Cunard offers an experience that is very different from other lines. They have a grand history and pull the “Golden Age” traditions both into the ships themselves and the experience as a whole with grand balls, formal dinners, spacious public rooms, afternoon tea and a focus on personal enrichment, relationships both with other guests and members of the excellent staff. While many lines seem to forget they are building ships rather than resort complexes, Cunard’s ship designs still remind you that you are on an ocean going vessel with many invitations to just look out and enjoy the beauty of the sea.
2.) Cunard has a reputation of being very formal but, does formal also mean "stiff"?
I would like to challenge anyone who ever has that question to come read the Cunard board. If they find the people there stiff, well then the definition of stiff has changed! As on any cruise line you are sure to meet stuffy people. The majority however are warm and welcoming. I would also like to remind your readers not to confuse “stiff” with “reserved” as many international guests, which they are sure to meet are more the later just by culture until you get to know them better. I also want to point out that the formality is another one of the many reasons that Cunard is such a shining star amidst a host of casual cruise lines. It creates an environment where men and women can bring out the best of themselves and revel in the social graces, courtesies and dress of an era quickly fading in our World.
3.) Tell me about a double transit sailing:
A double transit is such a wonderful opportunity for a group because it gives those who do not enjoy flying the chance to see Europe. It also offers so many flexible booking options. Book just the crossings and do your own thing in Europe, or if you don’t mind flying or just don’t have the time, book just the cruise segment or just one crossing and the cruise. Also, if you don’t mind changing cabins the pricing can be flexible too. Book an inside for the crossings and a balcony for the cruise.
- Do you have to get off and reboard for each segment?
This must be one of the best advantages to doing a multi-segment cruise. Instead of the disappointing feeling that the voyage is over you get the unusually satisfying feeling of staying on when everyone else is getting off. You don’t have to go anywhere or do anything but just sit smugly in the lobby with your cup of coffee and catch all the envious looks of those balancing their luggage while taking their last pictures.( Another good spot to be is waving good bye from your balcony while still in your Cunard robe and slippers)
- Based on 2008 and 2009 prices for double transits, what can people expect for 2010 regarding prices?
’09 saw price increases of about 10% and I would expect to see the same for 2010. Especially, as they will need to be incorporating more of the rising fuel costs into the fares. I expect starting prices to be around $5600-$5800.00 or so for the full 23 night cruise.
- What's the length of time in a typical double transit?
A double transit with either a northern Europe or Mediterranean itinerary is generally 23 nights. 12nts crossing the Atlantic (6 on each end) with 11 nts in Europe.
4.) Since double transits begin and end in the USA, are there typically more Americans on-board than other sailings?
Yes, since it can be booked both as individual segments and the full transit. Many American’s will book the full transit. However, you will still find there are more Americans on the eastbound crossing, a nice mix during the cruise and a slightly higher than average amount of Americans on the Westbound crossing (which usually has more Europeans) due to the return of those going full transit.
5.) A double transit means a lot of days at sea. What type of activities does Cunard offer to keep passengers entertained?
Besides offering one of the best luxuries of all, the chance to do absolutely nothing, there are a host of other interesting past times. On my desk I have a list “101 Things to do on the QM2” and while I will not list all of them, here is a sample: Enjoy a calming massage in the Canyon Ranch Spa, take in a show as big as the Universe in the Planetarium, take an acting class from members of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts or learn something new in a lecture from a renowned musician, professor or celebrity. In the evening enjoy attending a themed ball, drinks with new friends or a quiet stroll around the open decks enjoying the fresh sea air, rushing of the wind and sound of the ocean waves.
6.) With the continuing rise of gasoline prices and the new airline baggage surcharges, in your opinion, do you believe a double transit is more cost effective than flying to Europe?
In a word, possibly. A sure yes for those who fly premium or business class. This year we are seeing $1500.00 coach fares to Europe in summer, then remember you have to pay extra for just about everything but your seat belt and a Cunard crossing becomes very attractive. Not to mention the sheer hassle that flying has become, a crossing is certainly much more relaxing!
7.) Typically when does Cunard offer double transit cruise opportunities?
Both Spring and Fall, usually May and September. Excellent times to go to Europe. It is neither unbearably hot nor crowded.
8.) Let's talk about currency. Does Cunard offer money exchange on-board or will people need to have Pounds and Euros prior to the double transit cruise? Also, does Cunard settle on-board accounts in Pounds or US Dollars?
Cunard does offer money exchange on-board. On-board transactions and accounts are settled in US Dollars.
9.) Tell me what you're planning with Cruise Freeks to help make this double transit special? In other words, what type of incentives to book will you be offering?
Being that this sailing is still 2 years away I can not give specific incentives at this time since they are subject to change. Although I can say, our members and those who book with us can expect both pre-cruise and on-board activities exclusive to our group, custom shore excursions, extra amenities and discounts as well as my services before, during and after the voyage. Right now the group is discussing a culinary themed pre-cruise stay in New York and I am looking into creating a line of shore excursions that will follow that theme throughout the European segment of the voyage. Other shore excursion themes will include history and art, culture immersion, shopping and of course classic sightseeing. All handcrafted for the group.
10.) Is there anything you'd like to add that I haven’t covered?
I would just like to add that one of the best things about a Cruise Freek group is the chance for the members to really be involved in the planning process. This voyage is still in the beginning stages and it is a perfect time to come on the boards and give input for activities, excursions, etc. One big decision still to come is the actual itinerary it’s self and the vote on that next year will be very important to establish the success of the group. I also want to thank you for taking the time to put this blog together and inviting me this interview, it is so much work to keep something like this going and you are doing a marvelous job!
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