Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is launching the cruise industry’s first “Moments Crew,” a new service designed to capture guests’ most memorable onboard experiences.
According to a press release, the team includes comedian and artist Jim Moir (aka Vic Reeves), author Jenny Eclair and celebrity photographer Scarlet Page, who will join select cruises in 2025 to document passengers’ moments in creative ways.
This initiative was inspired by research showing that 82 percent of people consider their top memories to be made while traveling. The “Moments Crew” will capture various experiences, from whale sightings to everyday connections with fellow travelers, ensuring guests can relive these special moments for years.
Sonia Holman, marketing director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “We know that some of life’s best memories are made on the high seas, so what better way to ensure they are caught than by assembling the first-ever crew dedicated to recording these unique moments in unique ways. We’re delighted to welcome Jim, Jenny and Scarlet onboard and look forward to seeing, reading and viewing the big and small guest moments they observe.”
Fred. Olsen’s research among 1,000 British travelers aged over 50 highlighted the profound impact of travel on well-being. Findings showed that 95 percent of respondents credited travel with creating lasting happy memories, while 87 percent said it improved their physical health. Additionally, 92 percent noted that travel significantly reduced stress and enhanced their overall outlook on life.
Moir said: “Some of my happiest memories are from traveling, so I am looking forward to stepping onboard with my easel and paints and capturing guests’ favorite views for prosperity. Personally, I hope to see some spectacular scenery, dramatic waterfalls and interesting birds like auks, darters and maybe even some puffins, which are always a delight to paint.”
Eclair added: “There is a rich literary history of travel writing, but my intention is to get the everyday holiday maker interested in keeping their own journals, even if it is just a record of what you had for dinner. In years to come, photos will take you back to places you loved, but it is often words on a page that will remind you of how those places felt.”
Page said: “As a photographer of celebrities and rock stars, I have always loved capturing those rare, unguarded moments that reveal true emotion. I’m excited to bring this approach to documenting guests, creating images that reflect genuine joy, calm, and the wonder of shared experiences. Whether it’s making new connections or marveling at the beauty of our world, I aim to capture every moment with artistry and authenticity.”
According to Fred. Olsen’s research, the top 10 travel moments are:
- Watching the sun set over spectacular scenery (62 percent)
- Seeing iconic buildings and cultural sites (46 percent)
- Sunbathing (41 percent)
- Eating and drinking local produce (36 percent)
- Seeing wildlife (32 percent)
- Spending time with locals (29 percent)
- Visiting local festivals and carnivals (25 percent)
- Visiting local markets (25 percent)
- Exploring geographical features such as caves (22 percent)
- Stargazing (19 percent)
