Two cruise experts talk travel insights and trends
Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you started specializing in cruises?
DF: I started my career in 1989 in Yellowknife, N.W.T., where folks love to travel, and have lived in Calgary, Alta., for the past 18 years. I enjoy being close to the Rocky Mountains and just a short flight from family in Vancouver, B.C. My first cruise in the Bahamas and an unforgettable journey through the Greek Islands sparked my love for cruising. Now, as a small business owner specializing in luxury travel, I design personalized ocean, river cruises and expeditions, and European holidays for my clients.
SGH: I’m Sheila, founder of Lush Life Travel, and my journey from actuary to luxury travel specialist began when I realized that true wealth comes from living a lush life through extraordinary experiences—not just measuring ‘return on investment’ but ‘return on life.’ Now, as a two-time Virtuoso Cruise Icon in the top 1% globally, I leverage my precision and risk management skills to craft unforgettable cruise journeys that enrich every moment of my clients’ lives.
What are some of the new ships debuting this year that you are excited about?
DF: I had the opportunity to sail on the beautifully designed Explora I and am thrilled to be hosting a 14-day journey through the Greek Islands this September. I can’t wait for Explora III’s launch in 2026. I was honoured to attend the relaunch of Crystal Serenity, sailing from Venice to Marseille. The suites, food, and service were exceptional. I’ve also hosted a 17-day sailing on Crystal Symphony, which my clients loved. I’m excited for Crystal’s newest ship launch in 2028.
SGH: I’m thrilled about several new and newer ships. I recently sailed on the National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions Endurance in November 2024 in Antarctica—an outstanding expedition vessel with a top-tier scientific crew and even an igloo for a unique night under the stars on the Drake Passage. Currently, I’m experiencing Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot in Quebec, a remarkable blend of luxury ice-breaker capabilities and superb French food and service. I also had an amazing journey with Explora Journeys last September from Istanbul to Athens and am eagerly anticipating their recently debuted sister ship, Explora II. Plus, having sailed on three AmaWaterways ships in the past year and a half, I’m very excited to try their new river cruise ship in Colombia, and check out their latest offering to Egypt.
What’s new and notable when it comes to cruising?
DF: Cruise lines are prioritizing eco-friendly initiatives with LNG-powered ships, shore power adoption, and energy-efficient designs. Efforts to reduce emissions include advanced waste management systems and cleaner fuel alternatives. Many are eliminating single-use plastics, introducing battery-powered vessels, and investing in hybrid technology. Explora Journeys’ fleet is RINA Dolphin-certified for reduced underwater noise, helping to protect marine life. The industry is also committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
SGH: There’s no doubt that river cruising and expedition cruising are booming right now. Travelers want to take big, unforgettable trips without the hassle of crowds. That’s why small ocean cruises, expedition voyages like those on the Lindblad Endurance and Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, and boutique-style river cruises are taking center stage. Expedition cruises are becoming more comfortable—allowing you to explore remote spots with the reassurance of top-notch amenities—while river cruise operators like AmaWaterways are stepping up their game with innovations like their double-wide Magna and the upcoming Magna II. These trends reflect a growing desire for adventure without sacrificing comfort, which is precisely why I choose to specialize in these intimate, luxury travel experiences.
What do you sell the most of – river cruises, expedition cruises or ocean cruises? Do clients tend to splurge on a more luxurious experience, or are they still looking for affordable options?
DF: Most of my clients seek a luxury experience tailored to their preferences. Some initially assume a luxury or river cruise is beyond their budget; however, once they understand the value-the inclusions, spacious suites, and intimate onboard setting-they see it’s a worthwhile investment.
SGH: I specialize in river, expedition, and small ship ocean cruises—essentially, the intimate experiences that allow travelers to truly immerse themselves in a destination. Coming out of the pandemic, my clients continue to favor smaller ships over the mega vessels that feel like moving cities. They’re willing to invest a bit more for comfort and a curated, immersive experience. For example, when heading to Tahiti, as I did last June, my clients prefer a voyage with a company like Windstar Cruises, which emphasizes sustainability and respects the local people, culture, and environment, rather than opting for ships filled with flashy amenities like rock climbing walls and skating rinks.
What are some of the hot itineraries or destinations for cruises or river cruises?
DF: Europe continues to be a top destination for travellers drawn to its rich culture, cuisine, and stunning landscapes. I’m also noticing a growing interest in unique travel experiences among couples in their mid to late 30s. This past year, one young couple embarked on an expedition cruise in the Galápagos Islands, while another took a 17-day journey through Australia and New Zealand-both creating once-in-a-lifetime memories.
SGH: Right now, “cold is hot” in travel—there’s a real thrill in the chill. I experienced it firsthand in Antarctica in November, and I’m currently soaking it in here in Quebec. Many of my clients are eager for unique, bucket-list adventures that offer true immersion in their destinations. Popular choices include icy escapes like Antarctica, Canada, Norway, Greenland, and even Northwest Passage itineraries. On the river cruise side, the Danube and Rhine remain perennial favorites, while France’s Seine, Bordeaux, and Rhone are rapidly gaining traction. In fact, I’m taking a group of ladies on an AMA Seine cruise this November, with a memorable stop in Normandy for Remembrance Day—some clients are even planning to wear their military uniforms, adding a special touch. River cruises to Egypt, Vietnam, and Colombia are also seeing strong bookings, as travellers continue to seek out culturally immersive experiences wherever they go.
Any other booking trends?
SGH: I’m noticing several interesting booking trends. Clients are increasingly opting for longer voyages—I’m booking back-to-back river cruises along with small ocean and extended expedition cruises. Multigenerational trips are also trending, particularly to destinations like the Galapagos and Alaska, where Lindblad does a tremendous job catering to family and group travel. Additionally, the solo travel segment continues to thrive; adventurous solo travelers are drawn to companies that waive the solo supplement, allowing them to travel independently while still enjoying the camaraderie of group experiences.
Do you have any tips for other advisors getting into expedition cruises and luxury ocean cruises?
DF: Get to know at least four different expedition, ocean, and river cruise lines, focus on what makes each one distinct. Understanding the brand’s offerings will help you match clients with the best option for their travel style. Some of my most valuable bookings have come from clients who hadn’t even considered an ocean or river cruise.
SGH: My top tip for advisors diving into expedition cruises is to immerse yourself in the learning process—attend webinars, complete certification courses, and build strong relationships with your BDM by asking lots of questions. It’s essential to get on an expedition yourself, or even plan a group trip, so you can sell the experience with genuine confidence. Trust me, stepping onto the continent of Antarctica is life-changing; the pristine ice, adorable penguins, and that unmistakable “thrill in the chill” seep into your soul and transform the way you see the world.
Are there any cruise lines in particular that are very trade friendly?
DF: Building connections with partners is important to me. They offer assistance with group bookings, host events with us, help keep my knowledge base current by providing educational opportunities and stay actively engaged in our collaboration.
Over the years, I’ve cultivated strong relationships that help provide value to my clients. I’m grateful for the ongoing support from: Uniworld – Peter Nowick; AmaWaterways – Shauna Carter; Explora Journeys – Lisa Willey and Silversea – Eva Horn.
SGH: I truly appreciate working with cruise lines that value our role as travel advisors. Some of the most trade-friendly companies I’ve partnered with include Lindblad Expeditions, Silversea, Ponant, Quark, AmaWaterways, Uniworld River Cruises, Tauck, Windstar, Azamara, and Explora. I’ve found that the more you sell, the more “pull” you have with these companies—so it really pays to build your numbers and invest time in a strong relationship with your BDM. This not only secures better rates and perks but also keeps you top-of-mind for new opportunities.
What’s the most expensive or the longest or the most fascinating cruise you’ve ever booked?
DF: The most fascinating booking was a Galápagos cruise with a wildlife centre stay. The longest was a 48-day journey from San Diego to Auckland. The most expensive was a $100K+ South Pacific sailing, including flights and hotels. I love putting everything together to create unforgettable experiences for my clients.
SGH: I love building deep relationships with my clients because it naturally leads to longer, more personalized cruises that truly reflect their travel dreams. For instance, many of my Lindblad enthusiasts have booked 10+ cruises with us because they value the immersive experience—a multi-week expedition to Antarctica that includes stops at South Georgia and the Falklands is always a standout adventure. I’ve also arranged extended world cruises with Cunard and curated segments with Oceania or Regent that offer luxurious, tailored experiences. Plus, the back-to-back itineraries on Azamara, Silversea, AmaWaterways, and Uniworld—with their fantastic tour add-ons—let clients explore multiple destinations seamlessly. Each of these journeys is designed to deliver an unforgettable blend of luxury, adventure, and discovery.
Do you have anything to add?
DF: Staying open to new ideas and embracing change, especially in the ever-evolving travel industry, has helped my business grow. With the incredible support of my host agency, Journeys by Escapes, I’ve been able to focus exclusively on luxury travel and help clients turn their travel dreams into reality. There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing about the memories they’ve created!
SGH: In summary, as a Cruise Icon in the top 1% globally, I specialize in crafting unforgettable and sustainable journeys—from the exhilarating “thrill of the chill” on expedition cruises to the immersive intimacy of river voyages. At Lush Life Travel, my mission is simple: live your lush life through travel by embracing transformative, eco-conscious experiences every step of the way.
