| Face to Face: Christine Gardiner Business Development Executive NSW and ACT, MSC Cruises

Welcome to Face to Face, where we chat to cruise industry leaders.
How and why did you get into the cruise Industry?
After joining the Travel Industry in 1988, first with airlines, moving onto hotels and now cruising I look forward to
completing a full circle of my experiences and bringing a holistic approach to a very exciting industry.
What is your favourite destination and why?
Venice! After my first visit to Venice in 1985 travelling as a single girl, I stayed at the Hotel Al
Giardinetto …
I since went on to meet my husband of 20 years in 1988, his name….Allen Gardiner!
How do you spend days at sea?
My favourite day would be sitting in one of the pods by the pool, reading, sleeping, reading
and sleeping! Or dinner is also my favourite meal, chatting about all the activities of another
exciting day at another cultural location.
What is the next hot spot in cruising destinations?
The Caribbean is popular with families wanting to experience the East Coast of America and
South America as Australians are looking for new and exciting destinations.
How can cruising attract more families?
When selling MSC Cruises it is very easy to take a client on a journey by talking about the
fabulous activities on board for parents and children and also the value. MSC Cruises allow children under 18 years of age to travel free
when sharing a cabin with two adults, a great incentive for families.
What do you think is the most underrated aspect of cruising?
Definitely the Yacht Club upgrade! Consider this, your own 24-hour butler, all inclusive drinks in exclusive bars, restaurants and more.
All for an addition $35 per person per cabin upgrade from a Balcony Suite with MSC.
What is something you wish more agents and consumers knew about cruising?
MSC Yacht Club!
What are your career ambitions?
Due to being new to the cruise industry, I look forward to this year, absorbing as much industry knowledge from the cruise experts
around me.
Christine’s Cruise Favourites!
Ship Activity: Day spa
Region: Provence
Perk of the Job: Talking about cruising everyday and being out and about meeting new people