Jon Weston says the Sky Trail attractions give cruise operators and ports a unique way to entertain guests
By
Rebecca Gibson |
This article was first published in Spring/Summer 2019 issue of International Cruise & Ferry Review. All information was correct at the time of printing, but may since have changed.
Nowadays, the entertainment provided on cruise ships varies widely to ensure every guest has the best possible experience from the moment they board their vessel, until the day they disembark. As passengers cannot simply walk off a ship if they are bored, it is crucial that operators offer many forms of entertainment, such as live comedy or musical shows, sports facilities, casinos and more. Guests constantly crave memorable experiences while on their cruises, so they expect this entertainment to be high quality and to be available wherever they look as they move throughout the ship.
When guests are taken into designated ports, the entertainment experience on the cruise ship should be extended so the fun can continue onshore. To keep guests feeling upbeat and energised, cruise operators are turning to Ropes Courses Incorporated to deliver attractions that the entire family can enjoy – both onboard the ship and in the remote destinations they visit during their itinerary.
To date, customisable Sky Trail aerial attractions have most commonly been present on the decks of cruise ships belonging to major brands – such as MSC Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line – serving as family-friendly activities for guests of all ages to enjoy. However, they are now being used to provide show-stopping statement pieces that deliver interactive entertainment at ports of call.
Port locations often feature the local fare, music and textiles to help travellers immerse themselves in local culture. Sky Trail attractions, which can also be paired with Sky Rail, can be designed in a range of colours and themes to further enhance this environment, while providing unique entertainment for visiting passengers. Thanks to the application of galvanised steel and marine-grade paint, the attractions are also able to withstand oceanic conditions, so they can bring excitement to cruise passengers for many years.
Anyone can join in the fun with Sky Trail – there are no restrictions with regards to skill and everyone is encouraged to participate at length, whether they are two or 102 years old. This means that all members of the family are able to enjoy an all-in-one experience and create long-lasting memories together. An added benefit of Sky Trail aerial attractions at ports of call is that they are able to accommodate large numbers of passengers at one time, making them a cost-effective way to occupy guests while crew members clean, restock or prepare the cruise ship for further travel.
Sky Trail attractions are also low maintenance and have low labour costs, so cruise operators and ports and destinations know that they are able to offer guests an unforgettable experience, while achieving a high return on investment.
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