After not even three years in operation for Renaissance, followed by a period of being laid up, Oceania Cruises became its new operator in 2003. (In fact, Frank Del Rio who was once co-CEO at Renaissance, cofounded Oceania.)
Cruise ships are continually upping the ante with specialty restaurants that feature international dishes, celebrity chefs, intimate venues, innovative menus and all-round delicious food.
Differentiate yourself as an expert
Del Rio suggests that you narrow the portfolio of brands you represent so you can be an expert. Who wants to deal with an amateur with a non-informed, or worse, misinformed travel advisor? Market your expertise and your willingness to serve your customers aggressively.
“There are still misconceptions. There are still a lot of people who haven’t cruised or cruised for decades, and it’s the only one they remember. Education on how the ships have changed is a big point.” Freed agrees, “The old perception is you are sticking me in the main theatre.”
If you’re like most cruisers, you spend time talking cruising with others who love taking to the rivers and the oceans. Here’s something you might be able to stump them with, as a “Did you know?”
Seven Seas Mariner was a rulebreaker when it first launched in 2001. It was the industry’s first all-suite, all-balcony ship.
By Gene Sloan, USA TODAY MIAMI — Oceania Cruises today announced that every one of its sailing in Europe in 2012 will include an overnight stay in a port — a first for the company. “We’re a destination-oriented cruise line, and if you’re a destination-oriented cruise line, you should spend as much time in the destinations as possible,” Oceania … Read more