Interview with Ross Spalding: The Man Behind Crown Cruise Vacations
Ross Spalding is a well-known figure in the cruise industry. As the CEO of Crown Cruise Vacations, he has been in the business for over 30 years. He has seen the industry grow and evolve over the years and has been at the forefront of many changes in the industry. In this interview, we speak to him about his career, the industry, and his thoughts on the future of cruising.
Background and Career
Ross began his career in the cruise industry as a travel agent in the 1980s. He quickly rose through the ranks and became a vice president at a major cruise company. However, he always felt that there was a gap in the market for a more personalized service, and in 2004, he founded Crown Cruise Vacations.
Since then, the company has grown significantly and has become one of the leading cruise travel agencies in the world. Ross’s experience and industry knowledge have been instrumental in this success, and he continues to be actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the company.
The Industry
The cruise industry has undergone significant changes in recent years. According to Ross, one of the biggest changes has been the increasing popularity of river cruises. “River cruises have become incredibly popular, especially in Europe and Asia,” he says. “They offer a much more intimate and immersive experience than ocean cruises, and we’re seeing more and more people choosing this type of cruise.”
Another change in the industry has been the focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. “Cruise companies are increasingly aware of their impact on the environment, and they’re taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint,” Ross explains. “From using cleaner energy sources to reducing waste and emissions, the industry is working hard to become more sustainable.”
Finally, Ross notes that technology has had a significant impact on the industry. “From the booking process to on-board experiences, technology is transforming the cruise industry,” he says. “We’re seeing more advanced booking systems, mobile apps, and virtual experiences that allow potential cruisers to get a taste of what a cruise might be like before they book.”
The Future of Cruising
Looking to the future, Ross is optimistic about the cruise industry’s prospects. “Cruising offers a unique and immersive travel experience that you can’t get anywhere else,” he says. “And with so much focus on sustainability and technology, we’re only going to see more exciting innovations in the industry.”
However, he acknowledges that the current pandemic has had a significant impact on the industry. “We’ve seen a lot of cancelations and disruptions over the past year, and it’s been a challenging time for the industry,” he admits. “But I’m confident that the cruise industry will come back stronger than ever.”
Conclusion
Ross Spalding’s extensive experience and expertise in the cruise industry shine through in this interview. As the CEO of Crown Cruise Vacations, he has been at the forefront of many changes in the industry, and his insight into the industry’s future is invaluable. From the increasing popularity of river cruises to the focus on sustainability and technology, the cruise industry is constantly evolving, and Ross is excited to see what the future holds.
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