Editorial: Get the Orders Rolling; ‘New Gets Old’
This is a time of contrasts. The industry is introducing ever more amazing ships while raising standards and the bar on product delivery. At the same time, ticket prices are dropping lower than ever due to the economic downturn. We are seeing seven-day Caribbean cruises being offered as low as $399 per person this coming…
Polar Issues Raised
The polar regions are seeing an increased push in demand for voyages and landings. With more ships and capacity appearing in these regions over the last decade, there is no shortage of issues at hands for the lines to deal with. “All of a sudden we have a situation where there is a lot of…
Oasis of the Seas: Bigger and Better
“The Oasis of the Seas will have such a dramatic impact that she will help more people understand all that cruising has to offer,” said Richard Fain, CEO and chairman of Royal Caribbean Cruises, parent company to Royal Caribbean International. “We are seeing a halo effect on the rest of our fleet,” he added. “We…
Shipbuilding: The Economy Will Drive Future Orders
While prices on raw materials, machinery and furnishings have come down since last fall, affordable access to capital has also become more limited, so shipowners are basically not able to take advantage of what may be lower building prices, according to Enrico Buschi, COO at Fincantieri’s cruise ship business unit. Shipowners are facing two challenges,…
Fall 2009 Ship Review: Passionate Love Boat
Passion steers the newest addition to the Princess love boats – the Ruby Princess. As one-on-one interviews with Ruby officers in this issue will attest to, there is a passion imparted by management for hospitality, cuisine, and service. A true premium product, the Ruby Princess will challenge luxury and upscale ships. It was the itinerary…
F&B: ‘The Plates Speak for Us’
“Remember, food is gold,” said Executive Chef Joel Directo aboard the Ruby Princess, meaning that from his point of view, the food experience may be the most important part of a cruise. Very good teamwork, good spirits and high staff morale are key to the food preparation and restaurant service, which in turn reflects on…