A Look Back at P&O

I Am A Passenger - Click to Watch Courtesy of British Pathé / P&O


The year is 1961: the Peninsular Oriental & Steam Navigation Company has just completed its purchase of the remaining assets of the Orient Line, paving the way for P&O Cruises as we know it today.

The line also found themselves saddled with an abundance of promotional footage shot aboard Orient Liners like Orcades that they were then able to use to promote themselves to prospective cruisers.

The result?  The twenty-minute long I Am a Passenger, viewable in its entirety on the British Pathé newsreel site.  The film offers an incredible look at what are now viewed as precursors to the modern cruise ship.  From shipboard activities to exterior shots racing along the ocean, to behind the scenes views of the bridge and engine room, the resulting video is a veritable time capsule of maritime and cruising history.  A good friend of mine sent this through to me, and I'm glad he did.

Do yourself a favor today: sit down with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and spend twenty minutes watching this fascinating movie.  It will make you wistful for an era of cruising that has since departed, but also appreciate the technological wonder that is the modern cruise ship.

Four Small Ships Worth Watching

It's almost November, and in the world of cruising that means one thing: only a month remains until the launch of Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas, sister ship to the gargantuan Oasis of the Seas which was launched last December.

It also signals the start of near-endless media coverage about the ship, her accommodations, itineraries, performers - the works.  In other words, there's no need for us to report on her.

Instead, we're taking a different track here at From the Deck Chair by focusing on eight other ships that are worthy of your attention and cruise dollars.  This week, we highlight four small ships that are worth watching, and next week we'll follow up with four large ships. 

Some of the ships listed below may be new, while others may have been in a particular fleet for years.  In each case though, there is something unique and noteworthy that makes these vessels stand out among the rest.  There's something here for every taste, and every budget.

Silver Wind - Silversea Cruises

Silversea's elegant Silver Wind.

Note the new addition above the navigation bridge.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises 

Built in 1995, this intimate, 296-passenger ship has been a favorite amongst Silversea passengers for years.  At just 514 feet long, Silver Wind is one of the smaller, more intimate ships in the fleet - which is saying a lot for a line that prides itself on its small-to-midsize ships.  

Silversea's goal is to exceed passenger expectations, and it does so through its high culinary standards, exemplary service, and its luxurious, well-appointed ships. 

 One of Silver Wind's fantastic, newly refurbished suites.

Photo courtesy of Silversea Cruises

In keeping with that theme, the line spent an entire month and millions of dollars upgrading and refurbishing the Silver Wind at the San Giorgio shipyard in Genoa, Italy.  Carpets were ripped out and replaced.  Chairs and furniture re-upholstered.  Staterooms revitalized.  Beds and bedding swapped out.  Onboard decor updated and modernized.

Perhaps most ambitiously, the ship was also fitted with a brand-new, 60-guest Observation Lounge, as well as a new Spa and Fitness Centre.  The new addition distinguished Silver Wind from her sister, Silver Cloud, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that now grace the forward end of Deck 9.  Behind the scenes, a new glass elevator whisks passengers from Deck 8 to the new addition on Deck 9.

Accommodations were not overlooked either: four new Medallion Suites were added to Deck 8, a new Owner's Suite to Deck 7, and new Vista and Medallion Suites were added to Deck 7.

The result is a passenger favorite revitalized for a new decade of cruising.  If you like your ships yacht-like, elegant but not pretentious, Silver Wind is tough to beat.  The line hasn't stopped there, however: earlier this year, the larger Silver Whisper was revitalized, adding many features found on the newer Silver Spirit, including the hugely popular Black Rock outdoor dining option.

In this age of  "bigger-is-better", it's refreshing to see lines pay attention to the vessels that brought them their success to begin with.

Oceania Marina - Oceania Cruises

One of the few photographs of Oceania Marina, still under construction.

Photo courtesy of Oceania Cruises 

Due to set sail this coming January, Oceania Marina is notable for being the first newbuild for Oceania Cruises, a line built upon the ashes of the former Renaissance Cruises.  A line's first purpose-built ship is a big event, and Oceania is pulling out all the stops for Marina.

While the ship is still under construction, the initial interior renderings are impressive: the decor is a throwback to the glorious days of the original transatlantic liners, albeit in a 2010-style.  At 782 feet long and carrying just over 1,200 passengers, this is a ship that leans closer to being called "midsize" rather than small - but we've included her here because, up to this point, Oceania has been a small-ship line.

 A rendering of one of Marina's impressive suites.

Photo courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Despite the size and passenger increase, Marina's more subtle touches - from six different open seating dining venues to numerous intimate, clubby public spaces ensures the ship will appeal to those who love a smaller ship, while still remaining attractive to those who like their ships on the larger size.

The big head turner?  The bathrooms.  For a ship in the premium category, Marina offers many features that approach those found in the ultra-luxury category: granite bathrooms with separate tub, sink and shower areas.  If you've ever squeezed into the "white cylinder" offered on most mainstream lines, you're bound to appreciate the extra space.

Prinsendam - Holland America Line

ms Prinsendam, shown here in New York City.

Photo courtesy of Holland America Line 

A veritable blast from the past, Holland America's Prinsendam has had plenty of opportunities since her 1988 launch to garner a loyal following of passengers.  Originally built for Royal Viking Line as their Royal Viking Sun, Prinsendam is Holland America's "elegant explorer", and as such, routinely operates some of the line's best, most obscure and unique itineraries.

 Prinsendam's Explorer's Lounge.
Photo courtesy of Holland America Line

She's also been heavily modified and updated since her Royal Viking days, but largely for the better.  While a recent refit added additional balcony suites and altered her aft pool deck (and her sleek profile), Holland America has ensured Prinsendam still sparkles with a series of soft refits that have seen fixtures, furniture, public rooms and staterooms refitted and brought firmly into the new century.

She's a throwback to "the good 'ol days" of cruising - but in a modern, elegant and tasteful fashion.  On the mainstream front, it's tough to find a more classic experience than this ship.

 Le Boreal - Compagnie du Ponant

 Le Boreal at sea.

Photo courtesy of Compagnie du Ponant

If you're from North America, chances are you haven't heard of either Le Boreal or Compagnie du Ponant - and that's a shame. The French line has been trying hard to make significant inroads into the English-speaking market, and their newest vessel showcases that superbly.

Holding a maximum of 264 passengers, this "mega yacht" is remarkably striking with its sleek black hull and twin smokestacks.  Inside, the ship represents its modern, European roots with sleek, stylish and often minimalist decor.

Modern European decor graces Le Boreal's staterooms.
Photo courtesy of Compagnie du Ponant

Offering a slice of Europe at sea, what's perhaps most surprising about this ship is the wide variety of European itineraries she sails, and the price of admission: itineraries are some of the best outside of the ultra-luxury category, and price points are quite affordable for a ship her size.  The line states their prime objective when desiging Le Boreal was to create "a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy, and well-being" in a unique setting.  They seem to have achieved this: there is nothing else quite like this ship.

Intrigued?  Visit each of the above lines for more information on their respective ships.
Too small?  Stay tuned - next Monday we take a look at four large ships worth sailing.

Port Profile: Mazatlan, Mexico

 A monument near the cliff divers and Zona Dorada

in Mazatlan, Mexico.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

A staple of the seven-day Mexican Riviera run, Mazatlan, Mexico is conveniently situated north of Puerto Vallarta, and across the water from nearby Cabo San Lucas.  Unlike its resort-laden counterparts, however, Mazatlan has a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1531.

One of the excellent beaches in Mazatlan, off the Zona Dorada.

Photo © 2010 Aaron Saunders 

During the intervening years, Mazatlan has grown from a small fishing village to a major metropolitan centre and a rich, diverse port of call for passengers on Mexican Riviera cruises departing from southern California.  One of the first sights passengers are likely to see of the city is the El Faro lighthouse, installed in 1879.  At first, the Paris-built lens didn't revolve, causing many seafarers to mistake the light for a star.  Interestingly, it remained that way for another twenty-six years until 1905 when a revolving one was put in place.  Tempted passengers can actually hike their way up to the top of El Faro for a tremendous view of the city - and the Pacific Ocean that surrounds it.

Mazatlan also has the distinction of being split geographically into two major sections: the Centro Historico (Old Town), and the newer Zona Dorada, also known as The Golden Zone.

The classic streets of Mazatlan's Centro Historico.

Photo © Aaron Saunders 

Centro Historico is a fascinating area of Mazatlan.  It is home to the hundred-year old Pacifico brewery, the Teatro Angela Peralta, and the breathtaking, century-old Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.  If you want to see the history of Mazatlan - and arguably the real Mazatlan - go here.

 Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

If shopping is your thing, Zona Dorada might be more to you liking: everything from diamonds to hand-crafted pottery to Burger King can be found here.  It's commercial.  It's borderline tacky.  And tourists eat it up.  However, the area is home to some excellent beaches, and those in search of authentic, made-in-Mexico souvenirs won't be disappointed either.

 Zona Dorada.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

The cruise ship pier is located closer to Centro Historico, but taxis are readily available to whisk passengers over to Zona Dorada.  For a true Mazatlan adventure, take the open-air Pulmonia taxi's.  Resembling a souped-up golf cart, these nimble vehicles and their skilled drivers whip up and down side streets, in and out of traffic, in an experience that is hard to replicate outside of perhaps a New York taxi cab.  The story goes that when the open-air vehicles first arrived in the city almost forty years ago, regular cabby's tried to wean prospective passengers away by telling them they'd catch pneumonia.  The name stuck.  Today, they are one of the most popular ways to experience the city.

 One of the open-air Pulmonia's.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Currency and Language: Mexican Spanish is the official language, though English is widely spoken.  Knowing basic Mexican Spanish, though, will help your interactions with the locals, who sincerely appreciate the effort to learn their language.  It's beautiful - give it a try.  The official currency is the Peso, though US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere.

To learn more about Mazatlan, be sure to visit the Go Mazatlan website.

Update: Celebrity Increases Compensation for Century Pax

Celebrity Century's October 13th sailing ground to a halt

after divers discovered damage to the rudders.

Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

In the wake of widespread criticism over their handling of a rudder malfunction that left Celebrity Century unable to continue a 12-night Mediterranean voyage just days after it began, Celebrity Cruises announced yesterday that it was increasing compensation offered to affected passengers on the aborted sailing.

In addition to the original compensation - which included a full refund of the cruise itself, plus a twenty-five percent future cruise credit - the line now says it will compensate passengers, in full, for flights which were purchased on their own in order to get home.  Additionally, the line will also offer $100 per passenger to cover "additional costs" that passengers "may have incurred."

The about-face comes after the line came under fire from passengers and industry analysts alike for its handling of repatriation of guests on the affected sailing which departed Barcelona on October 13th.  Two days later, passengers were informed their cruise was canceled after divers in Villefranche, France discovered issues with the ship's dual rudders.

There is still no word on what those issues were, or when and how they were incurred.

According to passengers on several CruiseCritic threads, passengers and crew alike were caught in the crossfire as the line struggled to make decisions about what to do with so many guests.  While the situation was certainly out of the ordinary, this incident demonstrated the lack of any sort of contingency plan to deal with an unexpected, large-scale disembarkation.  

Instead, passengers seem to have been left largely to fend for themselves to make flight or hotel arrangements halfway around the world, with a time-change, language barrier, and massive local strikes in France in their way.  

Complicating matters?  Many passengers either lacked travel insurance, or had extreme difficulty contacting their North America-based travel agent.  Flights in and out of the region were going for a breathtaking premium, and many passengers opted for the 10-hour bus transfer back to Barcelona, hoping for better results out of Spain.

While the steps Celebrity has taken yesterday are laudable and will help to ease the financial burden felt by many of its stranded passengers, we can only hope the gesture isn't too little, too late.

Princess & Cunard to Travel Agents: Try Harder

According to an article published on the Travel Market Report website, Jan Swartz, Executive Vice President - Marketing & Sales for Cunard and Princess, states that cruise lines wouldn't have to spend so much time engaging in direct marketing practices like printed flyers and targeted emails if travel agents spent more time generating demand for their products.

A comment not likely to thrill most travel agents.

On the surface, Swartz is correct: if the burden of marketing and promoting cruises was placed on the shoulders of travel agents, lines wouldn't have to spend the amount of money they do reaching out to consumers via more traditional methods. 

The problem lies in the fact that travel agencies just aren't structured that way - nor should they be.

Very few travel resellers focus exclusively on cruises, which means not only do they have well over a dozen lines that need promoting, but the endless myriad of all-inclusive resorts, golf retreats, and airlines would have to be heavily promoted as well.  Naturally, each company wants its product to have top billing, which means you're now trying to get a travel agent to promote one of perhaps over a hundred different companies at any given time. 

It just doesn't work.

The article points out that in Swartz's conversations with travel agents, they admit most of their bookings come from a) existing clients or b) word of mouth referrals.  Swartz suggested a targeted marketing plan, developed and executed solely at the agency level, would work better.  Not for the agency, of course - for Cunard and Princess. 

In the end, the comments come off as unusually critical for the normally amiable Swartz.  To put the onus for marketing multi-billion-dollar companies on the shoulders of travel agencies who's profits don't approach anything near that level is strange at best - but it does speak to a larger problem.

How do you attract customers?  And how do you get them to keep booking with you?  Non-traditional marketing methods may be the answer.

Very few cruise lines utilize on-line and interactive resources like blogs, Twitter feeds and Facebook pages to their full potential.  With the exception of John Heald's fantastic blog as Carnival Cruise Line's Senior Cruise Director, most blogs put out by lines simply re-hash press releases.  Twitter feeds and Facebook accounts might offer a little more dimension, but these act mainly as another tool for viewing news and press releases.

How do you get someone to cruise with you?  First, you have to get them excited.  Once you have them excited, the rest falls into place.  It's very difficult on a printed flyer to get someone excited about a cruise - unless the price is astoundingly good.  Usually, there's a date, an itinerary, a ship, and a price.  Nothing else.  Compounding that is the fact that many flyers are simply out-of-date by the time they reach prospective cruisers.

Online methods offer a more immediate and information-rich approach. 

Is there more that can be done to create a better balance between travel agencies and cruise lines?  Of course.  As Swartz states, at the end of the day, it's all about filling the ships. 

Placing the onus on travel agents, however, might not be a step forward.

Photo of the Week - October 21

"Cruise Ship Alley" - Independence of the Seas

and Grandeur of the Seas docked in Cozumel, Mexico.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

There's no shortage of things to see and do in Cozumel, Mexico.  Located just a short ferry ride away from Playa del Carmen and the mainland, Cozumel serves as the gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins at Tulum as well as the modern-day resort and shopping mecca that is Cancun.

One of the greatest joys, however, is merely docking in Cozumel.  There can be as many as eight ships in port in any given time, docked alongside each other at three sets of piers.  Only in the Caribbean do passengers and cruise-enthusiasts get a chance to look at so many ships up close and personal.

Independence of the Seas & Grandeur of the Seas

tower over their passengers.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

This is one port you definitely want to be up early for: watching your ship tie up alongside an empty pier is one thing, but seeing a much larger vessel maneuver alongside yours - almost seemingly close enough to touch - is a one-of-a-kind experience that simply isn't replicated in other destinations.  Piers in places like Alaska are often subject to much higher tidal conditions, and ships tend to dock alongside a central pier in a row.  

Not so in Cozumel and many Caribbean ports.  Because of this, the pier area is often a hub of activity and can often be as interesting as the town itself.  It's also an excellent chance for passengers to scope out the competition.  On a visit in 2009, the Grandeur of the Seas felt like a large ship until the 1,112-foot long Independence of the Seas tied up next to us.  Four complete decks higher than us - not counting the funnel - the 2008-built ship made the venerable Grandeur feel like a tugboat in a bathtub.

Sun setting over the Caribbean Sea.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular here, and out on deck is once again the place to be at departure time.  After a hard day of exploration - whether it was venturing all the way to Tulum or merely to Senior Frogs at the end of the pier - watching up to eight ships pull away one after another and sail into the sunset is a memorable experience passengers won't soon forget.

Independence of the Seas sailing on-time at 5:30pm

from Cozumel, Mexico.

Photo © Aaron Saunders

There really is nothing like the Caribbean.

Disney Fantasy to Debut in April 2012

Disney's fourth ship: Disney Fantasy.

Illustration courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

It's official: starting today, passengers can officially book space on Disney Cruise Line's newest forthcoming addition: the 128,000 GRT Disney Fantasy. 

Setting sail on April 7, 2012, Disney Fantasy will spend her maiden season in the Caribbean, operating cruises round-trip out of Port Canaveral, Florida, near Orlando.  Sailing week-long alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, the sister to the forthcoming Disney Dream will also call at Castaway Cay, Disney's very own private island in the Bahamas.  The island is notable not just for the vast array of activities present, but for also being the only private island in the industry that features a dock large enough to accommodate the cruise ship itself - meaning less time spent tendering ashore and more time relaxing on the beach.

Don't discount the new Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy just because Mickey Mouse is at the figurative helm; these are two of the most innovative and exciting ships setting sail in the next two years, and both feature a mind-blowing array of diversions for kids and adults alike.  For an in-depth look at Disney Dream - and to discover what to expect on her sister ship Disney Fantasy is all about - check out our extensive article we wrote back in March.

Curious?  Don't wait.  If you are at all interested in Disney Fantasy - particularly her introduction Caribbean season in April 2012 - book now.  While the line's growth may have been cautious (it's first vessels hit the water in 1998/99), there's one thing they've never had an issue with: filling their ships.  

For more information about Disney Fantasy's inaugural itineraries, pay a visit to the Disney Cruise Line website.