International Women’s Day Part Two: Assistant Cruise Director Leia Rose

In part two of our International Women’s Day series, we are excited to spotlight Assistant Cruise Director Leia Rose, who may be a familiar, friendly face to those who have had the pleasure of sailing with her on one of our ships. Whether working behind the scenes or mingling with our guests, Leia is instrumental in ensuring that your time on board is filled with a variety of activities that will enrich and entertain you – and leave you with wonderful memories of your vacation.

Read about Leia’s start in the hospitality and travel industry, what it was like to be part of the launch of our newest ship, Vista, her travel wish list and more.

1. Tell us a bit about yourself – where are you from and how did you get your start in the hospitality and travel industry?
   I grew up in the small seaside town of Troon, located in southwest Scotland. I started working on cruise ships in 2000 as a dancer and singer in the production cast. Later on I became the Social Hostess on board, and then was promoted to Assistant Cruise Director. Eventually I was promoted to Cruise Director. I stayed in the role for seven years, but decided I prefer Assistant Cruise Director because my passion is looking after the entertainment team and the related administrative challenges.
2. How did you find your way to Oceania Cruises?
   I found my way to Oceania Cruises in 2010, where I joined the Nautica ship in Australia. Previously I had worked on British vessels, so it was a bit of an adjustment. Oceania demanded a higher level of hospitality; the standards and attention to detail were so high.
3. You launched Vista – tell us about that. What were some of the most exciting moments and what was it like to be part of the team that launched our newest ship?
   Launching Vista was amazing! It was the first time I’d taken a new build into operation. I found the challenges and excitement to be invigorating.

• Seeing the transformation from wires hanging down from the ceiling all the way to the beautiful ship that slowly came to life.
• Sailing in and out of New York.
• The amazing christening ceremony – Harry Connick Jr. performed live!
• As we sailed from Malta cannons were fired to celebrate the inauguration.
• The excitement of all the crew who had the honor of being part of the first ship in 10 years.
4. Thinking about your role and the daily schedule, what is your favorite time of day and why? What about your favorite place on the ship?
   My favorite time of day is the morning when I walk into the office and it’s filled with laughter and stories. My favorite place is the atrium lobby area, especially during the holidays…with the bright holiday decorations and beautiful Christmas tree.
5. Tell us about one of your favorite recent travel interactions.
   Recently I went on a tour to Hanoi, Vietnam. It was an amazing visit. One of the highlights was our interaction with a group of Vietnamese school kids who were visiting the site as part of a field trip. There were hundreds of them all having the time of their life. They were so excited to see us foreigners there. They were taking selfies with us with their cameras and were shaking our hands and giving us high fives. They were practicing their English phrases and posing for pictures with guests from the ship. So much laughter and joy… smiles on everyone’s faces.
6. Let’s talk travel. What are three of your hands-down must-see destinations in the world?
   That is such a tough question…

• Antarctica & the Falkland Islands
• The Galapagos Islands
• Machu Picchu

7. What is one cruise destination that surprised you? Tell us why.
   Doha – Al Wakrah Old Souq, a traditional Arabian village and market. It’s really something special if you’re into soaking up the genuine Qatari vibe. It’s a cool mix of old-school charm and modern vibes that just clicks. When you wander around you’ll find local crafts, beautiful carpets and all sorts of unique stuff. The tour included a tea ceremony and lunch. We had the opportunity to don their traditional Qatari Bedouin clothing and learn local customs.
8. What is the most memorable off-the-beaten-path place you have ever traveled to? What made it memorable?
   Robinson Crusoe Island, a small island in the South Pacific Ocean miles from anywhere, is one of the most unique places I’ve ever visited. It is considered a national park, discovered only 500 years ago by sailors. Even now it still has a population of less than 1,000. The local living and culture were so fascinating! However, nothing could have prepared me for the endemic species. I began to truly grasp the numerous challenges of conservation. I felt a bond with the local community and learning about sustainability and import struggles. There they really have to be as self-sufficient as possible.
9. If you could take a bucket-list trip with any female in the world, who would you take and where would the trip be/what would you do on the trip?
   Alaska is my big bucket place destination and I’d take with me Dame Judy Dench – I grew up in the television and theater world and considered her to be one of Britain’s greatest actresses…she is such an inspiration. I’d love to go to Alaska and go dogsledding with her (she has a massive love for dogs), and perhaps even camp in the wilderness with an indigenous flare!
10. In honor of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, who is your greatest female inspiration and why?
    My Nana was everything to me. She raised me from an early age, encouraged me to follow my dreams and fully supported me in every way. Her position in our community was quite prestigious, awarding her the highest honor from Queen Elizabeth and the Holyrood Garden Party. She influenced not only me but our entire community, and I live for her legacy.

Leia looks forward to welcoming you aboard soon!

About Assistant Cruise Director Leia Rose
Born in Troon, Scotland, Leia Rose started her career as a performer in theaters in the UK and later aboard cruise ships traveling all over the world. She has sailed on ships for almost 24 years and has visited all seven continents. The highlight and greatest perk of her job is being able to work and travel, and she feels lucky to do so with her partner, Mark, who is the cocktail pianist on board, as they both love to experience new cultures and traditions and make each and every day a new adventure. Despite traveling the world, they view family and friends as being the most important things in life.