Travel Next Minas: Ricardo Alves, from Velle Representações, highlights luxury and exclusive experiences on cruises

"Our mission has always been to offer quality, safety, and exceptional service to the B2B market. When agents arrive at a trade show, they want more than brochures. They're looking for new products, attention, and proposals that truly resonate with the end customer. That's why we've always prioritized being in the luxury space," stated Alves.

According to him, in its ten years of operation, the company has consolidated its presence at premium tourism events. "If the fair has a luxury space, that's where we'll be. It's where we can showcase new products to those who already know us and also to new players entering the market each season."

Connections that only face-to-face interaction allows

The executive also highlighted the importance of personal contact at a time when digital tools have brought brands and customers closer together, but they are no substitute for physical presence.

"In webinars and virtual meetings, we create closeness, but this is where the real exchange happens. The agent remembers something they heard during a livestream, comments, and asks for more details. It's not about celebrity, it's about communication. This is what builds trust and strengthens the relationship," Alves emphasized.

Caribbean: Boutique Yachts and Intimate Experiences

Among Velle's highlights is the Caribbean, with cruises that go beyond the ordinary. The company represents big names like Norwegian Cruise Line, but it particularly focuses on the exclusivity of Emerald, with its yachts featuring only 50 cabins.

"Luxury isn't just about the size of the ship; it's about the experience. Being on a yacht where the captain invites you for a sunset beer on a small beach is unforgettable," Alves said. In Barbados, he dived with turtles in small groups. "Even on a ship with three thousand people, the feeling can be one of exclusivity. That's luxury."

Polar expeditions: a desire that grows with each season

Another growing niche is expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic. Velle currently represents six specialized vessels, including those from Scenic and Atlas.

"Demand continues to grow. Previously, there were few options. Last season, I counted 48 small vessels operating in Antarctica alone. This demonstrates the strength of human interest in the unexplored," Alves analyzed.

Travelers are mostly North American, followed by British, German, and Nordic. "Germans, in particular, have an impressive passion for river navigation. They're an extremely active demographic for this type of travel," he added.

From Rio to Antarctica: sophistication and Brazilianness on board

Among Velle's launches, the highlight is the Eclipse, an expedition yacht that leaves Rio de Janeiro in October for Buenos Aires and then continues on to Ushuaia and Antarctica.

"It's our top-of-the-line vessel: capacity for 200 passengers, two helicopters, a submarine, and 24 specialists on board," described Alves. The experience also includes a touch of Brazilian flair: London-based chef Luciana Berry brings her creative cuisine on board. "She brings Brazilian flavors to a multifaceted kitchen. This reinforces sophistication with cultural identity."

Exclusive Velle Experience: wine tourism in the south of France

Innovating its format, Velle launched the Velle Exclusive Experience in 2023, a river cruise along the Rhône in Provence, in partnership with Anne Walter Rains. The itinerary included onboard wine tastings, winery visits, and cultural experiences.

"We brought a Brazilian sommelier couple to enrich the trip. We spent three afternoons sailing, two with tastings, and one with a class. It's a short time, but it adds immense value. The result? 100% approval, and all participants are already eager to know where to head next," reported Alves.

The project, he says, has a clear objective: to provoke the market. "We want to inspire operators and agents to create small, personalized groups that transform an already excellent product into something unique. That's what builds loyalty and delight."

Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.