Myths about cruising exposed
Cruising is not only cost-effective, it is less expensive than 15 years ago, says a cruise official in citing ten myths about cruise meetings.
The second myth cited by Karyn Altman, vice president of business development for Landry & Kling Cruise Events, is that attendees could get seasick.
“Most of today’s popular itineraries sail in the calm waters of the Caribbean or Mediterranean, and ships are equipped with powerful stabilizers,” she writes in a blog.
Hurricanes a constant threat and cruise meetings are too confined are two other myths.
Hurricanes are no serious threat due to advanced technology and ships today have multi-level decks and a variety of sports that leave cruisers free of any sense of confinement.
As for the environment not being corporate enough, “today’s vessels are more like floating hotels — purpose-built with dedicated conference centers.” Most ships also offer Wi-Fi hot spots and internet access.
She also cites the “perception problem.” Cruising used to be reserved for the wealthy but cruises have evolved into being very “meetings friendly,” she says.
Cruises are also safe and offer security comparable to a secure building with a 24-hour security guard. There are various security measures that include screening similar to the airlines.
Still another myth is that a group will be lost in the shuffle of thousands of cruisers on a super ship.
“If exclusivity is a priority, consider charting a ship of your own,” she suggests. Or look for a customized cruise to fit your own group’s needs.
Finally, the argument is that “it’s not what we’re used to.” That’s because only 20 percent of the US population has ever cruised.
“But once people step on board and see how similar ships are to hotels, it takes almost no time to adjust,” Altman says.
By David Wilkening
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