Emma Rigby, UK & Ireland trainer for Celebrity Cruises reveals her love of morning coffee, music in the car and drinking cocktails on the beaches of Aruba.
Why is your cruise line the best of all cruise lines?
I could talk about Celebrity Cruises all day, every day. I have worked on board our ships and now in our shore side team; one aspect that doesn’t change wherever you’re based in our company is service. We cater to all of our guests needs and I believe we have the best service style in the industry. We are modern luxury!
If your cruise line was a famous person, who would it be and why?
I would have to say Emma Stone. Classy, sophisticated, yet cool and contemporary.
How long have you worked for your cruise line?
I have worked for Celebrity Cruises for just over three years. I started working on board in guest relations and then Captains Club. In my current role as a trainer, I’m into my third month, and loving every minute.
Which geographical area do you cover?
I cover the UK and Ireland visiting all of our amazing agents.
What three things can you not get through the working day without?
Coffee is my saving grace. A cappuccino gets me started for the day. I would also say my phone, I’m one of those people that has to be in contact with people all the time. There is never a time I am in the car without music on. I love any type of music from Marvin Gaye to Ed Sheeran.
What’s the funniest thing that has happened to you on the road?
The weather was really bad and the M25 was gridlocked, so I had stopped at a service station. The traffic hadn’t moved in three hours and by this time it was 9pm. A coach of tourists had arrived and decided to put their sleeping bags in front of Burger King for the night and camp out. Angry and tired motorists were not happy!
What’s the strangest question you have ever been asked about cruise, either by an agent or a potential customer?
Having worked on board, I will always be able to top anyone’s answer to this question. Some of my top queries: “Where is the lift that takes you from left to right?” “I booked an Oceanview, and all I can see is the car park.” “I’m feeling really seasick, can the captain turn back around?” (we hadn’t even left Southampton).
How many of your cruise line’s ships have you sailed on? Do you have a favourite?
I have worked on board Celebrity Infinity, Celebrity Summit and Celebrity Eclipse. I worked for just under two years on Celebrity Eclipse and spent more time there than at home, so I would have to say that she is my favourite. Celebrity Silhouette will be sailing from Southampton next year, replacing Celebrity Eclipse, so I’m looking forward to spending more time on board.
Do you have a favourite on board restaurant and why?
QSine is my favourite. There are incredible dishes from all over the world with a modern twist, and ordering from an iPad makes it all the more fun.
Which port would you definitely disembark in? What would you do there?
Aruba. I love the people, beaches and of course the weather. I would get a cocktail then head to the beach in the daytime.
And which port would you opt to stay on board – and why?
I would have to say Gibraltar. Only because I felt like I was back at home.
Which cruise is on your bucket list?
Alaska. I would love to experience the glaciers, fjords and of course wildlife.