DESIGN YOUR IDEAL SHIP
Recently, guests on board the Seven Seas Mariner were asked for their input in designing the next ship for Regent Seven Seas Cruises. In an open forum called the “townhall meeting” President Mark Conroy said the company was responding to the impact of $100 a barrel oil on fuel and was looking for ways to economize and conserve while staying open to the comments and suggestions of its loyal guests on how to expand and improve. Among the considerations were structural and mechanical issues; Mr. Conroy said that a new ship would have a traditional shaft and screw propulsion system rather than the problematic exterior “azipods.” He also said that longer itineraries and investment in amenities like an enhanced health spa and dedicated venues for cooking classes would emphasize a more adult oriented clientele – read “no children.”
During the “townhall meeting” the most popular topic was the bathroom; suggestions from the audience included additional electrical outlets, nightlights, handrails, two sink vanities, more clothes hooks, and the ever popular free standing shower stall. Only one guest voiced what I thought was the most important comment made and that was for a good old-fashioned, wrap-around promenade deck!
A follow-up questionnaire was distributed asking: Would you like gym equipment in your suite? Would you enjoy suites decorated by noted designers? Is spa cuisine important to you? Would you have Botox injections in the spa? Though I am sure a market research study prompted these questions I was disappointed no more practical questions were asked like: Would you like to know more about where you are going? or What kind of accurate references would help you appreciate the destinations you have chosen? But that’s just me and my priorities.