NEWS SPECIAL REPORT


of Uniworld, and Mark Schmitt, previously of SeaDream Yacht Club, who will have day-to-day contact with the trade.


Launch timing Asked about the wisdom of launching a cruise line to the trade in the midst of the Covid-19 crisis, McKenna said: “We have been planning the launch of the ship since well before the current crisis and believe that people will definitely want to travel – even more so than before. “Bringing in something that


is fresh and different – right from the product and service on board, through to the way in which we will sail her – will hopefully give the market an extra boost.” McKenna said Golden Horizon’s


debut season presented a great opportunity to showcase the ship to the trade. “The plan is to sell this beautiful ship 95% through agents,” he said. “We are hoping they will be


excited by something new and fresh coming to market. We hope to invite as many agents as possible to see her when she is in the UK next year and


travelweekly.co.uk


We love the idea of this ship minimising the use of fossil fuels by following the global winds as she tours the world


we are also planning a trade-focused sailing event as well.”


Trade reaction The new venture has been welcomed by the trade. Mundy Cruising managing


director Edwina Lonsdale said: “We’re really excited about this new UK-based start-up in the cruise industry – a real vote of confidence for the future of UK cruise. “What a great time to be bringing


new product to the market, just when we need some good news. We love the idea of this beautiful sailing ship minimising the use of fossil fuels by following the global winds as she tours the world – what a refreshing story during these challenging times, and one that will help change


perceptions about cruise. Not all cruise lines are the same.” Barrhead Travel president


Jacqueline Dobson said: “With increasing pressure for striking a balance between groundbreaking innovations and enhancing sustainability at sea, it’s really exciting to see Jeremy and the Tradewind Voyages team really listen and act on a new wave of customer demand by launching this ship. “Harnessing the opportunities


that nature provides, such as being powered by the wind and currents, is an amazing concept and one that will be very welcome among the travel trade and those customers seeking adventure. We look forward to supporting this product.” Tradewind Voyages will apply to join cruise trade body Clia.


Ship’s appeal McKenna explained that guests will be sourced almost entirely from the UK and Ireland and that the onboard currency would be sterling.


“We will have outstanding food


and service and our dining will have something for everyone,” he said. McKenna believes the ship will


appeal to cruisers of all ages who are concerned about sustainability. “After its UK season, the ship will


follow the wind, the currents and the sun, and we aim to maximise her maritime capabilities. This will make her very eco-driven, powered by nature, which is increasingly important to consumers,” he said. “We will take her to iconic


destinations and unique parts of the world including small bays and beaches in between port calls. During our voyages, we will make time for passengers to enjoy a range of watersports based around our own ‘stern marina’, which will include dinghies, kayaks, windsurfing and the


opportunity to learn to dive,” he said. Golden Horizon was built and is


owned by Brodosplit, a subsidiary of Croatia-based DIV Group.


2 JULY 2020 11


Golden Horizon


Jeremy McKenna ind in agents’ sales


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