Welcome to the second edition of “Ten Questions with Royal Caribbean Fan,” this week, featuring Behram Tavadia!
Known to all as Bob, Behram Tavadia has served with Royal Caribbean International since 1986, truly working his way up the corporate ladder both Shipboard and Shoreside. Today as Director, International Trade Support and Charter Sales Bob and his team support over 47 International Representatives around the globe.
Bob began his 22 year sea trek as a Purser officer, and was promoted through Chief Purser, Food and Beverage Manager, and Hotel Director. He earned a name for himself as Hotel Director, having been responsible for the start-up operations aboard 4 Voyager class and 3 Radiance class ships.
Indeed, it was on the 11th voyage of Explorer of the Seas that I had the chance to meet Bob. Later Bob was promoted to Director of Hotel Operations for several years, before being named Director of International Sales Asia Pacific.
1. What is the hardest part of starting up a new ship?
The hardest part of starting a new ship is the unknown. You plan as best as possible for every single situation and then take it one day at a time. During the start up of the Explorer of the Seas we had people on the team that were new to one another. Getting this team to not only bring out the Explorer successfully but six other newbuilds subsequently, were some of the proudest moments of my life. I truly feel if the team is ” One ” there is no hardship one cannot overcome.
2. How often do you get a chance to cruise yourself?
My wife and myself take at least one cruise every year - We love it because once you are onboard you do not have to make any major decisions. You do whatever and whenever you fancy. Relaxing by the pool side during the day as the ship sails thru open waters and later enjoying everything we have to offer onboard. We never get tired of cruising.
3 . Does recruiting a crew differ much if the ship is operating in the European market vs. the Caribbean?
On any ship in the fleet we have crew representation from over 50 to 60 countries. In Europe we do get a much more diverse International guest mix. Having ships out of home ports such as Venice, Barcelona, Southampton for example attracts a lot of the regional clientele along with guests from North America. No matter what ship the crew work it helps to be multilingual & knowledgeable in the diverse culture, behaviors and habits of our guests. As we continue to deploy ships around the globe providing an International product we have adapted well to our needs.
4-Did you ever believe you would see vessels the size of the Oasis of the Seas?
Nope when I first joined the company the “Song of America” and our three sister ships “Song of Norway”, “Nordic Prince”, and “Sun Viking” seemed big. I was floored first when I had heard of the Voyager and now the Oasis “WOW” is all I can say.
5- What was the most unusual request a passenger made of you, while serving as a purser?
Unusual many more but one that stood out and was funny in a way - Asking me a send a thank you note to Captain “Speaking” - Based on his 12 noon introduction speech during the first few days of sailing. In this case what stuck in the guest mind was the Captain starting his introduction by saying “Good Afternoon this is your Captain speaking……
6- Does the Asian region have a higher demand for charters than is seen in the North American market?
As relates to charter business in North America the market is much more matured then in Asia. In Asia we do have great partnerships with companies that Charter our vessels 2 to 4 times a year. We hope that other companies will see the opportunity that Charters present, bringing company employees & families together providing them a fantastic vacation and a great place to conduct their company business. Large incentive business is another opportunity that has not reached its full potential in the Asian markets. Another great opportunity is for companies that do large scale music productions and other types of entertainment to charter the ship and then sell space to their audience and make it a type of theme cruise.
7- How do you think the new ad campaign “The Nation of Why Not” will translate to the Asian markets?
Our new ad campaign “The Nation of Why Not” was tested thru consumer survey in select Asian markets and the response was very positive. Of course with various language interpretations we have to tweak some things and working with our International advertising partners makes its a lot easier to role this campaign out globally.
8- How have accommodations for crew members improved over the last 25 years?
Crew accommodations including recreational and dining areas like our ships have changed in shape, size, design, configuration, amenities. From the early Sun Viking days to the Freedom class ships of today there are more options for our crew just like the guests. Its really important to provide the crew with good facilities and living accommodations.
9- How big an impact does a good ships captain make on the morale and performance of a crew?
The Captain plays a very critical role in the overall morale of the crew and the onboard atmosphere. A good captain is not just a leader but a mentor, guide, friend and the crew respect that. We are very proud of all of our Captains in the fleet.
10-Do you think Royal Caribbean brings a more refined product to the Asian markets, compared to the smaller, regionally based lines that dominate the area now?
Royal Caribbean has brought to Asia what cruising is all about. An international product, with rationalization. It allows our guests to experience more then just going onboard and gambling. The small local products have limited options when it comes to facilities, culinary and beverage offerings, entertainment and our explorations programs, old hardware compared to our ships. We have been welcomed into Asia with open arms bringing into this market a product that is “refreshing” and gives a true cruise experience to the guests.
**
Visit Royal Caribbean Fan, and discuss the latest edition of Ten Questions! Or become part of the best Royal Caribbean fan community on the internet! Live Chat, user picture and video galleries, message boards, and more!
