Thomson Cruise has branded Thomas Cook’s “revolutionary” plans to put reps on cruise ships a waste of time.
Thomas Cook will have reps on selected sailings in Europe on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Gem, Jade and Jewel this summer.
Claiming a “travel first” that would “revolutionise the way people take cruises”, it said they will be there to greet customers and look after their needs throughout the cruise, for instance booking shore excursions or sourcing suncream.
However, director of cruising for TUI Travel mainstream division David Selby said the idea was not new and the reps would be unnecessary.
He said: “Thomson had reps on its cruise ships 12 years ago, when it launched into the cruise sector. They proved to be superfluous because there is an attentive crew on board cruise ships dedicated to serving guests’ needs.
“Let’s say there is a problem with a passenger’s bathroom. They would go to reception, who would direct them to the rep. The rep would then go back to reception to sort out the problem.”
All cruise ships have dedicated shore excursion desks and toiletries and suncream are invariably on sale in the on-board shops.
Thomson pulled reps off its ships eight years ago.
- Want more on the sector? Read Jane Archer’s cruise blog