Welcome to Face to Face, where we chat to cruise industry leaders. How did you get into the cruise industry? I was approached by an associate of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines from our sister retail company when the position I currently hold became available. It was an opportunity I could...
Welcome to Face to Face, where we chat to cruise industry leaders.
How did you get into the cruise industry?
I was approached by an associate of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines from our sister retail company when the position I currently
hold became available. It was an opportunity I could not refuse given the growth in cruising.
How many cruises have you been on in the past five years?
Not as many as I would like – on average two a year, all work related.
What is your favourite destination, and why?
South Africa. It really is a world in one country and the spectacular scenery, wildlife and people make it truly
memorable. I first visited when I was 21 years old, and arrived just as Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as
President, a truly historic time to be in the country. I have since been back many times.
What was your most memorable moment on a cruise?
Being with my father celebrating his 60th birthday onboard Balmoral in the Caribbean in 2008. He had never
been on a cruise ship, nor in the Caribbean and it was my gift to him for putting up with me over the years! He
loved it.
How do you spend days at sea?
I try to make the most of my time onboard meeting up with key crew and personnel – Guest Relations, Hotel Manager, Reception etc. I think
it is very important to have good working relationships with all ship based colleagues.
How can cruising continue to grow in the current financial climate?
It has to be the awareness of what great value for money a cruise holiday is, for all demographics.
What is something you wish more agents/consumers knew about cruising?
The variety of product that is out there. From small ship expedition cruising to the amazing large resort style vessels – there truly is a ship
and experience to suit everyone, contemporary or traditional, luxury or mass market, small or large.
What is your best tip for sea-sickness?
Eat an apple (a tip passed to me by one of our ship reception staff on a particularly rough passage), drink some ginger ale, then a glass of
champagne. Works for me although luckily I rarely suffer from sea sickness.
What is your prediction for the future of cruising?
Even more growth, wider range of product. We are only scratching the surface.
What advice would you give other people who want a job like yours?
Be prepared for hours spent in airports, hotels and room service – mostly alone. Travelling on business can be tough. Having to hit the
ground running with presentations, meetings etc means having to have the ability to be upbeat, professional and positive even after long
tiring journeys. Smile lots and listen to everyone you meet – I have learnt so much from everyone I have met.
Kate’s Cruise Favourites!
Ship: Braemar
Ship Activity: Crew show
Region: Norwegian Fjords
Port: Stockholm
Onboard Food and Drink: Lobster thermidor/pouilly fume (expensive tastes!)
Perk of the Job: Travelling to some amazing destinations, obvious but true
