Small-ship cruise lines have taken the spotlight in the travel industry, particularly for their distinctive ability to reach destinations unreachable by larger vessels. However, what often remains overlooked is the cruise ship itself. The charm and experience offered by these smaller vessels can be as captivating as the ports they visit. During a recent session at Travel Weekly’s CruiseWorld, industry leaders emphasized the significance of the ship as a part of the travel experience.
Chris Austin, the North American president of Explora Journeys, fundamentally shifted the discussion to the beauty and luxury of small cruise ships themselves. He articulated that many travelers often neglect the vessel’s environment when considering their journey. “How many of you sell iconic hotels around the world as a destination?” he prompted attendees, urging them to recognize that a magnificent ship can be an integral part of a memorable adventure. This perspective shifts the narrative from simply being a vehicle to reach a destination to considering the cruise ship as a destination worth exploring in its own right.
The amenities and features of small cruise ships often elicit praise from first-time cruisers. As Austin explained, guests frequently highlight their enjoyment of the sea days, appreciating the onboard facilities such as swimming pools and expansive open-deck spaces. These attributes not only enhance relaxation but also foster a unique connection between the ship and its guests, showcasing that the journey itself can be as rich and rewarding as the ports of call.
Chris Prelog, president of Windstar, characterized small ships as havens of personal connection. He articulated a notion that after just a few days aboard, the crew becomes familiar with guests on a level seldom found in larger vessels. This familiarity fosters a homely atmosphere, where guests feel more like family than mere passengers. The intimacy of smaller ships allows for genuine relationships to develop, creating lasting memories that can outshine any single destination visited.
Additionally, Windstar’s unique offerings, such as sailing ships equipped with masts, resonate strongly with romance and adventure seekers. These vessels cater to an audience looking for a more intimate and unique cruising experience, underscoring the diverse narratives that small ships can tell.
The conversation at the session also delved into the world of expedition cruising. Steve Smotrys, senior vice president for HX, pointed out that these ships are specially designed to enhance the experience of their surroundings. The emphasis is placed on looking outward rather than inward, showcasing the incredible destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic in their full glory. However, Smotrys also highlighted that the comfort of the facilities aboard ensures that more travelers can experience these remote locations without sacrificing luxury.
With gourmet dining options reminiscent of high-end hotels and activities that cater to a wide range of interests, these expedition vessels serve as floating sanctuaries in the wilderness. They expand upon the traditional cruising concept, providing exploration in inaccessible areas while ensuring that guests enjoy the same level of comfort and service they expect in any major city.
As moderated by industry experts Mary Pat Sullivan and Ken Shapiro, the conversation reflected a growing trend in the small-ship cruising industry: a need to articulate the unique narratives that small vessels offer. The synchronization of onboard experience with destination exploration presents a narrative of its own, urging travel agents and industry professionals to weave the beauty of the ship into the travel story.
As the allure of small-ship cruising continues to expand, it is essential for both industry professionals and travelers alike to appreciate not only the destinations but also the vessels that enhance their journey. By recognizing the intrinsic value of the ship, the cruise experience transforms, allowing for a more enriching, diverse, and memorable adventure that lives on long after the journey concludes.