When Chinese company Century Cruises unveils its two newest river cruise ships on the Yangtze River this spring, it is hoping that two of the ships’ decks will cater more to Western standards.
The 398-passenger Century Paragon and Century Legend are being marketed to both the Chinese and U.S. markets, but decks five and six are being classified as executive floors -- areas that Century hopes will meet the standards of Western travelers who have become accustomed to the high standards set by European river cruising.
Indeed, Europe-focused river lines, including Avalon Waterways and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, that are chartering with Century in 2013 will be selling into the cabins on the executive decks.
There will be 34 executive suites on decks five and six, measuring 414 square feet each. Personalized butler service on these decks will offer assistance with unpacking, shoe polishing and in-room dining service. The suites will also include laundry services, daily snacks and fruit, a bottle of red wine at embarkation and a dinner in the Executive Club Restaurant.
There will also be a bar and sundeck for the exclusive use of guests staying on the executive floors.