Culinary Preferences
(CLIA), the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, estimates that the number of cruisers worldwide has increased from 16 million to more than 24 million in the past 10 years. And as more people cruise, increasing numbers of people with food restrictions are cruising as well.
“I don’t want to have to stay home just because of my diabetes,” says Philippa Copleston, a London resident and frequent traveler. “Cruising appeals to me because I know I can get safe, healthy food at regular meal times, plus the availability of food, if required to manage my blood sugar effectively.”
While some dietary restrictions are medically based, others can be more lifestyle-based or optional, but the cruise lines try to be helpful either way.
“One of the interesting trends in society in general is the growing percentage of people with special dietary requirements,” explains Josh Leibowitz, Chief Strategy Officer for Carnival Corporation and SVP of Cunard North America. “Our crew has become used to guests with a variety of dietary restrictions. Our ships are designed to meet the majority of people, but we definitely have an increased awareness and so we work toward accommodating specific needs as much as possible.”
One breakthrough news item for cruisers with dietary restrictions comes with Carnival Corporation’s groundbreaking OceanMedallion, a quarter-sized wearable device that will enable customization throughout a cruise.
“The Ocean Medallion will provide a more personalized cruise experience,” explains John Padgett, Carnival Corporation’s Chief Experience Officer. By using the medallion, which debuts on Princess Cruises’ Regal Princess in November, guests will no longer have to self-identify dietary lifestyle preferences multiple times a day. Instead, the Medallion will ensure that each crewmember interaction connects to all prior interactions to maximize each guest’s experience. Plus, even prior to their cruise, guests will be able to provide preferences that detail their wants, needs, and desires so that their onboard experience can be personalized.