For a first time cruiser the best advice I can give is to speak with a cruise specialist, we will always have access to the most up to date cruise offers, plus we will make sure that you are booked onto the right ship that is perfect for you. – Caroline O’Toole
Our Head of Cruises at JWT, Caroline is an award-winning travel professional with over twenty years in the industry, specialising in luxury and cruise holidays. Since joining the cruise trade, Caroline has launched “Cruise Worldwide”, becoming the only dedicated cruise business in Ireland, as well as “Weddings At Sea”, organising a special day for those looking to wed onboard.
Caroline’s knowledge of cruise travel, her passion for what she does, and her loyalty and commitment to customers makes her the ideal person to lead JWT Cruises. Today we interview Caroline to learn more about cruise holidays and her extensive experience in the industry:
Where did you go on your first ever cruise? And what did you love the most about the experience?
My first ever cruise experience was on the launch of Independence of the Seas in Southampton in 2008, it was the most amazing experience, I could not believe the size of the ship first off, but once I stepped onboard I knew that this was going to be a whole new game changer for me. From then on my passion grew for the cruise industry and what it was about.
Having done numerous cruises over the last number of years with so many of the top cruise lines, one of my all time favourite ports has to be Kotor in Montenegro, it is such a pretty little port, but most of all is waking up while the ship is coming into the port with the most stunning sunrise and scenery, it was breathtaking!
Also, on a Norwegian Fjords cruise we visited Geiranger Fjord which had some of the most spectacular waterfalls that I have ever had the pleasure of seeing, a truly bucket list moment for sure.
What makes travelling on a cruise special and different from other travel experiences?
Overall, the combination of convenience, variety, and unique experiences make cruising a special and distinctive mode of travel. A cruise offers several unique aspects that set it apart from other travel experiences, including:
1- Cruises provide a self-contained environment with accommodations, dining, entertainment, and activities on a single vessel, making it convenient and hassle-free.
2 – Multiple destinations: cruises often visit multiple ports or destinations during a single trip, allowing you to explore different places without the need for constant packing and unpacking.
3 – Scenic and breathtaking views of the open sea and coastal landscapes, which can be a highlight of the Cruise itself especially on itineraries to the Norwegian Fjords or Alaska.
4- Onboard amenities: cruise ships are like floating resorts, offering a wide range of amenities such as pools, spas, theaters, and restaurants, ensuring there’s always something to do.
5- Social atmosphere: cruises can be highly social, with opportunities to meet up with other guests and engage in group activities and events, now a very popular holiday choice for a lot of solo travellers.
6- Various itineraries: you can choose from a wide range of cruise itineraries, from relaxing voyages to adventurous expeditions, catering to diverse interests and preferences.
7- Inclusive packages: the majority of cruises now offer all-inclusive packages, which can simplify budgeting by covering meals, activities, and certain excursions.
8- Entertainment and themed cruises: many cruises feature themed events, entertainment, and specialty cruises, allowing you to tailor your experience to your interests.
9- Relaxation and escape: cruises can be a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy a relaxing holiday on the water.
Tell us more about the concept of a cruise wedding
A cruise wedding experience involves getting married onboard the ship, getting to have a wedding while at sea or onboard or at one of the ports with the Bahamas being very popular for beach style weddings as some of the cruise lines have their own private Islands. A cruise wedding experience combines a memorable wedding with a honeymoon, making it a unique and romantic way to tie the knot.
What would be your top advice for travellers going for the first time on a cruise?
For a first time cruiser the best advice I can give is to speak with a cruise specialist, we will always have access to the most up to date cruise offers, plus we will make sure that you are booked onto the right ship that is perfect for you.
What are the favourite destinations for Irish cruisers?
The top destinations for Irish cruisers are Western and Eastern Mediterranean, Norwegian Fjords, Caribbean, and Alaska.
We hope you enjoyed our first interview with Caroline O’Toole!
For more information and details on cruise holidays go to: UPCOMING CRUISE HOLIDAYS or contact the JWT Travel experts. We will keep you posted with more Cruises and articles.
Contact Us
