SUDIPTA DEV – Mumbai
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Ratna Chadha
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Tirun Travel Marketing represents three brands of Royal Caribbean Cruises – namely Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises. According to Ratna Chadha, chief executive, Tirun Travel Marketing over the past few years there has been a substantial increase in the variety of ships that Indian travellers have started to explore as well as destinations like South America, North Europe, and the Black Sea and more for cruising.
“India holds immense potential for the cruise market, as travellers are increasingly interested in witnessing new destinations and new travel products, especially those which offer true value in relation to their preferences,” she said adding that, growth is expected from various parts of the country. Demand for various regions including Asia, Europe, Caribbean and exotic Alaska, South America is expected to grow. Cruise holidays are increasingly becoming an interesting choice of vacation for various segments including individuals, groups or families, corporates as well as special occasions such as celebrations and weddings.
Chadha has witnessed considerable growth and changing preferences over two decades of being the cruise pioneers in India. “Travellers have started perceiving cruising as a viable and effective vacation option over the years,” she said, adding that for first timers, initially consumers considered sailings in Asia and Mediterranean, but now they want to explore more and are looking at Alaska and Caribbean as one of their first choices as well.
For repeat travellers it is destinations like North Europe, Alaska and more exotic sailings in Antarctica/ Arctic, the Far East that are growing in prominence. Chadha pointed out that consumers continue to value service and are more enticed by innovations and activities offered on-board. “They have become explorative and value the speciality dining cuisines and multiple options available on-board,” she mentioned.
Royal Caribbean Cruises has a lot to offer for the MICE segment. “The various brands offer innumerable activities and facilities onboard for such purposes including conference rooms, accommodation options, round-the-clock dining options, multiple entertainment and exciting itineraries and shore excursions amongst others,” added Chadha. Besides MICE, weddings have always been an important segment in India. India’s first wedding aboard a Royal Caribbean International ship was on Legend of the Seas. The cruise-line not only offers different destinations to choose from, but they also help mark the special occasion with the help of their Royal Romance Specialists catering to all requirements. “The Legal ceremony is performed by the ship’s captain while sailing on the high seas to ensure a unique, elegant and memorable celebration. Also, Azamara ships are perfect for intimate celebrations, be it a wedding, an engagement, your 10th anniversary or any MICE activity. It is also a great option for those who want to celebrate birthdays, baby showers or other special occasions with friends and family,” stated Chadha.
