Last year, a US News & World report proclaimed “Meeting Planner” one of the best careers for 2011. The report also noted “stress levels can be high”. No kidding!

Now, a new study from CareerCast lists “Event Coordinator” as one of the top 10 most stressful jobs. Number six, to be exact – right after Police Officer. The company’s 2012 Job Stress Report surveyed 200 different professions measuring work environment, job competitiveness and risk. (In case you’re wondering, Enlisted Soldier was #1 most stressful, followed by Firefighter, Airline Pilot and Military General.)

A Meeting Planner’s Life: Grace Under Pressure

If you’re a professional meeting or event planner, your qualifications summary probably looks like this: excellent juggler, negotiator, diplomat, communicator and quick-change artist. Not to mention: possess nerves of steel and make split-second decisions when faced with last-minute changes or unexpected challenges.

According to Wikipedia: “Event planners’ work is considered either stressful or energizing…fast-paced and demanding.” Your life as a meeting planner is also creative, inspiring, and immensely rewarding. And that’s why you love it, right? The most successful pros have a passion for their work!

But there’s still that issue of meeting planner stress.

Along with the pressure of making sure your events run smoothly and attendees are happy, you probably eat on the run, and have little time for exercise or relaxation – let alone sleep – while on site. And there’s no such thing as “planner’s hours” – your hours vary and are likely to include evenings and weekends. It all adds up to unhealthy stress levels, which deplete your energy and rob you of your joy.

The late neuropsychologist Dr. Paul Pearsall was one of the most requested speakers in the world; he was also the author of over 200 professional articles and 18 books. His fascinating article, “The Causes & Cures of MPS (Meeting Planner Stress)” was published in 2005, but still rings true today.

After interviewing a group of 28 meeting professionals for a clinical research study, Dr. Pearsall concluded that “Only meeting planners seem to know what a meeting planner does. Meeting planners fully understood the complex and time-consuming nature of their work, but few others in their organization seemed to really get it…”

Are you nodding in agreement right about now?

Here are five stress-control tips you can begin implementing today:

1) Make contingency plans. Accept that you can’t control everything, and take charge of the things you can – have a backup plan to your “Plan B”.

2) Get your 40 winks! Studies show a strong link between insomnia and chronic stress. Experts recommend going to bed at a regular time each night, striving for at least seven to eight hours of sleep and eliminating distractions such as television and computers from the bedroom.

3) Get active. Physical activity increases your body’s production of feel-good endorphins, a type of neurotransmitter in the brain. Better yet, get out in the fresh air – a brisk walk will do the trick.

4) Be prepared. Don’t leave details to the last minute, and secure all agreements in writing.

5) Breathe deep. Take a relaxation break and practice some deep breathing or mindfulness meditation. It will calm your nerves, refresh your mind, and help you stay present and focused.

And here’s a bonus tip: Check out “Yoga for Meeting Planners – Stress Management & Team-Building with a Twist”

This Kindle book by Darrin Zeer might be the best $4.99 investment you can make. Try a few yoga stretches in the book – they can be done anywhere, anytime, whether you’re in the office, on the phone, in meetings – even in bed!

And finally, we leave you with these wise words from the late, great Dr. Pearsall:

Remember why you do what you do. Business meetings serve as a major avenue for learning, connecting, rewarding, and celebrating the work that we do. Meeting planners are the deans of this unique corporate curriculum, and their stress can be reduced by taking more moments to stop, take a deep breath, and just watch as attendees learn something new, connect in the ways they so dearly need but too seldom do, and enjoy the wonderful opportunity you have created for them.”

Now it’s your turn: Planners, how do you cope with job-related stress? What tips do you have to share?

As a meeting planner, your ultimate goal is make sure your participants are happy – which translates to a successful event and healthy ROI for your organization. Do you want to know one of the best ways to boost the happiness levels for your meeting attendees or incentive winners? Help them to give back.

It’s good to give – and there’s evidence to prove it. Recent neuroscience research suggests that we’re hardwired to feel good when we give. Even a small act of kindness can make a world of difference to someone else; but can also boost happiness in the person doing the good deed.

CSR – The Business of Altruism

Adding a community project or charity element to your program agenda also makes good business sense – it helps your company’s public image. More socially aware consumers are choosing to do business with organizations that have a strong Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy. In fact, according to a recent survey, 61 percent of Americans have a better opinion of corporations that integrate good causes into their business.

So now you’re convinced that giving your attendees a means to “give back” to a destination in need is a great idea, but the tricky part is… how? Determining a worthy cause, identifying specific needs in the community, tackling planning logistics, overcoming cost constraints, and finding time in your agenda are all valid concerns.

Here’s a great organization that’s done all the footwork for you:

Pack for a Purpose. The goal of this not-for-profit organization is to assist travelers who want to make meaningful contributions and help the communities they visit.

A life-changing event during an African safari trip inspired former teacher Rebecca Rothney to found Pack for a Purpose. When she and her husband Scott realized they still had space in their suitcases, they got their hands on a local school’s supply “wish list”, packed up the goodies, and delivered them directly to the school.  Since then, Rebecca, Scott, and fellow travelers have made several trips to other countries, carrying more than 1,000 pounds of clothing, school and medical supplies.

But the Rothneys knew that carrying large amounts of supplies required a great deal of time and logistical cooperation, so they came up with a simpler and more direct way. By creating a website with an up-to-date list of needed supplies in different destinations and asking travelers to deliver just 5 pounds directly to their participating hotel, everyone can make a big difference.

How does it work? All it takes is 5 pounds of suitcase space. As they prepare to travel to their meeting or incentive destination, your program participants are invited to collect and pack school supplies, medical supplies, and other small items (such as soccer balls) listed on the website. Just by making a small effort, everyone can participate in the project and feel good about making a huge impact in the lives of the people in the community they are visiting.

Don’t think 5 pounds is a big deal?

Here’s what five pounds in one suitcase looks like:

• 400 pencils, or
• 5 deflated soccer balls and inflation device, or
• Stethoscope, blood pressure cuff, and 500 band-aids

Five pounds can touch countless lives, and when you add up the number of participants in your meeting or incentive program…that’s a ton of good!

So whether you’re planning an event in Africa or anywhere else in the world (including the Caribbean, Mexico, Asia, Central America, or Europe), simply go the Pack for a Purpose website, select your destination, and find a participating hotel. Click on the property, and you’ll find a list of local projects and needed supplies. Drop off the supplies at your hotel when you check in, and they’ll be delivered for you.

That’s all it takes – just 5 pounds and a small effort to make a huge impact – in the lives of the givers as well as the receivers! To learn more about Pack for a Purpose and the projects they support, check out their website.

This canceled yacht charter Sept 15-22, 2012 to Southern Italy and Malta can be your gain.

Special charter price is now 25% off!

Take advantage of this rare opportunity:

• Brand new vessel, debuting in May 2012
• 36 cabins accommodate up to 72 guests (all cabins have WiFi Internet access)
• 7 night sailing to Southern Italy & Malta, or design a custom itinerary
• A high ratio of 28 staff to 72 guests ensures the highest quality in service
• All cabin classes at the same minimum rate – a discount of 25% off the standard published price

Highlights of the Variety Voyager include a restaurant seating 64 guests with floor-to-ceiling windows, an outdoor restaurant seating 50, a lounge area seating 64 passengers and an adjoining reception area and bar, an outdoor lounge with late-night entertainment, a wellness zone with a Balinese Spa, a marina zone to launch Zodiacs and watersports equipment, an Internet corner and a library. Download a Variety Voyager brochure (PDF).

To charter Variety Voyager at this special price:

Contact Stephanie Deaton at 305-661-1880 x134 or sdeaton@landrykling.com.

Now Royal Caribbean International is giving you more great reasons to book your group event on one of their sensational ships. The Royal Advantage, an estimated $300 million investment, will extend the highest guest-rated (and planner-approved) Oasis-class ship innovations to the entire fleet by the end of 2015.

Royal Advantage Upgrades Now Underway!

The Royal Advantage revitalization program offers groups a more memorable onboard experience, with a variety of new onboard dining and entertainment options, expanded Wi-Fi service, iPod docking stations, and many more amenities. The re-launched ships will deliver even more of the “WOW” moments planners and cruisers have come to expect from Royal Caribbean.

No ship will go untouched! By 2015, you and your attendees can enjoy Royal Advantage upgrades on any of the cruise line’s 22 amazing ships sailing in worldwide destinations including the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Eastern or Western Mediterranean, South America, Alaska, or Australia.

What’s New Onboard

Throughout the next three years, Royal Caribbean’s Vision, Voyager and Radiance class ships will undergo the Royal Advantage revitalization. Among the enhancements:

New Technology 

• More Wi-Fi access
• Interactive flat-panel televisions in staterooms, and electronic mustering.
• Digital Wayfinding Systems: Onboard activities, real time updates, and customized directions will be at your attendees’ fingertips with new plasma and LCD touch screen signs.
• Outdoor LED Video Walls:  Oversized video screens installed on the pool decks will liven up outdoor entertainment.
• iPads in all cabins (on Vision-class ships, beginning with Splendour of the Seas.)

Additional Dining Options:

• Chef’s Table: Exclusive, intimate dinner and wine pairing experience co-hosted by the Executive Chef and Sommelier. Excellent option for a VIP group dining event!
• Izumi: Pan-Asian cuisine featuring a sushi bar with hot-rock cooking.
• Samba Grill: Brazilian-style steakhouse experience with seafood and meats carved tableside
• Giovanni’s Table: Traditional Italian trattoria with classic dishes served up family style.
• Chops Grille: RoyalCaribbean’s signature steakhouse.
• Park Café:  Casual dining venue with light and healthy fare.
• Rita’s Cantina:  Casual Mexican restaurant offering a selection of margaritas and live evening entertainment.
• Boardwalk Doghouse: A casual outdoor spot.
• The Cupcake Cupboard: 1940s style shop featuring fresh-baked gourmet cupcakes. Private decorating parties and cupcake-design classes also offered – great group event!

Awe-inspiring Entertainment: 

• The DreamWorks Experience – character breakfasts, meet & greet, ice shows, parades & shows. (Currently available on Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas.)
• 3D Theater with first-run movies and sporting events.
• Broadway Shows - Saturday Night Fever: The Musical (Liberty of the Seas), Hairspray (Oasis of the Seas), Chicago (Allure of the Seas). And more sensational Broadway shows opening in the future!
• Outdoor, poolside movie screen.

High-Tech Vertical Entertainment

The Royal Advantage will also transform The Centrum, centrally located on Vision-class ships, into a new chic and sophisticated venue – featuring enriching daytime activities, dazzling evening entertainment and jaw-dropping aerial spectacles.

Using the latest in sound and light technology, the soaring space will come alive at night, offering guests a multi-sensory experience that puts them at close proximity to amazing aerial performers. Splendour of the Seas will be the first Vision-class ship to introduce The Centrum experience.

The Royal Advantage Timetable

In early 2011, Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas received popular enhancements and programs that were introduced aboard Allure of the Seas, including the DreamWorks Experience. The Royal Advantage revitalizations continued with Radiance of the Seas in May 2011, followed by Splendour of the Seas.

In 2012, revitalizations are scheduled for Vision-class ships including Rhapsody of the Seas (March 2012) and Grandeur of the Seas (May 2012), as well as Radiance-class Serenade of the Seas (November 2012).  Each ship will enter dry dock for approximately a month and re-emerge as better versions of the ships planners and guests already love.

In 2013 and 2014, additional Royal Advantage revitalizations will take place on Vision-class ships, including Legend of the Seas and Vision of the Seas, four Voyager-class ships - Navigator of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas,  Explorer of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas - and the Radiance-class Brilliance of the Seas. The Jewel of the Seas will receive the Royal Advantage enhancements in 2015.

Top Picks for Meetings and Incentives:

Royal Caribbean International has ships that sail the world on 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 night and longer voyages. Here are the most popular ships and itineraries for corporate and incentive groups:

3 and 4 night Majesty of the Seas, Bahamas cruises from Miami. A great option for short meetings – with rates starting as low as $80 per person, per day!

3 and 4 night Monarch of the Seas, Bahamas cruises from Pt. Canaveral, FL. Another great option for short meetings – with rates starting as low as $80 per person, per day!

4 and 5 night Liberty of the Seas, sailing to the Western Caribbean from Ft.Lauderdale

4 and 5 night Jewel of the Seas, cruising to the Western Caribbean from Tampa

7 night Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, Caribbean Eastern or Western Caribbean cruises from Ft. Lauderdale. Give your group bragging rights with the most innovative and sought-out product in the incentive market today!

And don’t forget about the Mediterranean and European Seas: Royal Caribbean has 12 ships in Europe with many 5 and 7-night options.

Learn More:

For more information about planning a Royal Caribbean meeting or group event, visit Seasite.com or call 305-403-3002. To find your perfect Royal Caribbean International ship and itinerary (along with printable Ship Planner Guides), click on About Royal Caribbean Ships.

Special group rates are now available

For a limited time, Royal Caribbean is offering meeting planners 7-night Caribbean cruises starting at $1,279 per person for a balcony cabin!

Don’t miss out on these special group rates – you must book by April 30, 2012 to qualify!

Visit www.seasite.com to book your next meeting or event on a spectacular Royal Caribbean ship. To learn more about how to conduct business at sea, contact Seasite at:888 713 1371 or International: +1 (305) 403 3002

*Specialty Restaurants are available at nominal flat rate
**Additional fees applies

†Royal Caribbean International reserves the right to impose a fuel supplement on all guests if the price of West Texas Intermediate fuel exceeds $65.00 per barrel. The fuel supplement for 1st and 2nd guests would be no more than $10 per guest per day, to a maximum of $140 per cruise; and for additional guests would be no more than $5 per person per day, to a maximum of $70 per cruise.

^Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, in US dollars, cruise only and subject to availability. Government taxes and fees are additional. Rates are applicable for select sailing dates in 2012 and January- March 2013 booked by April 30, 2012. Excludes major holidays and peak summer dates (mid June – mid August). Applicable to NEW Meeting and Incentives groups of less than 200 staterooms. Itineraries and prices are subject to change without notice.

Our most recent jam-packed educational event took place January 5 – 8 for members of the Financial and Insurance Conference Planners Association (FICP). We hosted the first Ship-Shopping program for this FICP back in 1994, when ships were half the size they are now – both industries have certainly come a long way!

Cruiise ships docked at Port Everglades, Florida

During our FICP program, we introduced eight meeting planners to four of today’s most appealing ships. They also experienced two hotels and the services of one of the country’s most experienced DMC’s. It was a lot to absorb in only three nights and four days –from educational as well as gastronomic perspectives!

Read on to find out what a Ship Shopping educational program could do for you, and let us know if you’d like to be on the invitation list for next time. We plan lots of events to expose planners to cruising – so get on our radar and get up to date!

Thursday, January 5

We arrived at the Turnberry Isle Miami Hotel in Aventura, where our group was royally entertained in the private dining room of the hotel’s “Bourbon Steak” restaurant. Our three-course culinary adventure was the perfect way to kick off the program.

Turnberry’s standard guest rooms are as big as suites on many ships! As you look at the perfectly maintained golf course and the skyline of Fort Lauderdale from the balcony, you feel like you’re in a peaceful oasis right in the middle of the city.

Friday, January 6

This morning, our cruise education program focused on helping planners sort the industry’s 200+ ships into three categories:

1. Luxury ships (1000 guests or less, with specific high-end characteristics and inclusive experience)
2. Big ships (1200+ guests , characterized by a wider variety of top entertainment, dining experiences, sports and fitness activities plus family appeal)
3. Boutique vessels (unique ships – sailing, ocean or river vessels; small and easy to charter; with more intimate experience and destination-focused itineraries.)

After hearing specifics about the luxury ships of Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, and Seabourn, we boarded our shuttle to Port Everglades, courtesy of GEP Destination Management.

As we boarded Regent’s Seven Seas Mariner, crisply dressed stewards greeted us, but we resisted their offer of champagne and began our cabin inspections. The large gracious staterooms were quite inviting, as was the entire vessel – the Mariner features all-suite accommodations, all with private balcony. After a relaxing lunch in the elegant main dining room, all of our guests received goodie bags that included a cook book and video by celebrity chef Jacques Pepin.

After our Seven Seas Mariner experience, we enjoyed some leisure time at Turnberry before returning to Ft.Lauderdale for a cocktail reception and mini-tour of the Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Our dinner this evening was onboard Silver Whisper, during a rare overnight in port. Silversea pulled out all the stops and treated us to a multi-course extravaganza accompanied by paired wines. Afterwards we toured the vessel, noting in particular the new Supper Club, an intimate hide-away with cabaret entertainment. This long day’s journey into night ended back at Turnberry after midnight – what a day, all in the line of duty!

Saturday, January 7

We met for breakfast on the Terrace, joined by a half-dozen of Turnberry’s management team. The hotel’s General Manager, the Marketing and Sales VP, the Chef and several key personnel wanted to meet with the FICP members to get their feedback on many issues, including Turnberry’s recent decision to part ways with the Fairmont management group. This was a very stimulating exchange, and our planners shared their opinions very candidly.

Then it was off to the Oasis of the Seas! We toured this amazing ship in record time, and our planners were “wowed” by Central Park and the Boardwalk neighborhoods, the Aqua Theater, surf simulators, rock climbing walls, and meeting facilities that included a skating rink and trade show area.

Afterwards, we enjoyed lunch at Giovanni’s Table, Royal Caribbean’s specialty Italian restaurant, where we indulged in outrageously decadent appetizers, enormous ricotta-filled shells, beautiful main courses served family style plus, of course, desserts and cupcakes customized with the FICP logo. We really didn’t need birthday cake for one of our party, but that didn’t stop Royal Caribbean from going the extra mile!

Turnberry’s Cascata Pool Terrace was the setting for our last evening event. It was transformed into a privately tented alcove, and adorned in shimmering table linens and sparkling stones by GEP Destination Management, who also provided live music for the occasion.

Sunday, January 8

Turnberry’s bountiful breakfast was the nicest and most varied presentation any of us had ever seen, with Greek yogurt to start, followed by a large plate with four divided sections – each with a different offering. Our final cruise presentation wrapped up loose ends from all the presentations and ship visits, and we invited the planners to share their own experiences using ships for business events. We also showed a draft of an online marketing piece and solicited planners’ comments on how we can communicate more effectively with them and their counterparts at other organizations.

Our final educational experience took place aboard Celebrity Solstice, one of the most successful new ship designs in history. Celebrity Cruises has a total of five vessels in this class, and their older ships are now undergoing upgrades to “Solsticize” them. We saw the ship’s purpose-built meeting space and many other public areas suitable for business sessions.

After being seated in the Murano Restaurant, we were welcomed by Mosaic, an acapella singing quartet that has been a sensation across the Celebrity’s entire fleet. Next came “Coming up Roses” from the Molecular Bar, a cocktail made with pear and rose essence, sage, rose petals and champagne. Murano is known for fine steaks but they also brought in several courses from the ship’s other specialty restaurants, topped off with a dessert soufflé.

To conclude our Ship Shopping educational program, we reminded the FICP Planners that while many aspects of the shipboard experience have changed, one thing remains constant: the streamers!

In days of ‘yore, passengers used to throw streamers to their loved ones on the dock, as a way of “staying connected”. In the same way, we at Landry & Kling like to toss streamers to our clients as a way of staying connected, because…

“Friendships made at sea, are said to last a lifetime!”

If you’re accustomed to planning hotel-based programs, you have a few tricks up your sleeve – themed event venues, exclusive off-site tours, special entertainment, personalized room gifts. But if you are new to cruising, you might be wondering how to translate a ship into a customized venue. Don’t worry – there are many ways to give your event at sea a personalized touch so your attendees or qualifiers feel extra special.

Here are just a few creative ideas:

• Customized pier decor including balloons and banner, designated group check-in area
• Private sail-away festivities onboard with champagne and streamers
• Custom logo ice sculpture displayed at private receptions
• Welcome letter in each stateroom, signed by the ship’s Captain
• Reserved area, beach olympic event, or scavenger hunt at the cruise line’s private island
• Magnetized door plaques, presonalized with participant’s name and program logo
• Private Captain’s Reception with special remarks for the company
• Customized company logo on menu covers, desserts, cocktail napkins, and daily activity programs
• Onboard “dine-around” or “buy-out” of specialty restaurants onboard
• Private concerts or productions shows in the ship’s show lounge
• Commemorative voyage DVD
• Exclusive shore excursions, customized for your group

Full-Ship Charter: The Ultimate Customization

A charter or buy-out of an entire ship gives you the ultimate freedom to customize. Some of the special touches might include:

• Flag-raising sail-away ceremony on deck – a flag with your company or program logo will fly from the ship’s mast during the cruise
• Hosted dinners with the ship’s officers; bridge reception hosted by the Captain
• Designated TV channel to display your agenda, new product information, or video of the day’s activities
• Daily onboard activities, itinerary, port and meal times adjusted to meet your business objectives
• Custom entertainment, and performers available to interact with company executives and guests during award presentations

Cruise lines have their own unique ways to customize your group event or charter, including:

On Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway, and Jewel-class ships: The Haven, an exclusive “boutique within a ship” – a private access complex of suites, concierge lounge, courtyard, pool, and dining facilities that can be “bought out” for small groups.

On Norwegian Epic: A private Blue Man Group performance, and an opportunity for your group to mingle with the performers at a post-show reception; buy out of Spiegel Tent for a private, interactive Cirque Dinner Show.

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis or Allure of the Seas: Neighborhood “buy out” – choose from Central Park with its speciality restaurants and cafes, or the Boardwalk with AquaTheater and old-fashioned wooden carousel.

Carnival Cruise Lines – Exclusive Chef’s Table multi-course private dinner and gallery tour for 12 guests; Carnival Corporate University – lively and creative team-building, communication and leadership training sessions can be customized to meet the needs of your group.

And these customization ideas are just the beginning!

For more ways to personalize your cruise event, including pre-cruise promotion, what you can negotiate with the cruise lines, plus half-ship and full-ship charter customization ideas, check out the full list in Seasite.com’s Knowledge Center: Customizing Your Cruise Event.

Prime Season Savings

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic ships travel year round in this remarkable destination, and now offer seasonal pricing that is just as amazing. Savvy meeting and group event planners can save between 20 – 25% on select “Prime Season” Galápagos departures from September through early December 2012, based on a full ship charter.

Up Close and Personal Wildlife Encounters

The islands are extraordinary during Prime months, when fewer people choose to travel.  And the experiences are life-changing. Whether it’s swimming among migrating sea turtles, snapping photos of the blue-footed boobies mating dance or seeing the first flight of a waved albatross chick, your group will never forget their visit to enchanting Galápagos.

Count on rare, close encounters with marvelous animals every day, no matter when you choose to go. And with a Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Certified Photo Instructor aboard every voyage, everyone in your group will capture fantastic images of their Galápagos experience.

Immersive Adventures – Exclusively Yours

Charter your own premium expedition ship in Galápagos and take advantage of tremendous savings during Prime Season. Both the 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour and 48-passenger National Geographic Islander are equipped with cool tools for exploration, and kayaks and Zodiacs carry you even closer to worlds of pure natural wonder.

The all-inclusive nature of your Lindblad Expeditions voyage adds to the value of your Prime Season savings. All meals, shore excursions, Zodiak and kayak exploration, daily lectures and presentations by expert Expedition Leaders and Naturalists, as well as photography tips from a Lindblad/National Geographic-certified Photo Instructor are included during your expedition.

Don’t miss out on your “Prime” opportunity to experience one of the most magical destinations on earth – with savings that are out of this world!

To search itineraries and request a quote for a Lindblad Expeditions ship, click here.

To take advantage of special Galápagos charter rates, contact Karen Kuttner-Dimitry: 212.261.9030 / 800.783.6656 ext 1030, or email: Lindblad Expeditions.

1. Super-Sized Ship Upgrades

Cruise lines are forging ahead with ambitious renovation projects, adding the most popular and innovative new-ship features across the fleet, and enhancing the onboard experience with exciting new venues. The most massive initiatives include:

Royal Caribbean International – Royal Advantage. Launched in 2011, this $300 million revitalization project will bring more Oasis-class dining & entertainment options across the entire fleet. The upgrades include more restaurants and dining experience, 3D movies, oversized LED video screens on the pool deck, new cabin design, and advanced onboard technology (including WiFi throughout the ships and digital wayfinding systems).

Carnival Cruise Lines – Fun Ship 2.0. Carnival’s $500 million project features celebrity partnerships, new casual dining venues, and more entertainment options – rolling out on 16 ships. Food Network star Guy Fieri introduced Guy’s Burger Joint; comedian George Lopez now oversees the cruise line’s comedy club lineup; and Carnival has also joined forces with Hasbro, DJ IRIE, and AE Sports to create high-caliber, interactive entertainment.

Celebrity Cruises –“Solsticize” Project – Celebrity continues to add the best of Solstice-class features to the fleet in 2012 with a $120 million upgrade to four Millennium-class ships. Guests can expect to find the quirky, interactive specialty restaurant, Qsine; an iLounge computer center; new suites; refreshed accommodations and more.

2. Ships Plug In to Save the Environment

Cruise ships typically berth for up to 11 hours, and an increasing number of cruise ports are now allowing ships to “plug in” to shoreside power while at the dock. Several cruise lines have already made the green switch by retrofitting their ships to take advantage of this option. When these vessels connect to the city’s electrical grid instead of running onboard engines powered by high-sulfur diesel fuel, the result is zero air emissions and a healthier environment.

Juneau was the first port to offer this first-of-its-kind technology in 2001, followed by Seattle, Vancouver, San Francisco and San Diego. Los Angeles got onboard in 2011. This year, New York City’s Brooklyn Cruise Terminal will invest $15 million to provide shore power,  making it the first east coast port to use shoreside power. Expect more East Coast and Gulf ports to adapt the technology, followed by ports in Europe.

3. Private-Access Suites Create a “Ship Within a Ship”

As ships are expanding in size, the concept of a private ship, yacht, or boutique hotel “within a ship” is also growing. This is the perfect “buy out” option for small, upscale groups that require exclusivity and privacy, but still want access to all the amenities of a big ship. Here are some great examples:

MSC Cruises – MSC Yacht Club – MSC Cruises was the first to introduce the private-access, “yacht within a ship” concept, and will extend the MSC Yacht Club to a third ship sailing in Europe, MSC Divina, in 2012. A self-contained private club area includes deluxe suites with 24-hour European Butler service; an exclusive lounge, bar, restaurant, and pool deck; complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks; 24-hour concierge service; and private elevator to Aurea Spa.

Norwegian Cruise Line – The Haven by Norwegian – This private keycard-access suite complex is located on the top of select ships, including Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Breakaway (launching in 2013). The Haven features deluxe suites and a private courtyard complex with dining, concierge lounge, and 24-hour butler service; and VIP amenities including priority reservations in the ship’s specialty restaurants and entertainment venues.

Celebrity Cruises – New Signature Suites – When Celebrity Reflection sets sail in Fall 2012, five new “Signature Suites” will offer spacious accommodations for four, a large veranda, and floor-to-ceiling windows designed to maximize the stunning ocean views. In addition, the 2-bedroom, 1,636 sq foot Reflections Suite will be Celebrity’s largest suite at sea, accommodating six. The elite suite enclave will be located in a private area on the top deck of the ship, accessible only by private keycard for groups of up to 26. Butler service will be available 24/7.

4. River Cruising Comes of Age

River cruising is an increasingly popular option for meeting and event planners as a new generation of river vessels continue generate buzz. Of the 15 new ships that set sail in 2011, seven – nearly half – were river vessels!  These small vessels plying the rivers of Europe, Asia and theU.S. are the perfect size for charter. They also offer more relaxed and immersive cultural experiences, dock in the heart of towns, and many itineraries include overnight stays.

In 2012, Viking River Cruises will launch four new river vessels as part of a $250 million expansion program. Closer to home, Mississippi River cruises are making a comeback, with The Great American Steamboat Company re-launching the classic paddlewheeler American Queen in April 2012, and American Cruise Line’s new paddlewheeler -Mississippi Queen – launching in August.

New riverboats in Europe and Asia feature more deluxe and contemporary amenities, including: butler service in spacious suites, suites with balconies that convert to glass-enclosed conservatories with the touch of a switch, wall-to-wall panoramic windows that open, al fresco dining areas, elevators, expanded fitness centers, glass-enclosed heated pools, ship-wide wireless access, hybrid engines for a quieter, green ride.

5. Entertainment Experiences – Wow!

There’s no other word but “wow” to describe new developments in cruise ship entertainment. With more diverse choices, interactive experiences, celebrity partnerships and world-class acts, there’s no question that cruise ships have become destinations in themselves.

Over-the-top Entertainment Included – Jaw-dropping entertainment attractions include the latest 3-D movies, lavish “Ice Capades” style shows with Olympic-class skaters, and breath-taking water acrobats and high-diving aerial performances in AquaTheatres.

With Broadway shows like “Hairspray”, “Chicago”, and “Saturday Night Fever” appearing on ship marquees, along with acts like Blue Man Group and “Legends in Concert”, planners are discovering that cruise ships rival entertainment capitals like New York andLas Vegas – minus the pricey theater tickets.

6. Cruise Ship Dining: More Choices, More Surprises

Cruise lines continue to raise the culinary bar with more dining choices & cuisines (there are a whopping 25 options on Oasis and Allure of the Seas). But it’s not only fine dining – Norwegian’s popular 24/7 pizza delivery service is expanding fleetwide, and Guy Fieri has just launched “Guy’s Burger Joint” on Carnival ships (with no additional fee).

Along with more casual venues and specialty restaurants, cruise lines are offering more unique, interactive culinary experiences – like Celebrity’s playful Qsine, with menus and wine lists on iPads and interactive cocktail menus. Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines now offer “Chef’s Table” culinary events for groups of up to 12, and Disney’s Animator Palate Restaurant on new ships feature Disney animation and guests’ drawings that magically come to life during a visually stunning dinner experience.

In 2011, Oceania Cruises introduced Marina, the first “Epicurean Ship” designed for lovers of fine dining (Riviera follows in 2012). Six of the ten dining venues are open-seating gourmet restaurants with no surcharge, and the ships boast a new Bon Appetit Culinary Center- the only hands-on cooking school at sea.

Several cruise lines including Oceania, Silversea Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club, and Lindblad Expeditions also offer special “culinary adventures” ashore with local market tours, and shopping excursions with the chef.

7.  Cool Technology Features

With WiFi access in public areas or bow to stern the standard on today’s ships, staying connected no longer a worry for meeting planners. But cruise lines are also using technology to enhance the shipboard experience. A few high-tech features you will see more of in 2012:

• Celebrity iLounge computer centers (first Apple store at sea)
• Celebrity iPad art tours, iPad menus in Qsine specialty restaurant
• Royal Caribbean’s Splendour of the Seas will feature multi-lingual iPads in every cabin – can be used throughout the ship to monitor personal accounts, access ship’s daily newsletter, view restaurant menus, access the internet  (will be expanded to 5 other ships)
• Digital Wayfinder systems on more Royal Caribbean ships
• Disney Cruises “magical porthole” in inside cabins –monitors with real-time video views outside the ship
• Disney Enchanted Art that magically comes alive when guests stop to view it
• Giant LCD screens on deck.

And perhaps the most luxurious high-touch, high-tech amenity of 2012:

Guests booked in Celebrity’s Reflection Suite, Signature Suites and Penthouse Suite will experience a breakthrough bedding experience, thanks to Celebrity Cruise Line’s partnership with Reverie.

Reverie’s exclusive technology enables the iPod Touch, iPhone  iPad and Reverie Remote app to act as a remote control for the Reverie Sleep System, allowing guests to easily operate massage features and adjust the elevation of the mattress. (Pressing “zero gravity” will create the ultimate sensation of “weightlessness,” similar to the sensation felt in a zero-gravity chamber.)

Guests can enjoy this innovative technology through an iPad provided in each of the new suites.

Professional speaker Donald Cooper’s website is chock-full of free management tools, sample video clips, and hundreds of informative articles that cover a range of topics including “Attract, Lead and Keep a Top-Performing Team” and “World Issues that Could Affect Your Business”. You’ll even find such light-hearted gems as “The Famous Cooper Chowder Recipe”. (All articles are available to download or republish – free of charge.)

This recent article “Create more cost-effective events…40 ways to save big money on your next conference” caught our attention – the title says it all! From Donald’s article:

To help you keep your next conference “on budget”, here are 40 cost-saving ideas that work. Some are from the good folks at Meetings & Incentive Travel Magazine (www.meetingscanada.com)… and some are from my own experiences in speaking at over 1500 conferences around the world.

Click here to read the entire article, but we’ll get you started with:

1. Timing is everything: If you have some flexibility in the timing of your conference, there is big money to be saved by picking “off-peak” times. Ask your venue what their off peak or “hot” dates are to save on meals, accommodations, and meeting room rates.

How to Shrink the List

As we read over the list of cost-saving ideas, we couldn’t help but think that booking a cruise ship venue for your event could cut the list down to 25. For example, you can disregard Ideas #13, 14, & 15: Breakfast money-saving tips. Why? Meals are included. Oh, and the meeting room rates mentioned in #1? Included on a ship – as is A/V equipment,  decor, and entertainment.

Having just spoken at two corporate events held on cruise ships in November, Donald Cooper knows the value of meeting at sea. Here’s what he told us:

Whether it’s a reward trip, a Sales Meeting or Management Retreat, being on a ship creates an extra feeling of adventure, pampering and camaraderie that doesn’t exist on dry land. It’s wonderfully cost-effective, it generates significant good will, contributes to building a world-class business culture. The secret is in choosing a ship that will deliver all of that to the standard of your specific group.

Thanks, Donald, we couldn’t agree more! As far as choosing the right ship, it’s no “secret”. Seasite.com has all the resources you need to find the perfect “floating hotel” for your group event!

About Donald Cooper: Donald Cooper, MBA, has been in the corporate trenches as a world-class manufacturer and an award-winning retailer. These days, Donald helps businesses throughout the world create clear and compelling value, clarity of purpose and long-term profitability through his keynote speeches, interactive workshops, transformational management “Boot Camps” and management coaching.

Donald can be reached at donald@donaldcooper.com in Toronto, Canada.  To read more of his articles, go to www.donaldcooper.com and click on “Free Articles”.