I feel like I get to live more lifetimes than just one. It is so intense to meet so many people in a very short period of time. My life is enriched by those exchanges!
We have many traditions on board this ship. All ships have traditions! Traditions are a big part of creating the ambiance for the guests.
For example, we have three galas on board this PONANT cruise to East Greenland. The welcome gala, the captain's gala, and the farewell gala are the names of the three galas.
The Welcome Gala is where the captain is officially presented to the guests. The captain then presents the senior officers and the heads of departments.
The Officers Gala is when we put all of the officers in the limelight. The dress code is black or white. The heads of all of the departments host tables, and guests can sign up. It is a great way for the guests to get to know the officers of the ship, and share an experience together.
The Farewell Gala is when we present 80 to 85 percent of the crew to the guests, from all of the departments – the wait staff, the bar team, the entertainment team, the laundry team, the officers from the bridge, and more. The guests get to meet everyone who is essential to the experience, but whom they might not have seen yet during the voyage.
On Le Commandant Charcot, we also do other traditions at different times of the day. For example, we have the Festive Brunch. We play live music, and fill up the restaurant with delicious food. We also always have one special canapé out on the ice for the guests. A few days ago, we had a special cheese-tasting event. It is a buffet with cheese from all over France! Tomorrow, we will have our French macaron tea service.
