Longtime executives promoted to lead Celebrity, Royal Caribbean

By Jerry Limone
Michael BayleyRoyal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCCL) has named Michael Bayley president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, transferring to the company’s largest brand from the helm of Celebrity Cruises.

Lisa Lutoff-Perlo replaces Bayley as Celebrity’s president and CEO, promoted from her position as Royal Caribbean’s executive vice president of operations.

Each executive has 30 years of experience in the industry.

Bayley had Lisa Lutoff-Perlobeen Celebrity’s president and CEO since July 2012. At that time, Bayley had been promoted from his position as Royal Caribbean’s executive vice president of operations, and Lutoff-Perlo was promoted to replace Bayley.

The top spot at Royal Caribbean International had been vacant since April, when Adam Goldstein was promoted to president and COO of the parent company.

In a statement, RCCL said Bayley “delivered strong results” at Celebrity “while building the company’s ‘modern luxury’ positioning, which resonated successfully with Celebrity’s sophisticated customer base.”

RCCL said Lutoff-Perlo “played a critical role in the recent successful launch of Quantum of the Seas.”

Celebrity Cruises orders pair of 2,900-passenger ships

By Tom Stieghorst

Celebrity Cruises said it has ordered two 2,900-passenger ships from the STX France shipyard in St. Nazaire.

The ships are scheduled for delivery in the fall of 2018 and early 2020.

Celebrity’s most recent ship, the 3,046-passenger Celebrity Reflection, was delivered in the fall of 2012.The line recently agreed to send its oldest ship, Celebrity Century, to a new joint venture in China.

Celebrity’s parent, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., said the ships are being built under the Project Edge name. RCCL said they will deliver small-ship itineraries with large-ship amenities.

“STX France designs and builds some of the most innovative and stylish cruise ships in the world, and Project Edge offers them the opportunity to again set a new standard for modern iconic architecture,” said Michael Bayley, presdient and CEO of Celebrity.

Contract costs for the ship were not disclosed. With the addition of the two new orders, RCCL said company-wide capacity is scheduled to increase by 2.4% this year, 5.5% next year, 6.7% in 2016, 3.8% in 2017 and 4.3% in 2018.

The 117,000-gross-ton ships will be part of a new class of vessels for Celebrity. the line currently operates five Solstice-class vessels, including Celebrity Reflection, and four Millennium-class vessels.

Celebrity competes in the premium segment with Holland America Line, which has a 2,650-passenger ship called Koningsdam under construction for delivery in February 2016.

10 Reasons to Choose a “Modern Luxury” Venue for Your Event

Yes, we know that meeting budgets are being scrutinized and “luxury” might not be part of your vernacular these days, but that’s no reason to cut back on service and quality – it’s more affordable than you might think!

Celebrity Redefines Modern Luxury

Celebrity Reflection Sky BarCelebrity’s concept of “modern luxury” begins with cool contemporary design blended with warm, inviting space to meet and connect. Now add in delightful dining experiences, breathtaking entertainment, beautiful conference facilities, world-class accommodations and intuitive service. These premium ships are designed to inspire and motivate meeting and incentive groups, with remarkable value built right in.

Top 10 reasons to choose a Celebrity ship for your next meeting or incentive:

1. Dedicated Meeting and Conference Space

Celebrity Reflection Conference CenterEverything you need for successful business programs are Included in your cruise rate: Freshly designed meeting rooms, leading conference technology, and comfortable theaters and lounges with built-in decor and sound – available for private group events. Meeting and Event Planners are already buzzing about the new conference center and ballroom on Celebrity Reflection.This area accommodates 220 guests or can be reconfigured for smaller groups. Reflection’s James Beard-featured culinary team offers traditional catering or you can select from an array of pre-set, multi-course menus.

2. Cutting-Edge Audio/Visual and Technology

Celebrity ships are equipped with the latest audio/visual equipment, all you need to produce an impressive presentation, meeting, or group event – with no additional fee. Theatrical elements such as hydraulic lifts, rotating stages and sophisticated lighting equipment in multi-tiered show lounges also add dynamic impact to your presentations or award ceremonies.

3. Stay Connected

Celebrity iLounge Internet CafeNearly every Celebrity ship offers WiFi connectivity throughout, and all offer WiFi in public areas. Internet access is also available 24 hours a day in the iLounge – Celebrity’s new approach to the Internet lounge, featuring state-of-the-art workstations with MacBook Pros and iMacs. Most meeting rooms also have wireless capability and include advanced multimedia equipment.

4. Premium Ships, Short Itineraries

Celebrity is the only premium cruise line offering 4 and 5-night cruises. Celebrity Constellation will soon be completely revitalized with upgraded staterooms, new dining venues, and expanded meeting space. Celebrity Constellation will sail 4 and 5-nights to Western Caribbean from December 2013 through April 2014. There’s also a rare 3-night cruise departing Ft. Lauderdale on Jan. 13, 2014; with calls at CocoCay (cruise line private island) and Nassau, Bahamas.

5. Award-winning Dining, Meals Included

Celebrity Eclipse Dining RoomSay goodbye to boring buffets and banquet meals! Celebrity Solstice-class ships boast 10 unique dining venues, including several complimentary options. Your attendees will choose from menus crafted by a James Beard nominated chef that change each evening and enjoy more than 20 delicious options in the Main Restaurant that are SPE-certified and healthy. World-class restaurants, crafted by some of the world’s top designers, will also delight your group with unforgettable dining experiences.

6. Amazing Onboard Experience and Entertainment

CEL_SL_SkyLoungeCelebrity’s world-class architects and designers have elevated cruise ship style to make sure your group has plenty of inspired places to meet and relax, with beauty in every detail. When your business sessions are over, attendees can rejuvenate in an award-winning spa, work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center, take a high-energy Zumba class, or unwind at the Lawn Club – a sophisticated area with real grass on the top deck.

The ships offer entertainment choices for everyone – from live music and dancing in the lounges; to full-scale production shows and aerial performances in gorgeous, high-tech theaters. And best of all, there are no cover fees or ticket charges for this phenomenal onboard entertainment.

7. Celebrity Caters to Adults

Thermal Chairs, Celebrity Solstice SpaShips geared for families might not be the best choice for your kid-free meeting or incentive program. While there are kids’ programs onboard, Celebrity’s ships cater to sophisticated adults who appreciate thoughtful details and beautiful surroundings. Your attendees and incentive winners will feel appreciated, and right at home.

8. Superlative Service

Celebrity’s attention to detail and intuitive personal service cares for your program attendees and gives them the VIP attention they deserve.

9. World-class Accommodations

Celebrity Solstice Veranda StateroomYour group will enjoy a luxurious hotel experience with restorative staterooms and suites that showcase modern, forward-thinking design and include plush linens and down comforters, Frette bathrobes, flat-screen TV’s, veranda views in most staterooms, and 24-hour room service – always complimentary.

10. Multiple Destinations

Why just wake up to the same scenery everyday? When you take your group to sea on a Celebrity ship, they’ll visit a variety of alluring destinations. Each day brings opportunities to share new adventures and experiences! And of course, your attendees will love the convenience of only having to unpack and pack once.

Make your meeting or event memorable!

celebrity-reflection_aerialThe 2013 Berlitz Guide to Cruising rates Celebrity as having 8 of the top 11 large ships in the world Your attendees worked hard to get here, so spoil them with Celebrity’s stunning venue spaces, award-winning cuisine, world-class entertainment and impeccable service. With so many premium inclusions, you (and your boss) will be amazed at the value, too.