Travel has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember and I have travelled extensively for both work and pleasure. I've experienced all kinds of holidays (from a 900km pilgrimage hike to lazy weeks in a private villa) and visited over 60 countries, but 15 years ago I discovered the pleasure of travelling by cruise ship and it's absolutely my favourite way to travel!
My trips have ranged from 2 day mini-cruises to Europe, 7-21-night trips around the Med, scenic tours of Alaska and the Norwegian fjords right through to a 79-day cruise around the coast of South America: marvelling at the stunning Chilean fjords, amazing Panama Canal and many beautiful places in-between. Riotous Rio Carnival in the Samba Dome, chilly Chilean glaciers and a magnificent Bucket List excursion to Machu Picchu are just a few of my stand out memories from this part of the world.
Setting up my own franchise business with GoCruise & Travel (a trading name of Fred. Olsen Travel) allows me to combine my experience and love of travel with their proven expertise and systems to deliver a flexible, personal service and independent advice to my clients.
There is such a huge choice of cruises out there with hundreds of ships and destinations available, that I always take the time to discuss exactly what my clients are looking for so that we can work together to find their dream holiday. For ocean cruises I primarily promote UK based Saga, P&O Cruises, Cunard and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, along with the beautiful boutique sail ships of Star Clippers. For river cruises my partners of choice are the award-winning luxury AmaWaterways and 5-star Riviera Travel.
I will be only too happy to talk about your preferences and help you make arrangements for your next cruise holiday!
My favourite holiday location and cruise line...
My favourite and most travelled on ship is Fred. Olsen's Balmoral because she suits my preference for an intimate and friendly atmosphere coupled with a cosy elegance. She must be one of the friendliest ships too! Her crew are wonderful and remember your name and favourite orders (and ask after family & friends who have travelled with you before); Captains & Officers stop to talk as they meet you around the ship; and fellow passengers become valued companions and (often) long term friends.
Balmoral for me is a comfortable "home from home" (especially valuable on a longer cruise) and as welcoming to those of us who often travel alone as it is to couples and groups. There are Solo gatherings should you wish to join in, group tables in the dining room so you always have company to share the highlights of your day with over dinner and wonderful Gentlemen Dance Hosts for those who like to be whisked around the dance floor in the evenings! My favourite spot for breakfast or lunch is on the outside deck of the Avon & Spey restaurants, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the view!
P&O Cruises' Arcadia also has a special place in my heart. Who doesn't enjoy fine dining in a top deck restaurant and a romantic walk along the deck at sunset?!
There will be a favourite ship out there for everyone - you just have to find it!
Next on my wish list is...
I am very fortunate to have seen many wonders of the world up close and will never tire of exploring its stunning variety of landscapes, seascapes and architecture or meeting people from its different cultures.
My dream destinations for the future include the Antarctic and Galapagos Islands (ideally on board a luxury Expedition ship!), India (by land, sea & river) and European rivers, seeing famous cities and landscapes from a different vantage point on board one of the fabulous AmaWaterways ships. (Maybe I will taste a few fine wines in the process too!)
Where is next on your Wish List?!
Why choose to book with me?
As a franchisee working from my office at home, I have the flexibility to adapt my working hours and approach to suit the needs of my clients. Whilst most of my business is conducted by telephone or email (or increasingly via Teams and Zoom sessions!) I am very happy to meet face to face as and when preferred.
I get great satisfaction from helping people to find their ideal cruise and I always take the time to discuss with my clients exactly what they are looking for so that we can work together to find their dream holiday. I believe in giving honest advice and because I am fully independent, it is completely impartial. If I do not know the answer to a specific question, I will know someone who does!
The growth of my business relies on clients being completely satisfied with the service they have received and recommending me to their family, friends and colleagues so you can be confident that your needs will be paramount.
All travel arrangements booked with me are covered by ABTA & ATOL giving you peace of mind that your cruise holiday is protected.
So... please give me a call if you would like me to help you find your ideal cruise holiday!
