Cruise Adviser – Luxury Guide 2019

LUXURY GUIDE 2019

HOW CRUISE IS REDEFINING

LUXURY TRAVEL

A look at the latest developments in this fast-growing sector

CRYSTAL WHERE LUXURY IS PERSONAL

AN OPPORTUNITY NOT TO BE MISSED!

MEDITERRANEAN ARTS BARCELONA TO ROME | CRYSTAL SERENITY 3 OCTOBER 2019 | 7 NIGHTS | VOYAGE OCY191003-07

Every Crystal cruise is a special cruise.

However, this stunning Mediterranean sailing comes with a special promise; the Promise of Crystal Confidence. If, after 24 hours you find it’s not for you, we’ll fly you straight home at no extra charge.* And that’s not it – if you book a balcony stateroom or above on this cruise, you can also choose between two outstanding offers:

OR

Cruise Only Solo Fares Verandah Stateroom (B1 Grade)

from £2,662 per person

Penthouse with Verandah (PH Grade)

from £4,362 per person

Itinerary Highlights: Barcelona, Palma De Mallorca, Marseille, Monte Carlo, (overnight), Florence/Livorno (overnight), Rome/Civitavecchia.

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 for the first two full-fare guests in stateroom 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 All fares, offers and itineraries are subject to change and availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Free flights offer is valid for new bookings only made between 1 April & 30 June 2019. Free flights are in economy class with British Airways from London. Regional flights will incur a supplement and are subject to availability and routings. The Crystal Confidence Promise has stringent terms and conditions – for a copy of these please email sales@cruiseportfolio.co.uk. The $1000 per stateroom onboard spend applies to double occupancy only. Solo occupancy staterooms will receive $500 and no extra onboard credit is available to third berths. These offers are bought to you by The Cruise Portfolio. The prices shown here or elsewhere may have changed by the time you come to book your holiday. Prices, discounts, supplements and special offers advertised in the brochure or elsewhere may be withdrawn or changed at any time. Prices may go up or down. You should contact your travel advisor for up to date prices and charges before booking, call us on: 020 7399 7601 or visit 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.

EDITOR’S LETTER

The ever-changing face of luxury cruise When it comes to travel, what exactly constitutes luxury? Is it exceptional food?

Stylish hotel and cruise ship interiors? Attentive service? An abundance of space?

Exclusive experiences? The truth is, it’s all of these things and more.

The discerning traveller is accustomed to expect the best and all of these stars must align to provide a truly luxurious experience – one component alone is not enough. Fortunately, cruise is providing more options for the well-heeled than LUXURY TRAVEL ever before, as this guide hopes to demonstrate (for the facts and figures behind this rise, see our handy infographic on p5). Cruise ships now offer experiences that can rival and often exceed the very best on land – with chef tie-ins, exclusive excurions and the rise of intimate, yacht-like vessels.

To help you get to grips with this rapidly changing world, Sam Ballard joins the Crystal Sales Gala – which took place on board Crystal Serenity between Lisbon and Dover – to hear more about one of the most fascinating operators in the luxury area (p9). He also speaks to Mark Spillane, head of sales and marketing at Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, who provides insight into two of the fastest growing areas within the luxury sector: small-ship and adventure cruises (p12).

Elsewhere, Anthony Pearce shares his views on how the sector has expanded and evolved (p16), while we also share some of our favourite suites on p20. We hope you enjoy reading.

LUXURY GUIDE 2019

HOW CRUISE IS REDEFINING

A look at the latest developments in this fast-growing sector

If you would like to receive another copy of this guide for your office, just email info@cruise adviser.com with the subject line ‘Luxury Guide 2019’ and we’ll send one (or more) out

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Contents LUXURY GUIDE 2019 3

Editor’s letter

5

Infographic The facts and figures behind the buoyant luxury cruise market

7

News Oceania announces expansion plans; Regent Seven Seas adds luxury shore excursions

9

Crystal sales gala Sam Ballard attends the line’s annual conference and hears their ambitious plans for the future

12

Mark Spillane interview The head of sales and marketing at Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises talks about this popular corner of the luxury market

16

Comment: What does luxury stand for?

Why it's important to recognise what luxury means for customers

20

The best suites A look at the swankiest accommodation at sea

This River Guide is brought to you

by Waterfront Publishing

A look at Crystal Cruises’ plans for the future (p9) and their yacht and expedition offering (p12)

Sales executive Bryan Johnson bryan@waterfront-publishing.com 020 3865 9338 Sales manager Emily Norris emily@waterfront-publishing.com 020 3865 4815

4

Publisher Sam Ballard sam@waterfront-publishing.com

Graphic Designer Matthew Coles

Publisher Anthony Pearce anthony@waterfront-publishing.com

Sub-editors Nathaniel Cramp, Emily Eastman

Waterfront Publishing, 12-18 Hoxton Street, London N1 6NG info@waterfront-publishing.com 020 3865 9360 River Guide is published once a year by Waterfront Publishing Limited (registered number: 08707515).

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

INFOGRAPHIC

How luxury cruise is evolving With more five and six-star ships entering the market every year, family-friendly megaships vastly improving their suite offerings and new and exciting itineraries appearing each season, the luxury cruise market is booming. Here are some of the statistics behind its rise.

13,000

The number of berths provided by the main six-star lines

THE FUTURE OF LUXURY

20+

$1,154bn

new luxury and ultra-luxury ships before the end of 2021

Size the luxury travel market is expected to reach globally by 2022

LUXURIOUS MENUS…

800 The number of new dishes introduced on Oceania Cruises

The number of vegan and vegetarian options

250

…AND EXCELLENT CELLARS

Cunard’s Queen Victoria carries a collection of more than…

400 23 300 wines from…

“There has never been more choice for agents selling luxury cruises, and with more luxury ships due to join the global cruise industry in the coming years, it’s a great time for agents to increase their understanding of this dynamic sector” – Andy Harmer, Clia Europe

different countries with…

different labels

50,000

Number of bottles on Celebrity Cruises, including 2,500 on display in the Solstice-class wine tower

Unexpected.

Set sail with us and experience a cruise like no other.

You can discover over 380 destinations across the globe, embrace local cultures and cuisine, lose yourself in relaxation and be made to feel at home every step of the way.

Experience The Princess Difference.

NEWS OCEANIA CRUISES

REGENT

Line announces new expansion plans

65 new shore excursions added in the Med

News comes as the refurbished Oceania Insignia as revealed as part of the OceaniaNext programme

Oceania will launch ships every three to five years in the future, according to Harry Sommer, president of international for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.

Speaking at an event to launch the “re-inspired” Oceania Insignia, which has been refurbished as part of the OceaniaNext programme, Sommer said that a 10 year wait between ships was “too long”.

The line will be launching its new Allura-class in 2022 with its last newbuild ship, Riviera, having launched in 2012.

“You won’t wait another 10 years from Allura two to the next Oceania ship. You’ll be seeing ships every three, four or five years – for both Oceania and Regent. NCLH currently CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

has seven ships on order for Norwegian, two for Oceania and two for Regent.

It was also revealed that Kate Gibbs would become the Europe Class Ambassador as part of her new role as director of business support. The position would see her looking after any Oceania guest who has taken 10 or more cruises.

“Kate knows so many past guests on a first name basis,” explained Bernard Carter, the senior vice president and managing director of Oceania Cruises EMEA. “She will now be the face of Oceania Cruises for our European guests.”

The company recently announced that it is changing its Cuba cruises to Myanmar following the travel ban.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has revealed 65 new Mediterranean and Northern Europe shore excursions curated with local tour operators debuting for guests sailing on the inaugural 2020 season of Seven Seas Splendor. The excursions will expand to all Regent ships sailing Europe starting in 2021.

Highlights include a trip in a helicopter outside Monaco en route to a meal at La Bastide de Moustiers, created by French chef Alain Ducasse; an electric-bike tour of La Cadière-d’Azur; and a lesson with a masterchef in Greenock to discover more about Scottish cuisine.

“We collaborated with the best local tour operators in the region to curate unique and memorable experiences that will result in a truly unrivalled experience for guests sailing on Seven Seas Splendor’s inaugural season,” said Jason Montague, president and chief executive officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. “Many of these excursions are being offered for the first time by our tour operator partners and are new for luxury travellers. With nearly half of these experiences included in Regent’s Free Unlimited Shore Excursions programme, our new offerings are one more example of how Seven Seas Splendor will perfect luxury.”

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Book by 31 July 2019

BOOK SELECT CRUISES AND YOUR CLIENTS MAY ENJOY FREE BUSINESS CLASS AIR AND MORE SPECIAL OFFERS MAY INCLUDE:

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• Up to US$500 Shipboard Credit per Suite* • 300 minute Internet Package per person* • Up to 15% savings on Combination Cruises*

Book any Penthouse or Premium Suite and receive up to $1,000USD Shipboard Credit per Suite and an Unlimited Internet Package per Suite*

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CONTACT YOUR SEABOURN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TEAM Call 0344 338 8614 | email: salessupport@seabourn.co.uk Terms & Conditions apply. Valid on select sailings in select suite categories only for new bookings.

Offers are subject to availability at the time of booking. Free Air offer is available on select Europe cruises

CRYSTAL

Crystal Cruises outlines its plans for the future at annual sales gala The ultra-luxury line unveils new approaches and improvements as it reveals that revenues in 2019 have already exceeded last year’s. Sam Ballard reports Ultra-luxury cruise line Crystal Cruises hosted 56 travel agencies at its annual Sales Gala last month, on board Crystal Serenity, for a sailing from Lisbon to Dover.

All of the agencies had made at least $1 million in Crystal bookings, with 24 having made more than $2 million.

Crystal’s entire senior team was present for the event, with most of them presenting at some point during the conference sessions, including Tom Wolbar, the line’s CEO & president.

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

During his session, Wolbar revealed that the company’s revenues in 2019 had already exceeded 2018’s total, but insisted that his priority was to “stabilise the business overall”.

“Our numbers are growing,” he explained. “But, if you think you are the best, then you are probably not. It’s all about doing better with our guests and better with our partners than ever before.”

Addressing the company’s key agents directly, he added: “We now have three full years of itineraries available across

all experiences, which are available for booking. That helps maximise our ability to all be successful.

“You are the first one of the many personal connections we have with our guests.”

Carmen Roig, Crystal’s senior vice president of marketing and sales, ran through the numbers for each individual Crystal brand – highlighting the difference between new to Crystal and past guests.

Crystal Yacht (Crystal Esprit) has the highest factor of new

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guests (66 per cent) followed by river (58 per cent). Ocean has more past customers travelling, with 58 per cent of passengers on either Serenity or Symphony being members of Crystal’s past passenger programme, Crystal Society.

Revenue was up across the board with ocean increasing by 10 per cent, river 12.5 per cent and yacht 31.4 per cent.

Roig also unveiled Crystal’s new marketing campaign, which is going for a mature approach under the strapline “where luxury is personal”.

Kari Tarnowski, vice president of marketing, Crystal Cruises, expanded on the concept by outlining the profile of a Crystal customer as someone who is 55-64, has an average household income of more than $150,000 and assets of more than $1 million.

However, the difference is “more than affluence”, Tarnowski explained, with 66 per cent of Crystal passengers typically spending more on their holiday than other affluent travellers and 76 per cent of them prioritising experiences over other affluent travellers.

Interestingly, Tarnowski also revealed data showing that Crystal customers welcomed direct mail – and as such the company had changed its strategy to maintaining mailouts throughout the year, rather than having peaks and troughs.

The company also revealed that its internet speeds would continue to increase – becoming eight times faster in 2020 than it was in 2017.

Susan Robison, director of global communications, told

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CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

delegates that the company was banning plastic straws on World Oceans Day – which took place on June 8 – and that it would be making further announcements about reducing single use plastics in the coming months.

Walter Littlejohn, vice president & managing director of Crystal River, revealed that the company had been looking at plans to expand into France, but that there would have been too many smaller suites, and the cruises would have been too long – moving away from the formula that the company has found on the Rhine and Danube. However, he did tell agents to be patient, hinting that announcements regarding new ships were on the way.

There were no announcements about the company’s much anticipated Diamond class, which is due to launch in 2022.

If you would like to receive another copy of this guide for your office, just email info@ cruise-adviser.com with the subject line ‘Luxury Guide 2019’ and we’ll send one out

THREE CRYSTAL CRUISES Ocean cruise

River cruise

Yacht cruise

Crystal Symphony Los Angeles-New Orleans September 28, 2019 From $9,050pp

Crystal Mahler Amsterdam-Budapest September 9, 2019 From $9,399

Crystal Esprit Mahé/Eden Island (round-trip) February 8, 2020 From $4,499

This epic 27-night voyage explores the sun-drenched beaches and coastal towns of the Mexican riviera, before traversing the Panama Canal.

A 16-night Grand Europe voyage across the rivers of Europe from west to east, taking in the Rhine, Main and Danube – all in the utmost luxury.

A seven-night saunter around the Seychelles taking in sugar-white beaches, emerald mountains, Unesco-protected reserves and crystal waters.

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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INTERVIEW

“Luxury clients want the toys and helicopters…”

Mark Spillane, head of sales and marketing at Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises, tells Sam Ballard about how luxury expedition travel meets the demands of customers Why do you think the expedition sector is getting so much attention?

Expedition has always been a small portion of the cruise industry. It typically utilised older ships, but now we’re seeing newbuilds come into the expedition market and it’s creating a lot of hype.

Why do you think that is?

It comes from the demands of the luxury traveller. The luxury segment of cruise has grown a lot over the last few years. We have Silversea Expeditions, Hapag-Lloyd – there are a lot of expedition companies out there, but none used newbuilds, and a new, luxury experience.

Luxury clients [who are sailing on new ships] want something

comparable experiences in the expedition market. They want a full spa and fitness centre, they want the water toys and helicopters. We’re now seeing the industry meet the needs of the consumer.

There are more than 28 expedition ships on order, what it is about Crystal Endeavor that is special?

We have the Crystal Experience, which is our onboard family.

It was cultivated on our ocean ships, which led to us being the most awarded luxury line in the world. We took that essence and put it on the rivers of Europe and then on Esprit and sailed into yachting harbours around the world. Endeavor will sail it to the ends of the Earth.

The hardware is all about size. The ship is about 20,000 tons, but only 200 guests. The space ratio is one of the highest in the expedition industry.

There will be larger suites, public spaces, five dining spaces – including Umi Uma

by Nobu. It’s that combination that will make Endeavor the leader in the segment.

How important to your customers is it to have those amenities on board?

It’s important for the luxury traveller, and the Crystal guest in particular, who has come to expect these amenities. So it’s important to have an expedition ship that is big enough to cater for all of these amenities, but intimate enough to offer an expedition experience.

What’s the strategy for getting past Crystal customers on board?

Crystal Esprit was the ship that allowed Crystal to have a younger, more active demographic on board. With Endeavor we will still be able to attract the working wealthy.

These are people that can’t go on a world cruise. On Esprit it’s 50-55 per cent new to Crystal.

They can then grow into river and then our ocean product.

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CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

We’re seeing more new-toCrystal guests with Endeavor than we did with Esprit.

What’s included with Endeavor?

The only thing that isn’t included is excursions on either the helicopter or submersible.

What itineraries are you most excited about?

The Ross Sea Antarctic voyages that we’re offering in 2021 are really exciting. Orion used to offer the itineraries, but there has never been a new luxury expedition ship to offer this itinerary. It provides guests who want to do this itinerary their first luxury option. They’re a bit longer – 22 days – but it will give guests who have experienced Antarctica via Ushuaia the option of doing a different route that includes visiting Shackleton’s hut and the Ross Ice Shelf.

What’s the passenger profile you’re telling agents about?

An active person. Someone who is adventurous, who is seeking cultural immersion in a destination. It may be someone who does a lot of land tours – or even someone who doesn’t think of a cruise as a vacation. This will offer them an experience that is very different to any other cruise and hopefully entice them take other cruises.

How important is the environment to Crystal?

Crystal has always been at the forefront when it comes to environmentalism. We are working towards being singleuse plastic free and Endeavor will be the first ship to launch in our fleet that achieves that.

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

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INDULGE IN TRUE LUXURY. Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian®, an exclusive enclave accessible by private keycard with our most luxurious and well-appointed accommodation. Your customers will bask in tranquillity in The Haven Courtyard with a private pool and sundeck while indulging in the unparalleled personal service of a certified butler and concierge.

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Florence/Pisa (Livorno) Cannes Barcelona

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Palma, Majorca

Rome

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Caribbean Sea

2,429 per person

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•Nassau

2,009 per person

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Price based on 22 September 2019 sailing

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BOOK TODAY! CALL: 0333 336 2915 OR VISIT WWW.AGENTS-UK.NCL.EU

LUXURIOUS BENEFITS • Concierge service and 24-hour certified butler • Exclusive access to The Haven Courtyard • Priority embarkation and disembarkation

PERSONALISED SERVICE • Cocktail party with ship officers • Priority boarding of tenders to and from shore • Courtyard attendant to take care of their needs

DELICIOUS EXTRAS • Mini-bar and deluxe coffee/espresso/ cappuccino machine • Exclusive The Haven menus • Treats delivered to their suite each evening

NORWEGIAN’S FREE AT SEA - GET ALL APPLICABLE WHEN YOU BOOK A HAVEN SUITE*

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ORDER A COPY OF THE HAVEN BY NORWEGIAN® TODAY AT WWW.TRADE-GATE.CO.UK *Free at Sea is available on all sailings and for all categories including IX, OX, BX and MX (Guarantee Categories) but applicable terms vary for certain ships and sailings. Applicable to UK office (NCL LONDON). Not applicable to all other offices. Applicable to 1st and 2nd guests sharing a stateroom only (unless otherwise stated) and not valid for 3rd or 4th guests sharing. Single occupants of stateroom paying 200% of voyage fare qualify. Guest cannot substitute or customise this offer and all guests in stateroom must choose same benefits. #Select sailings only. ^Lead prices are based on The Haven on featured sailings and are correct at the time of printing. Fares are per person shown in £GBP and based on double/twin occupancy including government taxes, port expenses and fees. Norwegian reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions and to change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice. For full terms and conditions please visit agents-uk.ncl.eu. Full Norwegian Cruise Line booking conditions apply to all bookings as shown on our website. For more information visit ncl.com. NCL (Bahamas) Ltd, UK Office, Mountbatten House, Grosvenor Square, Southampton, SO15 2JU. ©2019 NCL Corporation Ltd. Ships’ Registry: Bahamas and United States of America. 7214.6.19

COMMENT

What does luxury stand for?

As the luxury sector continues to expand and change beyond all recognition, Anthony Pearce says it’s important to realise what it means for customers As Jane Archer wrote in our Luxury Guide this time last year, the ultra-luxury cruise landscape has changed beyond all recognition over the last decade. With Crystal having expanded massively, RitzCarlton the new kids on the block, Royal Caribbean having bought Silversea and Scenic about to launch Eclipse, not to mention Viking’s move into ocean, the industry continues to evolve at a rate of knots.

The growth prompted Clia to hold its first ever luxury showcase in Malaga last Nobember, where delegates were urged to seize the opportunity this growing sector presents – but warned not to second guess luxury travellers.

It’s true that no one size fits all.

At the conference Dnata Travel B2B Europe managing director Lisa McAuley pointed out that travellers’ perceptions of luxury evolve in line with their holiday experiences.

“The challenge for us in the luxury space is how you get across what luxury stands for,” she said. “Don’t make assumptions about what people want or what they can afford.

Communication is key and can make or break a relationship.

“Your ideal customers are cash-rich and timerich. Listen to them; make recommendations, but don’t do the hard sell, extol the virtues.

Don’t over-elaborate or feel you 16

have to justify the price point with too much information, as this can lead to confusion.”

It’s also worth remembering that your luxury customer may not always be the luxury customer you imagine in your head. This is particularly true now that the luxury market has evolved beyond the more household six-star cruise lines, with smaller operators (particularly in the river and expedition sectors) massively expanding their luxury offering.

Then there are the non-luxury brands who have embraced luxury elements, particularly in their top-end accommodation – designed for wealthy families who want peace, comfort and a little opulence, but also want their kids to have the time of their lives. As Stuart Leven, the MD at Royal Caribbean Cruises, has claimed, Royal Caribbean

International has more suites to sell than anyone, while the Haven on Norwegian Cruise Lines is home to enormous and luxurious suites. Indeed, the luxury customer is now better served than ever – whether they are travelling with their family around the Med or on their own to Antarctica.

Polar cruises and other adventures are worth watching with interest. In Malaga, Aurora Expeditions managing director Robert Halfpenny said that the number of luxury ships being built is “going to revolutionise the expedition industry”, before adding: “Luxury is changing this market and it’s becoming more comfortable.”

No matter what area of the sector you look at – yachts, expedition, river or traditional six-star luxury – new ships are entering the market.

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Flights from a choice of up to 16 UK airports All-inclusive dining & beverages* Luxury suite accommodation Private butler service Up to 6 on board dining venues Scenic Enrich once-in-alifetime experiences Scenic Freechoice excursions

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For more information, training and support Contact your Local Sales Manager at agencysales@scenic.co.uk Book the ultimate in luxury 0808 115 0463 | Order your brochures via Tradegate Terms and Conditions: Offers are available on new bookings made between 24 June 2019 and 26 July 2019. All prices stated are per person, twin share, in GBP and based on the lowest cabin category available. Prices shown include advertised discount and are correct at time of going to print (June 2019) *All drinks included on board except for a small number of fine and rare wines, champagnes and spirits. ^Private door-to-door chauffeur transfers are complimentary within 75 miles of an airport where flights are available from. For guests outside 75 miles an additional supplement of £2.00 per mile will be charged. Maximum saving of £1,000 per couple. Offers not combinable with any other discount and can be withdrawn at any time. For full itineraries and booking conditions, visit scenic.co.uk/terms-and-conditions.

Did you know?

On every Viking river and ocean cruise, everything you need is included Inspiring destinations. Exciting excursions. Stunning ships. Fabulous food. Warm service. Worldwide awards.

Your Viking journey is defined by all these things, and something else too. Great value for money.

From onboard gratuities to onshore excursions, there are a host of ‘extras’ that won’t cost you a penny more.

We call it Viking Value. You’ll call it brilliant.

RETURN FLIGHTS FROM THE UK

A CHOICE OF STATEROOMS AND SUITES

Fly from London and, on selected cruises, from a choice of regional airports at no extra cost. And when you arrive at your destination, a Viking representative will take you to your ship or hotel, and back to the airport at the end of your cruise.

All our staterooms offer all the amenities of a first-class hotel.

Staterooms on our river ships are all outside with a view, like the French Balcony stateroom above. And on our ocean ships, every room has a private veranda.

ONBOARD GRATUITIES Viking is renowned for its exceptional service, so it’s reassuring to know that on every cruise, your onboard gratuities are taken care of.

Call now on 020 8780 7985 or visit madefortrade.co.uk

FREE WI-FI ON BOARD

ALL ONBOARD MEALS

QUALITY WINE, BEER AND SOFT DRINKS

Stay online on board and stay connected to friends and family.

Your ocean ship offers a choice of included restaurants, alfresco venues and 24-hour room service. Relax in the warm ambiance in The Restaurant on your river ship, or dine alfresco on The Aquavit Terrace.

What could be nicer than a lovely glass of wine with your meal?

How about another lovely glass of wine. Feel free to pick up a bottle of wine on your travels.

We will happily serve it for you and not charge corkage.

EXPERT GUIDED EXCURSIONS

THE SPA

ONBOARD DISCOVERIES

Explore the places you visit with a free excursion almost every day, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and unique cultural experiences.

The award-winning Nordic spa on our ocean ships is guaranteed to put a spring in your step and, because it’s free, a smile on your face.

From cooking classes, fascinating talks and demonstrations during the day, to relaxed entertainment in the evening. Take a drink at the bar, or take to the dance floor.

ACCOMMODATION

Embracing the suite life

1 Suites come in all shapes and sizes and on all kinds of cruise ships. While this list of some of our favourites is by no means exhaustive, it shows some of the very best options in their respective categories.

Six-star opulence (1)

When the all-suite Regent Seven Seas Explorer launched a few years ago, one room in particular took all the headlines.

Described as “the most exclusive address at sea,” the 413 sq m Regent Suite was billed as cruise’s most expensive suite.

Made up of two spacious bedrooms, plus living and dining rooms, it offers an ocean-front view from the top deck, plus guests get a private car and driver in every port, private dining in The Study and an insuite spa. If that wasn’t enough, the room features two rare, 2

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original lithographs by Pablo Picasso and a custom Steinway Grand Maroque piano.

Luxury for family (2)

Tucked away at the top of its ship, The Haven by Norwegian is home to NCL’s most luxurious and spacious accommodation.

Guests staying in this opulent ‘resort’ will have exclusive access to The Haven Lounge, The Haven Restaurant and The Haven Courtyard and Sundeck, the personal service of a concierge and 24-hour butler throughout the cruise.

The most impressive suite on offer is the Three-Bedroom Garden Villa, described as “a sanctuary of contemporary design”, the area stretches over 620 sq m, sleeping up to eight guests, and features three full baths, a half bath, private dining area and outdoor terraces.

3

River luxury (3)

Featuring two deluxe bedrooms with en-suite baths, living and dining areas, and suite-wide triple Panoramic Balconywindow, Crystal River Cruises’ Two-Bedroom Crystal Suite is among the most impressive on the rivers. This “enclave of excellence” totals 71 sq m in size and comes with a “European-trained butler”.

High-end expedition (4)

Silversea has excelled at offering a mix of luxury and adventure.

On board Silver Explorer, its ice-strengthened purpose-built luxury expedition ship, guests can enjoy the opulence of the 68 sq m Owner’s Suite while sailing to some of the world’s most incredible destinations. Butler service, dinner at the officer’s table, laundry service and wi-fi are, of course, included.

4

CRUISE-ADVISER.COM

F EAT U R E S | R O O M S E RV I C E M E NU | S H O RE E XC U R S I O NS

Explore

GLOBE

ISSUE ONE

Issue One

PREVIEW EDITION

December 2016

DECEMBER 2016

WATERMARK YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST HOLIDAYS IN THE WORLD

WHY ARE CRUISES M A K I N G WAV E S ?

SAILING SOLO O F F T H E B E AT E N T R AC K WHY ARE CRUISES M A K I N G WAV E S ?

SAILING SOLO O F F T H E B E AT E N T R AC K

FJORD FOCUS A JOURNEY TO WEST NORWAY

Give back with trips that support the local host communities

Roam Russia

Discover the grand delights of St Petersburg and Moscow year-round

New routes

Low-cost carriers are mapping their way in long-haul airspace

EMERALD WATERWAYS AN IN-DEPTH LOOK

WONDERFUL WORLD FOUR BUCKET-LIST STOPS

Solus

ISS UE 0N E

thevillagepost Amazing Grace Introducing Tauck’s new ship on the mighty Rhine

Turning the tide An in-depth look at MSC Cruises’ forthcoming Seaside

Issue two

A world of luxury We consider the benefits of all-inclusive river cruising

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SECRETS OF THE DOURO Explore the wonders of Porto with our new itinerary for 2017

MEET THE FLEET Introducing a trio of new ships: Emerald Radiance, Liberté and Destiny

RAISE A GLASS Enjoy the world’s finest wines during our new cruise on the Rhône

WHICH RIVER ARE YOU? Find out which Emerald Waterways cruise best suits your personality

thetravelvillage

Travel industry insights / September 2018

Soak up the colour, culture and energy of Argentina’s pulsing capital – an unforgettable introduction to the sensual appeal of Latin America

Stepping lightly

ON THE HORIZON THE LATEST CRUISE NEWS

thecruisevillage

Buenos Aires

CRUISE & MORE HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME

EMERALD EXPLORER

Eastern promises Sailing Asia’s majestic Mekong with APT Touring

thevillagepost American Queen A music-themed tour of the Deep South on the mighty Mississippi

Fire and ice Explore the Galápagos and Antarctica with our handy guide

Issue three

Capital concerns Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest with Scenic on the Danube

All around the world These epic cruises and flights will take you across the globe

Win!

vouchers

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THE GREAT BEYOND WHY TRAVELLERS OF ALL AGES ARE HEADING OUT ALONE

issue 3

issue 2

A new trade magazine from the team at cruise adviser

Issue three

Page 1

ISSUE TWO Issue two | Section Name

H E L P I N G YO U S E L L S O L O T R AV E L

FROM THE TEAM

SOLUS

AT

INDIAN SUMMER WE EXPLAIN WHY THE COUNTRY IS BACK ON THE MAP FOR SOLOS

THE ABTA MAGAZINE GUIDE TO

THE ABTA MAGAZINE GUIDE TO THE

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MURCIA

CARIBBEAN

CRUISE 2018

U By Uniworld Innovation at sea European river guide

Incredible cuisine Pulsating carnivals Authentic adventure

Discover Spain’s best kept secret

1

LUXURY GUIDE 2018

A Z A M A R A P U R S U I T | L E L A P É R O U S E | S P I R I T O F D I S CO V E R Y

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THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

ISSUE THREE

PRE & POST GUIDE 2018

H E L P I N G YO U S E L L S O L O T R AV E L S E P T E M B E R 2018

OC TO B E R 2018

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HIGH LIFE

ON THE HIGH SEAS The dazzling rise of luxury cruise

Fields of Bali

Island life

Sam Ballard sails on Star Clipper in Indonesia

T H E Y E A R I N R E V I E W | TO K YO | C L I A R I V E R CO N F E R E N C E

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

N O V E M B E R 2018

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

D E C E M B E R 2018

CRUISE & MARITIME VOYAGES

AU R O R A E X P E D I T I O N S | R I T Z - C A R L TO N | C R Y S TA L R I V E R C R U I S E S

Anthony Pearce explores the Caribbean with Viking Cruises

HOW TO MAKE A CRUISE

EVEN BETTER

EXPRESS YOURSELF WHY RAIL HOLIDAYS ARE IN A CLASS OF THEIR OWN

The added extras that can transform your clients’ holidays

INFOCUS: G ADVENTURES DISPELLING SOLO TRAVEL MYTHS COACH TOURING IN AUSTRALIA

ISSUE FOUR

F E AT U R E S | R O O M S E RV IC E M E N U | S H O R E E XC U R S IO N S

ISSUE TWO

GLOBE

THE ONLY DESTINATION FOR THOSE SELLING CRUISES

YO U R O N B OA R D M AGA Z I N E

MARCH 2018

JA N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 20 1 8

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Dive in Down Under

Sue Bryant sails on Celebrity Edge, the much hyped new ship that could change the future of cruise

A NIGHT ON MSC’S BRAND NEW SHIP BELLISSIM A

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

PARADISE FOUND We return to the Caribbean with P&O Cruises and find it very much open for business after last year’s hurricanes

PLUS HOW TO SELL: EX-UK PORTS OF CALL: COPENHAGEN WAVE: SPECIAL OFFERS ROUND-UP

EMPIRE OF THE SUN A TRIP DOWN MEXICO WAY 02

James Litston casts off with Coral Expeditions to encounter the rich, diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef

Edge of tomorrow

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

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

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

Discover

T H E C A R I BBE A N FOR L E S S

SAVOUR THE WORLD WITH THE FINEST CUISINE AT SEA™ ABOARD OUR INTIMATE AND LUXURIOUS SHIPS

The Finest Cuisine at Sea™ A variety of distinctive open-seating restaurants First hands-on cooking school at sea, “The Culinary Center” Destination immersion with over 450 destinations worldwide

Engaging Culinary Discovery Tours™ Exceptional personalised service Elegant casual ambiance, no jacket or tie required Intimate, luxurious ships catering to 684 or 1,250 guests

M AY A N MO S A IC MIAMI TO MIAMI

I S L A N D DR E A M S

| 7 days

28 Sep, 5 & 23 Oct 2019 – INSIGNIA 6 Jan▲, 25 Jan▲, & 18 Feb 2020 – SIRENA

MIAMI TO MIAMI

includes:

includes:

plus choose one:

plus choose one:

Amenities are per stateroom

Amenities are per stateroom

SAVE UP TO 33%

SAVE UP TO 36%

Airfare & Internet* FREE Speciality Dining

Airfare & Internet* FREE Speciality Dining

FREE 4 Shore Excursions FREE Beverage Package FREE US$400 Shipboard Credit

OLIFE CHOICE FARES PER GUEST FROM VERANDA

£2,009

| 11 days

12 Oct & 28 Dec 2019 – INSIGNIA

CONCIERGE VERANDA

£2,129

PENTHOUSE

£2,439

FREE 6 Shore Excursions FREE Beverage Package FREE US$600 Shipboard Credit

OLIFE CHOICE FARES PER GUEST FROM VERANDA

£2,659

CONCIERGE VERANDA

£2,809

PENTHOUSE

£3,349

BUSINESS CL ASS AIRFARE from £1,499pp each way*

C A LL OC E A NIA CRUISES ON 0 3 4 5 5 0 5 19 2 0 BOOK ONLINE AT OC E A NIACRUISES.COM / AGEN T OR OR DER BROCHUR ES FROM AGENC YSA LES @ OC E A NIACRUISES.COM TERMS AND CONDITIONS *OLife Choice offers and fares expire on 30th September 2019. All fares are per person in Pounds Sterling, valid for residents of the United Kingdom, based on double occupancy, new bookings only, subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Oceania Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees, offers and surcharges at any time. For full pricing visit OceaniaCruises.com. OCI190603393GBP

▲ Port order may vary

Pre-cruise hotel required but not included

Your private address at sea.

Cunard Grill Suites.

Grill Suites are the epitome of the Cunard experience, allowing your customers to enjoy: Dining at any time in the dedicated Grill restaurants Exclusive access to the Grills Lounge and outdoor terrace Spacious suites with marble bathrooms, expansive balconies* and a butler in Queens Grill Suites.

Example Cunard Fares (flight included)

The Transatlantic Crossing

Queen Mary 2

M021A

Princess Grill Suites from £2,999pp with $300pp to spend on boardˆ Queens Grill Suites from £3,579pp with $450pp to spend on boardˆ

Visit shinerewardsclub.com to register your Cunard Fare Grill Suite bookings and earn fantastic rewards. *Queen Anne Suite and Queen Victoria Suite on Queen Mary 2 do not have balconies.

ˆFares shown are Cunard Fares and prices are based on 2 adults sharing. Prices are subject to change.

Please refer to the Aug 2019 - May 2021 Cunard brochure for full terms and conditions.