The magic of group travel is the joy of sharing, extended to cover the entire experience of wanderlust in a world away from your own. What does group travel look like aboard the floating resorts that have become so popular among vacationers? We recently caught up with Norwegian Cruise Line’s John Chernesky, Senior Vice President of Sales, and Mo Adams, Group Specialty Senior Sales Manager, at their Global Sales Conference to glean their thoughts on group travel, as well as the exciting focus Norwegian is giving it.
What would you say are the benefits of group travel?
Mo Adams: Whether it is a family group or friends — or even a wine or dance group, for example — sharing a travel experience with others is a great way to make memories that will stay with you for a lifetime. And because Norwegian Cruise Line has something for everyone, your group will have the freedom and flexibility to enjoy both time together as well as solo ventures to do things that they love.
This is our “The More the Merrier” issue, and NCL just recently launched a program called More At Sea — what is More At Sea?
John Chernesky: We’ve recently enhanced our current included package, Free At Sea. It not only has a new name, More At Sea, but now includes even more beverage inclusions, more dining nights where you can dine at specialty restaurants without paying the per-person cost and high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink.
What do group travelers have to look forward to when sailing with More At Sea?
MA: With group travel, you can pick and choose which components are more important for your group. If unlimited alcohol is important for them, they will now be able to enjoy more premium spirits as part of the unlimited beverage package. If dining is what gets them excited, depending on the length of their cruise and the category booked, they will have more opportunities to enjoy extra nights at our specialty restaurants. Foodies of all stars and stripes will love the chance to savor a sirloin at Cagney’s Steakhouse, pasta the way your Nonna used to make it at Onda by Scarpetta, fine French dining at Le Bistro, fresh table-side guac at Los Lobos or dinner and a show at Teppanyaki — there’s a new venue to treat your taste buds just about every night of your cruise.
What’s the best way for groups to handle dining?
MA: Groups of 12+ should work with their travel advisor, who can contact our shoreside groups concierge to schedule dining ahead of time. Smaller groups should contact the onboard groups concierge as soon as they board the ship.
And then, just in terms of where to eat and what to try … it really is a foodie’s paradise! Guests sailing on Norwegian Escape have to try celebrity chef Jose Garces’ restaurants Bayamo and Pincho Tapas Bar — the bold flavors he concocts are eye-popping. It’s easy to make an afternoon of just trying all the small plates. I’ve already mentioned a few of the other specialty dining highlights, but another favorite is the Brazilian steakhouse Moderno Churrascaria; any of the slow-roasted meats are must-try, as is the Caipirinha. It’s Brazil’s national cocktail, made with Leblon Cachaca, lime slices and simple syrup.
What are great activities for groups onboard NCL?
MA: Groups tend to love to get competitive and participate in trivia or game shows like The Price is Right. But there is so much more! They can watch a Broadway-style show at the theater together, like Burn the Floor or The Choir of Man. Or they could have a friendly competition at the only racetracks at sea or just have some fun at the Arcade. Or, if it’s late-night fun they’re looking for, any of the bars and lounges will likely have the perfect pair of drinks and ambiance for the mood, not to mention entertainment like live music or a comedy show. So your group can find things to do together, but they can also do what they love the most on their own and meet other fellow cruisers outside the group at the same time.
What are your most popular shore excursions for groups?
MA: It really depends on the destination! But I would say in Hawaii it is the Road to Hana scenic drive up the coast of Maui and in Alaska it is definitely the helicopter ride. The catamaran-sailing and snorkeling in Cozumel is another great one. And then, off the top of my head, probably the walking tour of Pompeii or the farm & food tour of the Amalfi coast.
Any good rules you can think of regarding group trip etiquette?
MA: I think a good rule of thumb for everyone — not just groups — is to be respectful of other travelers, especially when you are sharing a public space on a cruise ship. Everyone onboard has waited for their vacation and wants to have the best experience possible.
