NCL makes multi-generational cruising an easier sell

OVER the past year, NCL has made a series of moves that should be on every family travel specialist’s radar and, according to Nirosha Sidat, NCL’s Country Manager: Africa, the timing couldn’t be better for the trade. “Multi-generational travel is one of the fastest-growing booking patterns we’re seeing and cruising is uniquely positioned to serve it,” says Sidat. “The challenge with multi-gen groups has always been that different ages want completely different things from a holiday. Norwegian Luna and the Great Tides Waterpark are our answer to that – one product that delivers for everyone at the table, from the grandparents to the grandchildren.” Norwegian Luna When NCL took delivery of Norwegian Luna early this year, it was a milestone – the 21st ship in its fleet and the second vessel in its next-generation Prima Plus Class. The family credentials are immediately apparent. The Aqua Slidecoaster, a hybrid waterslide-rollercoaster exclusive to NCL and recently named ‘Best Water Park Ride/Attraction’ by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, handles the teenagers. The all-new Luna Midway’s carnival-inspired games and the Moon Climber obstacle course take care of younger guests. The Glow Court, an interactive LED space that shifts from daytime play area to evening club, gives teens somewhere that truly feels like theirs. Adults, meanwhile, have 17 dining options and 18 bars and lounges, plus the award-winning Mandara Spa and the adults-only Vibe Beach Club to enjoy when the kids are off on their own adventures. Waterpark The headline development for families, and arguably NCL’s most significant leisure investment in recent memory, is the Great Tides Waterpark at Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas. It’s due to open on September 4. Spanning nearly 2,5ha, the waterpark centres on the more than 50-metre Tidal Tower and features 19 slides, industry-first cliff jumps at Cliffside Cove, an 836sqm kids’ zone called Splash Cay and the 240m Wandering River. Day passes are available now via guests’ myNCL accounts. “Great Stirrup Cay has always been a highlight of our Caribbean itineraries. Great Tides takes it to another level entirely. For South African agents selling Caribbean sailings, this is a notable new reason for families to choose NCL and to book sooner rather than later,” says Sidat. With the Free at Sea upgrade package covering speciality dining, beverages, Wi-Fi, and shore excursion credits, and kids under 12 eating free at speciality restaurants, the value proposition for families is difficult to argue with. “When you break down what’s actually included, NCL frequently comes out ahead of what may look like a cheaper land-based alternative. That’s the conversation we’d love agents to be having with their clients,” Sidat says.