The speakers and their subjects range far and wide, from memoirs of star-studded journeys and lifestyles of some of the world’s most loved celebrities, to inspiring and informative onboard lectures by well-known historians, explorers, diplomats, politicians, scientists and notable experts in their relative fields.
2018 sees the launch of a whole host of new and enticing speakers, incorporating everyone from former footballer managers to dynamic BBC experts, Michelin-star chefs and acting superstars.
Planet Cruise have rounded up the top cruises that offer cruisers the chance to meet their favourite stars at sea.
Princess Cruises announce all-star line up
Following the successful launch of Princess Cruises’ ‘Encounters with Discovery’ series, the cruise line has released a star studded line-up for 2018, onboard its Southampton based Sapphire Princess. Celebrity speakers include the return of 2017 favourites such as former football manager Harry Redknapp and snooker star John Virgo, as well as a series of new names including former Conservative Party politician Ann Widdecombe and super chef Rosemary Shrager. Sailings with American actress Linda Gray (best known for her role as Sue Ellen Ewin on Dallas) and the Beatles’ Pete Best onboard are also proving particularly popular amongst avid cruisers. During these cruises, guests will be able to experience talks from the famous faces, hear their inspiring stories, and take part in Q&A sessions and book signings.
Go behind the scenes of BBC Earth with Holland America
For environment enthusiasts, Holland America has partnered with BBC Earth to bring guests new ways to discover our planet and its natural wonders. The trips incorporate attendance from some of the BBC’s top talent that create their shows, from cameramen to producers and presenters, who are on hand to share their stories and expertise, as well as host onboard master classes and Q&A sessions. In addition, one of the most exciting onboard elements of these trips is a series of ground-breaking concerts, which complement showcases of breath-taking footage from some of the BBC’s most popular TV series, such as Frozen Planet and Wild Alaska, alongside live orchestral music. For families, the cruises also integrate a family game show ‘What on Earth’, plus an ‘Amazing Fact Show’ specifically designed for Club HAL tweens, where teenagers discover amazing facts about animals, dinosaurs and sea creatures.
Where river meets celebrity
Celebrities are not just for the sea! Emerald Waterways and Scenic Luxury Cruises combine sailing along some of the world’s most iconic rivers with familiar faces from the world of dance, antiques, gardening, gastronomy and world affairs. Onboard talks and Q&As are available on selected cruises with the likes of the Antique Roadshow’s Tim Wonnacott, Gardeners’ World’s Carol Klein, TV’s Mary Berry and Strictly Come Dancing’s Brendan Cole.
Get the insight scoop with Cunard
As part of their Cunard Insights enrichment programme, Cunard offer a variety of enticing and insightful talks with famous faces from the worlds of writing, acting, film, politics, exploration, science and history. Highlights in the coming months include nominated movie & TV producer Gerald W. Abrams, sporting star Sally Gunnell, sports presenter Clare Balding, and wine columnist Will Lyons. Travellers can expect lively presentations and debates from each of these celebrity appearances. In addition, Cunard offer a range of dramatic diversions and technology-based seminars for guests to experience and enjoy, as part of their RADA workshops and ‘Cunard ConneXions’ programmes.
