A unique networking event was organised by two Not Just Travel agents aboard Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady.
The event aimed to enhance business connections and offered an immersive experience for participants.
Rachel Tredwell and Janet Lacey, two consultants from Not Just Travel, hosted the ‘Cruise to Success’ event aboard the Resilient Lady, managing a four-day voyage to Amsterdam. This exclusive networking event had 41 participants, including 23 businesses, all accommodated in 23 cabins.
The event featured a series of expert-led sessions, with notable speakers such as Paralympian athlete Naomi Riches and digital marketing expert Elliott Botterill. Attendees had a unique opportunity to engage in focused business development while enjoying the voyage.
Tredwell commented, “Cruise to Success is definitely the biggest group booking Janet and I have done. This was a totally unique proposition that has never been done before and so it was daunting, but incredibly rewarding, successful and worthwhile.” The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with most participants keen on repeating the experience.
Lacey added, “The fact that attendees could fully immerse themselves in their businesses, without the distractions of home or families, meant a great deal to our guests.” These sentiments were echoed by many, who appreciated the chance to focus exclusively on their business goals.
Notable sessions included motivational talks from Naomi Riches, who shared her journey and challenges as a Paralympian, and Elliott Botterill, who provided actionable insights on digital marketing strategies.
These expert sessions were complemented by peer networking opportunities, allowing participants to exchange ideas and build valuable connections.
The combination of professional development and leisure made the event a standout experience for all involved.
Attendees highlighted the value of stepping away from daily distractions to concentrate on long-term business strategies. The unique setting on a cruise ship provided an ideal environment for uninterrupted focus and innovative thinking.
Participants engaged in interactive workshops and networking activities designed to foster collaboration and idea-sharing.
Many attendees left the cruise with not only new business connections but also practical insights and strategies to implement in their own businesses.
The logistics of organising a ship-based event were challenging but ultimately successful. Tredwell and Lacey’s meticulous planning ensured a seamless experience for all involved.
From booking accommodations to coordinating sessions and activities, every detail was meticulously managed to enhance the overall experience.
The success of this event has inspired plans for similar future initiatives, including both cruises and on-land destinations, aimed at providing impactful networking and training opportunities.
The overwhelming success of this first-time event has set a precedent for future networking opportunities.
Plans are already underway for the next ‘Cruise to Success’ event in 2025, demonstrating the significant demand for such immersive and focused professional development experiences.
The successful ship-based networking event hosted by Rachel Tredwell and Janet Lacey provided participants with a unique platform for business development.
With overwhelmingly positive feedback, the future looks promising for similar events planned in 2025, continuing the trend of innovative business networking experiences.
