FACE-2-FACE: Francesco Galli Zugaro
1. What is the favourite part of your job?
I enjoy exploring new and exciting locations around the world that are rich in culture and wildlife. Some of these locations, like the Spice Islands, can potentially become the next new Aqua Expeditions destination. I also love creating itineraries based on my discoveries.
2. What is the key to success in the cruise industry?
The first key to success is to have a clear vision to offer something truly unique that appeals to first-time and frequent cruisers alike. That requires a focus on branding and product differentiation and operations that truly walk-the-talk. Teamwork is essential too. Thirdly, passion for cruising is important, it rubs off on your team and inspires people.
3. What is the biggest challenge facing the industry?
We’re at the mercy of climate change. Governments need to realise there’s no time to lose in preserving Earth’s most vital and biodiverse ecosystems such as the Amazon, Tonle Sap and the Coral Triangle. Cruise operators can do their part, like how we eliminated single-use plastics and collaborate with local authorities, NGOs and communities while educating our guests. Hopefully the luxury cruise industry can demonstrate to the world that there is both immensely tangible value in preserving nature and wildlife.
4. What was your best fam? Recently, it would have to be the Spice Islands of Indonesia. I was blown away by the history of the locale as the epicentre of the global spice trade in the 15th and 16th centuries. I literally stepped back in time to find old Dutch fortifications alongside rustic, very welcoming local communities that have very colourful traditions such as war canoe racing. The icing on the cake for me was the marine and coral life that fed off old lava flows and thermal springs.
5. The celebrity you would most like to cruise with?
Leonardo di Caprio because of the work he’s done for the environment.
6. What should the cruise ship of the future look like?
It would not only have zero impact on the environment but be able to monitor, detect and track wildlife populations, feeding the info back to conservationists.