Cruise Director questions
How does the world of river cruising differ to that of ocean cruising, what’s the best thing about being an Emerald Waterways Cruise Director, and which is the most exciting itinerary? We ask Cruise Director Balazs Varga for his thoughts in the latest installment of Cruise Director Questions.
1. Where are you from?
I am from Hungary and I live in Budapest at the moment.
2. How long have you worked for Emerald Waterways?
I am lucky enough to have worked for Emerald Waterways since the beginning. I started out as the Tour Director for Prague and Budapest and since 2016 I have been working as a Cruise Director as well.
3. How did you become a Cruise Director?
Having been a Tour Director for six years, I thought it was a great opportunity to apply when the job arose.
4. What are your main responsibilities?
Organising and managing shore excursions, keeping our guests well-informed and entertained on-board, as well as making sure that they have a smooth arrival and departure.
5. What do you enjoy most about your job?
The most fantastic feeling for me is seeing our guests delighted and fascinated by each destination and our trips that we carefully plan for them. I love organising these excursions and making sure they run smoothly.
6. What’s the most challenging part of your job?
It’s not easy to satisfy everyone on the ship as we have different expectations and requests. We also have stay flexible and up-to-date when it comes do deviations or medical emergencies.
7. Which is your favourite Emerald Waterways itinerary?
I love all of them but, above all, I think Splendours of Europe, the itinerary which cruises between Amsterdam and Budapest, is just the right balance for our guests to stay relaxed, but be active at the same time. Plus, the architecture and landscape is stunning.
8. Which included excursion from this itinerary would you advise guests don’t miss?
I would certainly advise guests not to miss the city tour of Budapest. Not simply because I am from there, but the city as a whole is a highlight and our guides are brilliant. It is definitely a must-see.
9. How would you best explain the river cruising experience to someone who has never tried it?
River cruising is simply the best way to explore major regions of Europe and still enjoy a relaxing time. There is no need to keep packing and unpacking and you never feel rushed. Our ships are like floating high quality hotels on Europe’s most spectacular waterways.
10. How is river cruising different from ocean cruising?
I believe that river cruising is much more personal. We are like a happy family, as we never have more than 182 guests on-board.
11. How do you relax while you’re on-board?
I hardly ever miss the sunrise or sunset while I am on-board, these moments are when I clear my mind. It reminds me that I have the best job. And there are always nice people around me with whom I can enjoy some great conversation when I’m off duty.
We’d like to thank Balaz for taking part in Cruise Director Questions, and hope you’ve enjoyed seeing Emerald Waterways from a different view. If you’d like to find out more about our luxury river cruises, visit the homepage or call us today on 0808 159 8422 and our friendly team will be happy to help you.
