HUGE announcement from SS April 2nd...

[billcrooz]

Actually the TA was told about this news by the SS rep himself. The rep also stated that the news would affect him as well, so who knows???

 

Host Dan

 

Stay tuned!

[CASHIPman]

Actually the TA was told about this news by the SS rep himself. The rep also stated that the news would affect him as well, so who knows???

 

Host Dan

 

Did the TA/SS rep indicate that the "change" would go into effect immediately or at some later date? (...asked by someone boarding SS on 03APR! :D )

[TLCOhio]

I asked my very experienced travel agent about these Silversea rumors and questions. Below was her confidential response:

 

"As to Silversea, all I know is that a very good friend who had been with Silversea since day one, and was head of a major sales operation for them, quit suddenly last year. Not happy with how things were going there. I would not be surprised if there is new ownership. I am still wondering about Crystal, too, for their long-term ownership, control!"

 

Clearly Economics 101 is affecting so many luxury cruise lines. We have been looking at Silversea for an early 2015, ten-day sailing in and around South Africa. Silversea is one of the few offering good options down there. BUT, clearly time will tell for how things settle out, plus the cost and direction for Silversea, Crystal, etc. As we watch the mess in Cypress and with the euro, those issues are not solved and cured. That affects their business models and future potentials.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 100,927 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

[duct tape]

Well, Terry, it isn't confidential any more...

[Host Dan]

Did the TA/SS rep indicate that the "change" would go into effect immediately or at some later date? (...asked by someone boarding SS on 03APR! :D )

No, the rep didn't say, however, I really doubt SS would drop a bomb "effective immediately"!!

 

Host Dan

[TLCOhio]

Well, Terry, it isn't confidential any more...

 

YES, as always, sharp eye and razor-quick mind have been displayed by duct tape. Remember, I know your name, location, have pictures, etc., of you from your work in the witness protection program. BUT, I always protect my great sources!! Confidential sources, but not the information.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 100,927 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

[Seafairer]

I agree that the "game changer" phrase Host Dan's source used sounds like something very major in a business sense. Changes to restaurant seating, AI, etc., are normal adjustments a line might make over time, much like creating an Observation Lounge, walk-in showers, changing deposit policies. They're important, but I wouldn't call them game changers in the larger sense. If Dan's and Travelcat's industry sources are correct (and this is sounding more and more reliable), it sounds as if we're talking major impact. It doesn't necessarily mean a negative impact on passengers or a reason to cancel existing reservations. Although, of course, it could. We don't know yet.

 

For those who are concerned about cancellation refunds or coverage, please don't rely on DIY - this is where the help and guidance of an experienced travel specialist comes into play.

[WesW]

Just received this from the President of Silversea/Americas:

 

Hi Wes and Ida,

 

My team is working with Cruise Critic to finalize the agreement and should get started shortly. I will try and get a date. (had asked Ellen when the formal Silversea and Cruise critic meet & greet will begin)

 

As far as your other comment below the only thing we have starting April 2nd is a travel agent sweepstakes....I wouldn't call it game changing....it's fun and unique way to motivate our travel agents but no changes to Silversea or the product.

 

Let me know if you need anything else.

Warmest regards,

Ellen

[Seafairer]

Thank you for passing this on, Wes. So perhaps the "game changer" only reflects Silversea's desire that the sweepstakes will amp up TA participation with the Silversea product. A game changer (or not, as Mrs. B states) only for the agents or their commission arrangement?

[Stumblefoot]

Actually the TA was told about this news by the SS rep himself. The rep also stated that the news would affect him as well, so who knows???

"I would not be surprised if there is new ownership." - from Terry's TA.

With all due respect to Host Dan and Terry, I'll reiterate again, I would be absolutely shocked if we're looking at a change in control. Why? Because I have never, EVER, seen where a Sales Rep is provided knowledge of M&A activity prior to a public announcement, regardless if the company is private or public.

 

As far as the announcement being labeled a "Game Changer", we'll all be the judge of that. And, ultimately, it'll be in the eye of the beholder, i.e. the Venetians and the market as a whole. Regardless, it will only be a Game Changer if the newly introduced element changes an existing situation or activity in a significant way.

 

Looking forward to learning more next Tuesday!

[Stumblefoot]

My previous post was being written prior to seeing Wes's post above mine.

 

Wes, good sleuthing. Based on the two prior sources (reps) in this thread, your findings certainly seem to substantiate their level of responsibility within an organization structure. They're just providing the great tease to the TA's in order to get them excited with the forthcoming announcement.

[TLCOhio]

My previous post was being written prior to seeing Wes's post above mine. Wes, good sleuthing. Based on the two prior sources (reps) in this thread, your findings certainly seem to substantiate their level of responsibility within an organization structure. They're just providing the great tease to the TA's in order to get them excited with the forthcoming announcement.

 

YES, excellent work and info by Wes. BUT, there are still issues and questions hanging around that will not go away during these current economic times.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 100,927 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

[Host Dan]

YES, excellent work and info by Wes. BUT, there are still issues and questions hanging around that will not go away during these current economic times.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 100,927 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

Thanks Wes!!! This explains ALOT!! I guess it would be a huge announcement and a game changer is you were a TA!! LOL :D ;)

 

Host Dan