| Face to Face: Mark Windsor Head of Distribution, Australia, Asia & Pacific, TUI Marine (Sunsail)

Welcome to Face to Face, where we chat to cruise industry leaders.
How many cruises have you been on in the past five years?
I have been lucky enough to have cruised the Ionian Sea in Greece, and the British Virgin Islands in the
past year, aboard some of our catamarans, plus of course have sailed through The Whitsundays on a
number of occasions. All spectacular and different to each other. Nothing compares with the wind behind
your back and powering under sail.
What is your favourite destination, and why?
Croatia, it has everything to make a memorable holiday both on the water and on land. Great history, food
and culture, plus 1,000 islands to explore along the Adriatic coast.
What was your most memorable moment on a cruise?
Being upgraded from the lowest possible cabin to the Penthouse Suite on an overbooked cruise from
Miami. Five memorable days.
How do you spend days at sea?
Normally a bit of R&R which could include a book and perhaps a few GnTs!
How can cruising continue to grow in the current financial climate?
Cruising is still one of the best value for money holidays, while it still continues to deliver this experience then it will maintain and grow in
popularity.
How can cruising attract more young people and/or families
In my business it is focussed on all age types. We don’t see ourselves as being purely the realm of the older client. Anyone can enjoy a sailing
charter.
What do you think is the most underrated/overrated aspect of cruising?
Cruises of all types give you direct access to the areas you want to visit, especially if you don’t have to do this with thousands of your new best
friends.
What is something you wish more agents/consumers knew about cruising?
Cruising either on a bareboat or skippered charter gives you the freedom to experience a destination at your own leisure – you’re not set to any
timetable.
Describe your perfect cruise in 25 words or less.
My perfect cruise would have to encompass plenty of days in port to explore the region you’re visiting-that’s why sailing is perfect.
What is your best tip for sea-sickness?
Pick your cruise carefully. If you’re prone to motion sickness, then I would suggest an itinerary with less days at sea and always keep your eye
on the horizon.
Mark’s Cruise Favourites!
Favourite Ship: Sunsail 444
Favourite ship activity: Just taking it all in, nothing like the blue horizon.
Favourite shore excursion: Either exploring a new destination or scuba diving
Favourite region: Overall probably along the Nile
Favourite port: Dubrovnik – absolutely spectacular approach by sea and meets all expectations once you disembark
Favourite onboard food: I always try to have the local cuisine, no point in eating and drinking what you get at home – there’s no fun in that.
Favourite perk of the job: Exploring new destinations and learning to sail