Bakers Dolphin has reported that coach tour bookings for August and beyond are “running at record levels” after holidays recommenced following the lifting of many restrictions on 17 May.
The Weston-super-Mare operator says it is now looking to secure more hotel rooms to increase capacity. Sales and Marketing Director Amanda Harrington adds that feedback from customers is that they “are desperate to have a break after such a long time in lockdown.”
Ms Harrington says that many customers have turned to UK coach holidays for the first time as they “do not feel safe” about travelling abroad or on a cruise. The high-end Gold tour programme operated by Bakers Dolphin – which uses coaches with extra leg room, meaning travellers are further apart – is seeing departures selling out quickly.
She adds that some customers are nervous about travelling, but the operator is working with hotels and resorts to ensure that COVID-secure measures are in place. “It means careful loading and unloading of coaches and short delays at check-in, but everyone seems to be pleased to get away and have a fun break.”
Bakers Dolphin recently welcomed back 20 staff members who had been driving ambulances in Bristol for 14 months while the coach industry saw a downturn in work.
