Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2021

5 2 INTERV IEW Spirited away Anthony Pearce asks Nigel Blanks about Saga Cruises’ two new boutique, purpose-built ships and how they are redefining cruising in the ex-UK market T he launch of Spirit of Discovery in 2019 was not only a huge moment for Saga Cruises but also the ex-UK market in general. Although existing ships Saga Pearl II and Saga Sapphire had charm in abundance, the line’s first purpose- built boutique vessel elevated its cruise offering by bringing its hardware up to speed with its famously impressive service. Although large ships have been launched for the UK market, Spirit of Discovery offered something completely different for the traditional cruise client – a new luxurious and elegant ship that would be based in British ports. No-fly cruises are the ship’s specialism, but Saga’s British Isles itineraries were supposed to be few and far between. However, due to the pandemic, the vessel has been sailing exclusively in British waters alongside her newly launched sister ship Spirit of Adventure since May 2021. Despite this, guests have enthusiastically embraced the return of cruise – however limited it may have been. “Above all else, our guests have been excited to get back out onto the seas after 18 months away from cruising,” says Nigel Blanks, CEO of Saga. “The UK has some stunning coastline and wonderful ports that some of our guests haven’t visited before, so there’s been a real sense of discovery. Of course, for those who are sailing on Spirit of Adventure there’s the added excitement of a brand-new ship to experience.” Saga was the first to announce that vaccinations would be mandatory onboard its vessels at a time when it was unclear what other cruise lines would choose to do, or what governing bodies would mandate. With Saga reserved for the over 50s market, it made sense. “Health and safety is something we take very seriously,” says Blanks. “All the measures have been well “ I want to give guests the best experience I can now they’re able to join us on the seas again” Spirit of Discovery has been sailing cruises around the British Isles since resuming service in summer 2021