In March we launched the “Ask Adam Blog Series” as an open invitation to our guests to ask questions about Royal Caribbean International or me, the company’s President & CEO. I’d like to thank everyone who participated and submitted questions through the month of March on our Facebook page. I’d also like to apologize for the delay in responding, it’s been a very busy period but I’m excited to share my answers to a few of the many thought-provoking questions we received in my post.
The first question is from Mike F.:
“Hello Mr. Goldstein, I have 2 questions that I have always wanted to ask you. First, I was wondering where you went to college, and second how did you become the President & CEO of Royal Caribbean?”
I graduated from Princeton in 1981 and if you do the math, I’m approaching my 30 year reunion (ouch). How I became President and CEO of Royal Caribbean is a mixture of hard work and good luck. More often, it was because I was extremely fascinated with the business, was willing to take on leadership roles and had the support from Richard Fain, our Chairman and CEO.
The second question I’d like to address is from Emily B.:
“What is your advice to Hospitality undergrads that are looking to be a part of your company? What is a trait you think you possess that has helped you get where you are today? Thanks!”
I would have to say that perseverance is really one of the key traits that helped me get to where I am. This business will challenge you in many ways and one needs focus and determination to respond to the challenges. It’s not a business that you can be in for a few years and expect to become an expert. You have to pay your dues, seek varying experiences, seize opportunities when they present themselves and be willing to work with others and make them want to work with you. Also, you also have to act with integrity if you expect people to follow your lead.
Lastly, Jack R. and many of our other fans asked me to divvy information on “Project Sunshine.” Project Sunshine will be a wonderful addition to the Royal Caribbean fleet. We’re currently immersed in the project and expect Sunshine to have a major impact on our guests, our company and our industry. Though I would love to comment on the progress of Sunshine, it’s too early for us to divulge any particulars. Patience is a virtue!
I hope this first “Ask Adam” Q&A has given you a bit of insight about Royal Caribbean and me. If your question wasn’t answered stay tuned for our team to follow up or feel free to submit it to this month’s new discussion thread: http://on.fb.me/jlepUG. I look forward to hearing more from you soon.
If #13 is bad luck and that’s the reason Allure of the Seas doesn’t have a deck #13, how come Allure of the Seas has a lifeboat #13?
Hi Lori, thanks for your question. Traditionally, only the 13th floor of a hotel, or in this case ship, is considered to be bad luck. We like to think it’s better to have one more lifeboat onboard, rather than one less. We hope you agree!
I don’t have a question. I just want to tell you that I am going on a cruise in May out of Bayonne. I am SO excited. I had a stroke 3 years ago. I’m doing better everyday!! This is my first vacation since my stroke and I know it will make me feel better. Thank you so much.
We are sorry to hear about your stroke, Stacey but we are happy to hear you are continuing to do better every day. We just know you will feel even better once you are onboard, as our staff will do everything they can to make it one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences you’ll ever have. We hope you continue to improve every day, and we’re looking forward to seeing you onboard with us in a few weeks.
My question is about Dominica. It appears to be completely eliminated from all the new Royal Caribbean itineraries, replaced by Guadeloupe. Dominica is one of my very favorite ports and I like to visit there every few years. I see Dominica is still a stop for Celebrity, but I prefer Royal Caribbean. Is there some reason Dominica has been eliminated? What are the chances of it returning to some RCL itineraries?
Hello Mandy, we are happy to hear you enjoy Dominica so much. You can find itineraries that travel to Dominica here. Thanks so much and we hope to see you back onboard soon!