South Florida MPI’s “Floating Hotel” Event

It was a beautiful day in Miami, so what better place for South Florida MPI members to meet for an educational event than on a dazzling “floating hotel” with spectacular views of downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay. After a smooth check in, we split into small groups to tour the Carnival Imagination, and our Carnival hosts led us though the ship to inspect the main show lounge, spacious pool deck and entertainment venues – all suitable for group events.

Afterward, we reconvened in one of Carnival Imagination’s comfortable lounges for a presentation by Jo Kling, CEO of Landry & Kling Cruise Events Services and Seasite - the first online platform for cruise meetings. The topic of Jo’s talk was “Out of the Box and Onto the Sea”. There was a record-breaking turnout with more than 100 planners and suppliers attending the event; which, Jo pointed out, was clear evidence that out-of-the-box venues motivate, increase attendance, and cause a buzz!

Jo opened the session with an invitation to create some fun (so appropriate for a Carnival “Fun Ship”!) by tossing out the colorful serpentine streamers found on each table. She then  asked us to recall our “best event ever”. Was it in the box or out of the box? Was the venue creative and fresh, or the “same old, same old”?

The New Normal

When it comes to meetings, the “new normal” doesn’t have to mean boring.  Jo talked about the challenges planners face today, and demonstrated how “floating hotels” are an out-of-the-box solution. For example:

• Shorter programs? More ships today offer shorter itineraries (3, 4, 5-nights).
• Less lead time? Find close-in availability on many ships.
• Cost containment? All-inclusive cruise pricing means greater savings, better budget control.
• Safety & security concerns? Ships provide more privacy than land-based venues, and have greater safety and security controls.
• ROI? Cruise programs are motivating and memorable, increase attendance and company loyalty, and reduce costs.

What do attendees want? New experiences, time to network, more active engagement, a mix of business and fun, lasting memories and stronger relationships – and “floating hotels” deliver it all.

It’s not your grandpa’s ship

“If it’s been a while since you’ve cruised,” Jo reminded us, “it’s time to replace outdated images.” Today’s ships offer flexible dining, specialty restaurants, spacious balcony staterooms, an incredible array of entertainment options, innovative sports facilities, dedicated conference facilities and world class spas. Not your grandpa’s ship, indeed!

Is it a ship or a hotel?

After looking at a series of slides from both cruise ships and hotels depicting accommodations, meeting space, and dining venues,most of the group was hard-pressed to tell the difference. Which once again proved Jo’s point – today’s ships are comparable to hotels. One huge difference? These “floating hotels” travel to multiple destinations – and attendees only unpack once!

What types of events work on a “floating hotel”?

• Sales incentives
• Customer recognition programs
• Fund raising events
• Association meetings
• Product launches
• Conventions
• Dealer/Distributor/Franchise meetings
• Continuing Education Courses
• Family programs
• Dockside ship charter for global or sports events

The better question might be: “What event wouldn’t work on a floating hotel?”

Unique benefits of a “Floating Hotel” meeting

• Captive audience encourages relationship-building and exchange of ideas
• Camaraderie (all attendees are “in the same boat”)
• Fine dining, multiple choices, and no pre-set menus
• Entertainment galore!
• Multi-generational appeal – on board activities and facilities for all ages
• Shared leisure time and shared experiences
• Personalized service
• A/V available at no cost
• Inspired settings, flexible meeting space, built-in décor

Doing More With Less

At an average rate of $150 – $300 per person, per day, floating hotel programs can save 20-40% when compared to land-based events. Included with your cruise program:

• Uniform ocean view rooms (many with private balconies)
• All meals, meeting breaks, snacks, room service
• Entertainment
• Spouse/family/guest activities
• Meeting rooms and A/V

Out of the Box Possibilities

While ships are unique and inspiring venues for meetings on their own, Jo reminded the SFMPI members that specialty suppliers can be contracted as needed to further enhance the “wow” experience.

For example, Landry & Kling teamed with a local DMC to create a fabulous Spanish-themed deck party in Barcelona. The gala dinner was orchestrated on board the ship “under the stars” with performances by flamenco dancers and acrobats adding to the spectacle. Another possible add-on? A breathtaking fireworks display!

Jo shared another creative meeting solution – using  dockside “floating hotels” to provide supplemental housing for large global or sporting events. When Landry & Kling used cruise ships in Trinidad for CHOGM (Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting), they contracted an audio visual support company to provide supplemental technology equipment including translation booths, media sound boxes, teleprompters, and high resolution projection systems. The ships’ public spaces were converted to accommodate simultaneous meetings and break out sessions – even the casino was “disguised” as a trade show exhibit hall!

Jo concluded her thought-provoking talk by reiterating that floating hotel events are inspiring, motivating, and affordable. Based on the compelling evidence Jo provided, no one could disagree.

After Jo’s talk, we enjoyed a fabulous 4-course lunch in the Carnival Imagination Dining Room. Superb service and a delicious meal, along with lively conversation and professional networking, provided the perfect ending to a great SFMPI “floating hotel” event.

Filed under: Cruise News, Meeting & Incentive News, Miscellaneous