The co-founder of an industry group supporting parents has told followers that she’s upset about a cruise line turning down a request for her son to join her on a ship visit.
Anna Perrott, co-founder of Back In Time For Bed and partnerships director at Panache Cruises, posted a video on the group’s Facebook page about the stance of an unnamed luxury cruise line.
She posted the video from her company’s office in Orlando, explaining she has to travel a lot for her job.
The issue arose as she was asked to host some top customers on board a ship visit.
“I said I can host it but I have been away from my family for over a week, so, because it is far away, would it be possible if I can bring my son with me,” she had asked the cruise line.
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She had told the cruise line that her son Chester would be looked after by someone while she hosts her ship visit, and he is a well-behaved, regular cruiser – but her request was denied.
“This cruise line actively promotes having children on board…it is a normal sailing, on a normal turnaround day,” she said.
“They have some VIPs on board and they don’t want to be seen to be having children on board.
“He would be elsewhere on the ship, and it means that I can spend time with him and make a weekend of it.
“I don’t know whether I’m being out of order. I would be really interested to hear what your comments are.”
Replies to her post were overwhelmingly in support, with followers saying they did not understand the cruise line’s objections.
“I would feel exactly the same. I don’t understand the reasoning …if children are welcomed on board why would it be an issue?” asked one.
Another posted: “You have every reason to be upset. How can they promote being a family-friendly cruise line when they won’t welcome Chester on board?”
One follower agreed it was disappointing and upsetting, adding: “It could have been a great way for them to promote their ‘family friendly’ ship, and I can’t imagine a VIP being outraged at seeing a little person enjoying the facilities.”
Another said: “I would get super upset. You explained why you wanted your son there and explained he would be looked after so wouldn’t be any nuisance while visiting the ship and what it had to offer to then change their mind. If it’s a family ship, what’s the issue?”
Perrott told Travel Weekly: “I want to raise awareness for suppliers to be more flexible when it comes to working parents and commitments – especially when it comes to working a weekend.
“Each suppliers have their own policies regarding children etc on their own products which is to be respected.
“However, if they support children on their products, why would business needs be so different?
“Suppliers should be flexible when it comes to working with people on promoting travel products and that includes working parents.
“Our next generation of travel industry experts could come from those whose parents work in the industry; it’s a great opportunity to nurture them.”
Pictured: Anna Perrott with Chester.