Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2021

1 7 Royal Caribbean Group’s new terminal in Ravena, Italy, will be equipped with shore power emissions while its ships are in port. “We’ve retrofitted four vessels with shore power connectivity and Celebrity Apex was the first newbuild in our fleet to debut with the technology built in,” says Fain. “We’re keen to plug in wherever we can, and we could equip our remaining ships for shore power in a heartbeat but there aren’t many ports with the necessary shoreside capabilities because it’s a technologically complex process to update their infrastructures. We’re working with various partners, such as PortMiami in Florida, USA, to install the systems and the new terminal we’ve just agreed to build at Porto Corsini in Ravenna, Italy, will offer shore power too.” Collaborating with partners and key industry stakeholders on issues such as boosting sustainability will remain critical as Royal Caribbean Group’s brands continue to navigate their way to a full restart in 2022. “Although the pandemic has caused a lot of pain and suffering, it has also brought out the best in many people and shown us the power of pulling together to find solutions and help one another,” says Fain. “This compassion and willingness to collaborate for the greater good has certainly enabled our industry to survive and we’re incredibly grateful for that.” Fain has played a vital role in driving both company- and industry-wide communication by regularly publishing inspirational videos on Royal Caribbean Group’s corporate social media channels. The primary purpose of the videos is to provide essential updates to customers, travel agents and other industry stakeholders. However, they have been cathartic for Fain too. “Videos are the best way for me to continue speaking directly to the people who are important to me and our business in the current situation,” he says. “Lots of people say they’d found my videos helpful, and they’ve been beneficial for me too. Preparing the videos gives me a valuable opportunity to pause, take a moment for self-appraisal and really think about my perspective on all the challenges we’re facing and how best to overcome them.” Another valuable lesson the pandemic has taught the cruise industry is the importance of planning ahead. “You need to plan several years in advance if you want to successfully build new ships, develop innovative customer experiences or create exciting itineraries,” explains Fain. “This requires you to anticipate changing consumer demand and market trends, as well as any potential obstacles so you can plan how to overcome them. It can be difficult to imagine what lies ahead and challenges can often appear insurmountable but planning for the long term will ensure you are able to build agility and resilience, in order to react quickly and continue to thrive.” Looking ahead, Fain remains resolutely positive about the future, noting that both Royal Caribbean Group and the global cruise industry are moving inexorably towards the total return of safe cruising. “The pandemic is not over and people are still cautious but after so long at home, they’re more eager than ever to safely regain their quality of life by socialising, travelling and trying new things,” he explains. “Now people can see our health and safety protocols are working and the cruise experience is very much like it was pre-pandemic, they’re excited to book.” Predicting that the cruise industry will continue evolving as it has always done, rather than entering a ‘new normal’, Fain adds: “The past 18 months have been tough but it’s clear that the fundamental aspects of cruising are still there and very much loved by our loyal guests. If anything, the pandemic has demonstrated the value of holidaying on a ship in a safe and controlled environment. We assumed the rebound would be fuelled by experienced cruisers, but we’re attracting a lot of first-timers too. The industry is incredibly lucky to have survived and it’s quickly getting back on track and our growth trajectory will undoubtedly continue long into the future.” CFR KEYNOTE “ We’re in a unique position because we can control the environment onboard our ships to protect everyone” Image: Alfonso Femia & DIORAMA