By Claudia Taylor, ITC
Recently I attended the official naming ceremony of Celebrity Cruise Lines' newest ship – Celebrity Solstice. As I prepared for my travels, I couldn't help but reflect on the number of meetings and events planned and wondered why more weren't held on cruise ships. When most people think of cruising, they usually think of a once-in-a-life-time vacation, honeymoons or retirees. Well, that may have been true in the past, but is no longer the case.
Cruises are growing in popularity as meeting venues for a lot of reasons. They provide a captive environment for presenters while the ship is at sea and an array of leisure activities while in port. It's an ideal environment for multi-day meetings, where intense meeting sessions are interspersed with relaxation, fun and some exotic destinations.
Several years ago, cruise ships didn't have the capabilities or facilities they have today. Although there may be limitations with specific room layout, audio/visual capabilities and satellite communications, newer vessels offer entire decks dedicated to public areas with several different facilities both in and out doors. With varying types of accommodations, some suites even have private dinning rooms that can easily be converted into a mini board room.
Cruise ships also provide an added incentive for meeting attendance. People are highly motivated by the prospect of a cruise. The allure of high quality food and entertainment, and exotic ports of call, make attending a meeting more appealing. Many companies use a business meeting at sea as a reward to employees for meeting strategic goals.
Planning a meeting at sea is simple and a streamlined process compared to many onshore venues. With cruises, all lodging, meeting facilities, meals, transportation and entertainment are coordinated through one contact. For one set price, everything is included, even gratuities and 24-hour room service.
It's understandable that with all these benefits, that groups and meetings are rapidly emerging as a significant business segment for all the major cruise lines. Cruising is no longer an activity for the rich and privileged. Today it is an affordable option!
For additional information visit www.cruising.org