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The business operates across highly sophisticated digital marketing strategies , paradoxically combined with off-line high end customer service .
Can you sum up the ultra-luxury cruise sector and what sets it apart from standard cruises ? Ultra-luxury cruising is usually experienced on smaller ships , less than 1000 passengers , albeit some are even smaller , with less than 100 passengers .
Ultra-luxury cruising is a sensational experience where every detail is meticulously designed to pamper and indulge you . Impeccable service anticipates your every whim . From the opulent accommodations and gourmet dining options to the world-class entertainment and exclusive amenities , ultraluxury cruising is a voyage of sheer indulgence and unforgettable moments .
Moving onto your own work background - how did you get where you are today ? I began my career in cruise more than 20 years ago and am now one the UK ’ s best-known and respected cruise retailers . During my time in the industry , I have retailed over $ 5bn in cruises , and have founded and developed several of Europe ’ s leading cruise brands .
My love of cruising started back in the early 2000 ’ s when I spent time working in the USA , whilst working for one of the world ’ s largest and leading travel companies , based in the UK .
During my time in the US , I immersed myself into the world of cruising , working closely with Revelex , a leading cruise technology provider and a number of cruise retail brands in the US . On my return to the UK , I then led the creation of what became a $ 500m cruise distributor and the largest cruise retailer in the UK market . Since then , I have been the driving force behind many of the UK ’ s largest cruise brands , including : Cruise118 , Six Star Cruises and River Voyages .
In 2010 I entered into a partnership with a leading international cruising organization , eventually selling my final shareholding to a Boston-based cruise distributor in 2018 .
After two years of pursuing other ventures , in July 2020 - and at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic - I established Panache Cruises . It was a bold move , but I saw the long-term opportunities for the sector .
In its first three years of trading , Panache Cruises has reached over two million luxury cruisers and built a database of over 100k contacts and growing . The business has also delivered a highly impressive performance in this time , generating over $ 25 million in annual sales .
Panache Cruises has also won many awards over the past three years , most recently ‘ Best Agency to work for ’ which is particularly impressive given there are many
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