As a professional in meeting and incentive travel planning, you understand the importance of regularly exploring new venues and destinations for your events. If you haven’t yet considered a cruise as a potential venue, the idea of shifting from a traditional land-based program to a ship venue might seem daunting. However, when you consider the ease of planning, cost savings, and other advantages of hosting meetings at sea, it’s a refreshing change that can significantly reduce your stress and workload.
How Cruise Ships Are Similar to Hotels and Resorts
- A variety of brands, service levels, and price ranges
- Global destinations with ocean or river views
- Comfortable staterooms, deluxe amenities, and luxurious bedding
- Diverse dining options, from casual to gourmet
- Dedicated meeting and event spaces
- World-class spas, fitness centers, and sports facilities available
- Interiors designed by renowned architects and designers
- WiFi and advanced technology provided
- Experienced in managing all types of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and
Exhibitions) programs
How Cruise Ships Are Different from Hotels and Resorts
- Provides a unique and memorable travel experience.
- Allows visits to multiple islands, countries, or cities in one relaxed trip.
- Offers complimentary meeting space and access to AV equipment.
- All meals are included in the cruise fare.
- Cruise ships offer a diverse range of dining options, from casual to gourmet, many with
menus from celebrity chefs. - No meal planning is required: attendees can order from menus that cater to all dietary
preferences. - No additional charges for table linens, lighting, risers, or staging.
- Staffed by highly trained and motivated service personnel.
- Offers personal choices for authentic destination experiences.
- Appeals to multiple generations without the need for extra planning or costs.
- Includes award-winning entertainment at no extra transportation or ticket cost.
- Provides a self-contained environment that fosters relationship-building.
- Daily activities, enrichment classes, and outdoor sports facilities for all ages
- Easier to arrange a full-ship buyout for private use
Will My Meeting Agenda Fit on a Cruise Ship?
Once you provide your program requirements, a Landry & Kling cruise event specialist will research options and recommend the best ships to meet your business objectives. Flexibility, along with our team’s creative solutions, will help ensure the success of your event.
Many ships are specifically designed to accommodate business meetings and offer dedicated conference facilities, as well as flexible and complimentary function spaces. Audio/visual services on the ship are provided at no cost, with only minimal fees for technical support.
Moreover, lounges, theaters, and various indoor and outdoor public areas can be transformed into unique venues for meetings and group events. Spacious theaters equipped with professional lighting and sound—also complimentary—are ideal for award ceremonies or general sessions.
Your cruise event planning is simplified! You can offer attendees a variety of event spaces, evening entertainment, deck parties, sports, and daily activities—all within easy walking distance. Additionally, all meals and visits to one or more ports are included.
Consider a Ship Charter for Exclusivity and Unique Experiences
Would you like exclusive access to all of the ship’s facilities and the freedom to tailor your entire cruise experience? Depending on the size of your group and how far in advance you plan, a ship buyout (charter) might be just what you need.
Let’s Explore Your Cruise Options
For a complimentary cruise event consultation, request a proposal, call us at +1 786-594-0732, or email inquiry@landrykling.com.
FAQs
Why is a cruise cheaper than a hotel?
In addition to ship accommodations, cruise fares include most meals, entertainment, sports facilities, meeting space, and use of onboard AV. When a group travel program or corporate event, cost savings can total up to 30% over a hotel.
Do ships have better food than hotels?
In general, cruise ships offer a wider variety of food options that cater to all tastes, culinary trends, and dietary requirements. Depending on the specific ship, many feature specialty restaurants with global flavors, menus designed by celebrity chefs, and immersive dining experiences.
Are cruise ship cabins smaller than hotel rooms?
Cruise ship cabins are generally smaller than hotel rooms, but ships offer a greater variety of accommodations. These include interior cabins, outside ocean view rooms, balcony staterooms with outside space, and generously sized suites. Some cruise lines offer exclusive suite enclaves with exclusive restaurants, lounge areas, and sun decks. The most opulent cruise ship suites are duplexes spanning two decks with private butler and concierge services.