THE managers of Australia’s most popular cruise companies
explain the benefits of the two main types of cruising.
OCEAN
“The big plus with ocean cruising is its exceptional value for money.
Whether you choose the Mediterranean, Caribbean or even the
waters of South America, you have plenty of options on a cruise ship,
from dining, the entertainment and activities, to the overall facilities.
There is so much to do. Little wonder ocean cruising is rapidly
growing in popularity around the world.”
– Lynne Clark, managing director Australia/New Zealand, MSC
Cruises.
“Ocean cruising can take you to all seven continents, from the polar
circles to classic capitals. New destinations are always on offer and
are timed to suit the season, from Japan in cherry blossom bloom to
New England in autumn. Smaller ships make a feature of
sophisticated dining and butler service, while days at sea offer
seasoned travellers sought-after relaxation.”
– Karen Christensen, general manager Australasia, Silversea.
“The magic of ocean cruising is that the ship is very much a part of
the destination as well as the transportation. Having more
passengers on larger vessels creates a more diverse product, from
the food and beverage to the accommodation – inside, outside,
balcony, deluxe. That diversity allows it to be more relevant to more
households because you’ve got the spread of price.”
– Gavin Smith, managing director Australia, Royal Caribbean
Cruises.
RIVER
“Try travelling for two weeks in Europe, going to all the
destinations that you would see on a river cruise and paying for all
your hotel nights and your food and sightseeing and drinks and tips
in those destinations. River cruising’s value is unbeatable, without
having to rough it with a backpack on your back. The big difference
from ocean liners is that we are not making any money out of you
when you’re onboard.”
– Teresia Fors, managing director Australia, Viking River Cruises.
“River cruising combines the benefits of a relaxed pace of journey
while still being able to properly discover the destination. A river
cruise is like a floating five-star hotel with the need to only unpack
once. Meanwhile, you are able visit to all the small towns that ocean
cruising cannot access, and enjoy the cultural sightseeing of the
destination.”
– Glen Moroney, managing director, Scenic Tours.
“River cruising passengers are, on average, one of 130 passengers
on board, as opposed to one of thousands, so the level of service is
unparalleled, staff know you by name and bartenders and waiters
know your preferences and dislikes after the first day. Passengers
enjoy the lack of hassle and high level of hospitality and luxury that
comes with such a high staff to passenger ratio. You can step off
board and find yourself in the centre of some of the greatest capital
cities of Europe.
– John Molinaro, general manager, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise
Collection.
