Now that many people are able to work remotely, there’s a new word in the working world: “workcation.” The combination of “work” and “vacation” means doing your job from a vacation venue, such as a cruise ship.
A top requirement
for a workcation is access to a reliable internet connection, and cruise ships
have been improving theirs. Many now use satellite internet, an improvement
over trying to connect to towers on land. Still, shipboard internet access can be
a bit spotty or a bit slower than what you’re used to, and there’s often a
charge to connect. Your professional travel advisor can help you with details
about internet access on ships and itineraries you’re interested in.
Another
requirement for a workcation is a comfortable space to work in. Many, but not
all, cruise ship cabins are equipped with a desk area and a chair, so be sure
to check on the furnishings. Some ships also have libraries, quiet lounges,
business centers, or other areas where you can work productively.
Some cruise lines
are courting remote workers with special programs and amenities. These include
Virgin Voyages, which introduced the Scarlet Summer Season Pass Program in 2024
(and plans to offer it again in 2025). This inaugural program gave remote
workers an opportunity to sail the Mediterranean on Scarlet Lady for a
month and “work from the helm” (rather than home). The program combined four
back-to-back cruises at an attractive 30% discount. Virgin Voyages amped up the
ship’s WiFi capacity and offered pass holders an array of included extras, such
as laundry service, access to a private sun deck, and a daily coffee credit.
Azamara Cruises has
a Work & Wander Program on select sailings that have high-bandwidth WiFi
availability. Launched in late 2023, this program offers peripheral equipment –
including monitors, mice, keyboards, and adapters – that program participants
can use, as well as printing services and technical assistance from an onboard
IT department.
In 2024, AmaWaterways
promoted two of its early-season river cruises as ideal workcations. Mid-February
cruises of the Danube and the Rhine offered the opportunity to explore Europe
at a quieter time of year. Both cruises offered separate morning and afternoon
shore excursions on most days, so workcationers could flex their schedules to include
both work and play.
If you’re
interested in a workcation on these or other cruise lines, check with Anita,
your professional travel advisor, for help selecting a wonderful working cruise.
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