KEN TRIFFITT BDM Australia – Cunard and P&O Cruises World Cruising How did you get into the cruise industry? I have always loved cruising and after many years in the airline industry I saw an opportunity to make a change. Where do you see yourself and your brands in five...
KEN TRIFFITT
BDM Australia – Cunard and P&O Cruises World Cruising
How did you get into the cruise industry?
I have always loved cruising and after many years in the airline
industry I saw an opportunity to make a change.
Where do you see yourself and your brands in five years from
now?
Cunard is an iconic brand and one that is on most people’s travel ‘bucket list’. Australia recently attained third place for all sales worldwide so the market has excellent potential to continue with strong growth. P&O Cruises World Cruising has an excellent product but is not as well known in the Australian market. However, with strong agent support, we are showing good growth. My objective is to be part of this continuing growth of both these brands.
What is the key to your success?
It is very simple – relationship marketing. Develop a trust
relationship with all your key partners.
How many cruises have you been on in the past five years?
I have been on four cruises, including both Queen Mary 2 and
Queen Elizabeth in the past two months. These trips have
showcased what a quality product Cunard has.
What is your favourite destination, and why?
I love the Mediterranean. There are so many countries to visit and
so many cultures. I am hoping to sail on Queen Victoria during the
next European summer when she returns to the Mediterranean.
What was your most memorable moment on a cruise?
I met my wife on a cruise.
How do you spend days at sea?
I try to take advantage of what the ship offers and experience as
much as I can. Having said that, there is nothing like kicking back
and enjoying some quiet time on a chair in the sun with a cool
drink.
How can cruising continue to grow in the current financial climate?
Listen to the market and provide what it is asking for.
What do you think is the most underrated aspect of cruising?
The most underrated aspect is that you only have to unpack once.
What is something you wish more agents and consumers knew about cruising?
For agents, how easy it is to get a sale from someone who walks into their office and for consumers, what great value a cruise is.
Describe your perfect cruise in 25 words or less?
Smooth seas, sunshine, balcony, no queues, good food, great service, interesting shore excursions, meeting new friends, fond memories.
What advice would you give other people who want a job like yours?
If you want mine then get in the queue. Otherwise just learn your product and be passionate, persistent and thick skinned.
Ken’s Cruise Favourites
Ship: Queen Mary 2.
Ship Activity: Eating.
Shore excursion: Experiencing local customs.
Region: Anywhere
Port: None
Onboard food/drink: Golden Lion Pub – Fish and Chips / Hendricks Gin and Tonic (with cucumber).
Perk of the job: Travelling on these iconic ships and having great friends in this fabulous industry
