Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has seen a phenomenal response to its spectacular India journey being the subject of the first two episodes of Susan Calman’s Cruise of a Lifetime, screened on UK TV earlier this month.
A year-on-year comparison of the company’s UK & Ireland trade bookings data for the fortnight after the two one-hour episodes aired showed a 288% increase in revenue and a 246% increase in guests booked via the travel trade.
Uniworld launched a trade-specific campaign around the screenings to drive agents to tune in, and encourage their clients to do the same, with a suite of supporting assets provided. The resulting sales reflect the success of this engagement.
Viewers of the new year series saw Scottish comedian and TV host, Susan Calman travel with Uniworld through India’s Golden Triangle, staying in luxurious Oberoi hotels, and on to Kolkata for a seven-night sailing along India’s holy river aboard the intimate Ganges Voyager II. Special moments included a rickshaw ride through the narrow, bustling streets of New Delhi, an emotional encounter with the Taj Mahal, a transformative visit to the temple in Kalna, a friendly cricket match between Susan, fellow guests and the ship’s staff, and the night-time release of hundreds of flickering, floating lanterns as a blessing to the river Ganga.
Uniworld is continuing to encourage its agent partners to use the two episodes as a highly effective sales tool that brings to life the incredible experience. A stand-alone India brochure, social media tiles, newsletter templates and an introductory offer for the 15-day India’s Golden Triangle and the Sacred Ganges for 2026 are still available to help agents to close the sale.
Uniworld’s MD for the UK and Europe, Chris Townson, said: “Susan and the TV production team did an amazing job of bringing this incredible India itinerary to life, with all its colour, noise, spirituality and incredible welcome, in a way that was moving, insightful, funny and engaging. It’s no surprise we’ve had such a fantastic response.
“For agents, there is no better tool that to watch it on catch up, and encourage your clients to do the same, as there is still plenty of opportunity to convert some great business. Our partners who have done that, and used the supporting materials we provided, have seen brilliant return, tapping into increasing appetite for bucket list travel and longer, more immersive holidays. This itinerary allows guests to travel at the pinnacle of style, luxury and comfort, seeing the showstoppers but also reaching parts of India that so few tourists visit. Add in a rail journey on the Maharajas’ Express, and you have the ultimate India experience. Just book soon, as this year is almost a sell-out.”
Agents seeking supporting collateral and tips on how to sell India can contact Brian Hynes at brian.hynes@ttc.com
