What Sets Celebrity Cruises’ Annual President’s Cruise Apart? An Inside Look at the Exclusive Event
Celebrity Cruises’ annual President’s Cruise is not just another voyage; it’s a grand celebration crafted for the Captain’s Club members, featuring an exceptional array of exclusive events and interactions with the company’s top executives, including the president herself, Laura Hodges Bethge. This special sailing, which recently took place from June 23-29, offered guests an extraordinary experience, with the leadership team joining in on the festivities.
The six-night journey embarked from Fort Lauderdale, visiting popular destinations like Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Georgetown in Grand Cayman, and Bimini in the Bahamas. What made this cruise stand out was not just the scenic destinations but the enhanced onboard experience specially tailored for this voyage. From poolside activities and elegant onboard décor to unique events such as wine tastings, officer parties, and a special luncheon in Grand Cayman, the cruise was designed to surprise and delight at every turn.
One of the most notable aspects of the President’s Cruise is the accessibility of Celebrity’s executive team. President Laura Hodges Bethge was not only present but actively engaged with guests throughout the journey. She participated in various activities, from umpiring a guests-vs-officers volleyball match to demonstrating her culinary skills in a cooking competition and personally hosting events.
The onboard entertainment was another highlight, featuring performances from Broadway and West End star Marisha Wallace and New Zealand vocalist Will Martin. Additionally, the cruise included breathtaking performances by the U.S. Olympic Artistic Swim team and Guinness World Record-holding acrobats.
Beyond the fun and games, this cruise serves as an important touchpoint for the leadership to gather feedback directly from some of their most loyal customers. President Hodges Bethge emphasized the importance of listening to guests’ experiences to continually refine and enhance the Celebrity Cruises offerings. The feedback collected during these cruises is instrumental in shaping future services and ensuring that the cruise line remains at the forefront of the industry.
Moreover, the cruise promises more than just typical voyage activities; it’s packed with surprises that begin on day one and continue throughout the sailing. For instance, on Bimini Beach, Hodges Bethge surprised guests by DJing at an exclusive takeover party, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of celebration.
As the cruise concluded, guests left with lasting memories of a uniquely personal experience provided by Celebrity Cruises. The announcement of the next President’s Cruise, which will sail through Belgium and the Norwegian Fjords aboard the Celebrity Apex in May 2025, has already sparked excitement among the Captain’s Club members, many of whom are eagerly planning to join.
This blend of high-touch service, exclusive entertainment, and the genuine engagement of the cruise line’s top executives not only defines the President’s Cruise but also underscores Celebrity Cruises’ commitment to delivering exceptional experiences that resonate deeply with their guests.