Cruise and Ferry Review - Summer/Spring 2020

2 4 1 A trip to Walmer Castle inspired Littley to look at the possibility of Seabourn’s ships visiting Deal Littley explains that he was looking for something else in the region: “The United Arab Emirates is more than just Dubai [which Seabourn also visits]. A smaller destination like Ras al Khaimah allowed us to interact with culture and give a different experience. They welcomed us with open arms. When it goes well, that kind of innovation pays off in a big way.” Another possibility being considered is Deal in Kent, UK. “To access that part of England would be nice as it’s a smaller destination which isn’t as busy as Dover. Deal is a historical and natural shelter back from the days of early trade and the Battle of Waterloo.” Littley’s passion for discovery is evident when he starts talking about a walk he took near Walmer Castle in the neighbouring town to Deal, where he stumbled upon a concrete plaque on the ground commemorating Roman general Julius Caesar landing his army there 2,000 years ago. “I thought to myself, we can send a cruise ship here,” he says. “These moments are eye-opening. Innovation is just around every corner.” However, he notes that it takes “blood, sweat and tears” to put a new place on the map and not every destination works out. “On one side of the coin, there are the operational, technical and financial aspects, and on the other is guest experience. It doesn’t take much for a destination or port to welcome cruise guests. I’m not saying everything has to be perfect because perfection is the enemy of execution, but certain things have to be in place. There has to be a willingness to make it happen.” As in all businesses, revenues are key and Seabourn has two considerations. Those revenues that can be generated towards an activity in the destination, but also the impact of the destination on Seabourn’s ability to sell the cruise. The environmental conversation is also now front of stage. “It is a very important fact, not just because it is very “People offhandedly say the world is becoming smaller, now I am realising the world is far bigger than I thought” INTERV IEW