most cruise passengers are expected to be Americans, with the majority from the east and west coasts. Mr Nee said Viking Cruises, which has grown to a fleet of 23 vessels, plans further expansion in China. The river cruise business there now draws about 250,000 westerners a year, he said.-David Wilkening– The company plans to add another ship in 2005.
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