I have heard this evening that Marilyn Conroy and David Morris have been terminated by Silversea Cruises.
From two sources I have heard that Ms. Conroy was escorted out the door by security. Apparently she never saw it coming.
My concerns over Silversea approach and finances have been unpopular, but I am very, very concerned about the continued viability of the Silversea.
You don't fire your two top executives unless it is getting ugly.
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Tuesday, March 31, 2009
A Difference in Philosophy: The Yachts of Seabourn versus Regent Seven Seas
The internet is an interesting place. A few days ago I posted my Seabourn Challenge: a $1,000 guarantee that Seabourn provides a better overall cruise experience than Regent does. Seabourn Challenge: $1,000 Guarantee. Now there is a rumor that Seabourn will honor the perks Regent gives to its frequent cruisers. Not only is the rumor false, it highlights the impossibility of same since the philosophies of the two lines are so different. For me it highlights the difference between a true luxury product and one marketed as one.
As background, Regent rewards its frequent guests with a number of perk...and they are nice. At 4-20 nights you get an onboard cocktail party, special savings on certain cruises and a few lesser perks. At 21-74 nights you get complimentary internet access (within limits), one hour of telephone time, 2 items pressed for free, and the other perks. 74-199 nights gets you a possible upgrade, 2 more items pressed, a daily newspaper, a special shore event, and increased insurance benefits (if you pay for the standard insurance). At 200-399 nights you get 6 hours of phone and complimentary laundry. 400+ nights gets you complimentary dry cleaning and transfers from your home (within 50 miles of an airport). One other thing Regent does is increase your involvement in its Advisory Board; more on that later. (There are a few window dressing benefits of little to no value, as well, across the range.)
Seabourn doesn't give you any of that as past passenger perks. It has a much simpler benefit: Cruise for 140 days and you receive a complimentary seven (7) day cruise in the category of suite you most regularly cruise...with no limitation on itinerary.
That may sound like Regent favors its repeating guests in the near term, but that is, in fact, not true. The reason: Seabourn treats all of its guests exactly the same way. It is considered, on Seabourn at least, impolite - better, improper - to treat any single person as "better" or "more entitled" than another person. Seabourn's philosophy is that the person taking his first Seabourn cruise should have the identical experience on its ships at the person who is on their 40th cruise. Owner's Suite or Oceanview Suite, it doesn't matter. Seven day or 30 day cruise, again no difference. The Seabourn Experience is what it is...for everyone.
Not only is it the goal of Seabourn to have that person return to Seabourn time and time again...with (what is the magic word?) consistency of service...but to earn that loyalty through satisfaction rather than bribes (or "earned" entitlements).
Regent's philosophy can be seen as an acknowledgment of loyalty akin to a frequent flayer program and/or a way to install a class society aboard its ships. "You are only Bronze? I am Platinum. You are not as good as I am." (Don't kid yourself, this does happen. If you read my message board The Gold Standard Luxury Travel Forum you will see that this sort of conduct does occur.) In other words, Regent seeks to get you to come back because you will get more perks and because it will make you "more important" in its eyes, including placing you on its Advisory Board. (Does the fact you take longer cruises make your taste, attention to detail, standards higher or your opinion as to how to provide a product to ALL passengers more weighty? Me thinks not.)
Now, lets look at value: Seabourn's 7 night cruise is usually worth usually far in excess of $10,000 per couple. Regent's internet, telephone and pressing is worth about $200 per 7 day cruise...if you use the services, and most do not!), so over the same 140 days you would need to take 20 cruises. 20 x 200 = $4,000 per couple. Let's also keep in mind that most luxury cruisers take cruises longer than 7 days, so the benefits are actually less (ever spend $400 on internet in 14 days...and, remember, if you reading this you use the internet?) So, in reality, Regent is providing less than 40% of the value Seabourn is for those who cruise with any frequency.
But you say, Regent offers certain discounts for those who have sailed longer and has certain sailings with special onboard discounts. Seabourn offers the identical past passenger savings for all past passengers - regardless of whether you have been on a 5 night cruise or 500 nights. It also offers an across-the-board 5% discount if you book your next cruise on board...or even if you just place an open booking; no tselected sailings.
And Seabourn does not do what Regent does: There is no $200 cancellation fee...ever. Book on board and maybe save $400, but Regent will definitely take $200 out of your pocket if you later choose to not sail with them.
Now, back to the rumor. As you can see there is now way for Seabourn to transfer any "benefits" you might have with Regent. The philosophy is different. The treatment of its guests is different. And the program itself is a far lesser value than Seabourn's. Put another way: Seabourn Cruise Line is not Regent Seven Seas Cruises and has absolutely no interest in reducing the quality of its product or changing its philosophy to one inconsistent with its mantra.
For those of you who feel the Regent benefits are worthwhile enough to buy your loyalty (rather than the cruise product itself), ask your travel agent to give you a $200 onboard credit or so and try Seabourn. You will get it all. If you book with Goldring Travel, you will get value far in excess of that.
As background, Regent rewards its frequent guests with a number of perk...and they are nice. At 4-20 nights you get an onboard cocktail party, special savings on certain cruises and a few lesser perks. At 21-74 nights you get complimentary internet access (within limits), one hour of telephone time, 2 items pressed for free, and the other perks. 74-199 nights gets you a possible upgrade, 2 more items pressed, a daily newspaper, a special shore event, and increased insurance benefits (if you pay for the standard insurance). At 200-399 nights you get 6 hours of phone and complimentary laundry. 400+ nights gets you complimentary dry cleaning and transfers from your home (within 50 miles of an airport). One other thing Regent does is increase your involvement in its Advisory Board; more on that later. (There are a few window dressing benefits of little to no value, as well, across the range.)
Seabourn doesn't give you any of that as past passenger perks. It has a much simpler benefit: Cruise for 140 days and you receive a complimentary seven (7) day cruise in the category of suite you most regularly cruise...with no limitation on itinerary.
That may sound like Regent favors its repeating guests in the near term, but that is, in fact, not true. The reason: Seabourn treats all of its guests exactly the same way. It is considered, on Seabourn at least, impolite - better, improper - to treat any single person as "better" or "more entitled" than another person. Seabourn's philosophy is that the person taking his first Seabourn cruise should have the identical experience on its ships at the person who is on their 40th cruise. Owner's Suite or Oceanview Suite, it doesn't matter. Seven day or 30 day cruise, again no difference. The Seabourn Experience is what it is...for everyone.
Not only is it the goal of Seabourn to have that person return to Seabourn time and time again...with (what is the magic word?) consistency of service...but to earn that loyalty through satisfaction rather than bribes (or "earned" entitlements).
Regent's philosophy can be seen as an acknowledgment of loyalty akin to a frequent flayer program and/or a way to install a class society aboard its ships. "You are only Bronze? I am Platinum. You are not as good as I am." (Don't kid yourself, this does happen. If you read my message board The Gold Standard Luxury Travel Forum you will see that this sort of conduct does occur.) In other words, Regent seeks to get you to come back because you will get more perks and because it will make you "more important" in its eyes, including placing you on its Advisory Board. (Does the fact you take longer cruises make your taste, attention to detail, standards higher or your opinion as to how to provide a product to ALL passengers more weighty? Me thinks not.)
Now, lets look at value: Seabourn's 7 night cruise is usually worth usually far in excess of $10,000 per couple. Regent's internet, telephone and pressing is worth about $200 per 7 day cruise...if you use the services, and most do not!), so over the same 140 days you would need to take 20 cruises. 20 x 200 = $4,000 per couple. Let's also keep in mind that most luxury cruisers take cruises longer than 7 days, so the benefits are actually less (ever spend $400 on internet in 14 days...and, remember, if you reading this you use the internet?) So, in reality, Regent is providing less than 40% of the value Seabourn is for those who cruise with any frequency.
But you say, Regent offers certain discounts for those who have sailed longer and has certain sailings with special onboard discounts. Seabourn offers the identical past passenger savings for all past passengers - regardless of whether you have been on a 5 night cruise or 500 nights. It also offers an across-the-board 5% discount if you book your next cruise on board...or even if you just place an open booking; no tselected sailings.
And Seabourn does not do what Regent does: There is no $200 cancellation fee...ever. Book on board and maybe save $400, but Regent will definitely take $200 out of your pocket if you later choose to not sail with them.
Now, back to the rumor. As you can see there is now way for Seabourn to transfer any "benefits" you might have with Regent. The philosophy is different. The treatment of its guests is different. And the program itself is a far lesser value than Seabourn's. Put another way: Seabourn Cruise Line is not Regent Seven Seas Cruises and has absolutely no interest in reducing the quality of its product or changing its philosophy to one inconsistent with its mantra.
For those of you who feel the Regent benefits are worthwhile enough to buy your loyalty (rather than the cruise product itself), ask your travel agent to give you a $200 onboard credit or so and try Seabourn. You will get it all. If you book with Goldring Travel, you will get value far in excess of that.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Regent Voyager World Cruise - Pod Problems Update No. 3
I had a long conversation with Prestige Cruise Holdings today and, before I give the details, I would like to say that I am quite impressed with how Regent Seven Seas is now responding to the situation. It is, it would seem, a refreshing return to the former Radisson levels of customer service, or quite possibly, just a new and long awaited approach consistent with that which is expected of a luxury cruise line. Yeah!
Now for the details:
First, I have been told that Mark Conroy is going to be meeting the ship upon its arrival to address the passengers' concerns. That is a very welcome acknowledgement of Regent's guests' importance. (It is not known if he will sail with the ship from Dubai for one or more ports.)
Second, Regent is going to be refunding the full cruise fare for all guests for the Singapore to Dubai segment. In addition, World Cruise passengers are going to be given the option of transferring from the Voyager's World Cruise to the Mariner's World Cruise at no cost or expense.
Third, for the guests planning on embarking in Dubai they will have a number of options. They can cancel without penalty; or, They can stay with the sailing and if there is a problem either delaying the Dubai departure or after departing (more below on that) they will receive a 25% refund and a 25% future cruise credit; or, they can transfer to the Mariner World Cruise for its next 14 or 28 day segment (their choice as the next Voyager segment, I believe 17 days) at no additional cost.
Regent will be taking care of all flight changes and assoicated arrangements.
Now, here is the news on the pod repairs. Regent is planning on constructing a watertight cocoon around the pod so work can be completed in the necessary dry environment. (I am told a similar arrangement was used when the Oceania Nautica had a propeller issue in Livorno, Italy last year.) The technicians are all scheduled to arrive on March 30th and the ship will be arriving either late on the 30th or very early in the morning on the 31st.
Work will start quickly as it will, regardless, be dark under the ship so underwater floodlighting will be used. The key is to get the seals appropriately seated so that there is no water infiltration into the pod. The problem...if it is a problem...is that the repairs cannot really be tested at the dock. The seals can be tested with the pod motor at idle speed and the main engines running at the dock, but until a load is put on the pod motor the new seals cannot be tested. So Voyager will have to sail away from Dubai to test the repairs. The plan is to keep sailing with all being well. The alternative is to return to Dubai for further repairs...which nobody wants.
So keep your fingers and toes crossed. When I have more info I will pass it along.
Now for the details:
First, I have been told that Mark Conroy is going to be meeting the ship upon its arrival to address the passengers' concerns. That is a very welcome acknowledgement of Regent's guests' importance. (It is not known if he will sail with the ship from Dubai for one or more ports.)
Second, Regent is going to be refunding the full cruise fare for all guests for the Singapore to Dubai segment. In addition, World Cruise passengers are going to be given the option of transferring from the Voyager's World Cruise to the Mariner's World Cruise at no cost or expense.
Third, for the guests planning on embarking in Dubai they will have a number of options. They can cancel without penalty; or, They can stay with the sailing and if there is a problem either delaying the Dubai departure or after departing (more below on that) they will receive a 25% refund and a 25% future cruise credit; or, they can transfer to the Mariner World Cruise for its next 14 or 28 day segment (their choice as the next Voyager segment, I believe 17 days) at no additional cost.
Regent will be taking care of all flight changes and assoicated arrangements.
Now, here is the news on the pod repairs. Regent is planning on constructing a watertight cocoon around the pod so work can be completed in the necessary dry environment. (I am told a similar arrangement was used when the Oceania Nautica had a propeller issue in Livorno, Italy last year.) The technicians are all scheduled to arrive on March 30th and the ship will be arriving either late on the 30th or very early in the morning on the 31st.
Work will start quickly as it will, regardless, be dark under the ship so underwater floodlighting will be used. The key is to get the seals appropriately seated so that there is no water infiltration into the pod. The problem...if it is a problem...is that the repairs cannot really be tested at the dock. The seals can be tested with the pod motor at idle speed and the main engines running at the dock, but until a load is put on the pod motor the new seals cannot be tested. So Voyager will have to sail away from Dubai to test the repairs. The plan is to keep sailing with all being well. The alternative is to return to Dubai for further repairs...which nobody wants.
So keep your fingers and toes crossed. When I have more info I will pass it along.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Head to Head Challenge: Seabourn Odyssey vs. Regent Seven Seas Navigator
Here is a great opportunity for those Regent loyalists to experience Seabourn in what is about as close to a head-to-head opportunity as possible. And Goldring Travel is going to guarantee you are going to find Seabourn to be a superior overall cruise experience.
The terms of the challenge are simple: If you have sailed on Regent Seven Seas, but have never sailed on Seabourn (and you verify same) you are eligible. All you need to do is purchase and sail on the Seabourn Odyssey on its November 28, 2009 sailing and if you do not agree that the Seabourn Odyssey provides an overall better cruise experience than the Regent Seven Seas Navigator, Mariner or Voyager, Goldring Travel will refund to you $1,000 in cash. (That's right, no gimmicks like a future cruise credit so you are obligated to take another cruise through Goldring Travel to get the benefit. You will get a check sent to your mailbox.)
The only thing to be excluded in your evaluation is that your shore experiences are not to be included. Why? Because the cruise lines do not guarantee ports or the experiences at the ports. You may pay for an extraordinary Seabourn event or choose a complimentary beach day on Regent. You may select the Ensemble Experience (which is not run by Seabourn). You may just not like a particular port (ex. for me, St. Thomas is a sea day...I don't get off the ship).
Why the November 28, 2009 sailing? Because the Regent Navigator has a similar cruise for a similar length of time at a similar price. Also, for most people there will be no issue with air logistics or differences in pre-cruise accommodations, so that would not a factor. So here are the cruises:
Seabourn Odyssey (12 Days with base Cruise Fares starting at $358.25 per day excluding Goldring Travel special amenity and Ensemble Experience or $300OBC):
Nov 28 Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Nov 29 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Nov 30 Grand Turk, Turks And Caicos
Dec 1 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Dec 2 Deshaies, Guadeloupe
Dec 3 Bridgetown, Barbados (Complimentary Ensemble Experience or $150 pp obc)
Dec 5 St. John's, Antigua
Dec 6 Marigot, St. Martin
Dec 7 Cruz Bay, St John, USVI
Dec 8 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Dec 9 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Dec 10 Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Regent Navigator (11 Days with base Cruise Fares starting at $345.00 per day excluding $500 OBC if booked by March 31st or $200 OBC if booked thereafter)
Nov 30 Ft. Lauderdale, United States
Dec 01 Princess Cays, Bahamas
Dec02 Cruise the Atlantic Ocean
Dec 03 San Juan, Puerto Rico
Dec 04 St. Thomas, USVI
Dec 05 St. John's, Antigua
Dec 06 Philipsburg, Saint Maarten
Dec 07 Gustavia, St. Barts 08:00 23:00
Dec 08 Tortola - Roadtown, BVI
Dec 09 Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos
Dec 10 Cruise the Atlantic Ocean
Dec 11 Ft. Lauderdale
So, I am sure you are still asking, "What is the catch?" There is none. It is your opinion, your decision, your choice. All I ask is that you be honest with yourself about your experience: Service, Amenities, Cuisine, Consistency, Spa Facilities, Alternative Dining Experiences, Caviar, etc.
Put another way: You are going to trust me about my recommendations when booking this cruise. I am going to trust you when you tell me how it measures up. And, even if you tell me you didn't find Seabourn an overall superior cruise experience, I will still give you a great deal on your next Seabourn cruise...or any other cruise. (That mean: You can book your next Seabourn cruise onboard - even if just an open booking - take the additional 5% onboard booking discount, and you won't disqualify yourself from the promotion!)
Fine Print: This offer is subject to being withdrawn at any time. Prices are not guaranteed and are subject to change. Suite categories are subject to prior sale.
The terms of the challenge are simple: If you have sailed on Regent Seven Seas, but have never sailed on Seabourn (and you verify same) you are eligible. All you need to do is purchase and sail on the Seabourn Odyssey on its November 28, 2009 sailing and if you do not agree that the Seabourn Odyssey provides an overall better cruise experience than the Regent Seven Seas Navigator, Mariner or Voyager, Goldring Travel will refund to you $1,000 in cash. (That's right, no gimmicks like a future cruise credit so you are obligated to take another cruise through Goldring Travel to get the benefit. You will get a check sent to your mailbox.)
The only thing to be excluded in your evaluation is that your shore experiences are not to be included. Why? Because the cruise lines do not guarantee ports or the experiences at the ports. You may pay for an extraordinary Seabourn event or choose a complimentary beach day on Regent. You may select the Ensemble Experience (which is not run by Seabourn). You may just not like a particular port (ex. for me, St. Thomas is a sea day...I don't get off the ship).
Why the November 28, 2009 sailing? Because the Regent Navigator has a similar cruise for a similar length of time at a similar price. Also, for most people there will be no issue with air logistics or differences in pre-cruise accommodations, so that would not a factor. So here are the cruises:
Seabourn Odyssey (12 Days with base Cruise Fares starting at $358.25 per day excluding Goldring Travel special amenity and Ensemble Experience or $300OBC):
Nov 28 Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Nov 29 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Nov 30 Grand Turk, Turks And Caicos
Dec 1 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Dec 2 Deshaies, Guadeloupe
Dec 3 Bridgetown, Barbados (Complimentary Ensemble Experience or $150 pp obc)
Dec 5 St. John's, Antigua
Dec 6 Marigot, St. Martin
Dec 7 Cruz Bay, St John, USVI
Dec 8 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Dec 9 Cruising The Atlantic Ocean
Dec 10 Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Regent Navigator (11 Days with base Cruise Fares starting at $345.00 per day excluding $500 OBC if booked by March 31st or $200 OBC if booked thereafter)
Nov 30 Ft. Lauderdale, United States
Dec 01 Princess Cays, Bahamas
Dec02 Cruise the Atlantic Ocean
Dec 03 San Juan, Puerto Rico
Dec 04 St. Thomas, USVI
Dec 05 St. John's, Antigua
Dec 06 Philipsburg, Saint Maarten
Dec 07 Gustavia, St. Barts 08:00 23:00
Dec 08 Tortola - Roadtown, BVI
Dec 09 Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos
Dec 10 Cruise the Atlantic Ocean
Dec 11 Ft. Lauderdale
So, I am sure you are still asking, "What is the catch?" There is none. It is your opinion, your decision, your choice. All I ask is that you be honest with yourself about your experience: Service, Amenities, Cuisine, Consistency, Spa Facilities, Alternative Dining Experiences, Caviar, etc.
Put another way: You are going to trust me about my recommendations when booking this cruise. I am going to trust you when you tell me how it measures up. And, even if you tell me you didn't find Seabourn an overall superior cruise experience, I will still give you a great deal on your next Seabourn cruise...or any other cruise. (That mean: You can book your next Seabourn cruise onboard - even if just an open booking - take the additional 5% onboard booking discount, and you won't disqualify yourself from the promotion!)
Fine Print: This offer is subject to being withdrawn at any time. Prices are not guaranteed and are subject to change. Suite categories are subject to prior sale.
Regent Seven Seas Offering Zero (0%) Percent Single Supplement
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has just announced a 0% Single Supplement on the following voyages for a limited time:
Seven Seas Voyager in the Baltic Sea
RT Economy Airfare, Shore Excursions Included!
July 10 – 7 nights – Copenhagen to Stockholm – all-inclusive fares from $5,550 per suite
July 17 – 7 nights – Stockholm to Copenhagen – all-inclusive fares from $5,550 per suite
July 31 - 7 nights – Stockholm to Copenhagen – all-inclusive fares from $4,250 per suite
Seven Seas Navigator in the Mediterranean
RT Economy Airfare, Shore Excursions Included!
August 7 – 7 nights – Monte Carlo to Athens – all-inclusive fares from $3,650 per suite
August 14 – 7 nights – Athens to Istanbul – all-inclusive fares from $3,650 per suite
Seven Seas Navigator in the Caribbean
Shore Excursions Included!
December 18 – 10 nights–RT Ft. Lauderdale, Western Caribbean – all-inclusive fares from $3,895 per suite
All prices are for single occupancy suites only.
This offer for standard suites only, penthouse and above available at additional fare – subject to availability.
Seven Seas Voyager in the Baltic Sea
RT Economy Airfare, Shore Excursions Included!
July 10 – 7 nights – Copenhagen to Stockholm – all-inclusive fares from $5,550 per suite
July 17 – 7 nights – Stockholm to Copenhagen – all-inclusive fares from $5,550 per suite
July 31 - 7 nights – Stockholm to Copenhagen – all-inclusive fares from $4,250 per suite
Seven Seas Navigator in the Mediterranean
RT Economy Airfare, Shore Excursions Included!
August 7 – 7 nights – Monte Carlo to Athens – all-inclusive fares from $3,650 per suite
August 14 – 7 nights – Athens to Istanbul – all-inclusive fares from $3,650 per suite
Seven Seas Navigator in the Caribbean
Shore Excursions Included!
December 18 – 10 nights–RT Ft. Lauderdale, Western Caribbean – all-inclusive fares from $3,895 per suite
All prices are for single occupancy suites only.
This offer for standard suites only, penthouse and above available at additional fare – subject to availability.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Regent Seven Seas Voyager Pod Update No. 2
I have heard again from Prestige Cruise Holdings with an update on the Regent Seven Seas Voyager which had its starboard pod damaged when entangled by fishing net after departing Singapore.
The technicians arrived in Cochin, India as scheduled and conducted a "thorough inspection". Unfortunately it revealed the damage is such that the pod "will require more work than than originally anticipated" (hoped? prayed for?). As a result any chance of stopping in Mumbai or Abu Dhabi has been eliminated.
The ship is now proceeding to Dubai where it "should have a two or three day window to complete the [more extensive] repairs".
Remembering that I am, well, Iamboatman, I can give you a bit more insight than a travel agent as to what the factors are and why things are not more definite.
First, you may ask, "Why 2 or 3 days? Don't they know?" Well, the reality in the ship repair business is that timing is everything. It depends on what day the ship arrives and what time of the day it arrives. (A 2 AM arrival is not a good thing.) This can be affected by winds, sea conditions, etc. So, hopefully, it is a three day window, but the work should be able to be completed in two days.
Second, there are issues of whether the workers will work during the Sabbath (as a weekend is involved in a Muslim country...but fortunately it is a very cosmopolitan Dubai!). Will the parts arrive via air freight as anticipated. Will the dock is available when it is supposed to be. Etc.
Then there are the mechanical issues of whether the damage is limited to what the inspections revealed. Then simple things like if that darn bolt frees up or if the anticipated salvageable bearing or whatever actually is. (Let's not even go to the "You dropped what where?" or the "You lost what?" possibilities.)
So, from the silence of comment, it appears that drydocking (who decided that was supposedly necessary anyway?) is not happening (and would generally take many hours in and out, plus a good bit of preparation.).
And, it would appear that Regent is not anticipating any delay (or significant delay) in the next segment of the World Cruise.
The technicians arrived in Cochin, India as scheduled and conducted a "thorough inspection". Unfortunately it revealed the damage is such that the pod "will require more work than than originally anticipated" (hoped? prayed for?). As a result any chance of stopping in Mumbai or Abu Dhabi has been eliminated.
The ship is now proceeding to Dubai where it "should have a two or three day window to complete the [more extensive] repairs".
Remembering that I am, well, Iamboatman, I can give you a bit more insight than a travel agent as to what the factors are and why things are not more definite.
First, you may ask, "Why 2 or 3 days? Don't they know?" Well, the reality in the ship repair business is that timing is everything. It depends on what day the ship arrives and what time of the day it arrives. (A 2 AM arrival is not a good thing.) This can be affected by winds, sea conditions, etc. So, hopefully, it is a three day window, but the work should be able to be completed in two days.
Second, there are issues of whether the workers will work during the Sabbath (as a weekend is involved in a Muslim country...but fortunately it is a very cosmopolitan Dubai!). Will the parts arrive via air freight as anticipated. Will the dock is available when it is supposed to be. Etc.
Then there are the mechanical issues of whether the damage is limited to what the inspections revealed. Then simple things like if that darn bolt frees up or if the anticipated salvageable bearing or whatever actually is. (Let's not even go to the "You dropped what where?" or the "You lost what?" possibilities.)
So, from the silence of comment, it appears that drydocking (who decided that was supposedly necessary anyway?) is not happening (and would generally take many hours in and out, plus a good bit of preparation.).
And, it would appear that Regent is not anticipating any delay (or significant delay) in the next segment of the World Cruise.
Another Publication and Another "Best of" List That Makes You Go "Huh?": Forbes Traveler
Forbes Traveler has posted an article World's Best Cruises, Period. and, while it does have some useful information, it left me scratching my head.
I knew things weren't right when I read that NCL had the "Best Overall Vibe". That is the cruise line detailed just last night on "Cruises, Inc." CNBC's production, which I mentioned a few days ago CNBC Discusses Cruises With Goldring Travel . Faced with thousands of other guests, the name of the game is "Keep 'em happy and they will spend". Waiting in lines, paying for dining, sodas, drinks, etc. (NCL needs to have very man, woman and child to spend $7.25 per day on drinks just to break even. For a family of four on a 7 day cruise that is $203.00.) So the Vibe is spend...and wait...spend. Meanwhile comments from professionals suggesting SeaDream and Windstar were dismissed because they "carry as few as a few dozen passengers". Isn't that the point?
My best vibe is "Jimmy Buffett meets a great glass of wine with an awesome view with my wife sitting next to me"; not, "Sammy the cruise director getting me to spent $50 at bingo as I amass a collection of different plastic 'drink of the day' glasses". Alas, my best vibe would drive the person with the other best vibe to drink. (OH, yeah, that is the point...Isn't it?!)
Yes, the article has some decent information, but you need to read the qualifiers that are laced through out and ask "Why is line X missing?" "Does that professional have an allegiance of some sort with line Y?"
Overall, I just have to say, as I do whenever I see these lists (and, I admit it, I am like a deer staring into headlights; I read them): YUK.
I knew things weren't right when I read that NCL had the "Best Overall Vibe". That is the cruise line detailed just last night on "Cruises, Inc." CNBC's production, which I mentioned a few days ago CNBC Discusses Cruises With Goldring Travel . Faced with thousands of other guests, the name of the game is "Keep 'em happy and they will spend". Waiting in lines, paying for dining, sodas, drinks, etc. (NCL needs to have very man, woman and child to spend $7.25 per day on drinks just to break even. For a family of four on a 7 day cruise that is $203.00.) So the Vibe is spend...and wait...spend. Meanwhile comments from professionals suggesting SeaDream and Windstar were dismissed because they "carry as few as a few dozen passengers". Isn't that the point?
My best vibe is "Jimmy Buffett meets a great glass of wine with an awesome view with my wife sitting next to me"; not, "Sammy the cruise director getting me to spent $50 at bingo as I amass a collection of different plastic 'drink of the day' glasses". Alas, my best vibe would drive the person with the other best vibe to drink. (OH, yeah, that is the point...Isn't it?!)
Yes, the article has some decent information, but you need to read the qualifiers that are laced through out and ask "Why is line X missing?" "Does that professional have an allegiance of some sort with line Y?"
Overall, I just have to say, as I do whenever I see these lists (and, I admit it, I am like a deer staring into headlights; I read them): YUK.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Carnival Corp Posts 10% Increased 1st Quarter Profits
Folks, I have been saying it for weeks now: You will never see prices as low as they are now, so book your cruise (even if only as a "wish") before the prices increase.
Today Carnival Corp. (owner of Carnival, Cunard, Holland America, Princess, Costa and Seabourn) posted a ten (10%) percent increase in profits for the 1st quarter over the same period last year. The reasons are really two-fold: Significantly lower fuel costs and stronger than expected close-in bookings.
Of course there are still signs of weakness on two fronts: advanced bookings (even at lower prices) are weaker and some lines are not doing as well as others (so the growth is not necessarily across the board). So I would caution you that if the lower prices are not driving advanced bookings there may be other strategies which may come into play. The last thing you want to do is be in the position of losing out because the extras awarded to long range planners are missed. I do not know this will be the case, but it costs nothing to protect yourself as your deposits are fully refundable.
Today Carnival Corp. (owner of Carnival, Cunard, Holland America, Princess, Costa and Seabourn) posted a ten (10%) percent increase in profits for the 1st quarter over the same period last year. The reasons are really two-fold: Significantly lower fuel costs and stronger than expected close-in bookings.
Of course there are still signs of weakness on two fronts: advanced bookings (even at lower prices) are weaker and some lines are not doing as well as others (so the growth is not necessarily across the board). So I would caution you that if the lower prices are not driving advanced bookings there may be other strategies which may come into play. The last thing you want to do is be in the position of losing out because the extras awarded to long range planners are missed. I do not know this will be the case, but it costs nothing to protect yourself as your deposits are fully refundable.
In Memoriam: A Reason I Love My Job
Every morning I have coffee with the local farmers. This morning one of them said, as he turned to the Obituaries, "Let's see who I know today"; commenting after it seems so many of his friends has recently died. I don't know why I looked, but there was a name I knew: It was one of my Seabourn clients.
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The strange, but nice thing, was that I was not immediately sad, but thought about how much her husband cared for her during her long illness and that I was fortunate to be on their last cruise together. I will call them John and Mary.
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You think you know the type of people; the ones that want to be sure everything is taken care of in advance. But for John it was not a matter of it needing to be perfect, but rather he had a big task in front of him in making sure Mary was able to enjoy this cruise. He (no spring chicken) would need to be able to manage it all as he had to take special care of Mary throughout the trip.
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Logistics with luggage; renting a wheelchair (I eventually bought a travel wheelchair for them), etc., all needed to be dealt with special considerations.
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Once onboard the Seabourn Legend I saw what "it" is all about. John and Mary, married for 50+ years, were in love. It was hard work and exhausting for John, and at times (when Mary couldn't come along on land excursions) lonely, but John was intent on living for himself and for loving Mary. Both John and Mary were very social people, but they always ate diner by themselves...because that is what they liked to do.
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I recall being in Marseilles sitting outside at "the" restaurant having a classic bouillabaisse with my wife. I glanced inside and there was John, alone, having his bouillabaisse. I felt a bit sad that he was experiencing it alone as I was sitting with my wife having a romantic moment. When I approached him his eyes lit up and said with enthusiasm, "How could I come to Marseilles and not have bouillabaisse?" John taught me something just then: You can be in love with your wife, but you also have to remember to be in love with life. There are no medals for doing otherwise.
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I hope through the sadness of these days John will remember his last cruise with Mary with fondness and a smile. I know that I do and that I need to be content with the fact that I was able to make their last one a bit easier and a wonderful memory.
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And, for me, Marseilles will not be foremost in my mind for Shopping with the Seabourn Chef, the early morning fish market or "the girls" going on a bit of shopping spree. No, for me it will be about how to enjoy bouillabaisse.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Update on the Regent Voyager Problems
I have been in touch with Prestige Cruise Holdings and here is the info regarding the Regent Seven Seas Voyager:
Sometime after leaving Singapore the starboard pod shut itself down. This is not a good thing, as it is an indication that something bad happened (past tense), so it is a "The damage is done, now what is the damage?" situation. This caused the ship to sail at reduced speeds, hence its delayed arrival in Phuket.
Divers were sent down and found more than 10 meters (over 30 yards) of fishing net tangled around both the propeller and the shaft, which was removed. One problem is, of course, how much more net is there inside the pod. That is actually secondary to how badly whatever amount is logged in there.
When the ship arrives in Cochin, India divers will try to re-seat the seals on the pod and, hopefully, restart the propulsion motor (which, on a pod system is not the main engine).
If it works then everyone will be very happy (though a few ports may be missed on this segment). I, however, always keeping in mind the definition of a boat "A hole in the water, surrounded by wood, in which one throws money", am keeping my fingers crossed, but my expectations low.
As I get more information I will let you know.
Sometime after leaving Singapore the starboard pod shut itself down. This is not a good thing, as it is an indication that something bad happened (past tense), so it is a "The damage is done, now what is the damage?" situation. This caused the ship to sail at reduced speeds, hence its delayed arrival in Phuket.
Divers were sent down and found more than 10 meters (over 30 yards) of fishing net tangled around both the propeller and the shaft, which was removed. One problem is, of course, how much more net is there inside the pod. That is actually secondary to how badly whatever amount is logged in there.
When the ship arrives in Cochin, India divers will try to re-seat the seals on the pod and, hopefully, restart the propulsion motor (which, on a pod system is not the main engine).
If it works then everyone will be very happy (though a few ports may be missed on this segment). I, however, always keeping in mind the definition of a boat "A hole in the water, surrounded by wood, in which one throws money", am keeping my fingers crossed, but my expectations low.
As I get more information I will let you know.
Interesting Piece on CNN about Blogging and the Travel Industry
I think this is a very interesting article worth a quick read:
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/traveltips/03/23/blogging.travel.complaints/index.html
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TRAVEL/traveltips/03/23/blogging.travel.complaints/index.html
Regent Seven Seas Voyager World Cruise Problem - Oh Nets!
It seems the Regent Seven Seas Voyager, the flagship of the cruise line, cannot avoid problems. It hit the dock in Rhodes, it snagged a fishing net on its transatlantic voyage about four months ago and now has another fishing net apparently wrapped around one of its pods. (I also heard the Crystal Serenity presently has a pod issue, but it is electrical.)
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As I understand it the pod was disabled by the net outside of Singapore during a 14 day segment of its World Cruise. It is not known what damage has been done to the pod itself, if any, but the fact that manufacturer's representatives/technicians have been flown to the ship leads one to believe that there is going to be far more done than merely cutting away the entangled net.
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This is supported by the comments by some that the ship may be going into drydock in Dubai. This has not been confirmed anywhere that I can see. Frankly, I am not sure why the ship will need to be drydocked unless there has been serious damage to the pod. Many repairs can be made without having to haul a ship. I could speculate on damaged bearings or propellers, but I really don't have a clue. One thing is for certain, there are very limited parts worldwide for pods (and each is essentially a custom made item) so it is not like you just take out the old and put in the new.
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Obviously the World Cruise itinerary is being severely modified - on this segment only so far - as Regent has to consider the long term effect on the its itineraries rather than simply this one short 14 day segment. As this is a case where most of the passengers (especially those that booked just this segment) have placed the itinerary over the ship as the reason for this cruise, there is going to be lots of frustration and disappointment...and little sympathy for Regent's need to minimize the same feelings for those booked on subsequent segments. (It is their cruise, after all.)
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From what I understand the port calls in Penang and Phuket, Thailand were late and shortened and will be a day late in Cochin, India; thereafter omitting Mumbai, India and Abu Dhabi, heading straight for Dubai. With Sri Lanka omitted just prior to this segment due to the ever-continuing conflicts, port calls in Penang, Malaysia and Phuket, Thailand but a few hours, the longer overland excursions in India probably (but not confirmed) to be cancelled, things cannot be good. If there is a bit of good news, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are about 1 1/2 hours apart by bus or car, so there is literally nothing that the guests will not be able to do if the ship arrives in Dubai on or about on schedule.
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The tricky thing is that Regent is trying to reschedule ports, arrange for dock space, figure out what parts are possibly needed, get the parts and technicians there on time (for dock space with no parts is very expensive in time, money and guest relations!)...and make arrangements for its guests. I am not onboard so I cannot comment on the quality of what is being told to the passengers and informations seems to be coming from both "upset" and "go with the flow" type passengers (possible with Segment versus World Cruise perspectives).
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While this is an unfortunate example of the complexity of the cruise industry and the competing needs and desires of the passengers, it does highlight the delicate balance which the cruise lines must deal with on a minute by minute basis. It isn't easy and it isn't necessarily someone's fault. But in the end, the customer is always right and here the customers clearly were not interested in a boat ride, but rather an elegant journey to visit some exotic locales. Instant results are not going to be happening, but with a little patience and understanding of the complexity of the situation, the time those passengers have on the Regent Seven Seas Voyager are still going to be on a really nice ship with some wonderful things available for them.
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As a final, for now, comment: We need to understand that as the populations around the world grow the resource we know as the Ocean is being exploited with greater and greater intensity. Whether it be local fisherman or mega-fishing fleets trying to increase their catch, there are going to be increased conflicts with cruise and other ships that ply the same waters. There are some technologies available to reduce these conflicts, but they are not perfect or omnipresent. Do not be surprised if these type of events increase in frequency.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Lady Moura - Most expensive yacht world
Most expensive yacht world is headed by a Lady Moura length of almost 105 meters and the cost of 210 million dollars. It was built in 1991 by order of the Saudi Prince Nasser al-Rashid.
Length - 104.85 meters, year of release - 1990, Wharf - Blohm + Voss, the architect - Luigi Sturchio, maximum speed of 36 knots, engines - MWM TBD 510 BV12 2x6.900 HP
Owner - Mohammed al-Raschid (Lebanon)
Width - 18,50 m
Draft - 5,50 m
Team - 61 p
Displacement - 6,300 tons
Length - 104.85 meters, year of release - 1990, Wharf - Blohm + Voss, the architect - Luigi Sturchio, maximum speed of 36 knots, engines - MWM TBD 510 BV12 2x6.900 HP
Owner - Mohammed al-Raschid (Lebanon)
Width - 18,50 m
Draft - 5,50 m
Team - 61 p
Displacement - 6,300 tons
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A luxury yacht Alexander
A luxury Yacht "Alexander" which is one of the three leaders belong to the Greek magnate Jānis Latsis, for which he paid $ 150 million.
The very well-known Greek businessman Janis Lacis, nicknamed "Captain" is one of the three richest Greek shipowners together with Onasisom and Nyarhosom. The fourteenth child of a poor family of Greek fisherman, he became personally acquainted with the President, Prime ministers and other leaders of world powers. Many of them stayed in their mansions and their yachts around the world.
Pelorus - pleasure craft Roman Abramovich
Pleasure craft Roman Abramovich "Pelorus", valued at $ 120 million, took fourth place in the list of the most wide-world yacht. Pelorus yacht is 378 feet long, has cost him 72 million pounds: it has a system for detecting missiles and a mini-submarine. Among its crew numbering 40 people, there are former employees of SAS - British special forces.
Roman Abramovich owns three yachts.
In addition to the yacht Pelorus in billionaire there are two boats. This is Le Grand Bleu length of 355 feet. According to some sources, Abramovich bought it from Paul Allen, co-founder of computer giant Microsoft, for 50 million pounds.
A third yacht Abramovich was launched only recently - in the May holidays. The length of the new yacht Ecstasea at 282 feet. It was built for magnate on special order as for 72 million pounds.
Thus, the cost Abramovich on a yacht in the last three years, reaching almost 200 million pounds. Their maintenance team cost him 25 million pounds a year.
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