Yes Carnival has the families and yes it is pretty popular amongst those ‘free spirited’ couples (sounds a little raunchy) but the line is also gaining bookings amongst… divorcees.
No we’re not talking about solos booking single rooms to shed a couple of tears – we’re talking divorcees ready to let loose and really celebrate their new freedom with friends.
Speaking to media at a briefing last week, Carnival’s Vice President and General Manager, Jennifer Vandekreeke, said she’s seeing a growing trend of group travel particularly amongst hens groups and divorcees groups.
That’s right, groups of friends hopping on a ship to literally sail away from their separation.
“I love seeing these groups of 30-40 people wearing the same shirt.”
Jennifer Vandekreeke, Carnival Vice President and General Manager
“I love the energy they have and they’re just looking to spend the weekend together, have fun and nobody has to drive or pick up the cheque.”
Maybe the newly single travellers also want to try out the Shannon Ponton workout onboard and show their ex what they’re missing.
Vandekreeke also revealed that Aussie cruisers and their love of socialising is slightly influencing the line’s American ships.
She explained that when Carnival Spirit first arrived in Australia her adult sail away party ‘Serenity’ was meant to be a calm pull away from the shore. But because Aussies are very “social, vicarious and fun” the line broke the rules a little, bringing a guitar on the deck to liven the mood.
The chilled atmosphere was such as success that the line rolled out the more upbeat ‘Serenity’ night across the rest of the fleet.
“We are affecting cruising in the US.”
Jennifer Vandekreeke, Carnival Vice President and General Manager
Fun fact: Australia is the only market which has lamb on its ships and the Thirsty Frog Summer Ale is the most popular beer on board.
