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Read our staff profiles, industry experience and top cruising tips!
Industry background: My first job in travel was as a sales consultant for TV Travel Shop back in 1999, it was truly an eye-opener to the world of travel and an exciting place to work. In January 2006 I started with Travel Circle, just as a new project ‘Cruise Circle' was being launched, the rest I guess you could say is history, our history. I'm fortunate to have been with Cruise Circle since the very start and am very proud of what we have achieved since those early days.
Favourite Cruising Experience: This is a tough one, can I have two favourites?
My first ever cruise was a travel agent educational trip on the Golden Princess around the Caribbean. I went with an open mind but was completely blown away by the food, entertainment, and service. It was also the first time I met a kind and (very) attractive travel agent from Derbyshire, I finally married her in June 2012.
In December 2007 I was lucky enough to cruise across the Pacific Ocean from Hawaii to Auckland with Celebrity Cruises, stopping at French Polynesia on the way. The island of Moorea is, without doubt, the most beautiful place I have ever visited, a genuine island paradise.
Why I love my job: I can honestly say that I wake up every day and look forward to going to work, I guess it helps that my role is so varied. The serious stuff like negotiating commercial agreements with our cruise line partners and ensuring that we are complying with our ABTA & ATOL obligations is interesting and challenging, responding to emails and calls personally from satisfied customers is rewarding, but most of all I enjoy interacting with the amazing people we have working for us. I firmly believe that our service is unrivalled within the cruise industry. Many of our valued customers have been booking their cruises with Cruise Circle for over 10 years.
Dream Itinerary: It has to be either a full world cruise, seeing so many fascinating destinations and cultures but only needing to unpack the once, or a cruise to Antarctica where I imagine the air to be so clean and the wildlife so untouched.
Jason's Top Cruising Tip: Firstly, make sure you book it with Cruise Circle! Secondly, don't make your choice when booking a cruise on price alone, look at the value of what's included. Finally, always book a balcony if you can, nothing beats the fresh sea air.
Industry background: I have worked in travel my whole working life. Working for small independent agencies before moving onto Lunn Poly which then changed to Thomson's, I took an agency break in 2002 and worked overseas as a Holiday Representative in both Majorca and Gran Canaria which was a fantastic experience. I then returned back to agency life. I started with Travel Circle back in 2007 when Cruise Circle first began and I am very proud of what my husband and I have achieved since then.
Favourite Cruising Experience: I never thought that cruising would be for me until I sailed around the Caribbean in 2004 only being 24 years old I thought I would not like it, how wrong could I have been? Since then I have been hooked and I have been fortunate to sail on many different cruise lines to amazing destinations.
My absolute favourite was the when we sailed through the South Pacific, visiting Bora Bora and Moorea. It was truly magnificent.
Why I love my job: Every day differs for me which keeps my role exciting. I enjoy working closely with both my customers and my team whom might I add I am most proud of. Our combined experience gives our customers the peace of mind that they are booking with the right agency and my team work hard to ensure that we maintain this high level of service which is why we have a high repeat customer base. Of course, I face challenges, one of which is ensuring that we are consistently compliant with both ABTA/ATOL. However, I recognise how important it is that all of our bookings are booked correctly and that we are giving our customers exactly what they have booked and paid for. It is guaranteed that my team will always go that extra mile for all of our customers, whilst we consistently remain competitive we also give thorough and honest advice.
Dream Itinerary: Far East and Alaska
Danielle's Top Cruising Tip: Always speak to someone in the know to ensure you are booking the right cruise line and the right ship, and of course always make sure you book with Cruise Circle.
Industry background: I’ve worked in travel since leaving school over 18 years ago. I started as a sales consultant selling all types of mainstream holidays but my passion was selling cruises and so I took on the role of a Regional Cruise Team Leader. Then as cruising became more popular & my love for it just kept growing, I decided in 2010 to focus solely on the Cruise Industry and became a Cruise Specialist. I have since been on many ships and to many ports around the world, so am proud to be able to use this extensive knowledge & my first-hand experiences to share with my amazing clients. I have loved every minute of my career.
Favourite cruising experience: Having been fortunate enough to have been cruising since I was 7 years old, I am struggling to narrow my experiences into just one favourite because they have all been special for different reasons. Regent Seven Seas Explorer wins my “Favourite Cruise Ship” award. It exudes sophistication, decadence and beauty in its outstanding décor and all of its public & decks areas are highly maintained with fantastic facilities that come as standard in Regents Ultra All Inclusive package.
My favourite voyage has to have been with Celebrity onboard Celebrity Eclipse when she was doing her Maiden season to the Norwegian Fjords. The itinerary was so breath-taking - stunning coastlines & waterfalls emerging from the fjord lands (pictures just do not do this destination justice) paired with an amazing ship that catered for all my needs made it such a memorable trip!
Why I love my job: I love being able to turn my customers dreams into reality and for me that is painting the picture from my experiences. I listen to all of the requirements (even the small ones) to make sure I pair the customer with the right brand of cruise line and the right voyage to give them a fantastic cruising experience.
Dream Itinerary: I have a real urge to take a step in Ernest Shackleton’s shoes and go on an Antarctic Exploration, I think this would be a trip of a lifetime. I feel like I am going to have to wait until my son is slightly more grown up though for this one!
Emma's top cruising tip: As ships get larger & larger with more amazing facilities onboard, its worthwhile taking the time to really decide where you want your cabin to be located onboard. I’ve found that it makes all the difference to your experience & is well worth paying that little bit extra to get the specific cabin type & location you want.
Industry background: – I have 8 years of experience in the cruise industry. I originally worked for P&O and Cunard in their reservations department, before moving to an independent agency for 5 years. I have now joined Cruise Circle as part of their small, friendly reservations team.
Favourite cruise line: My favourite cruise line is definitely Royal Caribbean. They were the first cruise line I sailed with, and I have been lucky enough to experience two of their newer ships when they were launched (Ovation and Anthem of the Seas). Both of these ships have a Bionic Bar, where a robot makes your drink! It’s certainly an experience!
Why I love my job: There is nothing that makes me happier than helping customers book their holiday. Whether it be just a normal annual cruise, or a dream honeymoon, every holiday I book is going to create memories, and I am grateful to be part of those memories.
Dream Itinerary: I cannot wait for the day I set sail on an immersive South America cruise. The dream would be to visit highlights such as Iguassu Falls and Machu Picchu, as well as sail around Cape Horn. If I could stop off in Antarctica and see the penguins in their natural environment, I believe it would the icing on the cake!
Rob's top cruising tip: You can’t go hungry! Regardless of the time of day, there will be somewhere serving food and the food on a cruise ship is always second to none. As someone who is always indecisive, I always order two main courses in the restaurant – it’s the best way to try new things (and this is most likely followed by two desserts!)
Industry background: After starting my travel career at a high street agency, I then transferred to a specialist cruise agency where I enjoy varied roles in Cruise Product, Marketing and Sales. I have been lucky enough to visit many wonderful and interesting places around the world and this, combined with my love of cruising is what has lead me to my role here at Cruise Circle.
Favourite cruise line: My favourite cruise line has to be Princess. They visit over 350 destinations around the world, have exciting and immersive itineraries and for me are the perfect cruising experience. Combining delicious food, wonderful staterooms and memorable experiences for all traveller types. Look out for their land extensions to explore the destinations even further!
Why I love my job: I love nothing more than talking about holidays and there is nothing better than talking about this every day! I enjoy travelling with adventure and exploration, and always like to make the most out of every place I visit, to recommend the best experiences and things to do to our guests. Knowing our guests have had a wonderful holiday is such a great feeling!
Dream Itinerary: I’ve always wanted to visit South America on a cruise around Cape Horn, combined with a land extension to hike and camp in the Andes, visit Machu Picchu and followed by a lodge stay in the Amazon! Definitely a bucket list adventure!
Ryan's top cruising tip: There is a cruise line and ship for everyone! From adults only to family friendly and traditional/luxury cruising to thrill seekers, there is sure to be something for all ages and traveller types. Oh, and don’t forget the amazing food which cruises are known for! You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Industry background: I started my travel career in 2010. I learned the basics with a large tour operator before working as an Account Manager in Educational Travel for 7 years, sending college and universities on tours as part of their courses. I then made the change to cruises in 2018 and haven't looked back since!
Favourite cruising experience: Visiting Rüdesheim on a Rhine river cruise. It's a small town on the banks of the river and has a Christmas feel all year round. The Rüdesheim Coffee is a must here too!
Why I love my job: I come to work to talk about holidays and ways to maximise the experience whilst you are on holiday! There are always new ships on the horizon, new destinations to be discovered and old destinations to be rediscovered – what's not to love?!
Dream Itinerary: I would love to do a Ganges River Cruise or an expedition cruise visiting Spitsbergen and seeing the Northern Lights!
Shell's top cruising tip: Don't judge a cruise by the price! There are loads of things included to justify the cost. Cruising is great value for money and if your decision is left to price alone, you may never experience all that cruising has to offer!
Industry background: I started my career in travel with Lunn Poly where I worked for six years, during which time I also transferred to sister-company Thomson Holidays and worked for a summer season as a holiday rep in Porec on the Istrian Riviera in Croatia. In 2003 I took a career break and went back-packing before returning to the UK and starting work with Norwegian Cruise Line in Business Development. Apart from a period where I moved to Australia for a couple of years, I have spent the most part of the last 12 years working with Norwegian Cruise Line and helping travel partners grow their cruise business.
Favourite Cruising Experience: I'm lucky to say that there has been a lot! Probably the best has been sailing the inaugural sailing of Norwegian Epic to New York. Sailing into New York, past The Statue of Liberty and up the Hudson River still brings goosebumps, and to have done it on an inaugural sailing was very special indeed.
Why I love my job: It's the creative side that I really enjoy. I get to research and plan out new holidays that I think (and hope!) our customers would enjoy. I speak to cruise lines, tour operators, tourist boards and so on to help provide inspiration so that our customers always have something new and interesting to consider. It's challenging and I love it.
Dream Itinerary: Very tough to say as I want to do everything! However, I would say the next cruise destinations on my hit list are Alaska and the Southern Caribbean.
Mark's Top Cruising Tip: If the budget will allow, consider a balcony stateroom or cabin. It's great to have your own bit of deck space. The memories of sailing out of Venice, spotting stingray in Belize and much more are priceless to me and well worth spending a little extra.
Industry background: I have worked in the travel industry for over 25 years. I was based on the high street for a large well-known agency in a variety of roles for 18 years. I have been at Cruise Circle for over 8 years, during this time I have built up my cruise knowledge and experience through ship visits and personal cruises. My customer service is exemplary and with my personal and attentive service, many of my customers return to me year after year.
Why I love my job: Having visited many countries and cruised with a large variety of cruise lines, onboard different ships I really love sharing my extensive personal destination and cruise knowledge. By far, the best aspect of my job is looking after my growing amount of repeat customers, who book with me year after year and are like my extended family.
Favourite Cruising Experience: My favourite destination has to be the Caribbean with Princess which I loved so much I had to do 3 times! I also really enjoyed the scenery of the Norwegian Fjords. We often get invited to view the newest ships. I recently saw Celebrity Edge and Norwegian Bliss - both were phenomenal!
Dream Itinerary: Do I only get to pick 1? I'm torn between Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific or Alaska and the Rockies. It's a tough choice!
Joy's Top Cruising Tip: Take as many cruises as you can as life is just too short!
Industry background: I have worked in travel since leaving school 20 years ago, it has always been my dream job! Most of these years have been on the high street with a large multiple and then specialising in cruise only holidays over the past few years.
Favourite Cruising Experience: It's hard to choose as they have all been so fantastic. However, I think the brand new Norwegian Bliss ship just pipped the others, with the excellent food and drink choices onboard. My favourite port so far is Kotor in Montenegro which really took me by surprise, very "oldy worldy," little-cobbled streets and stunning scenery, it was just beautiful.
Why I love my job: I love to travel, I love my holidays, my cruises and really enjoy helping customers to make that choice for their dream holiday. I have many loyal customers that love my honesty I can use my personal experience to help them decide. Every cruise, customer and day is different which is what I love.
Dream Itinerary: Alaska is my dream itinerary, the scenery, wildlife and the fantastic excursions on offer are so exciting, this is on the list for my “big birthday”
Nicola's Top Cruising Tip: If you can, upgrade your cabin to a balcony, waking up and going outside to see today's new port is just amazing. Also if there is a drinks package you can pre-book – do it, if you enjoy a little holiday drink it's definitely worth it.
Industry background: When I left school I started work with a High Street travel agency and worked with them in various locations for 7 years. I left the industry only to return to the job I loved a few years later. I now have over 16 years experience in a variety of travel roles.
Favourite cruising experience: My favourite ship so far has been the Celebrity Eclipse. Everything about it was amazing and the food and cocktails were pretty special. My favourite destination is Greece – any of the islands - I’m not fussy! If I had to pick one Zante has to win but as long as there is Greek sunshine and food I’m happy.
Why I love my job: It’s brilliant working in travel, every day is different! Everyone you talk to has a different favourite experience and it’s interesting to hear their perceptions of the same destinations and trips. Discussing their perfect holiday is exciting and its great to be able to book them their next adventure.
Dream Itinerary: There are so many Cruising Itineraries I would love to experience so a World Cruise would be the easiest option! But until I retire, I think cruising around South America to see Machu Picchu and the Rainforests would be one of the top ones.
Kelly's top cruising tip: If I could give one tip to anyone going on a cruise it would be to plan ahead. Whether it be booking trips, Spa treatments or booking tables at specialty restaurants. I’d hate to get on holiday and not be able to experience everything I wanted to.
Industry background: My career in travel began when I became a Thomson Holiday Rep back in 1999 in Mallorca. I just loved meeting new people and learning the languages! This amazing career path led me to working long haul and short haul destinations as well as many French ski resorts and managing all types of accommodations. After Thomson’s, I settled in Ibiza for 12 years managing a private transfer company before settling back in Blighty in 2017.
Favourite cruising experience: I just love the Caribbean. Each day you wake up to a new island with their different cultural influences and colours. It’s all just so exciting. Aruba is just stunning, Curacao is so pretty with its multi-coloured houses and the St Lucians are so friendly.
Why I love my job: I work as part of a wonderful team. Our customers are so loyal to Cruise Circle that is does feel like a big family. Every day brings you something new.
Dream Itinerary: I would love a Japanese cruise itinerary. Think of all the amazing sushi! Maybe Australia and New Zealand itinerary. Both are on the to-do list.
Lindsay's top cruising tip: Spend a little time doing some research on your destinations so you can make the most of every port. Maybe get a few excursions booked in so you have somethings to look forward too.
Industry background: When I turned 18, I spent five years spending summer seasons working in Ibiza and travelling in the winter and that gave me the travel bug. Not long after, I started working in travel quite by accident; I was studying to become a history teacher and got a part-time job in 2005 working for a large online flight agency alongside that. When it came time to graduate, I realised that travel was the natural fit and industry for me, so when they offered me a full-time job, I jumped at the chance! I was with them for 8 years in total and was with them as they created a cruise department from scratch. They were then sold to a European agency and wound down the operations in the UK, so I moved to a small cruise specialist for just shy of 4 years. I then worked as part of consortia for a couple of years before joining Cruise Circle in December 2021.
Favourite cruise line: If I am off on my travels with my family, then NCL is my favourite line to cruise with. There is always so much to do and the inclusions make it incredible value. They are great for multi-generational cruising too, something for everyone on offer so it keeps everyone happy.
Why I love my job: I would love to sail from the West Coast of America, taking in Hawaii and French Polynesia before landing in Australia or New Zealand and crossing the international dateline.
Dream Itinerary: I would love a Japanese cruise itinerary. Think of all the amazing sushi! Maybe Australia and New Zealand itinerary. Both are on the to-do list.
Beccy's top cruising tip: Don’t be driven by price. If you take time to look at the inclusions on each ship, you’ll often find those which may seem pricer are often much better value in the long run. If you love days in port, always check how much time you’ll get to, as it can differ wildly from cruise line to cruise line.
Industry background: 2.5 years at a web development agency with a focus on cruise.
Why I love my job: My favourite aspect of my job is that it's extremely varied. It also involves a lot of problem-solving in order to provide creative solutions to issues that come up.
Dream Itinerary: My dream itinerary would be a few days cruising the Galapagos islands, with enough time to go wildlife-spotting, then off to the Maldives for some rest and relaxation on shore.
