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Janet Bava appointed Chief Commercial Officer of Windstar Cruises

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 July 2023 11 July 2023

Windstar Cruises, a luxury yacht-style cruise line based in Miami, has announced two important leadership changes. Janet Bava will be Windstar Cruises’ new Chief Commercial Officer as of July 24, 2023. Betsy O’Rourke, the CCO for Windstar since 2020 and the CCO of Windstar’s parent company Xanterra Travel Collection since 2012, will move to a consultancy role with Xanterra and its ownership, The Anschutz Corporation, as well as engage in outside Board opportunities.

Christopher Prelog, who is celebrating three years as President of Windstar in September after a long-standing career in ship operations, says: “This is a very comforting and energizing evolution for all of us at Windstar Cruises. We couldn’t be happier for Betsy and her success, and to still have access to her wisdom and counsel, while at the same time enthusiastically welcoming cruise industry veteran Janet Bava onboard, who previously worked with Betsy at Royal Caribbean.”

By all accounts Windstar is more successful than ever in its history with a fleet of three all-suite luxury ships and three sailing yachts, taking 148 to 342 guests on immersive experiences across the globe to both iconic and small ports where big ships can’t reach.

Janet Bava will be responsible for driving strategic growth initiatives, leading marketing, sales, reservations, and deployment teams to further elevate the company's position in the global market.

“I am passionate to return to small ship, luxury cruising, a category that has experienced tremendous growth in demand in the last few years. As the new Chief Commercial Officer at Windstar, I am eager to build upon the exceptional work done by Betsy and further elevate the Windstar experience under Chris Prelog's leadership. Magnify that with the Xanterra Travel Collection and the brand will continue to provide unparalleled experiences to our guests while driving innovation and growth in this exciting sector of the cruise industry,” stated Bava.

Prior to this, Bava was the Chief Marketing Officer at AmaWaterways in California. She served as one of their strategic leaders of global luxury river cruise operations and increased customer engagement across all digital channels by developing new distribution channels and relevant content that led to an increase in brand awareness and preference among new and existing travel advisors and guests. Bava also leveraged the emerging social media landscape and developed new marketing tools to enhance and strengthen trade partner relationships across national account and consortia groups.

She was Vice President, Marketing (Americas) from 2016 to 2018 with Silversea Cruises Ltd. in Miami. She worked with the CMO on a Global Marketing restructuring and the successful launch of the new brand campaign to reposition Silversea as a global leader in luxury small-ship ocean and expedition cruising. Bava also was an integral part of the launch of the cruise line’s flagship Silver Muse and responsible for all communications, media, trade marketing, and event planning for the Americas region.

From 2014 to 2016 she was the Director CRM & Customer Engagement at NBCUniversal, Inc - Universal Parks & Resort in Orlando expanding their capabilities and teams supporting digital customer relationship management initiatives.

O’Rourke had been the Chief Commercial Officer across all brands for Xanterra Travel Collection, Windstar’s parent company, since 2012 and picked up oversight of the commercial functions of Windstar in early 2020. O’Rourke led a reimagined marketing, sales, revenue management, and reservations team while navigating the global pandemic and relaunching half the fleet following the $250 million stretching and rebuild of the Star Class yachts.

Before Xanterra, O’Rourke was SVP of Marketing at Royal Caribbean International where she promoted Bava, who was part of her team, to Manager, Direct Marketing & Customer Experience Communications. O’Rourke’s career also included leading marketing and communications teams at Wyndham Worldwide, Choice Hotels and the US Travel Association.

Reflecting on the decision to join Windstar, Bava acknowledged the remarkable foundation built by O'Rourke in shaping the company's brand identity and driving its commercial success. Bava says she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to build upon this strong framework and is looking forward to leveraging the collective expertise of the entire Windstar team under the direction of President Chris Prelog.

"I have been very fortunate to work with great brands, companies, and people and worked closely with Janet Bava during our time at Royal Caribbean International, and I have witnessed firsthand her exceptional leadership and strategic vision. I am confident that she is the ideal choice to drive Windstar's commercial success and help guide the cruise line to new heights," said O’Rourke.

Crystal Serenity completes sea trials

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 July 2023 11 July 2023

Crystal Serenity, the first ship to relaunch following the cruise line’s purchase by A&K Travel Group last year, successfully completed sea trials in anticipation of its inaugural cruise from Marseille, France, on July 31st.

Currently in the final stages of a refurbishment at Fincantieri shipyard in Trieste, Italy, the vessel had a full contingent of officers, technicians and engineers on board who thoroughly tested the ship’s navigation, technical and mechanical systems, and all passed inspection. We have ensured that the fire-resistant panels were properly certified and not defective.

“Completing sea trials is one of the final milestones needed before we can officially return to service,” said Senior Vice President of Marine Operations Roberto Fazi. “We are proud of the entire team who helped get us to this day both on board and shoreside. We also want to thank our wonderful partners at Fincantieri who worked around the clock to deliver this beautiful ship on time and ready to welcome guests in just a few weeks.”

And, when guests board for the first time, they will find updated and larger suites with artisanal finishes, refreshed specialty dining venues and cutting-edge onboard wellness, including the completely renovated and renamed Aurōra Spa. Additionally, there is a new pickleball court and re-energized entertainment and events. What hasn’t changed is the exceptional service and one of the industry’s best staff-to-guest ratios.

Following the July 31st cruise from Marseille, Crystal Serenity, will spend the rest of the summer in the Mediterranean before repositioning to North America in September for Canadian and Caribbean sailings for the remainder of 2023. The ship will also host the highly anticipated 2024 World Cruise.

Emerald Sakara completes sea trials

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 11 July 2023 11 July 2023

Emerald Sakara, the second custom-built, luxury yacht from Emerald Cruises, has successfully completed its sea trials, conducted by Captains John Edwards and James Griffiths. The sea trials took place in Vietnam, departing Halong Shipyard on July 3, where all major systems were tested and the yacht was certified for guest operations. A short video documenting the sea trial can be viewed and downloaded here.

Following the successful sea trials, Emerald Sakara departed Vietnam on July 6 for her relocation to the Mediterranean Sea. The debut sailing – the eight-day Ionian Sea Adventure from Athens to Rome—departs on August 5, 2023 and will call on Itea, Greece, before transiting the Corinth Canal and sailing to Cephalonia, Sicily, Amalfi, Sorrento and Capri and ending in Rome.

Glen Moroney, Founder and Chairman, Scenic Group (Emerald Cruises and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours) commented: “We are extremely pleased with how well our newest 100-guest luxury yacht, Emerald Sakara, performed in her sea trials—she exceeded our expectations in every way. We’re thrilled be able to share our newest gem in less than a month’s time and look forward to offering our guests wonderful experiences in the Caribbean and Central America this fall and winter.”

Emerald Sakara, the second luxury yacht to join the Emerald Cruises fleet, was custom built by The Halong Shipbuilding Company in Vietnam. Her identical sister-yacht, Emerald Azzurra, launched in March 2022.

Both Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra feature just 50 luxury suites and staterooms, 88 percent of which have a private balcony or terrace. With a maximum of 100 guests, Emerald Sakara offers a new type of exclusive cruising experience, exploring ports and harbors only accessible to small yachts.

Onboard, the open-air infinity pool is surrounded by lounge chairs and day beds ideal for relaxing and enjoying a cocktail from the nearby Aqua Café. A wellness deck complete with spa, infrared sauna and gym allows guests to keep focused on their health goals, while the top deck Sky Bar offers the ideal spot to watch the sun set. Located at the yacht’s stern, a marina platform boasts water toys galore—kayaks, standup paddleboards, snorkel equipment, SEABOBs and a giant trampoline are available to guests when the platform is deployed. The extra-spacious La Cucina dining room specializes in fresh, seasonal cuisine with seating indoors as well as on the adjacent terrace, while the warm and welcoming Amici Lounge is a friendly place to gather and enjoy live music in the evenings. Finally, with 76 crew members onboard, guests can count on receiving attentive, personalized service.

After Emerald Sakara’s August debut, the yacht will embark on a summer season exploring the coastal waters of Italy, Greece, Türkiye and the Adriatic. From there, it’s off across the Atlantic where both Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra will winter in the warm waters of the Caribbean and Central America. The first Eastern Caribbean and Grenadines sailing is scheduled to depart on November 18, 2023. The yacht will be christened on December 2 in San Juan, Puerto Rico by her godmother Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Crystal collaborates with global partners to re-launch Serenity and Symphony

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 06 July 2023 06 July 2023

As Crystal prepares for its unveiling this summer, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will introduce lavish design concepts in collaboration with the finest international partners. From redesigned public spaces and modern guest rooms and suites to refined in-room amenities and exclusive linens designed for royalty,the new Crystal experience is a feast for the eyes with elevated touchpoints throughout.

“As we welcome guests back to Crystal, we are delighted to unveil a look and feel that blends the best of its renowned past with a new vision fit for a bright future ahead,” said Chief Executive Officer of A&K Travel Group, Cristina Levis. “Fresh colors, unique textures and first-class tangible elements create an ambiance that evokes timeless moments of leisure and will leave guests with memories that will last a lifetime.”

Tillberg Design

Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS) was chosen as the lead designer of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony with projects encompassing public spaces, dining venues, as well as the recently announced AurōraSpa. TDoS was tasked with creating spaces that blended classical elements and modern materials with a dash of Mediterranean influence. The resulting design was a refined and lasting concept that exemplifies contemporary and sophisticated layers within a refreshed setting.

“We are delighted to once again receive the trust from Crystal, this time with a studious and sophisticated renewal of the brand and its rich heritage,” says TDoS Partner & Executive Director Fredrik Johansson.“We are working closely with Crystal management to ensure that their iconic fleet stays top-rated by the guests and profitable for the owners.”

GEM – design for cruise ships

For the redesign of select guest rooms and suites, Crystal enlisted leading cruise ship architectural firm, GEM. The new concept features neutral tones and high-end fixtures complemented with subtle hues of pastel colors and shades of gray and beige that resonate with the color of the ocean.

"It was a pleasure to spearhead the design of select guest rooms and suites for Crystal. Our vision was to create a refined space for guests that embodies an ambiance of contemporary and classic elements, while complementing the already existing collection of adored accommodations," said Managing Director of GEM Lorenzo Mortola. “Our main goal was to merge smaller sized guestrooms into larger suites that offer a separate living room and bedroom areas, large bathrooms with a walk-in shower and double faucets and sinks. With more space, guests will have all the functions expected on a high-end cruise, while offering the best comforts of home.”

With Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony guestrooms and suites accommodating a 740 and 606 guest capacity respectively, travelers can choose between various rooming options – some with spacious verandas—whose extensive renovations have reduced overall guest capacity in pursuit of maximizing in-room relaxation. Both ships will also include two new guest room categories – the Jr. Crystal Penthouse Suite and Single Guest Room with Ocean View as an option for solo travelers without the worry of paying additional single supplements. These new categories will also increase the availability of the popular Sapphire Suite category.

Every component of the redesign was carefully considered. The project architect, Adriana Granato, an Adjunct Professor of Architecture at Politecnico di Milano, and of Studio Ibsen, led the team that illustrated all renderings of the new guestrooms and suites. She personally traveled to a quarry in the Italian Alps to choose the Fior di Pesco marble slabs, also known as peach flower, for its precious veins of peach shade that give the stone the name.
“To be part of this unprecedented comeback and refurbishment of such an iconic brand is such an honor,” said Granato. “I am so excited to see the renderings come to life when Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony take to the water. I know the guests are going to love everything about them.”

Jesurum 1870 liinens

Suites will offer the highest quality linen with a custom-made collection of bedding from Jesurum 1870. For more than 150 years, the Italian-based Jesurum has woven the most exclusive linens, originally created for private residents, mega yachts and royal families. Crystal is the first in the industry to collaborate and work exclusively with the Venice-born brand whose familial brand ethos is motivated by dedication and innovation. Guests residing in the Aquamarine categories and above can expect an enhanced night’s rest with the 100 percent made-in-Italy products of the bespoke Carol collection that offers an undulating, ogee-inspired border in gorgeous embroidery and was selected due to its resemblance to Crystal’s logo.

“We are honored to have been chosen from Crystal for this project and are proud to be part of their new journey,” said Paola Cimolai, CEO of Jesurum 1870. “The eloquent accommodations combined with our delicate bed linens will be sure to offer the perfect night’s sleep to Crystal guests.”

La Bottega amenities

In collaboration with La Bottega, a renowned hospitality curator for in-room amenities, Ortigia was tapped to supply soap and fragrance products onboard. Founded in Sicily, Ortigia’s products are indigenous to its motherland and inspired by the scents and elements of Italy’s tropical region. Soft and delicate, the bath and shower experience will transport guests to a field of Sicilian spring wildflowers and offers notes of narcissus, wild iris, and jasmine.

“I worked with Ortigia in a previous role, and I am so in love with the brand that I had to bring it onboard our Crystal ships,” added Levis. “We are also working on a second alternative line that will be available in 2024.”

Planned voyages will travel throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

Updated: MSC’s new Explora 1 faces delay

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 06 July 2023 06 July 2023

It appears, according to the Financial Times, that one of the issues impacting the delivery of Explora 1’s delay, could be that its fire resistant panels are defective.

Manufactured by Paroc, a Finnish insulation company, the panels, which had been certified with a safety rating, failed when being tested for safety classification even though the original certificate should have been valid until 2025.

Even more disruptive is the fact that, in addition to Explora, similar fire resistant panels made by Paroc are in use aboard some 45 passenger ships that are currently in service. These include, according to the report in the FT, recently delivered MSC Euribia.

Paroc was acquired by U.S. company Owens Corning in 2018. It is currently working with its customers and regulatory authorities to find out the possible risks caused by using the products, according to FT.

We’ll continue to update this story as we learn new details.

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The delivery ceremony of Explora I that was scheduled for today, July 6, at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, has been cancelled, it has been reported. The 461-suite, 63,900 gross ton luxury ship, the first in the fleet of MSC Group’s nascent Explora Journeys brand is under construction at Fincantieri, in Italy.

The cause of the delay, according to a statement from MSC Cruises, is supply line issues that resulted in Explora I not being finished to the satisfication of its owners. "Unfortunately, the time required for the work will extend the vessel’s stay at the shipyard by a few weeks," MSC Cruises said in a statement Tuesday.

At the moment we’re still waiting on word about whether or not the christening, when the christening, which was due to take place on Saturday, July 8, will occur. As well, the company has not yet announced if Explora I will depart from Southampton on Monday, July 17. Interestingly, accommodations on the all-suite ship were still available for the maiden voyage, starting from $3,950 for a five day voyage.

We’ll provide updates as the story warrants.