When I started working in systems and IT for a cruise line several years ago, I was amazed at how complex the technical landscape was to support the business, and how many systems were in place to do so. What should have been relatively straightforward was a challenging, costly, and resource-intensive IT administration feat. Even the simplest of changes were overburdened by the sheer amount of forward planning required to carry them out. While the systems we used had served their purpose, they stagnated in time, becoming a right headache to manage. This was a widely recognized challenge across...
River cruises are currently a hot trend, experiencing unprecedented growth fueled by a growing number of vacationers preferring smaller ships with fewer people onboard. The flexibility to deboard more often is another highly valued characteristic. However, river cruises contain complex itineraries with multiple ports, more destination or land-based programs and must cater to varied first- and last-mile needs of its niche clientele. So, are river cruise lines leveraging the latest technology to reach a wider demographic and enticing river cruise enthusiasts and first-timers alike, with a differ...
One of the biggest advantages of cruise travel is the inherent value it offers. The combination of accommodation, sightseeing, opulent dining options, and endless entertainment offer great value for money compared to other alternatives. Yet, as the travel industry shifts from a product-centric to a guest-centric model, new complexities and opportunities arise. But cruise lines have a tremendous advantage. The first element travelers book for a cruise vacation is the cruise itself. This gives cruise lines first insights into a guest's plans, well ahead of other potential service providers. Conv...