As we pass the one-year anniversary of COVID-19 shutdowns, one can make a strong argument that travel businesses were hit harder than just about any other industry. And there is probably no segment of travel that was more affected by the pandemic than cruising.
Last issue, we ran a cover story about some of the silver-lining initiatives created by travel advisors during this difficult year. But we could have done a whole series of stories about how cruise lines came up with creative ways to connect with advisors and customers, as well.
In particular, it has been great to see so many innovative virtual events born during this crisis. One of my favorites has been “Coffee Talk With Vicki Freed.” This weekly webinar, hosted by Freed, who is Royal Caribbean’s senior vice president of sales, trade support and service, feels like a cross between a cruise webinar and “Good Morning America.”
Freed is a natural — she’s supportive, optimistic and practical — and her “guests” have included a range of Royal Caribbean executives. Freed often highlights the talented performers featured on the company’s ships, which provides a dose of inspiration to get through the day.
Coffee Talk is just one example of the many virtual cruise offerings for advisors these days. Whether you prefer “From Adolfo’s Desk,” a regular webinar with Adolfo Perez of Carnival Cruise Line, or the educational offerings from Lindblad Expeditions, or something else entirely — these events are enjoyable and educational ways to keep cruising top of mind.
This special issue is dedicated to all things cruising — including our cover story about the road ahead for ocean ships, a look at river cruising in Europe, an expedition sailing in Antarctica and more. With this issue, we are doing our part to highlight some of the amazing experiences available on the water, and, hopefully, we can get back to sailing ourselves again one day soon.
