The event, promoted by CLIA Brasil, had as one of its highlights the participation of Ricardo Alves, director of Velle Representações, who shared his trajectory and insights on the growing luxury cruise market.
With 38 years of experience in tourism, Alves began his career as a travel agent, but it was in 2015 that he specialized in representing river cruises. Since then, he has expanded his portfolio and consolidated his presence in the luxury segment.
"I fell in love with sailing and, today, my focus is on small ships, smaller and more intimate vessels, which offer different and personalized experiences", he explains.
Ricardo Alves represents some of the main brands in the sector, including river cruises: AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, Viva Cruises, Le Boat, Kaiara. Among the smaller ships: Crystal, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Explora Journeys. And among the yacht cruise brands: Scenic Eclipse, Emerald Yachts, Atlas Ocean Voyages. There is also the private boat: European Waterways and expeditions such as: Aqua Expeditions, Swan Hellenic, Scenic Eclipse, Poseidon Expeditions and Atlas Ocean Voyages.
The Rise of Luxury in Cruises
The luxury cruise market has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. According to Alves, the number of cruises has tripled since 2010, from 10,000 to over 45,000 available beds in the sector. This growth reflects the demand for exclusive and sophisticated experiences, driven by the all-inclusive concept and high levels of personalization.
"Luxury is not just about impeccable service. It's about knowing the customer, knowing what their favorite drink is, how they prefer their meat cooked. The difference lies in the experience, which goes far beyond what happens on board," Alves emphasizes.
He highlights four fundamental pillars that define the sector: quality, safety, comfort and content.
"When the customer recognizes these values, they become loyal to the brand," he adds.
Portfolio Diversification
Serving a global audience, Alves represents a varied portfolio, which includes river cruises in Europe, Asia and Africa, as well as maritime expeditions to the poles and paradisiacal destinations, such as the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Indian Ocean.
Despite operating in the international market, he keeps a close eye on Brazil's potential.
"We have three boats in the Tapajós region, which we call the 'Swiss Alps of the Brazilian Caribbean'. It is a differentiated product, which reinforces the diversity of our country", he highlights.
Even with a consolidated career in tourism, Alves has not yet made an accurate survey of the countries he has visited.
"I've never counted, but I'm curious. One day I'll stop and do the math," he jokes.
The future of the sector points to increasing personalization and sophistication, and experts like Ricardo Alves remain at the forefront of this transformation, connecting travelers to unique and unforgettable experiences across the world's seas.
Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.