Cruise Adviser – February 2020

A B U D H A B I | R E P O S I T I O N A L S | AVA L O N AC T I V E

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

F E B R UA R Y 2020

Northern delights

Along the Norwegian coast and into the Arctic Circle with Hurtigruten

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February 2020 | Forward EDITOR’S LETTER

No way to be bored on a cruise in Norway CRUISE ADVISER

Norway is an incredible place. To put its coastline into some sort of perspecive, Kirkenes, at its northern tip, is 30 degrees longitude, further east than Istanbul and St Petersburg, while Bergen, at five degrees, is almost in line Amsterdam; including fjords (but not islands), its coast stretches to 28,953km (17,991 miles). And what better way to explore it than with a company that has been Northern traversing this part of the world for more than 100 years? delights Hurtigruten, which started life a postal and transportation service for rural Norwegians, continues to operate itineraries on the country’s beautiful west coast today. We sent writer Gabrielle Sander on perhaps its most iconic itinerary, from Trondheim to Kirkenes, heading into the Arctic circle and on the lookout for the northern lights. Read her feature on p38.

Elsewhere in this issue, Sara Macefield dons her runnning gear and heads on an Avalon Active cruise for an intense, workout-heavy week on the Danube (p26). Who said cruises were unhealthy? We also hear from Paul Ludlow and Alex Delamere-White at P&O Cruises as the line prepares for the launch of Iona, its largest ship to date, and announces Gary Barlow as a brand ambassador (p20). We’ve also got all the latest cruise news, new hires and incentives (from p10), plus our comprehensive directory (p49) – all to make your job selling cruises easier. We hope you enjoy reading.

THIS MONTH WHAT WE LEARNT

P14

A B U D H A B I | R E P O S I T I O N A L S | AVA L O N AC T I V E

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

F E B R UA R Y 2 0 2 0

FEBRUARY 2020 CA-44

Along the Norwegian coast and into the Arctic Circle with Hurtigruten

WELLNESS IS BIG BUSINESS The health and wellnes industry is now worth a staggering $4.2 trillion and is still growing

P38

PEAK AURORA SEASON IS FROM OCTOBER TO MARCH Hurtigruten offer a free cruise if you don’t see the northern lights on your trip

P45

is brought to you by Waterfront Publishing

CRUISE ADVISER

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PEOPLE LIKE TO HAVE A BIT OF AN ADVENTURE ON THEIR CRUISE 44,000 Brits went on adventure cruises in 2018 and its popularity is growing

Pink Beach, Komodo National Park, Indonesia (p45)

Contents MIDSHIP 26

32

Witness the fitness Sara Macefield joins Avalon Waterways for an Active & Discovery sailing on the Danube, which proves to be a lot more exhausting than the usual sedate saunter Making the move Repositional cruises can

offer unique itineraries for bargain prices. Anthony Pearce looks at some of the most interesting options 38

On top of the world Gabrielle Sander joins Hurtigruten for a sailing along the Norwegian coast and into the Arctic Circle to

see the northern lights and a whole lot more 45

How to sell: adventure Jane Archer looks at adventurous itineraries that will allow clients to step outside their comfort zones Turn over for more CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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February 2020 | Forward

FORWARD 3

Editor’s letter

9

News Emerald launches a new yacht brand, while Viking expands into expedition cruise. Plus MSC orders more new ships; CMV looks to female explorers for inspiration; Royal Caribbean restructuring means a new role for Ben Bouldin

16

New hires A round-up of the latest industry appointments

18

Incentives The latest trade initiatives

20

Interview: P&O Cruises As they introduce two new ships and hook up with their new brand ambassador Gary Barlow, P&O Cruises’ Paul Ludlow and Alex Delamere-White talk success with Sam Ballard

22

Ports of call: Abu Dhabi Jane Archer profiles the United Arab Emirates city, which has reinvented itself as a go-to cruise hub

The Tower of Saint Vincent, Lisbon (p32) and (below) Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center in Abu Dhabi (p22)

AFT 49

54

55

by trying your hand at our crossword, sudoku or quiz Directory All the cruise line contact details in one place Know your…

Brexit promises What do cruise lines’ Brexit guarantees actually mean?

Gamesroom While away your lunch break

57

Lookout Can you see yourself in our industry event photos?

58

Final word Sam Ballard celebrates the industry’s innovation Email info@cruise-adviser.com to share your thoughts

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NEWS

Do you have a story for us? Email info@cruise-adviser.com

NEW BRAND

Emerald to launch ocean-going super yacht Bookings now being taken for the 100-guest Emerald Azzurra, which arrives in July 2021 and is the first vessel for new sister brand Emerald Yacht Cruises Emerald Waterways will officially enter the yacht cruise market with the launch of Emerald Azzurra.

The first vessel for the newly formed Emerald Yacht Cruises brand, the custom-built 100-guest, ocean-going super yacht will be launched in July 2021, sailing a series of 47 itineraries.

The sailings, which are now on sale, will explore destinations including the Red Sea – Israel, Jordan and Egypt – and the Mediterranean – Greece, Montenegro, Italy, France, Cyprus, Turkey, Malta and Spain – offering guests an intimate, boutique yacht cruising experience.

There will be three different bars and restaurant on board, while 88 per cent of cabins include a balcony. The yacht will feature an onboard wellness centre, three tenders and a Zodiac for shore landings. Emerald Azzurra also

features a marina platform to allow easy access to snorkelling, paddle boarding or swimming .

Like existing Emerald Waterways cruises, the price of a cruise with Emerald Yacht Cruises includes return flights, transfers, all tipping and gratuities, meals at breakfast, lunch and dinner with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, plus excursions and experiences. On shore, guests can enjoy EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences, a range of included EmeraldACTIVE excursions, and have the opportunity to book additional DiscoverMORE optional excursions.

Joseph Grimley, director of trade sales, told cruise adviser, said: “The initial response from agents has been amazing. They really appreciate how exciting this new category of yacht

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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cruising is and can’t wait to showcase it to their clients. They recognise that their loyal Emerald Waterways customers will engage with innovative Emerald Cruises products, along with other discerning clients seeking a more refined, exclusive cruising experience.”

David Winterton, Emerald Cruises director of marketing and global brand curator, said: “We are thrilled to be introducing a new sister brand to Emerald Waterways. We have ambitious growth plans for the UK and can’t wait for past river cruise guests and new customers alike to join us on board our new ocean-going yacht.

“At just 110m in length, we are excited to be offering an intimate experience on board, with just 50 cabins, and on shore due to the fact we will have access to small ports that large ships can’t access.”

February 2020 | Forward MSC CRUISES

Two more World-class ships ordered MSC Cruises has confirmed it will build a third and fourth World-class ship as well, as embark on two new additional new-build projects that will focus on next generation technologies, such as wind power.

The contracts, signed with the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard, are worth well in excess of €12bn.

The latest World-class ships will be delivered in 2025 and 2027. The first is due to be delivered in 2022.

When delivered it will be the biggest ship build by a European cruise line and the first LNG ship built in France.

In addition to the World-class newbuilds, MSC signed contracts for two new projects – one of which will be a new class of LNG ship, but the other will look into new technologies.

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises, said: “The three agreements signed today extend

our investment plan up to 2030. They stem from an exceptional partnership, with Chantiers de l’Atlantique, that has already delivered 15 highlyinnovative innovative cruise ships over the past two decades and will see many more vessels come to life at Saint-Nazaire’s docks in the next 10 years. They also confirm this industry’s commitment to environmental sustainability, helping

CMV

ROYAL CARIBBEAN

New ships named after female explorers

Redundancies and a new senior vice president role for Ben Bouldin in Royal Caribbean restructuring

Cruise & Maritime Voyages has named its two new ships after pioneering female explorers.

Last year, CMV announced that it will take delivery of two ships from P&O Australia in Singapore in 2021.Pacific Dawn, which will take over from Columbus as CMV’s new flagship, will now be named Amy Johnson after the English pilot who became the first woman to fly solo from the UK to Australia in 1930.

CMV selected five names and invited members of their loyalty club, as well as followers on social media, to make their choice.

Meanwhile, Pacific Aria will sail under the TransOcean Kreuzfahrten brand for the German market and will be renamed Ida Pfeiffer.

Ben Bouldin, the UK boss of Royal Caribbean, is to become the company’s senior vice president of sales for EMEA as part of a restructure that is affecting the company’s markets outside of Miami.

Bouldin is currently the associate vice president and managing director UK & Ireland for Royal. His position won’t be filled by another executive, either in the UK or Miami.

As part of the restructure Royal Caribbean has made 55 people redundant in the UK and Ireland, in departments including revenue management, PR and marketing.

Those departments will now be operated out of Miami, partly because of enhancements in technology, which means the US

the French national industry further position itself as a world leader in the development of next-generation technologies and other solutions.”

Laurent Castaing, general manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, said: “We are really proud and happy to have built such an outstanding relationship with MSC Cruises, driven by the spirit of innovation. We are both committed to shaping the cruise of tomorrow.”

can handle local currencies more intuitively. Other departments in Europe will see their functions moved to Weybridge, Royal’s UK head office.

The changes will not affect Royal’s sales team and are partly designed to give “a more focused trade sales approach”, according to Bouldin.

Stuart Byron has been promoted to senior director for managed business in EMEA, while Gianni Rotondo takes control of non-managed markets.

Stuart Leven moves to oversee business transformation projects.

Martin McKinnon stays as director of sales, with Torey Kings-Hodkin, the former head of commercial partnerships at Thomas Cook, joining as head of key accounts (see p16).

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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February 2020 | Forward EXPEDITION

Viking to launch expedition cruise line The company expands further with the launch of Viking Expeditions, which will begin sailing to Antarctica and the Great Lakes from January 2022 Viking Cruises is to launch an expedition cruise line, called Viking Expeditions, which will begin sailing in January 2022.

The line’s first vessel will be called Viking Octantis and will run voyages to Antarctica and America’s Great Lakes. The second vessel, Viking Polaris, will debut in August 2022, sailing in Antarctica and the Arctic.

The new Polar Class 6 vessels will host 378 guests in 189 staterooms; both are currently under construction in Norway by Fincantieri’s VARD. “We invented the concept of modern river cruising when we launched in 1997; then we reinvented ocean cruises and became the ‘World’s Best Ocean Cruise Line’ in our first year of operation. Now, in creating ‘the thinking person’s expedition’, we are perfecting polar expedition cruising, and we will usher in a new era of comfortable exploration in the heart of North America,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking.

The launch, which was announced at an event in Beverly Hills, also included news that Viking was partnering with a number of scientific institutions, including the University of Cambridge’s Scott Polar Research Institute. The partnership is “underpinned by a major Viking endowment for scientific research in the polar regions”, the company said in a statement. As part of the deal, polar cruises will have experts from the institute on board sharing findings from their field research. The company has also partnered with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, a leading authority on the study of birds based at Cornell University in New York.

The ships will feature a number of new public spaces, based around the same Scandinavian design as its ocean and river fleet. These include the Hanger, an enclosed in-ship marina to allow guests to board zodiacs inside the ship; a Laboratory, where scientists will conduct

research; expedition equipment including Zodiacs, submarines, kayaks; an auditorium based on the University of Oslo’s ceremonial hall.

All staterooms will also feature a Nordic Balcony, similar to those on river vessels.

The expedition ships will also have a Nordic Spa and fitness centre, including sauna and snow grotto.

Restaurants on board will similar to those on the ocean fleet, including Manfredi’s, which has Cruise 20 award-winning steak.

Expedition cruises will include virtually all shore excursions, all onboard meals and all port charges and taxes. As with the ocean product, Viking Expeditions will include beer and wine with lunch and dinner service; premium dining reservations; lectures; wi-fi; self-service laundry; access to the Nordic Spa; and 24-hour room service. Charter flights and use of Viking Expedition gear will also be included.

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February 2020 | Forward

OPINION

CELEBRITY CRUISES

Wellness options are vital for cruise lines Priti Mehta, senior director of Sales, UK & Ireland, Oceania Cruises

This is the time of year for vows to eat more healthily, to drink less, and to dust off the trainers and actually go to the gym – rather than just pay for the membership; as we all try to start the new year and new decade with a reinvigorated sense of self.

Encompassing everything promoting physical and mental wellbeing, the health and wellness industry is a serious business, and one of which the global tourism industry, including the cruise

“The wellness industry is worth a staggering $4.2 trillion… and growing” sector, is an integral part. According to 2018 figures from the Global Wellness Institute, the global health and wellness industry is worth a staggering $4.2 trillion, and growing significantly every year.

Taking a holiday has long been designated as one of the best ways to recharge, relax and re-focus, as holidays provide an opportunity to step back and reflect, away from the chaos of day-to-day life.

Today, for many of us, life has never been busier or more connected, and there has been a real and meaningful shift towards wellness in the last decade from the cruise industry.

Where once, providing fitness classes and having fully-equipped gyms on board were seen as a ‘nice-to-

have’, they are now a crucial element of a holistic suite of wellness options for guests. There has been a real move away from the predictable list of spa treatments, and a token ‘lighter’ choice or two on a menu from the cruise sector.

Options open to cruise guests range from spa treatments, to one-on-one specialist exercise classes, medi-spa options, plant-based menus and wellness-focused shore excursions.

This is why, here at Oceania Cruises, we recently unveiled our new Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center the most unique and comprehensive spa and wellness centre at sea, which has been added to all of our six ships as part of our OceaniaNEXT enhancement.

We have gone well beyond a traditional spa, offering a complete and original collection of holistic wellness encounters both onboard and ashore, including plant-based cuisine options, complimentary exercise classes including yoga and pilates, wellness tours, ports of call, and onboard treatments.

Enrichment programmes have long been a part of the cruise experience, where experts in their field come onboard to share their knowledge, often through a series of guest lectures.

At Oceania Cruises, we offer a more hands-on approach to this important part of the suite of wellness options. Through the Artist’s Loft, and Culinary Centers on board Marina and Riviera, our experts give guests the chance to get fully immersed and take part in cookery and art masterclasses.

Today’s cruise guests are active, they are leading rich and fulfilled lives. For them, wellness is not a pursuit, it’s a lifestyle, which is fantastic news for cruise lines offering unrivalled wellness options.

Changes for Celebrity Apex are revealed

Celebrity Cruises has revealed the changes that will be on board Celebrity Apex, the sister-ship of Celebrity Edge.

The second Edge-class ship, which is due to be christened in Southampton on March 30, includes new dining venues, changes to the theatre and an updated wellness offering.

Craft Social Bar, a new venue, will offer guests craft beers served by a beer sommelier, while there will be a new animation for the Le Petit Chef dining experience in Le Grand Bistro. Meanwhile, the theatre will include three new shows: Rockumentary, Tree of Life and Crystalize.

When it comes to wellness, Celebrity Apex will offer F45 Training, a growing global fitness community which offers innovative, high-intensity group workouts.

“Celebrity Edge changed the cruise industry and raised the standard for modern luxury vacations,” said Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “Celebrity Apex goes even further. It takes every onboard experience to the very peak of what’s possible at sea.”

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February 2020 | Forward

NEW HIRES

Torey Kings-Hodkin joins Royal Caribbean as head of key accounts

Royal Caribbean International has appointed Torey Kings-Hodkin as its head of key accounts.

She will be joining the 20-strong Royal Caribbean sales team from February 10 and will also be a new addition to the cruise line’s UK and Ireland senior leadership team.

Kings-Hodkin has vast experience of the travel sector and extensive retail experience and joins following

27 years at Thomas Cook where she worked across a number of senior roles, including head of retail and head of commercial partnerships. In her last two years she was responsible for leading Thomas Cook’s cruise business and has been actively involved with Clia, winning the 2018 Cruise Manager of the Year award.

In her head of key accounts role, Kings-Hodkin will report to UK

Cruise1st appoints new head of product Melanie Wood has joined Cruise1st in the new role of head of product at the award-winning agency.

Wood has spent nine years in the industry, most recently at Royal Caribbean, where she was national account manager. She previously spent four years at Cruise1st as part of their product team.

Dale Sourbutts, MD of Cruise1st, said: “We are pleased to welcome Melanie back in the new role.

Her experience with the cruise lines, combined with her existing understanding of our business, means that she will be a huge asset in helping to steer the future direction of the Cruise1st product team.”

and Ireland sales director Martin MacKinnon and oversee a team of six key account managers.

MacKinnon said: “Torey joining our team is the continuation of the amplification of our sales team which will set us up for an invigorating and hugely promising 2020 and beyond, where the relationships we hold with our trade partners continue to be paramount.”

Chris Simmonds returns to Saga Holidays as managing director and vows to “use what is important from the past to shape the future” Saga has announced that Chris Simmonds will be returning to Saga Holidays on March 2 as its new managing director. He will be replacing Maria Whiteman who left the company late last year.

Having previously worked for Saga as part of the executive team, Chris left 10 years ago to combine his love for the travel industry with the charity sector as chief executive of Revitalise, a charity that provides short breaks and holidays for disabled people and their carers.

Simmonds has more than 20 years of leadership experience. In his new role, Simmonds will drive the transformation of Saga Holidays in line with its growth agenda and overall strategic direction of returning Saga to its heritage – a heritage with which he is both familiar with, and very passionate about.

“I am joining Saga, not to relive the past but to use what is important from the past to shape the future,” said Simmonds in a statement about

his return to the company. “I want to contribute to Saga Holidays’ return to growth and ensure we can all enjoy the true spirit of Saga again.”

Robin Shaw, CEO of Saga Travel said: “I am excited to welcome Chris to our business and our travel leadership team. I am confident that he will be as integral to Saga Holidays’ future, as he was in its past, and is the right person to lead its transformation.”

For more news, see cruise-adviser.com CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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Promotion

The bucket list destination that doubles as the cruise gateway to Southeast Asia Singapore is the homeport for numerous cruise lines and, with so much to see and do, it is the perfect place to spend a few days before or after a cruise A melting pot of cultures, Singapore is where wildlife and futuristic architecture co-exist; a city of historic sites, Michelin-starred hawker food, iconic hotels and lush parks.

A British trading post in the 19th century, today it is one of the world’s most important cruise ports and the gateway to Southeast Asia – a region of unparalleled experiences. Here’s why it should be the top of your clients’ bucket list, whether they are looking for culture, adventure or relaxation.

hilltop park with spectacular views via the HarbourFront cable car; explore the incredible Gardens by the Bay, 250 acres where more than one million plants grow; or ride the white-knuckle Skyline Luge in Sentosa. With its distinct cultural precincts – from Little India to Kampong Glam – Singapore is an incredible destination for foodies.

For an authentic experience, head to the Chinatown Complex food centre, home to Michelin-starred street hawker Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle.

What to see and do

Ports

Singapore, a city state in Southeast Asia, packs a lot of punch into its 724 sq km. From Raffles, the iconic hotel where the Singapore Sling cocktail was invented, which re-opened following a multi-million pound refurbishment last year, to a series of immersive Passion Tours that cover everything from kayak fishing to food walks, there is something for everyone. Head to Mount Faber, a

Singapore is home to two cruise ports. Marina Bay Cruise Centre (MBCCS), which can accommodate the world’s largest cruise ships, is located centrally and about 20 minutes from Changi Airport, a major hub. Singapore Cruise Centre (singaporecruise.com.sg), the country’s original terminal, handles around 1.4m cruise passengers annually and is close to the city centre

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

17

and Sentosa Island, where you will find hotels, restaurants, beaches and parks, including Universal Studios Singapore and Mega Adventure.

The terminal is also 20 minutes from the airport.

Cruise and stay

From epic ex-UK sailings to world cruises and Asian mini-breaks, Singapore is the cruise capital of Asia and with dozens of lines home porting there, making it the perfect place to spend a few days before or after your cruise. For more information on destination attractions and itineraries, see visitsingapore.com.

Singapore Tourism Board can support cruise agents in developing and marketing cruise packages with a minimum stay period in Singapore before or after the cruise sailing, via the Cruise Development Fund.

For further enquiries please write to maria_pangoli@stb.gov.sg

February 2020 | Forward

INCENTIVES

Win a place at the celebration party for Enchanted Princess

Princess Cruises is running a competition for agents to win a place at the inaugural celebrations of their new ship Enchanted Princess in Southampton on June 30 .

All you have to do is make any booking on the Best Value Package, which includes drinks, wi-fi and gratuities, up until March 2 and register the booking on surveymonkey.co.uk/r/

enchantedprincess. Terms and conditions apply.

Enchanted Princess is the fifth of the line’s Royal-class ships, and will feature the most pools and whirlpool hot tubs on the line’s ships as well as the Sky Suite, which boasts expansive views from the largest balcony at sea.

It will depart for Rome on its maiden voyage on July 1.

Clia to host visit to the Meyer Werft shipyard Clia will host a visit to the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany on Friday, March 13.

As well as the opportunity to hear from the shipyard representatives, the visit will include an exclusive guided tour of the building hall where attendees will see the P&O Cruises’ Iona, Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas and Saga’s Spirit of Adventure under construction.

The shipyard is also currently home to AIDA Cruises’ AIDAcosma and Disney Cruise Lines’ Disney Wish, both in the earlier stages of construction, due for delivery in 2021.

Andy Harmer, Clia UK & Ireland director, said: “This is the first time that Clia has hosted a shipyard visit of this kind, offering our agent members a unique opportunity to see five cruise ships as they undergo construction. For the UK market, this is a particularly special visit as attendees will be some of the first to see Saga’s Spirit of Adventure and P&O Cruises’ Iona.”

The visit is open to Clia travel agents in the UK, Ireland and across Europe, with limited spaces available.

For further details and to register, Clia agents can visit cruiseexperts. org/clia-agents/uk-ireland-events.

The best of the rest…

Carnival Cruise Line is offering a ‘20 Days of Prizes’ booking incentive until February 12. Each day, the line will reward its top booking agency/ agent with a prize. Additionally, throughout February, agents can earn 20 points/£20 per booking with the top 20 bookers bagging themselves a place on Carnival Cruise Line’s annual travel agent trip to Ibiza. Agents must claim their reward within the month of booking. To register for the Loyalty Rocks Club, agents should visit LoyaltyRocksClub.com.

Throughout February, agents can earn £75 per booking thanks to Crystal Cruises’ brand new agent incentive. The offer is valid for any 2020 Mediterranean sailing booked between February 1 and 29.

Silversea are offering agents 50 points – which equates to a £50 gift voucher – for making a booking on any 2020 voyage.

Titan is doubling its voucher giveaway for all bookings made between February 1 and February 29. Agents will receive £40 for every

long-haul booking and £20 for shorthaul. There is also the chance to win a £4,000 Titan holiday voucher.

Finally, throughout the month, agents booking any 2020 cruise with Paul Gauguin Cruises will earn a £100 Lifestyle voucher. There is no limit to the number of bookings, so the more cruises agents book, the more money they can earn. All bookings must be made between February 1 and 29, 2020.

For contacts see Directory on p49 CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

18

Alaska, by Cunard.

Breathtaking scenic voyages, immersive Alaska experiences and unforgettable Cunard style.

Additional money to spend on board and a low 5% deposit* 5% Cunard World Club saving on Alaska 2021 voyages booked by 2 March 2020 Complimentary upgrades on Alaska voyages.

Example fares: Alaska, including Glacier Bay 10 nights 21 – 31 Jul 2020

Q022

Alaska, including Glacier Bay 10 nights 29 Aug – 8 Sep 2020

Q026N

Alaska, including Glacier Bay 12 nights 21 Jun – 3 Jul 2021

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Cunard Fares from £1,399pp Includes a complimentary upgrade to an Oceanview stateroom and $150pp complimentary money to spend on board

Cunard Fares from £1,399pp Includes a complimentary upgrade to an Oceanview stateroom and $150pp complimentary money to spend on board

Cunard Fares from £1,499pp Includes a complimentary upgrade to an Oceanview stateroom and $150pp complimentary money to spend on board

A = Anchor Port PA = Possible Anchor Port LE = Late Evening Departure ✈ = Pre- and/or Post-cruise flight Destinations in bold denote the embarkation and disembarkation ports. Destinations in italics are Cruise By/Transit Only.

Win a place on an Alaska Fam trip. Visit shinerewardsclub.com for full details.

Visit shinerewardsclub.com for more information and full terms and conditions. *Available on voyages of 7 nights or more, booked between 18 December 2019 and 2 March 2020, excludes 2021 Full World Voyages, Early Saver and Saver fares.

February 2020 | Forward

INTERVIEW

“We have always been able to dial into trends…”

As they introduce two new ships and hook up with Gary Barlow, P&O Cruises’ Paul Ludlow and Alex Delamere-White talk success with Sam Ballard P&O Cruises is a company in transition. Over the next five years the line’s fleet will increase by 55 per cent as it introduces two of the biggest ships to ever be based in the UK. The first of them, Iona, is due to be delivered in the next few months.

The 5,200-guest ship will come with a raft of features that are new to P&O, from the SkyDome entertainment venue, to new food concepts and spaces for music – including a recently announced partnership with Gary Barlow. cruise adviser sat down with P&O’s president Paul Ludlow and Alex Delamere-White, vice president of sales & distribution.

What does Iona mean to P&O? Paul Ludlow: P&O Cruises represents the best of Britain. It always reflects the Britain of the day. And I think that’s one of the reasons why we’ve been so successful, we have always

been able to dial into trends, consumer habits and people’s desires in order to reflect a holiday to them which they are going to enjoy. Iona continues to allow us to be really relevant. It allows us to create stories to give people memories that they’re going to treasure and we’ve got enormous amount of momentum as a brand at the moment. We’re the UK market leader. We’ve had an incredible 2019 and with stories such as Iona and her sister ship in 2022 we can just keep that momentum going and ensure that we continue to create holidays that people are going to love.

What about for the wider sector?

PL: It creates excitement for the sector, undoubtedly. Things such as our reveal of Gary Barlow show that the sector moves at a pace like no other. People are innovating, people are evolving in a way which continues to create

incredible consumer excitement.

And so, yes, P&O cruises is doing fantastically well, but all of the stories that this sector creates help to stimulate demand and the growth the sector has seen in the last 10 years has been like no other sector in the UK holiday market. The reason why we’ve been so successful is because we keep innovating. The value that consumers get from a cruise holiday is like no other and, because they can trust us, they keep coming back.

Why did you guys choose Gary Barlow? What was it about him?

PL: For so many reasons. We share some characteristics. The first one of which is that we’re British.

The second one is that we have a multigenerational appeal. A 10-yearold will love our holidays and love Gary Barlow and my grandma will love our holidays and love Gary Barlow. He

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February 2020 | Forward

is universally loved and I believe that we are, too. We’ve got this longevity of over 180 years and, when you start bringing together some of the aspects of our two brands, it just fits so well.

When it comes to the trade, how have you engaged with them?

Alex Delamere-White: We have had a huge amount of engagement in Iona since the outset. We have talked about it ever since we revealed the name in May 2018 and have been building excitement within the trade since then. That’s been reflected in the performance: Iona is the most successful launch in P&O Cruises’ history. The month we started selling, September 2018, was the best month ever for travel agent sales. The success of Iona has been a mutual effort between us and the trade. The trade continue to be our most significant route of distribution and Iona would not have been as successful without their incredible support. We’ve done some really cool stuff with training and engagement for the whole trade, but we’ve also been focused with our Iona Insiders – a group of six agents who were selected through a competition to be the ambassadors of our new ship. We’ve taken them out to the fjords to experience shore excursions, we’ve taken them to the Canaries where Iona will be sailing in the winter and they were part of our brand announcements. Travel agents now have a strong understanding of what Iona is about, what will make it different. This is a transformational time for the brand and I hope that is being reflected in what we’re doing.

Clockwise from top left: P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow, vice president of sales & distribution; the interior of Iona; Alex Delamere-White; P&O’s brand new 5,200-capacity ship Iona

What is the feature you’re most looking forward to seeing on Iona?

PL: The triple-height atrium. There is a coffee shop where you will be adjacent to a glass window, where you will be able to watch the world go by. That’s going to be amazing.

ADW: For me it’s the SkyDome. The space it occupies is unprecedented.

It will cover three floors, it is somewhere to go swimming in the day and partying in the evening. In one venue it will sum up everything we’re trying to do with Iona.

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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February 2020 | Forward

PORTS OF CALL

Abu Dhabi Jane Archer on the United Arab Emirates city, which has reinvented itself as a go-to cruise hub What a difference a decade makes.

Back in 2010 Abu Dhabi was a bit player in the cruise world, a city a few ships had started to visit on new voyages around the Arabian Gulf, but with attractions barely stretching beyond a spectacular mosque and the region’s ubiquitous 4WD desert Jeep tours it was not top of anyone’s must-go list.

Fast forward to 2019 and it’s a very different picture. Inspired by the growth of those Gulf cruises – and probably just a little bit envious of all the attention cruise lines were lavishing on Dubai – Abu Dhabi, one of seven members of the United Arab Emirates, has reinvented itself.

These days cruisers can spend their day ashore visiting world-class museums, getting their thrills on the world’s biggest, tallest, fastest, highest and longest roller coasters and climbing walls in a variety of adventure parks, or shopping for high-end goods in glitzy malls.

At the same time as stepping up excitement in the city, the emirate has developed the nearby island of Sir Bani Yas to offer a nature and wildlife alternative to the mainland’s cultural and activity offerings, where 4WD safaris go in search of oryx, gazelles, giraffes and more, and visitors can relax on a beach, go snorkelling, sailing or kayaking.

The result has been spectacular.

Between 2010 and 2019, cruise ship calls leapt from 10 to 193, while passenger numbers soared from 33,000 to 518,000. That number is forecast to rise to 556,440 in 2020 as P&O Cruises and Marella Cruises resume sailings in the Gulf alongside regulars including MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Costa Cruises, and occasional visitors

such as Silversea, Norwegian Cruise Line and Crystal Cruises.

Ships dock at Mina Zayed (passengers must take a free shuttle bus to get out of the port) with a view of the fabulous glass and steel highrise buildings that line the corniche and inspired the emirate’s nickname of Manhattan of the East.

Stunning architecture is something of a theme in Abu Dhabi. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, an offshoot of the eponymous museum in Paris, opened on Saadiyat Island on November 11, 2017 and is extraordinary, with a low-slung dome that sits on a collection of white buildings that contain hundreds of works of art.

Then there is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a grand white marble building that has become the symbol of Abu Dhabi since opening in 2007.

It’s big enough to hold more than 41,000 worshippers and beautiful to look at but a peek inside is a must (all sexes must be covered up; an abaya will be provided if needed).

Both the museum and mosque are on the green route of a hop-on, hop-off bus that stops close to the port entrance and loops around to Yas Island, the fun capital of the city, where petrol heads can have behindthe-scenes tours of Abu Dhabi’s Grand Prix race track and those with a head for heights can go to Clymb and skydive in the world’s tallest chamber (32m high) or scale the world’s tallest indoor climbing wall (43m high).

At nearby Ferrari World theme park, the world’s fastest roller coaster goes from zero to 240kmh in 4.9 seconds, the world’s highest roller coaster loop is 63m up in the air and Turbo Track zooms straight up, then falls back down to earth. Say hello to zero gravity. There are also simulator

22

February 2020 | Forward and fairground rides, and a go-kart track for those who prefer something a little calmer.

Warner Bros World has themed Batman, Riddler, Justice League and Wile E Coyote coasters and 5D battles that have their victims spinning, dropping, rocking and swooping (there are also plenty of more gentle rides in the company of The Flintstones and Scooby-Doo).

In Yas Waterworld, a wet and wild adventure awaits on water slides, rapids rides, in a wave pool, surf park, and more. A suspended roller coaster – Bandit Bomber, the longest in the Middle East – promises a splash-tastic time.

Cruisers who prefer their day to be less fast and furious can take the Big Bus red route and call into the city’s Heritage Village, where a souk, mosque and pottery, glass-blowing and weaving workshops reflect the more traditional aspects of life in the emirate.

The route also stops at Qasr Al Hosn, a fort-cum-museum that charts the emirate’s transformation from a fishing village to a modern metropolis, Abu Dhabi Mall and the opulent Emirates Palace Hotel, where foreign dignitaries stay when they are visiting. Afternoon tea here is always popular. Lines including MSC, P&O and Marella offer it among a range of other tours.

THREE ABU DHABI CRUISES Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar

Dubai and the Arabian Gulf

Arabian Nights 2

MSC Cruises – MSC Seaview Doha (round-trip) December 10, 2020 From £639pp (cruise-only)

P&O Cruises – Oceania Dubai (round-trip) October 29, 2020 From £1,366pp (including flights)

Marella Cruises – Celebration Dubai (round-trip) December 16, 2020 From £1,358pp (including flights)

The Louvre and a backstage tour of the F1 circuit are among the tours on offer as the new MSC Seaview meets the glitzy skyscrapers of Abu Dhabi on oneweek cruises round-trip from Qatar.

Returning to the Middle East in the autumn with a season of cruises that visit Abu Dhabi and Sir Bani Yas Island.

Choose this 14-night itinerary to get two days in the emirate.

Returning to the Gulf in winter 2020/21 with one-week cruises that give passengers 11 hours to explore Abu Dhabi. Doha, Oman and an overnight in Dubai complete the cruise.

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ISSUE FOUR

F E ATU R E S | R O O M S E RVICE MENU | SHORE EXCUR SIONS

ISSUE ONE

GLOBE

Explore

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

Issue One

December 2016

M A R C H 2018

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

FJORD FOCUS A JOURNEY TO WEST NORWAY

See waterfront-publishing.com

Jeannine Williamson joins CroisiEurope in the heart of Prague, before exploring the lesser-known Elbe en route to Berlin PLUS 10 OF THE BEST WILDLIFE CRUISES EXCLUSIVE RITZ-CARLTON INTERVIEW CRUISE & MARITIME VOYAGES IN AMSTERDAM

BRILLIANT BANGKOK INFOCUS: INTREPID COACH VS CRUISE HOW TO SELL: SOLO TRAVEL

WHY THE THAI CAPITAL IS SO MUCH MORE THAN A BACKPACKER HAVEN

CRUISE & MORE HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME

ON THE HORIZON THE LATEST CRUISE NEWS

EMERALD WATERWAYS AN IN-DEPTH LOOK

WONDERFUL WORLD FOUR BUCKET-LIST STOPS

ACTIVE

Witness the fitness Sara Macefield joins Avalon Waterways for an Active & Discovery sailing on the Danube, which proves to be a lot more exhausting – and rewarding – than the usual sedate saunter along the river

The author enjoys a rest in Vienna’s Volksgarten park and (right) a hike up the steep hills lining the Danube

I know onlookers are laughing at me, but I’m aching too much to care.

I’ve spent the last hour pounding Vienna’s streets during a jogging tour and, on spotting a tempting patch of grass between the pretty flowerbeds of the city’s Volksgarten park, I stretch out for a few relaxing minutes.

Admittedly, I’m hamming it up for a jokey picture, but it’s a heavenly respite for my screaming muscles and I’m reluctant to move as our super-fit guide Dominic pushes on.

I’ve never jogged in my life and on several occasions during our 5.6km pre-breakfast run, I rather regret signing up.

But I’d been intrigued by such a novel excursion, and it proves to be an ideal way to explore Vienna’s stately streets, its pristine parks and glorious Baroque architecture, which help to distract me from feeling as though I’m about to collapse.

I note, wryly, that my two running mates and our two guides seem to be handling this much better and are barely out of breath – but then, they are all experienced joggers, so my advice to anyone wanting to get the most out of this tour is to be fit or get in training.

That had been my original intention on spotting such a fleetfooted option in the list of shore excursions on this Avalon Waterways Active & Discovery Danube sailing.

I’ve been on numerous river cruises, but the choice of pursuits on this voyage from Budapest to Linz is impressive and easily the most varied I’ve seen.

Each day brings a choice of tours designated as Active (hiking, biking or canoeing) and Discovery (winetasting, behind-the-scenes “insider” tours), as well as Classic (coach tours, museum visits and beer-tasting).

Such a selection means that, even though I’ve cruised this section of the Danube four times (most recently just three months before), I enjoy a new set of experiences that give this sailing on Avalon Impression a completely contrasting flavour. Price isn’t an issue either as most tours are included, which is another bonus.

Having found my jogging legs, I then step out on my first hiking trip on a 5km trek up the steep hills lining the Danube.

Rather over-confidently, I join the advanced group, which turns out to be an experienced bunch who make short work of the steep paths.

It leaves me puffing to keep up, but the far-reaching views over the river make the effort worthwhile.

My favourite exertion is an idyllic 20km cycle ride from Krems to Spitz that takes us along deserted roads through vast vineyards and on to

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February 2020 | Midship

the cycle path that runs along the Danube’s banks.

We’re hitting a decent pace, which underlines that the clientele on this voyage are a world away from the traditional image of river cruisers.

Most of the 139 guests are American or Canadian, with a handful of Brits and Australians, and many seem younger than average. They are definitely fitter and this contributes to the active feel of this voyage, although this isn’t a prerequisite as there are non-sporty activities to try.

Such exertions also leave me with a slightly clearer conscience when it comes to tucking into three meals a day as well as the free accompanying wine that is generously dispensed by the helpful crew.

The buffet breakfasts and lunches are appetising enough, although I would have welcomed a wider choice, and the four-course dinners

are good rather than outstanding.

Particular highlights are the grilled beef tenderloin and pumpkin soup, which is so good that it leaves a lasting impression.

Life onboard is well organised and sociable, but I relish the haven of my Panorama Suite with its vast floor to ceiling windows that pull back to create a French balcony, and as my bed faces the windows, it’s an ideal spot to recover from exertions while admiring the passing views.

There isn’t time to try everything on offer. I regret not opting for a canoeing trip and, following my jogging stint, I decline the early morning runs with the onboard “adventure host”, although his yoga sessions offer a much more soothing alternative.

Walking tours offer a relaxing contrast, too, and Avalon Impression’s overnight stop in Vienna brings

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me into the city for a more restful exploration on our second day there on an early-morning stroll that takes us into deserted streets before the tourist hordes descend.

It’s my fourth visit, yet I see this imperial city with new eyes as our guide leads up Pied Piper-like into tiny winding passageways, hidden squares and ornate churches.

The high point comes when, with our stomachs rumbling, we’re led into a traditional Viennese coffee-house where laden breakfast tables welcome us with freshlybaked bread rolls with slices of ham and cheese, accompanied by pots of steaming hot coffee.

With my aching legs a constant reminder of my earlier experience, just 24 hours before, I’m relishing this relaxed pace and, even better, I can tuck into this delicious spread knowing that I’ve earned it.

FREE AT SEA OFFERS TO CHOOSE FROM...

OPEN BAR Your customers will enjoy a wide selection of soft drinks, spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass and bottled or draft beer served in all bars, lounges and restaurants throughout their cruise.

SPECIALITY DINING PACKAGE# There‘s no better way to enjoy a wide selection of unique dining experiences! Customers can dine in Teppanyaki, Le Bistro, Cagney’s Steakhouse and more.

WIFI PACKAGE** They’ll enjoy up to 250 minutes WiFi per stateroom, so they can stay connected at sea and share holiday moments with friends and family back home.

SHORE EXCURSION CREDIT Make the most of time ashore with US$50 shore excursion credit per stateroom, per port of call.

ALWAYS INCLUDED

UNRIVALLED DINING EXPERIENCES

AWARD-WINNING ENTERTAINMENT

From buffets with livecooking stations to pan-Asian restaurants, as well as up to three main dining rooms with daily changing menus and à la carte service.

Your customers can catch a fully-staged Broadway blockbuster, a fabulous production show, live bands and singers, comedy, and dance the night away in clubs.

ONBOARD FACILITIES

FAMILY CRUISING

Thrilling, multi-slide Aqua Parks, challenging ropes courses, exciting Go Kart tracks^ and challenging climbing walls, sports courts and state-of-the-art gyms.

We bring the best family holiday ever with actionpacked, complimentary youth programmes, flexible family accommodation and fun activities all over our ships.

^Upgrade charge depends on cruise length. £99pp is applicable for cruises of 7-9 days. For full terms and conditions please visit AGENTS-UK.NCL.EU. #Number of meals subject to the length of the cruise. **Number of minutes subject to the length of the cruise. ^Not available on all ships. 7353.6.1.20

2019 EUROPE’S LEADING EUROPE’S LEADING CRUISE LINE CRUISE LINE 2008 – 2019

12 YEARS IN A ROW www.worldtravelawards.com

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SIX SHIPS IN EUROPE Europe’s looking fabulous this year – NCL has six ships sailing the Med and Northern Europe including the amazing Norwegian Escape cruising the Baltic Sea from Copenhagen and Norwegian Getaway sailing from Rome to the Greek Isles & Italy.

SEE BELOW FOR OUR HIGHLIGHTS – FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK, CALL 0333 336 2915 OR VISIT AGENTS-UK.NCL.EU

NORWEGIAN EPIC 7-DAY WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN FROM BARCELONA Sailing various dates from May to November 2020 Florence/Pisa (Livorno)

Cannes

•

•

Barcelona

Rome

• (Civitavecchia) •Naples

• •

Palma, Majorca Mediterranean Sea

NORWEGIAN ESCAPE

Corfu, Greece

NORWEGIAN DAWN

9-DAY SCANDINAVIA, RUSSIA & BALTIC

7-DAY GREEK ISLES FROM VENICE Sailing June to October 2020

FROM COPENHAGEN Sailing various dates from May to October 2020

•Venice Split Ad ria tic Se a

•

Helsinki

Stockholm (Nynashamn)

• • Berlin

Balt ic S ea

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• •St. Petersburg •Tallinn

• Kotor • Corfu

Argostoli, • Kefalonia •Mykonos •Santorini Mediterranean Sea

(Warnemünde)

NORWEGIAN GETAWAY 10-DAY GREEK ISLES & ITALY FROM ROME (CIVITAVECCHIA) Sailing various dates from May to November 2020 Rome (Civitavecchia) Florence/Pisa (Livorno)

• •

Mediterranean Sea

Naples Dubrovnik

••Kotor • •Corfu

•Mykonos •Santorini

St. Petersburg, Russia *The 30% Off promotion applies to the total voyage fare (including the non-commissionable fare) for cruise only bookings on all open sailings made between 4 Berlin, Germany and 10 February 2020 inclusive for all guests in qualifying staterooms. For full terms and conditions, please see AGENTS-UK.NCL.EU.

REPOSITIONALS

Making the move Repositional cruises can offer unique itineraries for bargain prices.

Anthony Pearce looks at some of the most interesting options

February 2020 | Midship

Repositional cruises can take in a variety of routes and destinations such as; Lisbon, Portugal, Montevideo, Uruguay, Barcelona, Spain, and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico

As you might expect, a repositional (or repositioning cruise) is an itinerary that moves a ship from one region to another. While some ships plot a path across the world, from one destination to the next, the overwhelming majority leave and return to a seasonal homeport.

That might be a seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Rome, then seven nights from Rome to Venice, back again to Rome, then Barcelona. The ship might then head back the same way, or head on another route. This is particularly true of the Caribbean, where ships sail from Florida down to the islands and back again. But, at the end of a season, as winter approaches, the ships will be moved to a different part of the world – perhaps from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean; Alaska to South America; or Antarctica to the Arctic, creating some of the lengthiest and most unique itineraries.

Given the costs of operating a ship, cruise lines don’t like to sail without passengers on board and will avoid it if possible, hence these sailings.

They’re not always flagged as ‘repositional’ though – you’ll sometimes see them as ‘taster’, ‘discovery’ or transatlantic voyages (although, of course, Cunard specialises in transatlantic voyages year-round), but they’re relatively easy to spot. In this feature, we’re not just talking about open-ended cruises, but those between-season sailings that open up new destinations.

It’s not always the case, but they can often be snapped up for a decent price. For those with smaller budgets but a desire to do something a little bit different, and the luxury of a lot of time, they’re a great bet, although flights from two different destinations can push the price up considerably.

Here we look at some of the best 2020 and 2021 options.

Silversea has a number of exceptional repositional cruises, including a Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon itinerary on Silver Shadow (March 27, 2020 from £3,900pp), but the one that really caught our eye was a 20-night sailing from the tip of South America across the South Atlantic Ocean to South Africa. Departing from Ushuaia on February 28, 2020 this Silver Cloud sailing takes in the Falkland Islands and then spends three full days (four nights) in South Georgia, one of the most incredible destinations on earth for wildlife and home to millions of penguins.

Calls here are usually limited to longer Antarctica cruises, but not the standard voyages. For customers who have already taken in the Antarctica peninsula, but not South Georgia, this cruise makes a lot of sense (from £11,800pp).

Poseidon Expeditions repositions its ship, Sea Spirit, on a March 18, CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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2020 sailing from Montevideo, the fascinating capital of Uruguay, across the Atlantic to Cape Verde, arriving April 4 with no other stops on the way (from £1,800pp).

Uniquely, Windstar Cruises has repositional coastal cruises, which are shorter than most voyages listed here.

Its seven-day Puerto Vallarta to San Diego cruise transfers from Mexico to the West Coast of America allowing guests to follow in the footsteps of John Steinbeck and Jacques Cousteau by exploring the Baja peninsula’s historic mission towns and wildliferich Sea of Cortez (from $1,499pp).

Ponant has a 15-day cruise on Le Boréal, departing on April 25, 2020 from Miami that arrives in Lisbon on May 9. Ports of call include Nassau, Bahamas; Saint George’s, Bermuda; and Horta and Ponta Delgada, Azores.

It includes nine days at sea – plenty of time to finish that book you’ve been putting off reading (from £2,714pp).

Azamara, unsurprisingly, has a couple of incredible repositionals.

Its 23-night Spice Route Voyage on Azamara Pursuit departs on May 27, 2021 from Singapore and heads to Greece via some unusual and fascinating ports. It calls at Hambantota and Colombo, Sri Lanka; Kochi, India; Salalah, Oman; Safaga and the Suez Canal, Egypt; Aqaba, Jordan; Ashdod, Israel; and Heraklion, Crete and Piraeus, for Athens (from £3,100pp).

Scenic takes the, er, scenic route on a voyage from Dublin to Boston on a 20-night sailing on September 8, 2021. Instead of heading across the Atlantic, Scenic Eclipse traverses the Arctic Circle, taking in Scotland, Iceland, Greenland and Canada’s Nova Scotia en route (from £14,955).

For those wanting to sail from the UK, Crystal Cruises has a 21-night Epic Atlantic Crossing from Dover to New York on Crystal Serenity on

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August 27, 2021 calling at Amsterdam (overnight), Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Honfleur (overnight), St Malo and Portland. It then returns to the UK at Southampton, heads to Cork and over to Boston and Cape Code. This cruise has two themes – film and theatre and golf (from £7,116pp) Carnival Cruise Line has a 16-day transatlantic crossing from Barcelona to Tampa on Carnival Legend, which departs on October 30, 2020. It visits Malaga, Funchal Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Antigua, San Juan and Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic (from £869pp).

Royal Caribbean International also has an Anthem of the Seas 12-night transatlantic cruise on November 1, 2020 from the UK. The ship, back in the UK for the first time since its launch, departs from Southampton and takes in Azores, Bermuda, Cape Liberty and New Jersey (from £1,156pp).

1 edition. ÂŁ2.3m in revenue A single issue of Explore, a publication created for Advantage Travel Partnership by Waterfront, generated more than 600 bookings*. Find out about creating your own loyalty magazine by emailing info@waterfront-publishing.com

ISSUE FOUR

F E ATU R E S | R O O M S E RVICE MENU | SHORE EXCUR SIONS

ISSUE ONE

GLOBE

Explore

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

Issue One

December 2016

M A R C H 2018

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

FJORD FOCUS A JOURNEY TO WEST NORWAY

*Source: Travel Weekly, November 2017

Jeannine Williamson joins CroisiEurope in the heart of Prague, before exploring the lesser-known Elbe en route to Berlin PLUS 10 OF THE BEST WILDLIFE CRUISES EXCLUSIVE RITZ-CARLTON INTERVIEW CRUISE & MARITIME VOYAGES IN AMSTERDAM

BRILLIANT BANGKOK INFOCUS: INTREPID COACH VS CRUISE HOW TO SELL: SOLO TRAVEL

WHY THE THAI CAPITAL IS SO MUCH MORE THAN A BACKPACKER HAVEN

CRUISE & MORE HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME

ON THE HORIZON THE LATEST CRUISE NEWS

EMERALD WATERWAYS AN IN-DEPTH LOOK

WONDERFUL WORLD FOUR BUCKET-LIST STOPS

NORWAY

On top of the world

Gabrielle Sander joins Hurtigruten for a sailing into the Arctic Circle to see the northern lights‌ and a whole lot more

February 2020 | Midship We were five days in, traversing the inky fjords of northern Norway, between Trondheim and Kirkenes, when the announcement came; just as I was teasing a strip of king crab from its orange spiky shell, with a long, sharp implement.

“Ladies and gentlemen, if you go outside now, you will see the northern lights.”

Down went the claw, on went the coat, gloves and bobble hat at Supermarket Sweep-speed, and up and out I leapt to deck seven. The moment I’d been waiting for, had failed to achieve in Iceland a few years before, and been excited about for weeks leading up to this trip, was finally here.

Boy was it worth the wait.

A neon ribbon the colour of Slimer from Ghostbusters looped over the bow of the ship, flaming at the edges.

Seconds later, a bright red square skated swiftly from one end to the other, bursting above our heads like metal shavings being pulled by a magnet from underneath. It was so quick, so unreal, that I ducked – and joined the chorus of gasps. In Viking times, the northern lights were feared; it was thought they could scoop you up from life into death.

In that moment, it didn’t seem such a stretch of the imagination.

This was mid-October, nearing the end of Hurtigruten’s seven-day Classic Voyage North, and although it was peak aurora season (OctoberMarch), travelling to areas of Norway renowned for being excellent spotting grounds, seeing the lights was never guaranteed. For this reason, these trips can often feel like an expensive gamble. Not so with Hurtigruten. If the lights don’t appear the first time, they’ll offer you a free trip. There’s so much on this route to make your limbs prickle with goose pimples and your heart beat faster that heading back for a second chance wouldn’t necessarily be such a bad thing.

The route started in Bergen, the second largest city in Norway, known as the gateway to the fjords and for its colourful Unesco World Heritage wharf, Bryggen. From there the ship winds along 1,600km of fjords and sea, pulling into 34 port towns and cities, until reaching its final

Northern delights: (clockwise) the author enjoying the early afternoon sun in the North Cape; MS Nordnorge; the Children of the World sculpture at Nordkapphallen; the awe-inspiring aurora borealis

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February 2020 | Midship

destination, Kirkenes, in the extreme northeast of the country close to the Russian border.

It’s a journey Hurtigruten embarks on daily, throughout the year, and has done for over 125 years, since it began as a service for transporting mail, cargo and people between ports.

On MS Nordnorge, one of 12 in the fleet, we’re carrying frozen fish, snow blowers and vehicles in the hold; local and regional travellers, who hop on and off along the way, and holidaymakers like me (a mix of solo travellers, couples, small families, from all over: Germany, Canada, Wales, Australia, Japan), who have checked-in for the full-board experience. It feels less like a typical cruise and more of an adventure.

The ship pops along at a leisurely 14-18 knots (about 25-33kmh), perfect for soaking up the splendid Norwegian landscape. Something I do from the outside decks, through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Explorer Lounge, while tucking into egg and soldiers at breakfast, and from the comfort of my Mini Expedition Suite’s not at all mini bed.

By day, the fjords stretch out beneath endless blue skies, like silvery satin, meeting mountainous land dressed resplendently in autumnal colours. The further north we venture, the darker the water; the taller, more dramatic the mountains jutting from it. Their imposing silhouettes softening to reveal remote cabins, wind turbines, waterfalls and the occasional sea eagle, as the sun rises, like one of those mugs that unveil a hidden message when you add hot water. A little more snow peppers the peaks, the daylight dials to an almost perpetually rose-tinted glow. The temperature creeps down CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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February 2020 | Midship and the number of layers go up, until the final northerly stretch, from Tromsø to Kirkenes, when the scenery is at its most beautiful and arctic, and every one of my thermals has been summoned for duty.

Occasionally we pass another Hurtigruten ship or a fishing boat flocked with hundreds of birds vying for its catch. A remote village here and there, the twinkling, brightlypainted wooden houses, exuding ‘koselig’, the Norwegian equivalent of hygge. Otherwise we have this delicious wild way all to ourselves.

We stop at some ports just long enough to pick up new passengers, others where we have a whole day to join an optional excursion or do our own thing. At Trondheim, I took a sightseeing coach tour, taking in the Skansen Bridge, designed by the same structural engineer behind San Francisco’s Golden Gate, and Nidaros, the northernmost medieval cathedral in the world. In Bodø, while others donned waterproofs for the rib safari, I scouted out the souvenir shopping, but there’s not a lot to see in the town and I wished I’d booked the Arctic Coastal Walk as the photos looked amazing. In Stamsund, a fishing village in the Lofoten archipelago, an evening jaunt to the Viking Museum came with tales of ancient gods and lashings of sweet, potent mead. Best of all was the trip to the North Cape, the northernmost point in continental Europe, where the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans meet, where we drove through some of the most ethereal landscape I’ve ever seen, passed a lake bobbing with porpoises and took giant giddy footsteps in untracked snow, which sparkled under the dreamy pink light. In the summer, this area is a carpet of green; home to mink, otters and around 5,000 reindeer. It’s enough to induce anyone’s inner Greta Thunberg.

MS Nordnorge makes for comfortable travel between ports of call. A maximum capacity of 590 means it never feels crowded, and a complete refurbishment in 2016 means everything is polished and new. A sauna and two outdoor hot tubs add a touch of luxury and the rooms tick important boxes: powerful CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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February 2020 | Midship

Snow business: (clockwise) the town of Havøysund; the author at North Cape; Alaksan huskies at Tromsø Villmarksenter farm; a stop at Finnsnes; lunch with a pint of Hurtigruten lager; a snowman in the sun at North Cape

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showers, cosy beds, and drinking water on tap (literally).

The food throughout, is excellent, with huge breakfast and lunch buffets and a three-course set menu at dinner. The Hurtigruten Coastal Kitchen approach brilliantly reflects the area just travelled, through traditional dishes, and ingredients from ports along the way. The day we left Trondheim we tucked into the most delicious salmon I’ve ever tasted. It was landed that morning, and you could tell. Further up the coast, baked celery soup was topped with sausage from a producer in Tromsø. Arctic char (a cod-like fish exclusive to these waters) followed, picked up overnight when we docked into Sortland. The day we reached the North Cape was marked by a spectacular Nordkapp buffet including freshwater Lyngen fjord shrimps and Finnmark reindeer.

A daily schedule of onboard talks, presentations and films added further flavour. The nightly Norwegian Way of Life shared insight into destinations en-route, dished out with ladles of Norwegian dry wit, and there was a workshop on photographing the northern lights.

Regular ‘points of interest’ teased us outside, for commentary on the notable landmarks passing by: the Arctic Circle crossing; a 130-year-old lighthouse accompanied by bowls of fennel and beer-cooked blue mussels; a midnight sail through the Trollfjorden, a narrow pass hugged by steep mountains both sides, straight out of The Lord of the Rings, where we supped steamy cups of rum-spiked ‘troll juice’. Memorable moments I’ll reflect back on with as much fondness as dear aurora borealis.

THE KIMBERLEY

For true explorers

The Kimberley is a vast and rugged coastline shaped by the powerful forces of nature. Steeped in ancient cultures, it is one of the world’s most beautiful and remote wilderness areas.

Explore the best of the Kimberley with the Australian pioneers. Experience diverse wildlife, striking landscapes, rich history and ancient aboriginal cultures. Our expert guides and crew will share their unsurpassed knowledge and passion for this region forged from 24 years of expedition experience in the Kimberley. Come back after your adventures to your Australian-flagged ship and enjoy expansive public spaces, comfortable staterooms and regionally-inspired cuisine with Australian wines.

If you are curious about the world around you, and freedom from the crowds is your idea of luxury, Coral Expeditions is your cruise line. For 34 years, we have taken like-minded guests closer to remote cultures and nature, with personal service and warm Australian hospitality.

10 Nights > Departs Darwin and Broome April to September 2020 and 2021

REQUEST YOUR BROCHURE call +44 (0) 203 934 7170 visit www.coralexpeditions.com email explore@coralexpeditions.com

HOW TO SELL

Adventure cruise

SELLING TIP – Get to know all the options. There is no one-size-fits-all in adventure cruise

Jane Archer is the authority on all things cruise. This issue, she looks at some adventurous itineraries that will allow your clients to step out of their comfort zones

Soft adventure

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Full-on adventure

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River adventures

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Whether clients want a full-on adventure in remote corners of the world, or are just seeking to step out of their Caribbean comfort zone, there is a cruise to suit. True adventurers can earn their stripes in the polar regions, where there is no help just around the corner and testing trips ashore that only

the fit and able should attempt, but plenty of cruise holidays deliver excitement without pushing the boundaries. Some 44,000 people went on adventure cruises in 2018, according to Clia UK & Ireland. Many will be past passengers, but adventure cruises to distant lands, often only easily accessible by sea, are also a

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great way to introduce first-timers to the world of cruising. That, plus the lucrative commissions these cruises bring, makes getting to know adventure cruising a must for the trade. Turn the pages for some ocean-going options for soft and full-on adventure, as well as some exciting options for river cruisers.

February 2020 | Midship

Soft adventure A soft adventure cruise is perfect for clients tempted to move beyond the Med/Caribbean/Baltic triumvirate but not keen on extreme. There are plenty of cruises to chose from, with the Galápagos, the Kimberley and South Pacific all good options alongside those listed here. Clients will need to get in and out of inflatable Zodiacs and be able to walk a little on some itineraries, but all offer easy-to-enjoy adventures with no special skills or clothing required.

Going sailing Who? Star Clippers Where? Indonesia When? July 4 How long? Seven nights How much? From £1,430pp If sailing on a tall ship isn’t adventure enough, this voyage, which includes a morning seeking out dragons on Komodo Island, will be. Round-trip from Bali on the 170-passenger Star Clipper, there are opportunities to go snorkelling (included) and scuba diving (extra charge) most days.

Budding sailors can also climb the mast and help hoist the sails.

Small ship safari Who? Azamara Where? South Africa When? December 12 How long? Ten nights How much? From £1,457pp Azamara’s South African safari cruise, round-trip from Cape Town, is the

easy way to spy lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, hippos and more on trips to Kruger, Hluhluwe, Pumba and Addo game reserves from Richards’ Bay, Port Elizabeth and Durban.

The voyage is on the 694-passenger Azamara Journey. Prices include drinks and tips.

Inclusive luxury Who? Scenic Where? Latin America When? September 26 How long? 16 days How much? From £11,225pp including flights Clients can get up close to the incredible marine wildlife to be found in the waters of the Sea of Cortez in a seven-man submarine and veer off the Latin America tourist trail on calls into Guatemala, El Salvador and Nicaragua on this Scenic cruise on the 228-passenger expedition yacht Scenic Eclipse. Prices include drinks, shore excursions (sub costs extra), tips and wi-fi.

SELLING TIP – Match adventure cruise suggestions to your customer’s abilities

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Full-on adventure Clients don’t have to go far to get their kicks on a cruise, with any number of exciting activities to tap into in Norway, but if that doesn’t get the adrenalin flowing, voyages to remote spots where few have gone before can’t fail. The cruises aren’t cheap, but the value of memories such as skiing untended pistes and close-up views of polar bears is immeasurable. Clients must be fit, properly equipped and flexible as itineraries are weather dependent.

Antarctic adventures Who? Silversea Where? Antarctica When? December 1 How long? 10 days How much? From £9,900pp including flights Adventure meets luxury on this Silversea cruise to the White Continent, which has butlers to care for passengers when they return from walks ashore among penguins and kayaking around icebergs. The round-trip from Ushuaia, is on the 254-passenger Silver Cloud. Includes drinks, expeditions, tips and wi-fi.

Active adventures Who? Hurtigruten Where? Norway When? October 18 How long? 12 days How much? From £1,349pp including charter flights There’s plenty to excite the true adventurer on

this expedition along the Norwegian coast with Hurtigruten, including optional skiing, snowshoeing, fast boat rides and kayaking tours.

The voyage, from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, is on the 590-passenger expedition ship Nordlys.

A winter activity pass costs from £494pp.

Aleutian adventures Who? Crystal Cruises Where? Aleutian Islands When? August, 4 2021 How long? 15 nights How much? From £12,622pp If adventure means going off grid, this cruise from Seward in Alaska to Anadyr in Russia is hard to beat.

Passengers can expect ghost towns, volcanoes, rare birds and seals as they visit remote islands in the little-known Bering Sea. It’s on Crystal Endeavor, the 200-passenger expedition yacht Crystal is launching in August. Includes drinks, speciality dining, some excursions, tips and wi-fi.

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SELLING TIP – Ensure clients’ travel insurance covers the activities that they want to do

February 2020 | Midship

River adventures As travellers get more adventurous, it stands to reason that river cruisers will increasingly be looking to inject more excitement in their holidays. A few lines have upped their game in Europe with active-themed cruises and excursions, but for a real adventure clients need to be directed further afield, to Asia and South America, where river ships are small, and trips ashore mean hiking through jungle, sailing down rapids and riding on rickshaws.

Exploring India Who? Heritage River Journeys Where? The Ganges When? October 10 How long? 11 nights How much? From US$4,480pp Cruising the Ganges dips into life in India away from the big cities on visits to remote villages, forgotten temples and ageing palaces. This itinerary, on the 56-passenger Bengal Ganga, pairs a cruise between Kolkata and Munger with two nights in Varanasi, the holiest city in Hinduism. Includes guided tours and sightseeing by rickshaw.

Exploring the Amazon Who? Uniworld River Cruises Where? Peruvian Amazon When? October 21 How long? 11 days How much? From 11,799pp including flights

This is one for nature lovers, who will spend seven nights on the upper Amazon exploring the jungle, visiting markets and looking out for pink dolphins.

New from Uniworld this year, the cruise is on the 32-passenger Aria Amazon round-trip from Nauta (Iquitos).

Exploring Laos Who? Pandaw Where? Laos When? August 22 How long? 10 nights How much? From £3,335.40pp It’s not often that the river itself is thrilling, but it is on a Mekong cruise in Laos, where captains navigate rapids and dock on muddy banks. This cruise, downstream from Chiang Saen to Vientiane, is on the 26-passenger Champa Pandaw and includes guided trips to waterfalls, small villages, markets and museums. There’s no single supplement on this for adventurous solo travellers.

SELLING TIP – Sell adventure cruises to past passengers and cruise first-timers

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February 2020 | Aft

DIRECTORY Got a cruise query? Let us assist you.

The cruise adviser directory provides you with the vital contact details for all major cruise lines operating in the UK – meaning trade sales support is never more than a phone call away

CRUISE LINES!

Information missing or out of date?

Email info@cruise-adviser.com

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February 2020 | Aft Celebrity Cruises Nicola McNeish, head of sales – planning & activation 07919 540017 mcneish@celebritycruises.com

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A-Rosa River Cruises Simon McDermott, business development manager 07340 719746 simon.mcdermott@arosa-cruises.co.uk

Celestyal Cruises Jo Reid, UK and Ireland country manager 07368 207 881 J.reid@celestyalcruises.uk

Amadeus River Cruises Sukie Rapal, head of river 0800 035 0237 sales@americancruiselines.co.uk

Coral Expeditions Amy Sharpe, UK sales manager 020 3934 7170 UKSales@coralexpeditions.com

AmaWaterways Jamie Loizou, sales, marketing and digital director 033 3305 3902 jamieloizou@amawaterways.com

Cosmos Janet Parton, sales director 020 8315 4545 agencysales@cosmos.co.uk

American Cruise Lines Sukie Rapal, head of river 0800 035 0237 sales@americancruiselines.co.uk American Queen Steamboat Company Rupert Thomson, managing director 01223 568 904 r.thomson@aqgsa.com

CroisiEurope John Fair, sales director 020 8328 1281 jfair@croisieurope.com

APT Touring Jessica Shelton-Agar, national sales manager 01494 736 147/07584 057 341 jessica.shelton-agar@aptouring.co.uk

Cruise & Maritime Voyages Lisa Jacobs, head of trade sales 0844 414 6140 lisa.jacobs@cruiseandmaritime.com

Aurora Expeditions Talia Schwartzman, sales executive +61 2 9252 1033 agents@auroraexpeditions.co.uk Craig Upshall, sales director UK/Europe 07824 305 232 craig@auroraexpeditions.co.uk

Crystal Cruises Mick Dupont, head of UK sales 020 7399 7602 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk Cruising Excursions Kirsty Bachelor, trade sales manager 07784 357977 Kirsty.Bachelor@cruisingexcursions.com

Avalon Waterways Janet Parton, sales director 020 8315 4545 agencysales@avaloncruises.co.uk

Cunard Line Victoria Snelgar, business manager – sales operations 07773 253 279 victoria.snelgar@cunard.co.uk

Azamara Lori Scanella, business support executive 01932 834 379 salessupport.uk@rccl.com

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Disney Cruise Line Juliet Holden, account executive 080 0171 2317 juliet.holden@disney.com

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Belmond Yann Guezennec, worldwide director of sales & marketing, trains & cruises 020 3117 1395 yann.guezennec@belmond.com

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Emerald Waterways Lewis Quigley, trade marketing executive 0161 233 1988 lewis.quigley@scenic.co.uk

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Carnival Cruise Line Luke Smith, head of UK & international sales 020 7378 4660 carnivalsalesuk@carnival.com

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February 2020 | Aft European Waterways Mark Robinson, sales and reservations manager 01753 598 555 sales@europeanwaterways.com

Lucy Harris, business development representative 0344 338 8600 lucy.harris@hollandamerica.co.uk Hurtigruten Anthony Daniels, UK general manager 020 8846 2666 anthony.daniels@hurtigruten.com

E-Waterways Joanna Paslawska, sales and marketing 0808 168 1458 salesuk@ewaterways.com Exotic Heritage Group Marco Rosa, UK representative 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com

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Intrepid Travel Andrew Turner, head of industry sales 080 8274 5719 ukbdm@intrepidtravel.com

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Far Horizon Sukie Rapal, head of river 0800 035 3189 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk

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JTA Travel Dave Green, managing director 0121 508 5567 dave.green@jtatravel.co.uk

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Geoff Ridgeon, head of sales 01473 746164 cruise.sales@fredolsen.co.uk

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Katarina Line Olivera Lesinger, head of UK & overseas +38 5 51 603 409 olivera@katarina-line.hr

Fred River Cruises Sukie Rapal, head of river 0800 035 3189 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk

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G Adventures Stuart Darnley, national sales manager 07964 983 842 sdarnley@gadventures.com

Latin Routes Jessica Dennison, director 020 8546 6222 info@latinroutes.co.uk

Great Rail Journeys Lindsay Dixon, head of trade sales 01904 527 180 lindsaydixon@greatrail.com

Leger Holidays Ashley Dellow, head of retail sales 01709 385 811 retail.sales@leger.co.uk Lindblad Expeditions Jacinta McEvoy vice-president global sales +1 212 261 9000 jacintam@expeditions.com

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Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Aishling McLoughlin, sales representative UK & Ireland 07852 488 471 aishling.mcloughlin@hl-cruises.com

Lotus Cruises Marco Rosa, UK representative 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com

Hebridean Island Cruises Lisa White, reservations manager 01756 704 704 lisa.white@hebridean.co.uk

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The Majestic Line Louisa Grant, cruise co-ordinator 01369 707951 louisa@themajesticline.co.uk

Heritage Line Joanna Paslawska, sales and marketing 0808 168 1458 salesuk@ewaterways.com

Manatee Amazon Explorer Joanna Paslawska, sales and marketing 0808 168 1458 salesuk@ewaterways.com

Holland America Line James Scott, business development representative 0344 338 8600 james.scott@hollandamerica.co.uk

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February 2020 | Aft Marella Cruises Andrew Isherwood, commercial support team 020 3451 2762 commercial.support@tui.co.uk

Paul Gaugin Mick Dupont, head of UK sales 020 7399 7602 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Mรถvenpick Cruises Marco Rosa, UK representative 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com

Pearl Seas Cruises Susan Shultz, director of sales +1 203 458 5280 susan.shultz@pearlseascruises.com

MSC Cruises Victoria Taylor, sales operations manager 020 7092 8182 ukinsidesales@msccruises.co.uk

Ponant Nabil Maillard, sales manager UK and Ireland 020 7092 6663 nmaillard@ponant.com

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Poseidon Expeditions Alexandra Prokopyeva, sales and marketing 020 3808 7787 sales@poseidonexpeditions.com

National Geographic Expeditions Simon Chambers, operations manager 0800 988 3369 sales@fredholidays.co.uk

Ports Direct Karl Lapage, managing director 0843 0843 003 karl@portsdirect.co.uk

Nicko Cruises Rupert Thomson, managing director 01223 568904 rupert@lightbluetravel.co.uk

Princess Cruises Natasha Lizardos, sales operations manager 02380 655658 natasha.lizardos@princesscruises.co.uk

Noble Caledonia Agency sales, 020 7752 0000 agencysales@noble-caledonia.co.uk

Pullmantur Cruises Simon Chambers, operations manager 0800 988 3369 sales@fredholidays.co.uk

Norwegian Cruise Line Eamonn Ferrin, VP & managing director for UK & Ireland 023 8124 5000 eferrin@ncl.com

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Quark Expeditions Christiane Bach, business development manager +1 416 645 8248 christiane.bach@quarkexpeditions.com

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Oceania Cruises Lisa Clarkson, national accounts manager 07809 351 545 LClarkson@OceaniaCruises.Com agency sales, 0345 505 1920 AgencySales@OceaniaCruises.Com

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises Caroline Moody, business development executive 023 8068 2283 agencysales@rssc.com Anna Salter, business development executive 023 8068 2283 agencysales@rssc.com

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P&O Cruises Brodie McIntosh, trade engagement manager 023 8065 5780 brodie.mcintosh@cunardpocruises.com

Riviera Travel Darren Mussell, agency sales assistant manager 01283 744 307 agencysales@rivieratravel.co.uk

Pandaw Sukie Rapal, head of river 020 8396 7320 uk@pandaw.com

Rocky Mountaineer Steven Harris, regional sales director 07970 519 164 sharris@rockymountaineer.com

Paukan Cruises Marco Rosa, UK representative 07973 876 967 marco@plateauinternational.com

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February 2020 | Aft Royal Caribbean International Trade support team 01932 834 379 salessupport.uk@rccl.com

Touchdown | Travel Industry Services Robbie White, head of cruise product 020 8607 3805 rwhite@touchdown.co.uk

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Travel2 Colin Currie, head of sales 07891 257 160 colin.currie@travel2.com

Saga Travel Sukina Fagg, national account manager 080 0074 8021 sukina.fagg@saga.co.uk

Travelsphere & Just You Sarah Weetman, head of trade sales 07748 843 244 sarah.weetman@travelsphere.co.uk

Scenic Lewis Quigley, trade marketing executive 0161 233 1988 lewis.quigley@scenic.co.uk

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Seabourn James Scott, business development representative 0344 338 8610 james.scott@seabourn.co.uk Lucy Harris, business development representative 0344 338 8610 lucy.harris@seabourn.co.uk

Uniworld Rachel Healey, national sales manager 07408 855 544 rachel.healey@uniworld.com

SeaCloud Anja Ringel, vice-president, international marketing and sales +49 40 3095 9217 aringel@seacloud.com

Variety Cruises Chris Lorenzo, managing director, Seafarer Cruises 020 8324 3114 info@seafarerholidays.co.uk

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Victoria Cruises Tom Antonucci, sales manager +1 212 818 1680 tom@victoriacruises.com

SeaDream Yacht Club Mark Schmitt, sales director 07904 068 407 mschmitt@seadream.com

Victory Cruise Lines Rupert Thomson, managing director 01223 568904 rupert@lightbluetravel.co.uk

Shearings Michael Bowers, national sales manager 01942 823 449 sales.support@shearings.com

Viking Cruises Andrew Schweitzer, key account manager (south) 07825 986 996 andrew.schweitzer@vikingcruises.com Jenny Wade, regional sales manager (north) 07966 995 012 jenny.wade@vikingcruises.com

Silversea Sales support 020 7340 0700 salesuk@silversea.com Star Clippers Danielle Dudley, UK sales manager 077 6585 2116 danielle@starclippers.co.uk

Volga Dream Sukie Rapal, head of river 0800 021 3186 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk

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Tauck UK country manager 080 0810 8020 tauckreservations@tauck.co.uk

Widgety Sandra Barnes-Keywood, head of sales 023 8042 8000 – opt 2 sandra@widgety.co.uk

Titan Travel Edwina Coppock, agency sales manager 012 9345 0726; 078 3465 2135 edwina.coppock@titantravel.co.uk

Windstar Cruises Sales team (The Cruise Line) 0800 852 7248 windstarUK@cruiseline.co.uk

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February 2020 | Aft

KNOWLEDGE

Know your... Brexit promises Cruise lines are offering guarantees amid the uncertainty. What do they mean?

The 2010s were a tumultuous decade – from the lingering effects of the 2008 financial crash to the Brexit vote and a trio of elections in four years.

Uncertainly in the UK and abroad has had a profound impact on European currencies. In 2015, the weakness of the euro, the result of the Eurozone debt crisis, saw the pound hit a seven-year high of €1.40; yet by April 2016 it had tumbled to €1.23 as the UK economy faltered under austerity and an EU referendum date was set. The pound has never properly recovered from the leave vote, and has continued to fall every time no deal seemed more likely.

In reality, the decade began as it ended (at around €1.18), with the mid-decade peak accentuating the fall, and the pound has rallied since the general election, but the closer we get to the end of 2020 without a trade deal with the EU in place the more volatile the currency is likely to become. That is bad news for both the industry and holidaymakers. This uncertainty has seen several cruise lines announce ‘Brexit promises’ – but what does that mean?

Scenic’s Brexit Assurance guarantee, according to the company,

means nothing will affect the price of holidays booked before December 31, achievable due to the all-inclusive nature of its product. P&O Cruises has a similar promise. It says that: guests will still be able to pay in pounds before and during the cruise to avoid currency fluctuations; still be able to sail from the UK and flights, taxes, meals and entertainment will remain included in the fare.

Fred Olsen said, similarly, onboard currency will be in pounds sterling; there will no additional costs due to Brexit after booking and paying your deposit; and, if the cruise is cancelled as a result of Brexit, it will refund the holiday plus offer an additional free cruise.

Colin Downing, managing director UK, Scenic Group, said that “pent-up demand” means 2020 has started well. “With Brexit almost behind us and reassurance from the government that all is back to normal across Europe in relation to EHIC cards, passports, driving licences and use of same gates at border check points, there is a welcome return in consumer confidence,” he said.

“Brits love to travel to Europe, and I believe that in addition to this renewed customer confidence, the

quality of our truly all-inclusive, fivestar best in class tours and cruises, along with our Brexit Assurance guarantee of no surcharges makes us stand out in the market. This is therefore driving our current performance,” Downing said.

However, for those who haven’t yet booked, or book with operators where on board prices are in dollars, any sterling collapse will mean more expensive holidays. Curiously, a recent survey found that, when it comes to the exchange rate, many holidaymakers were blissfully unaware of fluctuations. A survey of 500 consumers by payment advice service DCC Forum found 70 per cent could not identify the correct dollar exchange rate, and 41 per cent that of the euro.

It’s fair to say, however, that consumers remain attuned to political instability. And despite the government’s Get Brexit Done mantra, 2020 could yet be another year of uncertainty as we scramble to get a trade deal completed before 2021. Will that be enough to stop Brits booking holidays? Given the most recent ABTA Holiday Habits estimates that 60 per cent of the population go abroad, we think not.

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February 2020 | Aft THINGS TO DO

GAMESROOM

Each month, we bring you a selection of things to do on your lunch break or journey to the office

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4. City on India’s west coast with a deep natural harbour (6)

3. Important or influential people (11)

7. Small anchors (6) 8. Support for a mast (4)

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9. Proposed candidates (11) 10. Bran source (3) 13. Eminent sage 11. ‘___ Maria’ (3) reorganised power 12. Bread common source (5,6) in 4 Across (3) 14. Melanesian tourist 15. Unwell (3) destination (4) 16. Zero Dark Thirty 16. Gateway to the Great organisation (1,1,1) Barrier Reef? (6) 17. ___ Hill, fashionable 18. Cold cruising San Francisco destination (6) neighbourhood (3) 19. Port and manufacturing centre on Osaka Bay (4)

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LOOKING FOR THE ANSWERS? —

See the next cruise adviser in March for the answers

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February 2020 | Aft

QUIZ See bottom of page for answers

1. In which Spanish city was artist Pablo Picasso born?

2. The Sea of Cortez is off the coast of which country?

3. Despite being recently sworn in as a peer in the House of Lords, how many elections has the multi-millionaire Zac Goldsmith lost?

4. What is the capital of Greenland?

5. Naga Munchetty is a presenter on which news programme?

6. The Pitons are two mountainous volcanic plugs on Saint Lucia. What are their individual names?

7. Which former Girls star was nominated for Best Actor for his performance in Marriage Story at the 2020 Oscars?

8. How many times has The Irishman director Martin Scorsese been nominated for the Best Director Oscar?

9. And, prior to 2020, how many times has he actually won?

10. How many Oscar nominations has Meryl Streep received in her career?

11. Sanssouci is a one-storey summer palace built in the Rococo style in which German city?

12. What is the capital of Menorca?

13. No One Is Too Small to Make a Difference is a book by which activist?

14. Who is the new Love Island presenter?

15. Song of Norway was which cruise line’s first ship?

QUIZ ANSWERS 1. Malaga 2. Mexico 3. Three (twice at a General Election, once as Mayor of London) 4. Nuuk 5. BBC Breakfast 6. Gros Piton and Petit Piton 7. Adam Driver 8. Nine 9. Once, for The Departed 10. 20 11. Potsdam 12. MahĂłn in Spanish or Mao in Catalan 13. Greta Thunberg 14. Laura Whitmore 15. Royal Caribbean International

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February 2020 | Aft

LOOKOUT

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The latest pictures from industy events 1. Gary Barlow performing at LSO St Luke’s, London after he was unveiled as P&O Cruises’ brand ambassador.

2. P&O president Paul Ludlow welcomes agents to the launch.

See interview on p18.

3. Sarah Wikevand, MD, ROL Cruises joins Jo Rzymowska, Gerard Nolan and Ruth Gardiner of Celebrity Cruises at the line’s Travel Agent Appreciation Awards 2020.

4. All the winners from the event hosted at Andaz in London.

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February 2020 | Aft

FINAL WORD

A celebration of innovation Sam Ballard on how the industry’s ability to shape its own future is its greatest strength In a recent interview with he president of P&O Cruises, Paul Ludlow (see p18), he told me that one of the reasons he has worked in the industry for so long is the rate at which it has innovated. No other sector in travel can compare to cruise, he believes. When you take a step back, it’s hard to argue with him.

I have written about the cruise industry for half the amount of time that Ludlow has worked in it, but, even during that time, I feel like there has been a huge amount of change.

This month alone we will see Virgin Voyages make its much anticipated debut and in this very issue have covered Emerald Waterways’ first purpose-built ocean ship.

Both of these companies will, in their own way, try and carve out their own space in ocean cruise by innovating. For Virgin, it is about adults-only spaces that will target guests who tune in to the fun Virgin brand. Emerald Waterways – the sister-company of Scenic – will look

to replicate the buzz around the discovery yacht, Scenic Eclipse.

Ludlow’s own forthcoming ship, the 5,200-guest Iona, will be the biggest that the line has ever launched. P&O manage to gauge the pulse of the nation when they launch a ship – and the partnership with Gary Barlow will see them further strengthen ties to their core market, with whom the Take That star really resonates.

We have long known that river cruise is booming, but now expedition cruise is having a moment. Crystal, Seabourn and Viking Cruises are all set to launch their own expedition ships in the coming years. The plans for Viking’s recently revealed expedition line includes the Hanger, an in-ship marina. It’s something that sounds so simple, but has never been done before.

Another example of innovation – out of dozens that I could detail – is the luxury sector. This is, in no small part, down to the number of operators

actively launching ships. This year alone Silversea, Regent and Crystal will all be launching new vessels.

Other ultra-luxury players such as Viking, Seabourn and Scenic have them under construction. Whether it’s the quality of their onboard offering or the level of destination immersion – each one is forced to innovate, or else risk falling behind.

The cruise industry is dynamic because those who work in it are so dynamic. This is multi-billion pound industry where the competition is fierce. Yet, the chances are you will see your closest competition at numerous events throughout the year – and may also work with them on one of Clia’s working groups. It is through that process of collaboration that the industry is able to develop – and keep on innovating.

It doesn’t seem to matter if we’re talking about individual cruise lines, entire sectors of the industry, or the whole industry – it’s clear that this is a pretty special place to work.

COMING NEXT TIME How to sell: family

The rise of small ships

Ports of call: Moscow

Jane Archer takes a look at the growing family market and reports on how agents can secure those lucrative bookings

While big ships tend to dominate the headlines, more and more companies are pushing intimate small ship sailings

From the Kremlin and Red Square to St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s mausoleum, Russia’s capital is filled with history and incredible sights

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