This week Cruise Weekly speaks with Rik
Sprengers, Cruise Manager onboard
Uniworld’s Rhine, Main & Danube cruises.
How long have you been
working on river cruise
ships? When did you join
Uniworld?
I started in 2003 & I’m about
to start my 11th season.
What is the best thing about
working for Uniworld?
The people. From the office
staff to the staff onboard –
all are so dedicated. Many have been working
for Uniworld season after season so it’s like a
big family full of great people.
What is your favourite cruising destination?
I love the Tulip & Windmill Cruises in spring. I’m
able to show off my home country when it’s
at its most beautiful. I also love sailing on the
River Queen along the Moselle and Rhine.
Briefly explain what the job entails.
I make sure the program is running smoothly
and take care of guests. Confirming buses,
tour guides, writing daily programs, daily
talks, making sure we deliver what we promise
and helping with individual guest requests or
medical help if necessary, are some of my tasks.
Who is the most famous person you’ve ever
served?
The son of President Ronald Reagan, Michael
was on board with his wife. He was very
charismatic and kind. He shared some great
stories about his Dad’s time in the White House.
What is the most interesting request you’ve
received from a passenger?
To make the Icelandic volcano stop from
erupting, so the guest could go home and see
her newborn grandchild.
Do you have any embarrassing cruise stories
you can share with us?
A guest was carrying her passport in a money
belt; she didn’t want to put it in the safe. She
got dressed up for the Captain’s Farewell
Cocktail and Dinner and thought the money
belt didn’t look nice underneath her dress so
decided to take it off and put it in the bin in her
cabin. When she returned, her bins had been
emptied. A team of housekeeping, the Hotel
Manager & I searched the bins for 35 mins until
we found the money belt and returned it to her.
How do you spend your holidays when you
return home?
Mostly relaxing at home in the Netherlands.
I love to cook and bake, especially when my
family and friends come over!
