High Street Brands at Sea?

They already have a large presence at sea, but what next for our favourite brands?

P&O Have Costa, MSC have Eataly, Royal Caribbean have Starbucks, so what else could these popular cruise lines introduce?

Well believe it or not there has been a rumour of P&O adopting McDonald’s as one of their brand, no doubt, money making dining outlets on board.

To me, part of the reason for cruising is to escape normal, everyday life. It’s important to me to have a completely unique experience whilst on ship so the introduction of more brands would not make me a happy bunny!

By all means, the big famous coffee shops on board the ships have a subtle presence, but to have something as disastrous as McDonalds!!! Really!?!

We must also recognise that it’s not only food and drink, jewelry brands such as Pandora, Effy and a huge array of designer hand bag companies have invaded our ships in the hope that the tax free element will tempt us into handing over copious amounts of cash.

So where else do we see brands, well – casino! Yes indeed, although maybe not a brand, more a sponsor – your favourite TV Shows such as Ellen, Orange is the New Black, Movies such as Willy Wonka, James Bond, and pop stars such as Justin Bieber and Elvis Presley have branded slot machines which of course brings even more money in to the brand, but also makes us spend more. If I were to see an Elvis slot you could bet I’d put all my money in it! Elvis is one of my favourites, you can see how they draw you in.

So what are your thoughts on brands? Do you cruise to escape them? Would you like to see your home comforts on board?

Happy Cruising!

Ed x