Cruise Adviser – September 2019 by Cruise Adviser

G R E AT L A K E S | T H E C R U I S E 2 0 | H O W TO S E L L : C A R I B B E A N

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

S E P T E M B E R 2019

Really wild show

Sam Ballard gets up close to the ‘big five’ during a safari cruise around South Africa on Viking Sun

E’S IMPERIAL CITIES TIDE MARKETS s from £749PP

es in December 2019

THE BLUE DANUBE – VIENNA, BUDAPEST & SALZBURG 8 days from £1,099PP

AMSTERDAM, KINDERDIJK & THE DUTCH BULBFIELDS 5 days from £799PP

Departures up to Oct 2019 and Apr to Oct 2020

Departures in April 2020

Operated by and subject to booking conditions of Riviera Travel, ABTA V4744 ATOL 3430 protected. Subject to availability. Images used in conjunction with Riviera Travel.

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ABTA No. V4744

September 2019 | Forward EDITOR’S LETTER

THIS MONTH

Taking cruise to wild new levels

WHAT WE LEARNT

CRUISE ADVISER

Hello and welcome to the September issue of cruise adviser in which we reveal the winners of our inaugural awards, The Cruise 20. We’ve been asking readers and contributors to vote for their favourite cruise lines in a range of categories, from the light-hearted (best pizza at sea) to the serious (most environmentally friendly) and prestigious (best overall in ocean and river categories). Really We can now reveal the winners of each, staring on p39. wild show We had a great response, so we’d like to say thank you to everyone who took the time out of their busy schedule to vote. Excitingly, this is just the start: this time next year we’ll be hosting the great and good from the travel industry to celebrate the winners at an event. For now, we’ve got a great issue to share with you. For our cover story, Sam Ballard joins Viking Cruises on an incredible cruise from South Africa that includes a safari and chance to see the ‘big five’ (from p32), while Jane Archer joins Victory Cruises on the Great Lakes (p28), plus she also provides the latest How to Sell Guide, this time focusing on the Caribbean (p45). As ever, we’ve got all the latest news, new hires, fam trips (from p9), plus we check in with Tony Roberts and John Padgett at Princess Cruises to hear about how OceanMedallion is being embraced by guests as the roll-out across the fleet continues. We hope you enjoy reading – and good luck selling.

P26

G R E AT L A K E S | T H E C R U I S E 20 | H O W TO S E L L : C A R I B B E A N

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

S E P T E M B E R 20 19

SEPTEMBER 2019 CA-39

Sam Ballard gets up close to the ‘big five’ during a safari cruise around South Africa on Viking Sun

MINDFULNESS IS THE WORD OF THE MOMENT According to Google, ‘mindful’ searches are up, proportionately, more than 500 per cent over the last 15 years

P28

MACKINAC ISLAND IN THE US HAS A CAR BAN Instead, horses transport residents and visitors all over the island – it’s like stepping back in time

P45

is brought to you by Waterfront Publishing

CRUISE ADVISER

Publisher Sam Ballard sam@cruise-adviser.com Publisher Anthony Pearce anthony@cruise-adviser.com

Front cover photo by AJ Robbie on Unsplash

Senior sales manager Bryan Johnson bryan@cruise-adviser.com 020 3865 9338

Digital cruise-adviser.com facebook.com/cruiseadviser twitter.com/cruiseadviser

Sales manager Rory Collins rory@waterfront-publishing.com 020 3865 4815

Graphic design Matthew Coles Sub-editors Nathaniel Cramp, Emily Eastman, Alice Snape Waterfront Publishing, 12-18 Hoxton Street, London N1 6NG info@cruise-adviser.com 020 3865 9360

GALVESTON IS A GOOD GATEWAY TO THE CARIBBEAN Combined with flights via Houston, it can be cheaper than sailing from Florida

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Turn to page 39 to find out the winners of the inaugural CRUISE ADVISER awards

Contents MIDSHIP 28

Great Lakes Jane Archer joins one of Victory Cruise Lines’ first sailings under its new ownership to find out why the five Great Lakes are set to make it onto the cruise map Safari, so good Sam Ballard sets sail on

Viking Sun for a ‘safari cruise’ around South Africa – combining the luxury of cruise with the adventure of seeing animals in the wild 39

The Cruise 20 We celebrate the winners in our inaugural cruise adviser awards, from the

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

best interior design to the best water park 45

How to Sell: Caribbean Jane Archer takes a look at the destination for customers looking for both adventure and relaxation Turn over for more

September 2019 | Forward

FORWARD 5

Editor’s letter

News Hurtigruten’s UK debut; Scenic welcomes agents on board Scenic Eclipse; Clia’s UK conference dates; Disney reveals name of its new ship; and Barrhead Travel’s Cruise Show highlights the fastgrowing demand for cruise

New hires A round-up of the latest industry appointments

Incentives The latest trade initiatives

Technology Anthony Pearce reports on OceanMedallion, the new bit of tech set to transform your cruise, from ordering drinks to locating your loved ones

Boutique cruising Sam Ballard explores the new quintessentially British ship, Spirit of Discovery

Ports of call: Porto Sam Ballard visits the Portuguese coastal city which has a vibrant mix of culture, history and really great food

Mindfulness and cruise Anthony Pearce switches off his phone and tries out the new mindful way to cruise, with yoga at sunrise and detox meals

Safari cruising (p32); sailing the Great Lakes on Victory I (p28)

AFT 49

Directory All the cruise line contact details in one place

Know your… repositionals

Gamesroom Try your hand at our crossword or sudoku, or give the quiz a whirl

Lookout Can you spot yourself in our selection of photos from the latest industry events?

Final word Sam Ballard reflects on our impact on the planet Email info@cruise-adviser.com to share your thoughts

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Introducing our brand new Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony At Emerald Waterways, we’re bringing contemporary luxury to Southeast Asia’s Mekong River. Guests can experience everything quintessential to this vibrant region on board our bespoke boutique Star-Ship, Emerald Harmony, specially commissioned to sail this majestic waterway. The newest recruit to our stylish fleet, which set sail last month, Emerald Harmony will exceed all your customers’ expectations, as it introduces them to the majesty of the Mekong. Reaching 239ft (73m) in length, 42 cabins accommodate just 84 guests, who will enjoy spacious suites and public areas, as well as an excellent staff-to-guest ratio, with 40 crew members on board. Unlike other similar sized ships, we have designed Emerald Harmony to sail through the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, allowing us to dock in the heart of this fantastic city.

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For marketing support, training and online booking, visit our Agent Portal at www.emeraldwaterways.co.uk or contact your local Sales Manager at agencysales@emeraldwaterways.co.uk Terms and Conditions: All of our holidays are subject to availability. Prices and offers are correct at time of going to print (29th August 2019) and are per person, based on two people sharing our lowest priced available cabins, departing in 2020, in low season and include relevant discounts. Our offers are not combinable and we reserve the right to withdraw our offers at any time. Our itineraries, hotels, dates and inclusions are subject to change. *Savings of up to £2,250 includes £250 Early Payment Discount, is per couple and valid for new 2020 Vietnam, Cambodia & Mekong river cruise bookings only. Early Payment Discount of £250 per couple is valid for new 2020 Vietnam, Cambodia & Mekong river cruise bookings only when the balance is paid in full by 31st December 2019, and excludes 2019 and 2021 departures. ^Unlimited free drinks on board is valid for all new 2019/2020/2021 Vietnam, Cambodia & Mekong river cruise bookings only, and is based on a Free Premium Drinks Package which excludes Champagne, wine by the bottle, branded wines & spirits and cabin mini-bar. Please note, all images of the Emerald Harmony are artist impressions, ship facilities may vary until the ship build is complete in July 2019. One water bottle per travel agent, email agencysales@emeraldwaterways.co.uk with your booking reference and address to redeem. No cash value. Giveaway can be withdrawn at any time. For full booking conditions visit emeraldwaterways.co.uk. E&OE.

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Subject to availability. *Book by 30th September 2019. Terms & conditions apply. Oﬀered for sale in the UK by South Quay Travel & Leisure Ltd trading as Cruise & Maritime Voyages. Calls cost 7p per minute plus your telephone comany’s access charge. ABTA V9945. ATOL 4619. 5386

NNER WI AWARDS

2018

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NEWS

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

HURTIGRUTEN

Hurtigruten to make UK debut The long-running Norwegian expedition cruise line has announced its first ever ex-UK departures from the Port of Dover in winter 2021 Hurtigruten, the 126-year-old Norwegian expedition cruise line, is to make a series of departures from Dover starting in winter 2021, a first for the company. The sailings were revealed as part of Hurtigruten’s new Norway Expedition 2021-22 programme. There will be a series of 14-day Norway Expedition voyages departing from Dover between October 2021 and March 2022, taking guests to the Arctic Circle. The voyages will call at ports along the Norwegian coast on board the newly named MS Maud, which is currently sailing as Trollfjord. The vessel is one of three (alongside Finnmarken and Midnatsol) to be transformed into luxury hybrid powered expedition cruise ships equipped with upgraded lowemission engines, battery packs

and other green technologies to cut their emissions. “Hurtigruten’s expedition cruises have an amazing sense of adventure and are a fantastic advocate for green cruising that explores nature at its best,” said Barbara Buczek, chief commercial officer at the Port of Dover. “We are excited to be working with Hurtigruten to bring a new winter cruise season to Dover, and to become the line’s first-ever UK port of call.” The line offers complimentary activities every day plus there are extra expedition team members onboard to share their knowledge of the Norwegian coastline and give lectures. This is alongside all the standard inclusions on board a Hurtigruten sailing: free wifi and meals including

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

drinks (house wine or beer). Guests will be able to take excursions including northern light safaris, fishing, hiking and visiting local communities. “We are delighted to launch our first ever season from Dover,” said Hurtigruten’s UK general manager, Anthony Daniels. “This new route offers a truly exceptional way for guests to explore the coast of Norway and experience the northern lights all at the convenience and comfort of a UK departure. He explained: “Not only will we take guests to new highlights, but with an increased presence of expedition team leaders on board we will help new and existing guest to become immersed in the rich wildlife and cultural offering of Norway.”

September 2019 | Forward SCENIC

Scenic welcomes agents on board Scenic Eclipse Scenic has welcomed a group of agents on board Scenic Eclipse to have a look around the ultra-luxury vessel before it launches. Eclipse, which has capacity for 228 passengers, comes with two helicopters and one submarine – as well as a yoga studio and ten different places to eat. The ship boasts a guest to crew of around 1:1. Speaking to cruise adviser after a tour of the new ship, Colin Downing, managing director of Scenic UK, said: “You can feel the elements of Scenic as you walk around this ship, but this is Scenic plus. We are traditionally a five-star product, but this is six-star. “It’s been a challenge from a design point of view because we wanted it to be the best. There are some great six-star products out there and some great expedition products – but no one is doing both.

“We are creating an entirely new category.” In terms of accommodation on board Scenic Eclipse, the 195 squaremetre Owner’s Penthouse Suite comes

with its own private Jacuzzi, mini-bar and in-suite spa treatments. The ship will be sailing in the Americas before heading to Europe next year.

CLIA

DISNEY CRUISE LINE

BARRHEAD TRAVEL

Clia’s UK conference dates announced

Disney reveals name of new cruise ship

Barrhead Travel reports soaring cruise sales

The 2020 Clia Conference will take place on April 26, 27 and 28 in Southampton. The UK’s largest travel agent conference includes ship visits on P&O Cruises’ Britannia and MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia, a trade fair, and a full day of business sessions, featuring speakers from across the cruise industry as well as keynote leaders from outside the sector. This will be followed by the conference’s gala dinner. “Our 14th annual conference will once again bring together the cruise community, and promises the usual mix of engaging and informative conference content,” said Andy Harmer, Clia UK & Ireland director. Registration opens on September 11 at cruiseexperts.org.

The first of three new ships for Disney Cruise Line is to be named Disney Wish – the other two names are still under wraps. Due to be delivered in late 2021, Disney Wish will set sail in January 2022 with Rapunzel, from the film Tangled, gracing the stern – chosen because of her “wish to see the world”. The ship will also have a three-storey atrium, inspired by an enchanted fairytale. The line is also creating Lighthouse Point, a new private island in Eleuthera,The Bahamas. The disclosures are part of a series of expansion plans, including new Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel opening at Disneyland Paris with themed suites.

Barrhead Travel’s bi-annual Cruise Show has highlighted the fastgrowing demand for cruise holidays with sales up 78 per cent compared with their 2018 show. Held in their flagship store in Glasgow, the summer show exhibited key cruise partners including P&O Cruises, Cunard, MSC, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Cruise & Maritime Voyages. The most popular itineraries are still in the Mediterranean, with a significant influx in river cruise enquiries – 15 per cent of overall bookings – with top destinations including the Danube and the Rhine. Over one third of the event’s visitors were new to cruise. There will be another event in autumn. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | Forward

OPINION

REGENT SEVEN SEAS

The importance of loyalty schemes Janet Parton, sales director, Avalon Waterways

When running a business, it’s a known fact that it’s more expensive and challenging to attract first-time customers than to keep existing ones happy and engaged. So, what are the key factors in securing customer loyalty and retention? And how can you re-establish relationships so that customers come back to you time and time again? Building customer loyalty is a sure-fire way to create growth for your travel business. Establishing a close relationship with your customer base is key in building loyalty. Providing excellent customer service is vital, the more important a customer feels, the more of a connection they will feel to your business, both in terms of rebooking and spreading positive word of mouth. But what else? Reward schemes are important. A study by Nielsen found that 60 per cent of consumers considered a loyalty programme as an important factor in their buying decisions. So, why should you as travel agents support cruise lines’ reward schemes for your customers? The answer is clear: loyalty schemes provide a reason for your customers to return. Such schemes offer additional benefits and at the same time give them a feeling of gratitude. We are all customers, and we all like to feel valued. Cruise line reward scheme benefits vary. From cabin upgrades, complimentary gifts and speciality dining, to late disembarkation, discounts and more. Many guests

start receiving additional discounts following their first cruise. At Avalon Waterways, guests can receive up to an additional £100 off per person. Signing up to loyalty clubs is often automatic – some customers may not even know that they are part of a scheme. Loyalty discounts and benefits are also often combinable with other promotions already in place, but customers may simply not be aware of what is available to them. Top tips: • Next time a cruise line has a booking promotion, review your past customer list and send them an e-shot to tell them about the promotion, but also remind them of the additional discount/benefits they can receive by booking with you as a repeat guest. • Check your website. Does it remind customers that they can benefit from cruise-line loyalty schemes when booking with you? • Do your marketing materials ask customers to tell you if they are part of a cruise-line loyalty scheme? • When booking a cruise holiday, always check if the customer has booked with that operator before, they may be entitled to a loyalty benefit which they weren’t even aware of, and advise the cruise line when booking. I believe agents should support loyalty schemes as they help to convert sales. A customer who has been on a cruise is likely to re-book, and if you remind them of the discount or benefits that they will receive by rebooking with you, it becomes an easier sale to close. It is also a simple way of adding value to the relationship, providing greater customer service. Through building loyalty with you as the agent, rewards can be reaped for all. Happy selling!

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

New ports for Regent

Regent Seven Seas has unveiled a programme of 146 voyages featuring 27 new ports of call as part of its 2021-22 Voyage Collection. There are first-time sailings for Seven Seas Splendor in Northern Europe and the Baltic and for Seven Seas Explorer in Alaska; new land programmes; shore excursions and access to newly announced Unesco World Heritage Sites in Japan, Portugal and Italy. There are also the first sailings to the Black Sea since 2014, with calls in Romania, Bulgaria and Ukraine. The programme includes 27 maiden ports, plus a record 116 overnight stays. There is a return to the Seychelles, Mauritius and Réunion in the Indian Ocean, plus Antarctica. “These voyages represent the most stunning and ambitious collection in our company’s history. We’re sailing to even more legendary and lesserknown destinations,” said Jason Montague, president and CEO of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Paul Beale, senior director of sales UK, told cruise adviser that the early launch would allow UK agents to steal a march on their US counterparts. “We’re building to make sure our trade partners get behind us and take advantage of this. There’s an urgency to get in there before availability goes, particularly when it comes to the upper suites. We’ve got a good idea already of which itineraries will sell well: we’ve got a Japanese itinerary in the autumn, which is new to us, and a lovely time to go there.”

September 2019 | Forward

NEW HIRES

Trade interest sparks recruitment drive at Aurora Expeditions

AmaWaterways’ UK sales team doubles in size Following three new ship launches, AmaWaterways has announced further expansion of its UK operation. Its new hires are a direct result of sales growth. The UK sales team has doubled and will be headed by Jon Knight, who has been promoted to the new position of national sales manager. “We continue to focus on growing our UK presence through brand awareness,” commented managing director Stuart Perl.

Princess Cruises appoints new trade manager

Aurora Expeditions is to go on a recruitment drive to capitalise on increased interest from the trade after the appointment of Craig Upshall, UK & Europe sales director, last year. Upshall (pictured above) joined the polar specialist in March 2018 after almost six years at Rocky Mountaineer, and has one other team member in the UK, Karen Hollands, inside sales executive.

Upshall explained: “Within the next year we’ll be getting a couple of people on the road to help drive the message home.” Robert Halfpenny, Aurora’s managing director, added: “It’s a lot of investment but we wouldn’t have done this if Craig hadn’t done a good job.” Aurora Expeditions launches its first newbuild, Greg Mortimer, this year. A second is due in 2021.

Karen Cameron has joined Princess Cruises as territory business manager for Scotland and Northern Ireland. Karen is the fifth UK and Ireland territory manager reporting to sales manager Ellie Webb, who commented: “Karen brings a wealth of industry knowledge alongside some great ideas on how to support our agent partners.” Moving from P&O Cruises, Karen will manage trade relationships through face-to-face training and other region-specific initiatives.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines welcomes new managing director, Peter Deer, at a pivotal time in the company’s history Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has appointed Peter Deer as its new managing director, taking over from Mike Rodwell. Deer began his role at the start of the month, following Rodwell’s retirement after 30 years. Based at the head office in Ipswich, Deer will assume responsibility for overseeing and managing the cruise line’s operation, which covers over 220 staff in Ipswich and more than 2,000 crew members across a fleet of four ocean cruise ships.

Rodwell has commented that “conditions are right” for a new ship build and predicted his replacement will oversee the project, so it’s an exciting time to take the helm. Deer first joined the company in 1993, as an accountant. Leaving for a few years, he couldn’t keep away and returned to Fred Olsen in 2004, this time as commercial director. Speaking of his new role, Deer said: “We have a first-class team, both ashore and afloat, dedicated to providing fabulous holidays, and

I am proud to be leading the journey. Chairman Fred Olsen Junior commented: “We are a proud, familyrun company that offers a cruise experience like no other. Peter has a breadth of knowledge and expertise in the travel and cruise industries, and I look forward to working with him in his new role to take the business to the next level.” A replacement for the commercial director position is currently being sought. Visit fredolsencruises.com for more information. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

CRYSTAL WHERE LUXURY IS PERSONAL

MEDITERRANEAN PASSAGE ATHENS TO BARCELONA | VOYAGE OCY191023-13 CRYSTAL SERENITY | 23 OCTOBER 2019 | 13 NIGHTS

Michael Dupont Head of Sales Tel: 07921 949469 mick@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Cruise Only Fares From

Deluxe Stateroom (C3 Grade)

from £2,757 per person

Deluxe Stateroom with Verandah (B3 Grade)

from £3,911 per person

Natalie Read Regional Sales Manager South Tel: 07896 971316 natalieread@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Jon Schoﬁeld Regional Sales Manager North & Scotland Tel: 07841 921533 jon@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Nan Short Representative Northern Ireland & Eire Tel: 02890 642252 nanshort@btopenworld.com

Megan Saunders Trade Sales Support Executive Tel: 020 7399 7602 megan@cruiseportfolio.co.uk

Itinerary Highlights: Athens, Santorini, Catania, Sorrento, Rome/Civitavecchia, Piombino, Livorno/Florence (overnight), Monte Carlo (overnight), Marseille and Barcelona (overnight). 2018

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING, PLEASE CALL:

020 7399 7601

www.crystalcruises.co.uk

ABTA No.V8548

Fares are per person, cruise only in UK sterling based on double occupancy in the specified stateroom grade and include port, security and handling charges, which vary by departure. All fares, offers and itineraries are subject to change and availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Fares may fluctuate and should be used as a guide only. Prices may go up or down. You should contact us on 0207 399 7601 before booking, or visit our website www.crystalcruises.co.uk. The fares are available to new bookings only and are only available to UK & Eire residents. Restrictions apply. See crystalcruises.co.uk for complete terms and conditions of all offers. ©2019 Crystal Cruises, LLC. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas.

September 2019 | Forward

INCENTIVES

Celebrity Cruises reveals autumn ‘Mini Wave’ benefits

Earn £10 per booking with Carnival During the month of September, agents can earn ten points per booking with Carnival Cruise Line’s latest Loyalty Rocks Club incentive. The equivalent value is £10 and can be exchanged for a variety of vouchers to spend at retail, cinema, holiday, dining and entertainment brands including John Lewis, M&S, Cineworld, Spotify, Wagamama, and many more.

Double money for Royal Caribbean partners

Celebrity Cruises has announced its richest offering of benefits for its autumn ‘Mini Wave’ campaign, including free drinks packages and free flights on certain bookings. The promotion runs until November 18, focusing on sales for 2020, including the new Edge Class ship, Celebrity Apex, and the newly refurbished Celebrity Silhouette, sailing

out of Southampton. There’s also more flexibility with a new ‘Book with Confidence’ commitment, meaning guests are entitled to change or amend their booking free of charge. “Our Mini Wave campaign has been designed to make Celebrity Cruises’ sailings the easiest and most rewarding to sell,” said Claire Stirrup, director of sales, UK and Ireland.

Royal Caribbean’s Club Rewards Members will earn double money – up to £20 – on all Mediterranean bookings on Allure of the Seas until December 31. Set for a $165-million makeover, Allure will undertake sevennight itineraries from Barcelona. “While our guests reap the benefits of her arrival, we thought it fitting that our trade partners have reason to celebrate too; we’re delighted to offer double money rewards on every Allure 2020 booking on our Club Rewards platform,” said Martin MacKinnon, sales director for UK & Ireland.

Princess Cruises are offering travellers free room upgrades to mini-suites and balconies for bookings made before the end of October Princess Cruises is offering free stateroom upgrades on a huge amount of voyages setting sail in 2019, 2020 and 2021. The offer – which will run from September 4 until October 31 – will be available on almost 1,250 voyages, including the 12-day Search for the Northern Lights sailing, a 17-day Mediterranean and Greek Isles trip and a seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruise. Guests booking an ocean-view stateroom will receive an upgrade

to a balcony room. Those sailing on Princess’s five newest ships (Royal Princess, Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess), some of which have yet to sail their maiden voyage, will receive an upgrade from a balcony to a mini-suite. On select British Isles cruises departing in 2020 on Regal Princess, guests will be upgraded to a balcony from an inside stateroom. The new Sky Princess is currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in October 2019. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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E V E N T

Book your clients by November 20, 2019 and they may receive: • Veranda for Ocean View Upgrades* • Up to 3 Category Veranda Suite Upgrades* • Up to $500 Shipboard Credit per Suite* • Up to £1,200 Air Credit per person* • 300 Minute Internet Package*

Book select 2020 sailings during the month of September and your clients will receive up to $200USD Shipboard Credit per Suite PLUS Set Sail Event offers including upgrades, air credits and more!*

• Up to 15% savings on Combination Cruises* Penthouse or Premium Suites receive $1,000 Shipboard Credit per Suite and an Unlimited Internet Package per Suite*

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September 2019| Forward

TECHNOLOGY

Revolutionising the cruise experience through smart new technology Anthony Pearce discovers OceanMedallion, the little button that will totally transform your cruise, from ordering drinks to locating your loved ones Princess Cruises is in the process of rolling out its OceanMedallion technology, which it claims is revolutionising the cruise experience. Its creator, John Padgett, chief experience and innovation officer, says it’s more than just “a feature on a phone, it’s about a fully operating ecosystem that guests are a part of”. On a recent tour of Crown Princess, cruise adviser got to experience the device, which not only acts as a room card, but also allows guests to order drinks, food and items from the shop, locate their travel companions and navigate their way around the ship. It also allows the crew to identify guests, know their preferences and assist them more easily, and makes muster drills and locating passengers in cases of emergency far easier. According to Padgett, the data could

even help shape future ship designs. Now the hardware is in place, including what Princess describes at the best internet at sea, the software is already being tweaked. Anthony Pearce spoke to John Padgett and Tony Roberts about making OceanMedallion a reality. When did the project start? John Padgett: “We started in summer 2015, so it’s been four years in the making, and in the last eight months we’ve moved it across four ships, we have Sky Princess in October and we have another six next year [see box]. That’s 11 ships in five years, so it’s pretty impressive.” What was Carnival’s brief? “Carnival said ‘focus on the guests, maximise their experience’ – that

was it. Fundamentally, to create a fully connected experience with the personalisation we want to give, we knew we had to connect all the guests to this ‘ecosystem’ across the ship. We knew there was going to be some form of device to connect the guests, then it probably took about a year to hone it down. The reason we chose the Medallion is we wanted a device that is applicable to any situation – you can put it in a clip and wear it on a suit or a tuxedo, and it looks fabulous, or you can throw it in a sport band and go swimming with it, or go to the beach. We really wanted to give guests the choice on how to accessorise it.” Have there been any hiccups so far? “We’ve not had any significant issues with the most innovative technology. During our early beta

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September 2019| Forward launch in November 2017, on Regal Princess, we learned some lessons about the computing infrastructure we needed and the breadth of our shipboard network – we needed more horsepower. But in terms of the guest experience, there have been few surprises – if there is a surprise, it’s the fact that no one opts out. Vacation time is so valuable, and if you’re creating something that truly makes their experience greater, they embrace it.” You’re rolling it out across the fleet – how is it being embraced? Tony Roberts: “It’s changing all the time, and each new ship brings the next stage of the development, so it’s a really exciting project to be working on. The guest response has been positive; for each guest it means something different. It allows guests to make the most of their time on board and not miss anything. I was talking to some guests recently who’ve booked seven more cruises on Caribbean Princess. I was asking about OceanMedallion, what they like about it and whether it was a factor in booking. They said it wasn’t the reason they booked, but if they didn’t have it now, they would miss it. When you go to a hotel and have to find your room key, then queue at the bar for a drink, you think, ‘It was so much easier when I was on Princess’.” Will one advantage be how data can be used to plan future ships? “There are things we don’t understand about the flow of guests around the ship because we’ve never had that information, but now, all of a sudden, we have all of that available to us. And you can tap into that rich information, about how long people stay in certain places, what they do when they are there. So, for example, an interesting thing is that most restaurants empty out into stairwells. It made us question, ‘Does that drive the behaviour of what people do next?’ What if you had something else outside restaurants? Would they be more likely to stop and engage with entertainment? It helps you understand the guest experience,

ROLL-OUT Sky Princess October 20, 2019

Ruby Princess January 27, 2020

Grand Princess March 29, 2020

Enchanted Princess June 15, 2020

Emerald Princess August 16, 2020

Coral Princess October 16, 2020

Island Princess December 20, 2020

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September 2019| Forward VIEW FROM AN AGENT We spoke to Dylan David from Cruise.co.uk about his experience with OceanMedallion What were you expecting from OceanMedallion? “I knew I could open my cabin door, get off the ship and pay for drinks. I didn’t know what else to expect. Turns out this was only the beginning…” What did you like most about it? “On the first night of my cruise, me, my wife and my two children went down to one of the restaurants. A host, who I had never met before greeted me by name, escorted me straight through the restaurant to a table overlooking the sea. This took all of 30 seconds, I felt like a VIP.”

even if it just means more signposting so they know what’s available.” You’ve just announced your 2021 programme. Why so early? “Last year, we launched 2020 in November. Over the last few years, we’ve seen people booking earlier and earlier, particularly with Europe dates. It’s the confidence we’ve got in the European market and the fact we’ve got five ships here in 2021. We’ve also put it on sale during the onboard credit campaign we’ve got running at the moment. It’s about removing barriers, perceived or real, to engaging with the feature season – there are guests out there who know what they are going to be doing in 2021. There are some stunning cruises, such as 21-night Canada cruise – these have an earlier booking pattern, it’s something people are thinking about a long time before.”

How important is the travel trade to Princess? “One of the most important areas of our business is how we partner with travel agents, we’ve done a bit of work on this recently, making sure we’re explaining why you would choose Princess, and also providing easy-to-use campaigns, selling tools and engaging commercial programmes. Travel agents are such a huge part of what we’re doing – it’s key we continue to communicate with them. There’s lot of travel agents who have been able to grow with Princess over the last four years. We’ve got Sky Princess joining the fleet in September and 300 travel agents are joining us on a preview sailing in October. We’ll fly them out to Trieste, where they’ll join the ship and sail to Athens. They will be able to experience the newest ship in the fleet as well as OceanMedallion.”

Any surprises? “I underestimated just how easy this would make my whole onboard experience. With OceanMedallion the embarkation is seamless. From arrival, to picking up the Medallions, to being sat around the pool. Maximum 20 minutes – including queuing at security! Also, while the technology is amazing, it is the staff that make the experience what it is. They almost preempt what you want, before you know you want it yourself. Before I finished a drink, someone was on hand asking if I wanted the same again, always delivered with a smile.” Any top tips for selling OceanMedallion to customers? “For those customers out there who think this is just a new version of the classic cruise key card, this is so much more. OceanMedallion gives you something that adds great value to your holiday: time. Every experience is quicker from muster and embarking, to finding your way around and locating your loved ones. The days of queuing are gone. As you can wear it on your wrist or neck, it is easy to pay for anything on board. Everything is linked to an app, so from your phone you can book shore tours, find out what is on, see your bill, order a drink, even gamble. It will also learn your personal preferences and deliver you a service that is tailored to you.” CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | Forward

SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY

Boutique cruising is born Sam Ballard gets on board Spirit of Discovery, the brand new quintessentially British ship that has lots of space but retains the charm of a small, luxury hotel Any ship launching in the UK is good news, but a British-flagged ship, built by a British company, that will be sailing ex-UK cruises? Well, we can all get behind that. Spirit of Discovery, the first ship to be built from scratch by Saga, was always going to turn heads. With room for just 999 passengers, the vessel is an homage to the UK. Art on board highlights the talent of more than 40 British artists, furnishings show off British designers such as Tom Dixon and the food is designed for a British palate. “We sat down with three different sets of individuals to help create this ship,” explains Robin Shaw, CEO of Saga Travel. “We took existing customers, customers who haven’t

cruised with us before but have travelled with Saga and other luxury travel buyers. Then we asked them what they thought a British cruise line should look like.” The result is Spirit of Discovery – a cruise ship that aims to be like staying in a small, luxury hotel. And with that, boutique cruising was born. Shaw is talking to me from The Club on board Spirit of Discovery, a small, intimate space that will act as both a restaurant and music venue fronted by Jools Holland. The luxurious restaurant wouldn’t look out of place in a five-star London hotel. It’s just one example of how Saga has used clever design to create lots of small venues rather than large ones, appeasing those past guests

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who are worried about the line getting rid of its smaller ships (Saga Pearl II and Saga Sapphire) for larger ones – a transition that represents a 74 per cent rise in capacity in just over a 12-month period. “The good thing about Saga customers is that they will give us a chance,” Shaw explains. “It also feels like a small ship – there are lots of nooks and crannies, smaller areas to enjoy. The amount of public space per passenger is actually more on this ship than on Sapphire. So it feels less crowded than our older ships.” Shaw is right. Saga Pearl II is about 18,000 gross tons and accommodates 602 guests. Spirit of Discovery is three times the size – 58,000 gross tons – but accommodates only 50 per

September 2019 | Forward cent more. Saga is banking on the design making Spirit of Discovery feel like a small ship, while still giving guests space, in genuinely luxurious surroundings. Saga is a company that has been transitioning on many different fronts. While its tonnage is in the process of getting an update, the decision to start taking trade bookings is still, relatively speaking, in its infancy. From a standing start, Saga now boasts a trade team of ten, led by Iain Powell, head of trade sales. As part of the celebrations for Spirit of Discovery’s launch, the team invited about 700 travel agents on board for a VIP trade event. “It’s important that we get agents on board to see the ship,” explains Powell. “It’s difficult to sell a cruise ship, or any product, that you haven’t seen before. The idea is to show agents what we’ve created so that they can see that it’s totally different to what they expected from Saga. Even those who have seen a Saga ship before, can see that it is very different from Sapphire or Pearl II. “The feedback so far has been incredible and now they can now go home and sell it more confidently.” The agents on board were treated to a deck party with the singer Fleur East DJing, speciality restaurants were available to book and the spa was even offering complimentary treatments. “We’ve put on a programme of events to give agents the opportunity to see everything we have. The idea is to let them explore the ship on their own, rather than marching them around, which feels more natural.” To boost the activity around the launch – and because spaces were limited – the team have developed a ship visit programme, which has four dates remaining with spaces, in Southampton and Dover. Apart from that, there is the small matter of new-build number two, Spirit of Adventure, being launched next year. “We’re going to be doing it all again next year,” Powell says. “There will be another VIP agent event and plenty of opportunities for the trade to win a place on board. So keep your eyes peeled.”

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Jools Holland may be more synonymous with hitting high notes than the high seas, but he certainly knows a thing or two about cruise ships. Not only has he helped design a fine dining restaurant and bar on board our new cruise ship, Spirit of Discovery, but he’s also planning to play a number of intimate shows with us. Why not get your customers to come and see what Jools is waxing lyrical about, and experience Spirit of Discovery for yourself. Search ‘Spirit of Discovery’ or book online at sagaagents.co.uk, call FREE on 0800 074 8021 Find us on social media Saga Trade Team All-inclusive cruises up to 35% off

Save up to 35% on selected cabin grades. Saving is off the full fare on selected twin and single cabin grades across all our cruises. For more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate, visit www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate. Saga Holidays is a trading name of ST&H Ltd (registration no. 2174052). ST&H Ltd and Saga Cruises Ltd (registration no. 3267858) are subsidiaries of ST&H Group Ltd (registration no. 0720588). All three companies are registered in England and Wales. Registered Office: Enbrook Park, Sandgate, Folkestone, Kent CT20 3SE. With respect to general insurance products sold in the UK, ST&H Ltd is an appointed representative of Saga Services Limited, registered in England and Wales (company no. 732602), which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Saga’s holidays and cruises are exclusively for the over 50s but a travel companion can be 40+. NTA-SC1716

September 2019 | Forward

PORTS OF CALL

Porto The pretty coastal city has it all, with great food, history and cultural delights, writes Sam Ballard With its brightly coloured townhouses perched alongside the deep blue of the Douro River, it’s little wonder that interest in Porto has rocketed for cruise passengers. According to statistics released by Clia earlier in the year, UK passenger numbers grew by 15 per cent on Douro cruises in 2018 alone, bolstered by a number of new ship launches. To those who know the city, it will come as no surprise. Porto, which sits at the mouth of the Portuguese river, is a city of cobbled streets, pretty churches and tiled facades. It’s a place where you can eat very well for not very much money – try the pastéis de nata (custard tarts) or bifana (traditional pork sandwich), which can be picked up at little hole in the wall type joints. Wash it down with a glass of the city’s most famous export, port, in one of Porto’s many atmospheric wine cellars. Fans of interiors should take a pilgrimage to the Church of St Ildefonso which shows off the talents of the city’s tilemakers. Although the city’s train station, São Bento, is arguably more impressive – with a vast wall of

about 20,000 tiles really highlighting the incredible craftsmanship. Clients who want Instagram worthy photos won’t miss out either. Send them to Livraria Lello – a bookshop that is said to have inspired JK Rowling, who lived in the city in the 90s. Although popular with tourists, it really does feel like you’ve stepped into Hogwarts. Fans of engineering should check out the magnificent Dom Luís Bridge, which has a shared history with the Eiffel Tower, which is clearly evident in its design. AmaWaterways, A-Rosa, Viking, Uniworld, CroisiEurope, APT, Emerald Waterways, Riviera Travel, Saga and Scenic all offer Douro cruises – typically week-long round trips from Porto that can go as far inland as the Spanish city of Salamanca. For clients who have done the Danube and Rhine, it could be the perfect next step. With direct flights operating from London, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham and Bristol, Porto offers incredible connectivity and virtually guaranteed sunshine. What’s not to love?

December Preview Edition | Section Name Promotion

East Greenland: capture the essence of the Arctic East Greenland is the ultimate destination for sophisticated travellers seeking an adventure to the remotest places, and photographers looking to take the most unusual pictures Long, narrow channels strewn with cathedral-like icebergs and flanked by sheer rock walls reach deep into the glaciated heart of Greenland. The rugged landscapes are virtually uninhabited, except for tiny traditional villages and endearing wildlife: shy musk oxen, nimble Arctic hares, and majestic whales out at sea. The two East Greenland voyages by Poseidon Expeditions scheduled for 2020 take place in September – the prime season for viewing the mesmerising northern lights. Those who think they have seen it all will

appreciate the huge expanses of untouched wilderness that can only be found far off the beaten track. Through the viewfinder If your clients are keen photography enthusiasts, this is the perfect cruise to suggest for their next polar adventure. With its uncompromisingly beautiful scenery, towering mountains and colourful Arctic tundra – there is definitely no shortage of subject matter to capture in East Greenland. The expedition team always includes a professional photographer

who is on hand to give expert advice, including onboard lectures and guidance on shore, to help passengers make the most of every situation. And here are some tips for correctly packing your photography equipment for an Arctic cruise:

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The cold temperatures of the polar regions can make shooting with batteries difficult. Additional batteries that can be quickly swapped out are a must. It is likely that at some point of the voyage snow, rain or sea spray will wet the equipment. The camera bag has to be waterproof.

Guests can marvel at the natural wonders of East Greenland, including the northern lights

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It is worth bringing two camera bodies with different lenses on them. One should be a wide-angle lens to capture landscape shots, and the other a telephoto lens of up to 600mm for taking pictures of wildlife. A polarising filter will help cut out glare and reflections from bright sunlight, and an ND-filter is great for long exposure photographs.

Voyage aboard small luxury expedition ship M/V Sea Spirit If living the adventure of travel to Greenland itself is not enough, your clients will get to enjoy stellar accommodations on board Poseidon Expeditions’ M/V Sea Spirit. The ship is just the right size to manoeuvre

into the protected channels of the Scoresby Sund fjord system, embracing the expedition part of the voyage. What sets M/V Sea Spirit apart is a generous measure of onboard comfort not usually found on a ship of its size. Travellers are sure to be impressed with spacious suites, thoughtful amenities and fine cuisine. The open decks provide an ideal platform for admiring the sparkling night sky, mirror-calm waters, snowy mountains and luminous icebergs. The ship’s fleet is complete with Zodiac landing crafts to shuttle guests ashore on rocky beaches or cruise among tidewater glaciers in the secluded bays. Day-to-day activities include excursions and landings, hiking suitable for all levels of fitness, and onboard educational enrichment. Sea Kayak Club Poseidon’s optional sea kayaking is conducted in the East Greenland portion of the voyage. For a more immersive way to discover the Arctic, a chance to paddle with whales in mazelike fjords among enormous icebergs, and a humbling view of mountain vistas, sea kayaking is the perfect addition to the cruise programme.

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Human endeavour The cruise starts and finishes in Reykjavík, Iceland. In the ruggedly beautiful Westfjords, passengers visit the historic fishing port of Ísafjörður. This small town embodies Iceland’s trademark blend of rich cultural heritage and contemporary charm. Throughout the region, there are visits to ancient Thule archaeological sites and historical trappers’ huts. At the modern Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit, there is a chance to visit a museum and witness the antics of Greenlandic sled dogs. Early booking discount In 2020, Poseidon Expeditions will offer two voyages to East Greenland from September 6-16 and September 15-25. Your clients can still book a spot with the best price – an early booking discount of up to 15 per cent is valid until October 31, 2019. Encourage your clients to take their best shot – with or without a camera – on this unforgettable cruise aboard a luxury expedition ship. For further information, please email sales@poseidonexpeditions. com, call on 020 3808 7787, or check out poseidonexpeditions.com

September 2019| Forward

MINDFULNESS AND CRUISE

Set sail on a wellness cruise to digitally detox and reset your mind Leave your phone in your cabin, says Anthony Pearce, as he discovers the new way of cruising – including yoga, meditation at sunrise and detox meals Mindfulness is the word of the moment that we’re going to be hearing much more about. According to Google, searches are up, proportionately, more than 500 per cent over the last 15 years, and in that time, mindfulness has gone from an abstract concept to a multimillion pound industry, spawning best-selling books, magazines, YouTube channels with hundreds of thousands of subscribers, celebrity acolytes and crossed over into mainstream consciousness. But what exactly is mindfulness? In theory, it’s a straightforward concept that, although rooted in meditation and other ancient techniques (particularly sati, an element of Buddhist tradition that

essentially means to continuously remember something), emerged in the 1970s and has now been updated for the information age. The idea is that the mind is fully attending to what is happening in that moment, a deep form of relaxation, concentration and awareness. It has been used to reduce symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety – much more important in the digital age. According to Mindful.org, “mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.” Of course, yoga and meditation retreats have long existed in

destinations such as Thailand, but it’s only recently that mindfulness has been adopted by the wider travel industry, notably cruise, where it is often paired with other forms of wellness, such as fitness, healthy eating and spa treatments. These are often through themed cruises, but operators are working hard to ensure these are available on all voyages. “Wellness is a growing phenomenon – and rightly so – as people around the world seek to live better, healthier and more mindfully for the benefit of their overall well-being,” Richard Meadows, president of Seabourn, said, when expanding the line’s offering of wellness cruises, which feature the celebrity doctor and

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author Dr Andrew Weil. “We have had great success with [the programme] Spa & Wellness with Andrew Weil on Seabourn voyages around the world, and we’re excited to follow up our past two wellness cruises with these new opportunities to learn from a group of highly regarded experts.” One example is the Route to Ancient Wellness cruise on Seabourn Ovation, which will set sail on November 13, 2019 from Piraeus (Athens) to Dubai. It will call at Haifa (Tel Aviv) and Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel; before threading the Suez Canal to the Red Sea and Aqaba (for Petra), Jordan. Celebrity Cruises has also introduced Mindful Dreams, which it calls a curated programme of treatments, products, instructional classes and expert lectures on mindful sleep and sweet dreams. It is also paired with a Detox your Diet programme, which allow guests to gain knowledge about the most effective detoxifying foods, and how they can help with weight loss and an overall feeling of well-being. There is also advice on getting a good night’s sleep, which is a key component to tackling stress, including nutrition advice, lectures and instructional classes. Belmond, the luxury operator, makes much of its spa and wellness programme and has, in the past, badged its Road to Mandalay as a mindfulness cruise along the Irrawaddy River in Myanmar – a country renowned for its goldentopped temples, monasteries and hidden pagodas and where meditation is a way of life. On all sailings, guests can enjoy a yoga class under the hazy morning sun and indulge in a massage or manicure while taking in the scenery of this deeply spiritual country. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

GREAT LAKES

A Superior destination Victory Cruise Lines is set to put the five Great Lakes on the cruise map following its acquisition by American Queen Steamboat Company earlier this year. Jane Archer joined one of the first cruises under its new ownership to find out more

September 2019 | Midship There are two words on everyone’s lips as we sail across Lake Michigan. Mackinac Island. It’s the next stop on our Great Lakes cruise and the place, I have just learned, that every American aspires to visit because it is a slice of Victoriana in the US. There are horse-drawn carriages (cars are banned from the island), the main street really is called Main Street and lined with wooden shops selling fudge and souvenirs. It’s Disneyland without Mickey, but had he come strolling down the road I would not have been surprised. I’m travelling with Victory Cruise Lines, a US-based company acquired earlier this year by the American Queen Steamboat Company (AQSC), which operates paddlewheel boats on the Mississippi, Columbia and Snake Rivers. Now on sale through Cambridgebased Light Blue Travel, Victory is a great option for agents looking for something new and different to excite clients. Because this cruise is certainly very different, dipping in and out of small towns and flyover cities in the US and Canada that don’t figure on most Britons’ tourist radar (all bar two of the fellow passengers on my cruise were from North America) but

are definitely worth more than a second glance. The line has two identical 202-passenger ships sail the Great Lakes between May and October. Victory I offers ten-night cruises SHIP SHAPE

Victory I Launched: 2001 Decks: Five

Capacity: 202 passengers

A comfortable small ship purpose-designed for cruising the Great Lakes, with all ocean-view cabins, an included drinks policy and fascinating excursions that dip into American history and culture.

between Chicago and Toronto, Victory II’s sailings are between Port Colborne (for Niagara Falls) and Chicago, and are mostly eight nights. Following the acquisition, the ships went for a $3 million refurbishment to bring them closer to standards of the rest of the AQSC fleet. Among the changes, The Grill on Victory I was enclosed (it already

Victory Cruises’ itineraries take in Toronto (left), as well as Niagara Falls and Chicago (overleaf)

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was on Victory II) and refurbished to provide an all-weather dining venue, the dining room was given a more stately look, shades were installed on the sun deck and beds were fitted with super-thick mattresses. For winter 2020, when the weather on the lakes is cold and often stormy, the ships will relocate to America’s Eastern Seaboard and Mexico, to sail the Yucatán Peninsula round-trip from Cancún. “We do things we can be the market leader in,” said AQSC chairman and chief executive officer John Waggoner. Schedules were due out as cruise adviser went to press. Starting in 2021, AQSC is also chartering new ship Ocean Victory to offer cruises to Alaska. “Our aim is to have something for all ages,” Waggoner said. “Adventurous travellers in their 40s can cruise with us to Alaska and, as they get older, they can progress to the Great Lakes and Mississippi.” Exclusive for the UK, Light Blue Travel has a 40-day holiday combining a cruise on the Mississippi from New Orleans to Minneapolis with a ten-night Great Lakes voyage from Chicago to Toronto. The Great Lakes certainly live up to their name, covering an area the size of the UK and Northern

September 2019 | Midship Ireland and containing one-fifth of the world’s fresh water. There are five lakes – in size order: Superior, Huron, Michigan, Erie and Ontario – that are all linked by rivers and waterways. On both Victory itineraries, you sail on them all. The itineraries are brilliant, the ships are comfy (cabins are small, but the service and food was impressive) and prices include all drinks, which makes life on board convivial. Ashore, there is much to enjoy. We clip-clopped around Mackinac Island in a horse carriage, watched a pow-wow dancer tie herself up in hoops (as impressive as it sounds) on a Native American Reserve in Canada’s Little Current, and listened to chart-topping hits in Cleveland’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. From Detroit, we headed to nearby Dearborn, to visit the Henry Ford Museum, where prize exhibits include the chair President Lincoln was in when he was assassinated in 1865, the car President Kennedy was in when he was shot in 1963, and the bus Rosa Parks was on in 1955 when she refused to give up her seat to a white passenger, sparking the start of the Civil Rights movement in the US. Excursions are included, along with gratuities and a pre-cruise hotel stay. Light Blue Travel packages cruises with flights and transfers.

A ten-night Chicago to Toronto sailing departing May 20, 2020 costs from £5,495 per person; eight-night sailing from Port Colborne to Chicago departing May 6, 2020 costs from £4,895

per person. British passport holders sailing from Chicago to Toronto only need a US ESTA; those starting their cruise in Toronto need a visa for Canada in addition to the US ESTA.

THREE AMERICAN CRUISES Nine nights on the Great Lakes

Eight nights on the Mississippi

Nine days on the Columbia River

Victory Cruise Lines – Victory I Niagara Falls to Toronto May 13, 2020 From $3,799pp

American Cruise Lines – Ship St Louis to New Orleans July 21, 2020 From £5,175pp

Beginning at Niagara Falls, this itinerary takes in all five Great Lakes, with calls at spirited Detroit, progressive Cleveland, proud Green Bay and cultured Chicago.

Experience Southern hospitality on this trip down the Mississippi, beginning in St Louis and taking in Memphis, Natchez and Baton Rouge, before ending up in New Orleans.

American Queen Steamboat Company – American Empress Clarkston to Portland November 3, 2019 From $2,599pp A voyage sailing west via the scenic Columbia River Gorge, that cuts through the Cascades, embracing the culture and history of this region. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

For true explorers find freedom in the farthest reaches

TRUE EXPEDITION CRUISING If you are curious about the world around you, and freedom from the crowds is your idea of luxury, Coral Expeditions may be your cruise line. Not confined by a strict schedule, we are able to listen to the winds and tides to make impromptu changes and find even more magic in our destination. Intimate experiences are enabled by our ‘Xplorer’ safari boats, zodiacs and our renowned expedition team. For 34 years, we have taken like-minded guests closer to remote cultures and nature, with personal service and warm Australian hospitality.

IT’S ALL INCLUDED

Shore excursions with highly experienced Expedition Team

Exploration with Xplorer vessels, zodiacs, kayak and glass bottom boat

Special guest presentations and workshops

All meals, chef prepared. Selected wines & beers with meal service.

Snorkelling and introductory scuba session, with equipment

All fees and gratuities

THE ANCIENT LANDS OF THE KIMBERLEY 10 Nights > Darwin - Broome and vice versa > Departs Apr to Sep 2020

PRISTINE TASMANIA 7 Nights > Hobart – Hobart > Departs Jan to Mar 2020

KOMODO DRAGONS & KRAKATOA 18 Nights > Darwin – Singapore & vice versa > Departs Jan & Feb 2020

call +44 (0) 203 934 7170 visit www.coralexpeditions.com email cruise@coralexpeditions.com

VIKING SAFARI

Safari, so good

Sam Ballard sets sail on Viking Sun for a ‘safari cruise’ around South Africa – which combines the luxury of cruise culture with the adventure of discovering animals in the wild

September 2019 | Midship We were no more than 15 minutes into my first ever safari and there they were dozens and dozens of giraffes, towering above our Jeep. Huge adults turning slowly to face us, warily aware of the newcomers, the more inquisitive ones bending down to take a closer look while calves galloped around on their spindly legs. We were all spellbound, until the click of a camera stirred us into action and made us remember to record the moment. This is a safari cruise – the meeting of two very different types of holiday, combining the luxurious nature of a cruise with all that safaris are renowned for. As we were to find out, the results are quite spectacular. Our vessel for this sailing is the Viking Sun – the fourth iteration of Viking Cruises’ beautiful ocean series. The 930-passenger ship takes the best bits of Viking’s river product and magnifies them – taking elements like the Living Room and well-designed suites – making the most of the ocean ships’ new, bigger canvas. The ships, while undoubtedly luxurious, are understated, in a typically Scandinavian way. You won’t find jewel-encrusted staircases or big, Broadway-style entertainment here. Our cruise will see us call at Durban, Port Elizabeth, East London and Cape Town as we sail from east to west around the southern tip of Africa, taking in part of Viking’s longer itinerary running up the entire west coast of the continent. In Durban, where we are mobbed by a herd of giraffes at the Tala Game Reserve – a smaller, private safari experience where you are more likely to see animals – we also stumble upon a baby rhinoceros with its protective mother, grazing on a hilltop. As our Jeep passes slowly by, we stray slightly too close and get an angry snort in return. Given that she is the size of an army tank, and has maneuvered herself to be staring straight at us, everyone holds their breath. She chooses to let us pass and we continue our journey to the side of a lake where a hippo stares at us from middle of his

Top: Giraffes on the South African safari. Below: Addo Elephant National Park, where elephants roam in 1,640 square km of natural habitat

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September 2019 | Midship watery domain. Our guide informs us that they are incredibly territorial animals – and that this is in fact his lake. Certainly nobody wants to contest his ownership. Back on board our Viking sanctuary we lounge in the huge spa and take part in a Nordic Spa Ritual ($39). The process sees willing participants moved from sauna to snow room – to heat up and cool down – over and over again. What starts off feeling like torture becomes strangely enjoyable as you feel the difference between the two climates less and less. The Scandinavians do this – usually using a sauna and a plunge pool – to help improve blood flow and rejuvenate the skin. Staff from the spa are on hand to beat us with birch leaves and, afterwards, we are rewarded with a head or hand massage. Bliss, and given that the entire process takes at least an hour, good value, too. Our second port of call is East London where we visit a cultural village to learn more about the Xhosa people. There, we are split between men and women and showed how each live their lives. Xhosa boys must go through a circumcision ritual to become men, involving a long period of seclusion in a hut without water or food. The ritual ends with the hut being burnt down. It’s an interesting morning spent learning about another culture, although it does feel a little artificial – and questionable that children are there for the benefit of tourists in the middle of the day. In the afternoon we visit the East London Museum and get a behindthe-scenes tour with museum staff showing us the museum’s prize exhibits: the world’s only surviving dodo egg and the 36,000 year old Hofmeyr Skull (one of the earliest examples of anatomically modern human remains ever to be discovered). We are in the Cradle of Humankind, after all. Back on board we are most certainly living in the 21st century. We enjoy the renowned steak in Manfredi’s, the line’s speciality Italian restaurant, and the waffles in Mamsen’s, which are based on

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September 2019 | Midship an old family recipe of Viking’s founder’s mother. Both are free, with Manfredi’s needing a booking to secure your table, while Mamsen’s is walk-up. The lack of nickel and diming on board is indicative of the company’s entire philosophy. Drinks are reasonable – the Silver Drinks Package costs just $19.95 per person per day, with both people in a cabin having to take it – and access to the pool area of the spa is complimentary (although you obviously will have to pay for treatments). There is no casino and no flashy shows. Instead, it’s all about great food in a very well-designed, luxurious setting – a real sanctuary after a day out exploring. All of this doesn’t come cheap – a 12-day Norwegian fjords cruise on Viking costs about £4,890 per person – but the experience is incredible. It’s a genuine once in a lifetime opportunity. The next day we are in Port Elizabeth for the highlight of our trip, a safari through the Addo Elephant National Park, the third biggest national park in South Africa. The park is vast, 1,640 square kilometres, which is both good and (selfishly) bad. The positive is that the animals are free to roam in an area that is the bigger than Greater London. The negative is that your chances of seeing something are massively reduced compared to the private reserves. Given the abundance of wildlife at the private game reserve, I expect to have seen the entire ‘big five’ (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo) within an hour. Unfortunately, rains a few days earlier mean the animals are happy to stay away from the watering holes that have been strategically placed by the roadside. We drive through the bush taking turn after turn as our guide valiantly tries to catch sight of something to show us. Then, after around two hours of nothing but warthogs, antelope and dung beetles, we stop suddenly and our guide points into the bush – to a family of elephants ambling along, grazing from a treetop buffet.

One of the ‘big five’, the Cape buffalo, which is native to South Africa. Below: the Explorer’s Lounge

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September 2019 | Midship If there is a moment that epitomises our African safari, this is it. We all sit completely silent, watching the largest land mammals in the world in their natural habitat. The hours of driving around are easily worth it – and if anything make the moment more special. These animals are not here for our enjoyment – and they have so much room to roam that it should be a challenge to see them. Our time in South Africa is drawing to an end. With a final stop in Cape Town we attempt to make it up Table Mountain but are beaten by the huge queues to get on to the cable car and instead jump in a taxi down to the V&A Waterfront to enjoy a chilled beer by the water. South Africa is a land of contrasts. It’s undeniable that there is an edge as you walk around some of the cities – and seeing people living behind barbed wire in Cape Town gives the impression that some think the city is a war zone. However, a safari has been high on my list for a long time. And the chance to visit different parks and cities is taking the very best of what a cruise has to offer. And, I’ll never forget the moment we saw those elephants. This is the kind of thing that dream holidays are made off and a tale I will be telling for years to come.

THREE SOUTH AFRICAN CRUISES 10 days to Victoria Falls

10 nights around South Africa

14 nights around South Africa

CroisiEurope – African Dream Johannesburg-Victoria Falls December 23, 2020 From £5,189pp

Azamara – Azamara Quest Cape Town (round-trip) January 21, 2020 From £1,935pp

Oceania Cruises – Nautica Cape Town (round-trip) January 20, 2020 From £4,319pp

On this itinerary you’ll not only discover spectacular panoramas and tumultuous histories, but also incredible wildlife and menus that reflect the flavours of Africa.

This South Africa Intensive voyage takes in Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London and includes an optional night in the Shamwari Private Game Reserve – home to the ‘big five’.

This slightly longer itinerary takes in the South African highlights and also ventures further afield to Mozambique and the incredible lagoon at Walvis Bay in Namibia.

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AWARDS 2019

Introducing the inaugural cruise adviser awards. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been voting for your favourite cruise lines in 20 categories, from the most environmentally friendly to the best pizza, here are our winners...

September 2019 | Midship

1 Best overall cruise line (Ocean) Viking Ocean Cruises Tor Hagen, the founder of Viking, described his ocean ships as being “perfection” – one of the reasons why they’re all virtually identical. We’d struggle to disagree with him. There isn’t a single inch on board any of Viking’s 930-passenger ocean fleet that hasn’t been superbly designed and thought through, from the modern Viking Bar, where you can pick up a coffee before heading off on a morning shore excursion, to the infinity pool at the back of the Aquavit Terrace. Accommodations have also been expertly designed and catered for. There are ondemand movies, USB plugs by the bed and free wifi throughout the ship. Room service is 24-hours a day and each stateroom has a refillable water bottle. Restaurants are free and sublime – our favourites include the waffles based on a family recipe in Mamsen’s, although nothing can beat the food in Manfredi’s, the speciality Italian. The perfect grown-up retreat.

2 Best overall cruise line (River) AmaWaterways Having recently launched AmaMagna, its first double-width ship for the Danube, there is plenty for the team at AmaWaterways to be excited about. The company sails on rivers around the world, from the Danube and Douro to more obscure waterways such as the Chobe or Mekong. And it does so extremely well. With sublime food and spacious cabins, AmaWaterways’ beautiful fleet of river ships have proven themselves the most wonderful way to saunter down a river, and head straight into the heart of a destination. On shore, guests can choose from a list of excursions, depending on their mobility and mood. This is a cruise line that does things very well and, in an increasingly crowded market, has managed to stay ahead of the competition.

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September 2019 | Midship

Best kids’ club Royal Caribbean

Best fast food restaurant Royal Caribbean

Catering for children from six months to 17 years old, Royal Caribbean sets the standard when it comes to kids’ clubs. Not only does the line offer a range of activities – whether it’s discos for teens or dinosaur parties for young sailors – but it also caters for children with special needs. Royal Caribbean was also named the first certified Autism-friendly cruise line in 2014.

Whether it’s a burger at Johnny Rockets, a hot dog at Doghouse, or a slice at Sorrento’s Pizza – there is a world of choice on board any Royal Caribbean ship. With fast food available virtually around the clock, you’re spoilt for choice. Just remember to hit the SeaPlex for roller-skating, bumper cars and much more!

Best spa Viking Ocean Cruises

Best steak Viking Cruises

The vast spa on Viking Ocean Cruises is a cathedral to relaxation. All passengers get access for free, and then can pay extra for treatments. That means that the hydro-pool, sauna, steam room and snow grotto are all gratis. The hot-cold Nordic Spa Ritual is a must-try.

The rib-eye steak in Manfredi’s – a restaurant named after the Silversea executive – is as good as anything we’ve had on land. It is even more impressive when you consider the fact that the chefs in Viking’s galley achieve such results without using an open flame. It might be witchcraft, but it makes for damn good eats.

6 Best pizza MSC It’s no surprise that when it comes to pizza, the Italians don’t mess about. On board MSC Cruises, the buffet is open 20 hours a day, which means that you can grab an authentic slice of heaven day and night.

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September 2019 |Midship

Best ex-UK specialist Saga

Best for vegetarians and vegans Oceania Cruises

All of the work Saga has done to appeal to the trade – including hosting hundreds of agents on its brand new ship for a couple of days – has paid dividends, as it’s your new favourite ex-UK specialist. Launching the boutique Spirit of Discovery has definitely helped, too. The 999-passenger luxury vessel plugs a much-needed gap in the UK market – especially for those who want to avoid the hassle of an airport.

Oceania Cruises’ claim to have the finest cuisine at sea is certainly well justified and, following on from the launch of its new plant-based dishes, it can be extended to vegetarians and vegans, too. Whether that’s poke bowls or falafel fritters – Oceania Cruises has got you covered.

11 Best expedition line Aurora Expeditions

10 Best wine list Cunard

With new ship Greg Mortimer about to launch, the focus on expedition cruise lines is huge right now. The ship benefits from the innovative X-Bow, which will cut Drake Passage crossings and ease sea sickness, as well as a sea-level loading area for easy access to the Zodiacs and shore excursions, and a separate pontoon for kayakers. All of this will be on board the 120-passenger ship, enabling more people more time on the Polar ice.

12 Best crew Seabourn

With its own ‘Wine Line’ – a phone line dedicated to informing guests about wine pairings – and even the opportunity to achieve an industry recognised wine qualification during the cruise, there is little surprise that Cunard has been voted ‘best wine list’. There are often experts on board, giving lectures and hosting tastings. The perfect drop.

The ultra-luxury line’s crew are often described as being clairvoyant. They know what you want before even you do. That’s quite a statement, but it seems that the trade agree with it – the service on Seabourn is the best in an industry that offers the best. CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | Midship

13 Best UK-based ship Spirit of Discovery It’s no exaggeration to say that Saga’s Spirit of Discovery is a game changer. The boutique vessel is designed to serve a discerning British customer – with onboard partnerships with Jools Holland and a christening by the Duchess of Cornwall. It’s sure to become an institution itself.

Most environmentally friendly Hurtigruten

Best interior design Celebrity Edge

After launching the hybrid powered MS Roald Amundsen, a ship that reduces CO2 emissions more than 20 percent compared to other ships of the same size, Hurtigruten followed it up by announcing climate neutral fuel deals – powering ships from dead fish – and that it would be making three of its ships hybrid power. The Norwegian line is setting the standard it seems.

With a world-famous design team that includes Kelly Hoppen MBE, it’s no surprise that Celebrity Edge was voted best for interior design. It pushes the envelope in every respect – from the multipurpose Eden, which delights day or night, to the Magic Carpet and infinite balconies providing 20 per cent more space. As far away from a traditional ship as you can get.

15 Best water park NCL From the heart-stopping Ocean Loops on Norwegian Bliss and Joy, where the floor drops out from underneath the slider before taking you over the edge of the ship, to the trippy Aqua Racer, where you whiz past different light patterns – Norwegian Cruise Line is the cruise industry’s slide supremo. We can’t wait to see what they come up with next.

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September 2019 | Midship

Best on-ship gadget OceanMedallion (Princess Cruises)

Best agent rewards programme Shine (Cunard + P&O Cruises)

OceanMedallion is the piece of industry technology right now. Capable of doing everything from opening your stateroom door to allowing waiters to bring a drink to your lounger, it promises to change the entire cruise experience and ushers in a new world of opportunity. As Dylan David of Cruise.co.uk says, when a host greeted him by name, it made him feel like a VIP.

Launched only a couple of years ago, Cunard and P&O Cruises’ Shine Rewards Club gives points for activities, including bookings made and completing training modules. Points can be exchanged for a choice of prizes including designer goods and cruises, of course. There is also a bit of gamification involved, for those who fancy spinning the wheel.

Best celebrity tie-in Princess Cruises

Best for family Royal Caribbean

Princess Cruises have used Phillip Schofield – the Schofe – expertly. Whether it’s in videos played at the Clia Conference or having him appear at press and trade events – there are few bigger names on our TVs with such an appeal to Princess’s target audience. We could all be more Schofe.

Royal Caribbean has swept the board in our family categories – winning best kids’ club and best for families. It’s easy to see why. Little can compare to a holiday on an Oasis-class ship – zip lines, surfing machines, carousels and arcades. More than enough to keep your clients’ little sailors busy. Leaving the adults more time to try out the 42 bars and lounges.

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September 2019 | Midship

SELLING TIP – Starting in Miami and Fort Lauderdale is most popular, but flying to Houston and sailing from Galveston can be a cheaper option

HOW TO SELL

Caribbean

Jane Archer is the authority on all things cruise. This issue, she looks at itineraries in the Caribbean – a growing destination for customers looking for adventure and relaxation

Escape the crowds

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American resort-style ships

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British and European

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It’s hard to think of a better way of holidaying in the Caribbean than on a cruise, sleeping as the ship sails from island to island, waking each day to a new stretch of idyllic beach on which to rest your towel or another rainforest to trek and explore. It’s no surprise, then, that the West Indies is a perennial

favourite for British cruisers, attracting almost 300,000 of them in 2018, according to Clia UK & Ireland. Sun, sand and sea is a big attraction, but there is so much more to entice, from colonial history and swimming with dolphins to climbing waterfalls and skippering a racing yacht. The choice of ships and cruises is equally

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alluring, with everything from American resort-style ships packed with lots of activities that visit hotspots in the Bahamas, Jamaica and Mexico, to small, more intimate vessels that are able to sneak in to quiet, castaway islands. We focus on the two extremes, and also British and European cruise favourites.

September 2019 | Midship

Escape the crowds Clients seeking the real Caribbean should check out cruise lines with yacht-like vessels or sailing ships that are small enough to dock in less developed ports or drop anchor in pretty bays and tender passengers to land. Itineraries are destination-rich, often with a port every day and, while prices tend to be on the high side, the reward is deserted beaches and quiet towns without a souvenir shop in sight. Where possible, suggest cruises that can be paired with direct flights from the UK for both convenience and lower prices.

Ultra-luxury Who? Seabourn Where? Lesser Antilles, Caribbean When? March 7, 2020 How long? Seven days How much? From £2,499pp cruise-only This cruise, from Philipsburg in St Maarten to Barbados, is on the 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey, which is small enough to get into hidden bays and islands such as Frenchman’s Cay in Tortola, Terrede-Haut in Guadeloupe and Saline Bay in the Tobago Cays. Prices include drinks and gratuities.

We are sailing Who? Star Clippers Where? Windward Islands, Caribbean When? February 22, 2020 How long? Seven nights How much? From £1,675pp cruise-only If it’s sailing, it has to be Star Clippers. The

company has three tall ships and captains who delight in hoisting the canvas whenever they can. This cruise, roundtrip from Barbados, is on the 227-passenger Royal Clipper and includes calls into Rodney Bay in St Lucia, Cabrits in Dominica and Falmouth Harbour in Antigua.

Niche Who? SeaDream Where? Windward Islands, Caribbean When? March 8, 2020 How long? Seven nights How much? From £2,840pp cruise-only It’s yachting, not cruising – that’s how SeaDream describes itself, and given its two diminutive vessels hold just 112 passengers each, it’s hard to argue. This cruise, round-trip from Barbados on SeaDream I, spends a morning in the port of St George in Grenada before heading to tiny Bequia, Mayreau and Tobago Cays in the Grenadines. Prices include drinks and tips.

SELLING TIP – With family-friendly ships, luxury yachts and sailing craft, there is a cruise to suit everyone

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September 2019 | Midship

American resort-style ships With soft sand beaches, dolphin swims, horse-riding in the surf, zip-wiring, even a fast-and-furious downhill bobsleigh ride in Jamaica among attractions, it easy to see why a Caribbean cruise is such a hit with families. Large cruise lines offer a huge choice of holidays on resort-style ships that call into lively ports and private islands ringed with beaches, where there are water parks, water sports, bars and restaurants. Itineraries mostly have fewer days ashore, so passengers have time to enjoy the entertainment, activities and restaurants on board.

Fun in the sun Who? Carnival Cruise Line Where? Western Caribbean When? April 4, 2020 How long? Seven nights How much? From £559pp cruise-only Carnival Vista, one of Carnival’s Fun Ships, is heaven-sent for families – with water slides and SkyRide bikes, plus bars and restaurants for mums and dads. This cruise, round-trip from Galveston in Texas, pairs three days at sea with calls into Montego Bay in Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel in Mexico.

Island escape Who? Royal Caribbean International Where? Eastern Caribbean When? April 4, 2020 How long? Seven nights How much? From £1,573pp cruise-only Families will have a blast

Casual cruising

on Royal Caribbean’s mega-ship Symphony of the Seas, which has laser tag and climbing walls. It calls into Perfect Day, the line’s private island in the Bahamas, with wave pools and even a hot-air balloon. The cruise, round-trip from Miami, visits St Kitts and St Thomas and has three sea days.

Who? Norwegian Cruise Line Where? Western Caribbean When? April 4, 2020 How long? Seven nights How much? From £859pp cruise-only With no dress codes or assigned seating, NCL is perfect for an informal family holiday. This cruise, roundtrip from Florida’s Port Canaveral, is on Norwegian Breakaway, where activities and restaurants galore excite and entertain passengers between trips ashore. A £99 upgrade buys two free packages – either drinks, wifi, some shorex and speciality dining.

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SELLING TIP – Island-hopping on a cruise is so much easier than trying to ferry and fly around the West Indies

September 2019 | Midship

British and European American cruise lines dominate in the Caribbean, but there are alternatives for clients to consider. Companies styled to suit British and European markets decamp there in the winter (MSC Cruises also has a ship there year-round), offering one and two-week destination-rich fly-cruises targeted at adults mainly, but also picking up the family market over the Christmas break.

European style Who? MSC Cruises Where? Southern Caribbean When? March 17, 2020 How long? 14 nights How much? From £1,959pp including flights MSC adds a touch of European flair to a Caribbean cruise on this voyage, round-trip from Barbados, that visits an island every day including Trinidad, Martinique, Guadeloupe and St Lucia. It’s on MSC Preziosa, which has kids’ clubs, restaurants and entertainment. Fares include tips, selected packages include drinks.

British style Who? P&O Cruises Where? Lesser Antilles, Caribbean When? February 22, 2020 How long? 14 nights How much? From £1,441pp including flights P&O Cruises bases two

ships in the Caribbean each winter, offering destination-rich islandhopping cruises from Barbados or St Lucia paired with charter flights from the UK. This voyage, round-trip from St Lucia on the 3,647-passenger Britannia, visits eight islands and includes an overnight in Barbados.

Adult-only Who? Marella Cruises Where? Lesser Antilles, Caribbean When? March 29, 2020 How long? Seven nights How much? From £1,392pp including flights With cruises visiting countries as diverse as Cuba and Cartagena, Marella has something for everyone and all ages on three ships based in the Caribbean this winter. This Paradise Islands cruise, round-trip from Barbados on the adult-only (17 years plus) Marella Explorer 2, visits five islands including St Kitts, Antigua and St Vincent. Fares include selected drinks and gratuities.

SELLING TIP – Sun, sea and sand is a major attraction, but sell also the history, culture and activities

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September 2019 | 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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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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September 2019 | Aft Celebrity Cruises Katherine Hulatt, trade support 01932 834 379 (option 2) salessupport.uk@rccl.com

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 Natalie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mahoney, head of sales 0800 035 6411 sales@fredrivercruises.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 Hannah Logan, product manager 0800 035 0237 sales@americancruiselines.co.uk

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

American Queen Steamboat Company Rupert Thomson, managing director 01223 568 904 r.thomson@aqgsa.com

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

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

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

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

Cruising Excursions Simonne Fairbanks, chief operating officer 0800 091 8274 traveltrade@cruisingexcursions.com

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

Cunard Line Victoria Snelgar, business manager â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sales operations 07773 253 279 victoria.snelgar@cunard.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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

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September 2019 | 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

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

Far Horizon Hannah Logan, product manager 0800 035 3189 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk

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

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

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

Fred Olsen River Cruises Hannah Logan, UK Sales Manager 0800 035 3189 hannah@fredrivercruises.co.uk

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

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

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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September 2019 | Aft Marella Cruises Andrew Isherwood, commercial support team 020 3451 2762 commercial.support@tui.co.uk

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

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

Ponant Stephen Winter, international sales director 0800 980 4027 swinter@ponant.com

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

Poseidon Expeditions Alexandra Prokopyeva, sales and marketing 020 3808 7787 sales@poseidonexpeditions.com Ports Direct Karl Lapage, managing director 0843 0843 003 karl@portsdirect.co.uk

National Geographic Expeditions Simon Chambers, operations manager 01473 242 636 sales@fredholidays.co.uk

Princess Cruises Mark Lowman, manager â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sales operations 023 8065 6531 mark.lowman@princesscruises.co.uk

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

Pullmantur Cruises Dave Chidley, agency sales manager 0800 021 3180 sales@fredholidays.co.uk

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

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

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

One Ocean Expeditions Debra Taylor, new business development 07956 852 197 debra@toucanmoon.com

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

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 Hannah Logan, product manager 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

Royal Caribbean International Trade support team 01932 834 379 salessupport.uk@rccl.com

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

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September 2019 | Aft 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 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

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

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

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

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

Victory Cruise Lines Dave Chidley, agency sales manager 0800 038 1665 sales@fredholidays.co.uk

Silversea Sales support 020 7340 0700 salesuk@silversea.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

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

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

Star Clippers Danielle Dudley, UK sales manager 077 6585 2116 danielle@starclippers.co.uk

Volga Dream Hannah Logan, product manager 0800 021 3186 sales@fredrivercruises.co.uk

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

Voyages to Antiquity Michelle Daniels, head of commercial 07775 065581 m.daniels@voyagestoantiquity.com

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

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

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | Aft

KNOW YOUR...

...repositionals When a ship moves from one port to another, savvy customers get on board A repositional or a repositioning cruise is what you might expect: an itinerary that repositions a ship from one region to another. While some ships, such as those in the Regent Seven Seas and Azamara fleet, tend to mostly plot a path across the world, moving 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, which are often unique, contain extra onboard activities and can often be snapped up for a decent price. They’re rarely flagged as ‘repositional’ though – you’ll sometimes see them as ‘taster’, ‘discovery’ or transatlantic voyages (although, of course, Cunard specialises in transatlantic voyages). Generally, 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. Flights from two different destinations can push the price up considerably – so they are also great for customers wanting to get somewhere without flying (at least for one leg). This month, MSC Cruises has a 14-night New York, Iceland & Nova Scotia from Southampton sailing from £1,249, while Holland America Line has a Vancouver to Alaska and Japan 18-nighter from £2,649. As Cruise Nation puts it: “Repositioning cruises are the savvy cruisers go to when it comes to seeing the world on a budget. Granted, it does mean a [more difficult] task in planning your flights and hotels but imagine leaving the Mediterranean in your wake with Dubai and the Indian Ocean ahead.”

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | 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

CROSSWORD SUDOKU 5

1 8

4 5

9 8

ACROSS

DOWN

6. City at the mouth of the Daugava (4)

1. Tiny (11)

7. New Zealand port (6) 8. Cost of holidays afloat (6,5) 9. Powdery residue (3) 10. Gondola (3) 11. Explosive sound (3)

JULY / AUGUST SOLUTION

6 7

3 4

1 JULY / AUGUST SOLUTION 6

4. Bolivian capital (2,3)

5. Fly off the handle (4,7)

2. Second-largest Hawaiian island (4) 3. Ragged wounds (11)

12. Technical data (5) 14. Stern angle (4)

13. Most important (3,8) 15. B3 (6)

LOOKING FOR THE ANSWERS?

16. Nautical speed unit (4)

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See the next CRUISE ADVISER in October for the answers

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | Aft

QUIZ See bottom of page for answers

1. What was Madonna’s first UK number one? 2. What is the capital of Tajikistan? 3. Who directed the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics? 4. John Padgett is behind which cruise innovation? 5. Which talented golfer won the 2019 Open Championship? 6. Pablo Picasso was born in which Spanish city? 7. Sky, Sea, Star and Sun are ships in which cruise line’s fleet? 8. The Valley is the capital of which Caribbean island? 9. Paris Saint-Germain FC play at what stadium? 10. What is the name of Stormzy’s debut album? 11. Vasco da Gama is ship in which cruise line’s fleet? 12. Footballer Gareth Bale began his professional career at which football club? 13. Reginald Kenneth Dwight is the real name of which pop star? 14. Ponce is a city on which Caribbean island? 15. AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna sails on which river?

QUIZ ANSWERS 1. Into the Groove 2. Dushanbe 3. Danny Boyle 4. Ocean Medallion on Princess Cruises 5. Shane Lowry 6. Málaga 7. Viking Cruises 8. Anguilla 9. Le Parc des Princes 10. Gang Signs & Prayer 11. Cruise & Maritime Voyages 12. Southampton 13. Elton John 14. Puerto Rico 15. Danube

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | Aft

LOOKOUT

All the pictures from the latest cruise events 1. Michael Bowers from Shearings Holidays popped into Cumbria Travel in Carlisle recently to promote the operator’s new musical tribute breaks in Llandudno, Eastbourne, Torquay and Bournemouth. He’s pictured here (centre) with a host of stars from the music world. 2. Global Travel Group held a cruise training event in Liverpool which was supported by 11 cruise and river cruise suppliers. After completing their training, the agents were treated to a sumptuous lunch and tour of Azamara Journey.

3. Delegates from the trade and media – including cruise adviser’s very own Bryan Johnson (left) – attended an event at Sea Containers London to celebrate the maiden voyage of Scenic Eclipse. 4. A-Rosa River Cruises were out and about visiting agents in the West Midlands area recently and popped into independent travel agency Journey The World in Knowle. (Left to right) Olivia Stephens, trade support executive at A-Rosa; Simon McDermott, business development manager north at A–Rosa; Claire Kirby, manager, Journey The World. 5. The Experience Dominica fam trip took five tour operators and agents on a seven-day trip to showcase the island’s unique selling points. (Left to right) Clara Buxton (Humboldt Travel), Carmel Hendry (Explore), Elisabeth King (Bespoke Travel), Rachel Uberti (Intrepid), Steven Nagle (Walks Worldwide).

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

September 2019 | Aft

FINAL WORD

Time to practice what we preach With bans on single-use plastics and greener fuel on cruise ships, Sam Ballard reflects on how we can all be a little kinder to the planet Whether it’s Virgin Voyages making its ships single-use plastic-free or Celebrity Cruises installing refillable water stations on Celebrity Flora, its brand new Galapagos ship, the cruise industry is taking a closer look at its carbon footprint. Some of the initiatives being brought in are well overdue and are being driven by better public awareness. A few years ago, consumers would not have given much thought to where their straw ended up after they finished their cocktail. The idea that it could end up polluting the sea and harming wildlife is mortifying. This is just the start of a much wider programme of change that will see the industry lessen its environmental impact over time. Viking Cruises doesn’t put bottles of water in cabins any more but instead has refillable jugs and glasses.

Expedition ships are being developed with anchorless technology that means nothing disrupts the sea floor. Other lines are moving away from traditional fuel, with Hurtigruten signing a deal recently with a supplier of climate-neutral liquified biogas, which is made of organic waste including dead fish. At some point, the millions of plastic cruise cards that are printed every year will become a thing of the past. As will the billions of bits of paper passengers acquire throughout their sailing, much of which could be delivered electronically. In short, many facets of a cruise holiday are going to change. However, the essence of it will remain the same. Guests will still be transported to incredible destinations on board beautiful

vessels. They will be treated to levels of service better than anywhere else in the travel industry. And the food will still be out of this world. Here at Waterfront Publishing, we report on all of the industry’s changes and write comment pieces from the sidelines. However, it’s time that we practice what we preach, which is why we our magazines will now go out in compostable bags, rather than single-use plastic wrappers. The solution is not yet perfect, but it’s a step in the right direction. As cruise lines start to take a serious look at their carbon footprint, it’s high time we did the same.

COMING NEXT TIME Celestyal Cruises

Multigenerational

AmaMagna

Sam Ballard takes a trip around the beautiful Greek islands on the specialist operator

Whether it’s skip generation or three generations travelling together, we look at what’s out there

We take a look at AmaWaterways’ double-width ship as the river cruise line continues its growth

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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SHINE REWARDS CLUB As a Shine Rewards Club member, you’ll enjoy lots of chances to earn lovely Shine points. Every Select Price booking registered earns points But it’s not just bookings… the more you engage with P&O Cruises, the more points you can earn! Whether you complete a training module or join us for a webinar – you’re earning points every time Your Shine points earn exclusive rewards and discounts which you can put towards all sorts like cinema tickets, jewellery, perfume, tech – even a cruise!

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photo by: Andrea Frazzetta

EDWINA LONSDALE Mundy Cruising

23 YEARS of partnership

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WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED

Together, we’ve helped guests explore the ends of the earth. Our Travel Agent Partners mean the world to us. Here’s to you. And to the next 25 years. A Silversea agent is forever. For more information visit silversea.com or speak to your Regional Sales Manager. For reservations please call 0207 340 0700.