Experts suggest that land-based venues have their own advantages, while hosting events and weddings on a cruise opens a world of unique opportunities
Janice Alyosius
In recent years, hosting corporate events or weddings aboard luxurious cruise ships has emerged as an alternative to traditional land-based venues. The allure of setting sail on the open seas, combined with comprehensive onboard amenities and unique destination experiences, offer a distinct advantage for event planners and attendees alike. To delve deeper into this trend, we have gathered insights from industry experts to explore the advantages and challenges of hosting such events.
Hosting events and weddings on a cruise ship has a unique experiential advantage. With the same sentiment, Dipti Adhia, Director, Discover the World, India (Representing Carnival Cruise Line in India), highlighted the practical benefits of hosting events on Carnival Cruise Line. She said, “We offer packages that include stays, dining, event spaces, making planning and budgeting more straightforward for organisers.” Emphasising the versatility of cruise venues, Adhia added, “Our ships have multiple venues, from grand ballrooms to intimate lounges, providing the flexibility for different event types and sizes.” There are several options for onboard entertainment such as live shows, casinos, and various activities, which offer the guests a range of options to enjoy before and after the event. The guests can simultaneously enjoy their vacation, visit unique destinations, as well as attend an event, adding precious value to their experience on the luxurious cruise.
Cruise weddings are growing in demand along with MICE and corporate events due to the convenience, value, benefits, and attractiveness of hosting events at sea. Naresh Rawal, Vice President, Sales & Marketing (India), Resorts World Cruises, said, “At Resorts World Cruises, we offer a one-stop integrated solution without the hassle of going through multiple sources or vendors. Hosting guests and organising corporate events on a cruise ship becomes accessible for planners and attendees.”
Discussing the logistical advantages and challenges of hosting events and weddings on cruise ships, Adhia, said, “Our Funships offer a controlled environment with security and staff readily available to assist with any issues that may arise. All amenities in one place reduce the need for transportation logistics.” Carnival Cruise Line provides experienced event planners who are familiar with the ship’s layout and capabilities, ensuring smooth coordination and execution.
Addressing the logistical challenges, Adhia said, “While our Funships offer various venues, space is still limited compared to large land-based venues, which may restrict the number of attendees and the scale of the event.” Speaking about the scheduling complexities, she averred, “The events need to be planned around the ship’s itinerary, which may not align with the schedule of the event unless it is a charter.” Adhia asserted, “Visa complexities, particularly for global cruises and specific itineraries requiring dual visas (if it is is Alaska, one will need both USA and Canada visas), could add logistical complexity. Also, internet and communication services on the cruise ships can be limited, which might be a concern for corporate events requiring constant connectivity.”
Value-added offering
Emphasising on the value-added offerings of hosting events and weddings on cruise ships, Adhia highlighted, “Inclusive packages often simplifies budgeting and planning for the customers.”
Elaborating on the value-addition offerings by Resorts World Cruises, Rawal affirmed, “In a cruise, you get the best of multiple worlds. Cruise presents unique experiences that are convenient in comparison to land-based resorts. The packages can be customised as per the requirements, including certified vegetarian and Jain food, while sailing to different destinations. Other value-added offerings include access to international LIVE performances, recreational activities, spas, and shopping.”
Cost-Effective packages
While highlighting the cost-effectiveness of cruise packages that consolidate expenses and reduce time spent liaising between vendors, Rawal said, “From a cost angle, planners will be able to consolidate their cost effectively with savings as we offer a one-stop solution.” He pointed out that less time is spent in liaising from one vendor to the other as the ship organises everything from ‘A to Z’ and from ship to shore.
Wedding planners’ take
From wedding planners’ perspective, Rajeev Jain, Founder and Director, Rashi Entertainment, shared his insights on hosting a wedding on a cruise and said, “Cruise weddings offer stunning ocean views and a seamless planning experience. Many cruise lines provide wedding packages encompassing everything from venue arrangements to gourmet cuisine and entertainment, streamlining the planning process efficiently.”
However, for Jain, the challenges associated with cruise weddings could not be ignored, particularly for those considering a traditional Indian wedding. “Cruises have limited venues, which may not always suit the various functions of a traditional Indian wedding. Cabin sizes are small, making luggage storage difficult for guests. Ensuring high-quality Indian cuisine might require hiring an Indian chef, as cruise kitchens might not meet expectations. The cruise itineraries and wedding functions can be affected by weather and seasonal changes,” he said.
Nevertheless, Jain emphasised that land venue have their own challenges as “Couples need to liaise with multiple vendors for decor, entertainment, and catering. They can be more expensive, in case of destination weddings, and organising transportation for guests can be complicated,” he said.
Underlining the cost-effectiveness of cruise weddings, Jain pointed out, “Cruise Weddings often offer inclusive packages, making them a cost-effective option.” However, he also suggested, “It is essential to book two rooms per family to accommodate luggage and for comfortable stay,” Jain said.
Underlining the intricacies of orchestrating such an event compared to traditional land-based venues, Vikramjeet Sharma, Founder and Managing Director, Le Florence Weddings, highlighted logistical hurdles such as coordinating the guests from diverse locations to ensure timely embarkation. “Aligning the wedding schedule with the ship’s itinerary, including ports of call and onboard activities, requires meticulous planning. Navigating the legal complexities across different jurisdictions to ensure the marriage is legally recognised poses another significant challenge,” he added.
Despite these challenges, Sharma emphasised the unique opportunities cruise weddings offer. “One major advantage is the availability of all-inclusive packages provided by many cruise lines. These packages encompass everything from ceremony coordination to accommodation and even honeymoon arrangements, streamlining the planning process significantly. Moreover, the breathtaking backdrop of the open sea or picturesque ports of call provides an unmatched setting for exchanging vows, enhancing the romantic ambiance of the occasion,” he said.
Compared to land-based venues, the cruise weddings differ in flexibility and logistical control. Sharma asserted, “While land-based venues offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling and vendor choices, cruise weddings are restricted by the ship’s itinerary and may have certain limitations on external vendors. Those couples opting for cruise weddings should also consider the trade-offs between venue flexibility and the unique experience of a wedding at sea. Despite these considerations, the seamless transition from a wedding ceremony to honeymoon aboard the cruise ship is a compelling draw for many couples seeking convenience and continuity in their celebration.”
Hosting corporate events
Enlarging about hosting corporate events on a luxurious cruise, Vinitee Mishra, Senior Manager, Travel & Immigration, Prometheus Group, said, “Cruises always offer a unique advantage of visiting multiple destinations in one holiday. You wake up in a new place every morning without having the hassle of packing and unpacking multiple times. This seamless travel experience enhances convenience and comfort and adds a novel dimension to corporate events,” Mishra said. “Cruise events often tend to be more expensive against their land-based venues, making budget considerations pivotal in event planning. This cost disparity can impact the feasibility and scale of gatherings, influencing overall event experiences,” Mishra said. She further recommended usage of walkie-talkies as a reliable alternative for group communication, noting their effectiveness despite technological limitations.
Assessing the cost-effectiveness of hosting events on the cruise ships involves a nuanced evaluation, she said. “Cruise prices frequently vary based on factors such as ship quality and booking timing. Booking early through reputable agencies can secure better rates and perks, but it is crucial to balance cost considerations with the quality amenities offered by the ship,” she advised.
“They also offer a unique corporate experience that can be captivating for first-time participants, blending atmosphere with travel convenience,” Mishra said.
“Guests can enjoy their vacation, visit unique destinations & attend an event, adding value to their cruise experience.”
Dipti Adhia Director, Discover the World, India (Representing Carnival Cruise Line in India)
“We offer a one-stop integrated solution without the hassle of going through multiple sources or vendors.”
Naresh Rawal Vice President, Sales & Marketing (India) Resorts World Cruises
“Cruises have limited venues, which may not suit the functions of a traditional Indian wedding.”
Rajeev Jain Founder and Director Rashi Entertainment
“Aligning the wedding schedule with the ship’s itinerary, including ports of call and onboard activities, requires meticulous planning.”
Vikramjeet Sharma Founder and Managing Director Le Florence Weddings
“Cruise prices frequently vary based on factors such as ship quality and booking timing.”
Vinitee Mishra Senior Manager Travel & Immigration, Prometheus Group
