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About
easyCruise...
It's a simple premise: Offer simple, no-frills service for the
lowest possible price. But according to easyCruise founder and "serial
entrepreneur" Stelios, it's a strategy that hasn't been used in the cruise
industry -- until now.
EasyCruise seeks to attract young,
budget-conscious travelers who are less interested in flashy entertainment and
spacious cabins than in getting off the ship and enjoying destinations they
might not have been able to afford to visit otherwise. Passengers pay a low base
fare for their cabin on a per-night basis (they can hop on and off at any time),
and then purchase food, housekeeping services and other extras
separately.
EasyCruise is part of the larger easyGroup, some 15 companies
all distinguished by their orange logos and ultra-cheap services. The most
famous of these companies are easyJet, offering budget airfares throughout
Europe, and easyInternetcafe, whose cyber services are available in nine
countries.
In 2004, the company acquired Renaissance II, a former luxury
ship, and began the process of renovating it beyond recognition, changing its
suites to tiny inside cabins and decorating both interior and exterior in
signature "easy" orange. The 4,077-ton, 170-passenger easyCruiseOne launched in
May 2005 and serves almost as a floating hostel -- a simple, clean place to
sleep on your way to your next destination.
In keeping with its policy of no-frills service, easyCruise
offers very few onboard public facilities. Passengers will find a cocktail bar,
a sports bar, a cafe, an outdoor Jacuzzi and a store selling clothing, perfume,
toiletries and other items.
Cabins are similarly spartan, starting at
about 108 square feet. Out of 86 total cabins, 74 are standard doubles,
featuring two single beds that can be pushed together, a shower and toilet, and
no windows. There are also four suites (with balconies), seven quadruple rooms
(each with two bunk beds) and one handicap-accessible double cabin.
easyCruiseOne launched in May 2005 and will sail seven-night
itineraries in the French and Italian Riviera through mid-October, when it will
head across the Atlantic to winter in the Southern Caribbean.
The Britain-based company expects to cater to budget-conscious
travelers in their 20's, 30's and 40's. Due to a lack of family facilities on
the ship, passengers must be at least 18.
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CRUISECLEVER - EASY
CRUISE
