This week Cruise Weekly speaks with Samuel
Jake A. Barabad, Maitre’ D Hotel onboard
Orion Expedition Cruises’ MV Orion.
How long have you
been working on cruise
ships?
11 Years.
When did you join
Orion Expedition
Cruises?
In 2011 when we used
to have the Orion II.
Currently I am on
board MV Orion which I
joined last February.
What is the best thing about working onboard
MV Orion?
It’s the family oriented atmosphere amongst
the crew that makes it a solid and happy ship.
We have such a high return rate of crew that
completes the family onboard, resulting in a
memorable experiences for both guest & crew.
What is your favourite cruising destination?
My favourite is Asia as it is a place where east
& west meets; its unique culture, people, &
rich history creates a supernatural experience.
Briefly explain what your job entails.
To create a lasting impression & a memorable
dining experience. I ensure guest comfort as
well as personalised service where saying “no”
isn’t in our language.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Meeting different people, seeing them
enjoying and giving commendations to our
efforts. It is a delightful feeling that our guest
is looking forward to each Orion experience.
Who is the most famous person you’ve served?
Prince Albert of Monaco.
What is the most interesting request you’ve
received from a passenger?
One of our guests was celebrating their 25th
anniversary. I was requested to help set up the
occasion with a theme “somewhere in time” at
the Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island in Michigan.
Do you have any embarrassing cruise stories
you can share with us?
I saw a very enthusiastic obese lady try to
weigh herself at the passenger gym using our
glass top weighing scale. Suddenly i heard a
thud, and when i saw the scale it was cracked
and almost cut into half.
How do you spend your holidays/vacation
when you return home?
Sleep a lot, eat a lot and spending quality time
with my family and friends!
