Cruise Life: Introducing Tony & Barbara Hallwood
The experienced travel couple share their insight into the current cruise holiday renaissance
As the cruise industry is riding a huge wave of renewed popularity, The Cheshire Magazine would like to welcome cruise holiday experts Tony and Barbara Hallwood to the team. This month we sit down with the well travelled couple to learn more about their experiences and the new trends in the industry.
Could you offer us a little information about your relationship with the travel industry?
Tony: My career has been deeply rooted in the travel and aviation sector. I spent over 15 years as an Airport Director, working across UK airports to develop new global air routes, alongside a further 15 years in the tour operating industry with major brands working to improve the passenger experience. That background gave me a real insight into the importance of seamless, high-quality travel experiences - which cruising delivers brilliantly.
Barbara: I actually started my career in airport marketing, so aviation and travel have always been part of my world. Later, with The Profile Club, I built connections among professionals who value lifestyle and luxury, many of whom were seasoned travellers. So, representing Panache Cruises now brings everything full circle - luxury, connection, and global exploration.
What do you think draws younger travellers to luxury cruise brands like Uniworld and Explora Journeys?
Barbara: Younger travellers are becoming more experience-focused, and brands like Uniworld and Explora Journeys offer immersive, design-led voyages that feel more like boutique hotels than traditional cruises. It’s about authenticity, wellness, and curated moments - they’re not just ticking off destinations, they’re looking for meaning and style.
Tony: Both brands are innovative, with modern features
and offer a wide range of exciting itineraries. Their onboard environments are chic, contemporary, and far away from the old stereotypes of cruising. That fresh take really resonates with new, younger cruisers and professionals looking for a holiday with a difference.
What cruise holidays would you recommend for families or multi-generational travellers?
Tony: Cruising is ideal for multi-generational holidays because there’s something for everyone. Larger cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises offer a big ship mentality but have suites for those wanting luxury delivering the best of both worlds enjoying a wide range of onboard activities but still having space to relax.
Barbara: Exactly, and it allows everyone to spend time together without the stress of organising daily plans. River cruises with AmaWaterways or Mediterranean voyages on Explorer Journeys also work well for families who want cultural experiences in a safe, luxurious environment.
What cruise holidays would you suggest for those looking to tick off bucket list destinations?
Tony: Taking a cruise is one of the best and easiest ways to tick off not just one but a number of bucket list destinations on one holiday - visiting landmark locations worldwide, it’s a more relaxing way to explore. The growth of expedition cruising is proving very popular, new opportunities to cruise to regions such as Antarctica and travelling with Hurtigruten or Scenic will deliver unforgettable experiences. I love the Far East and a Regent Seven Seas cruise around Japan and Asia would deliver all-inclusive luxury.
Barbara: Without doubt I would choose an ‘Around the World’ cruise so you can visit a number of iconic global cities across multiple continents. Cruising on Cunard’s Queen Mary or with Oceania would be a good choice, especially for travellers with 3 months to spare. For nature lovers, a cruise to the Galápagos Islands with Silversea whilst a Windstar cruise around the South Pacific and French Polynesia would be awesome.
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, what would you suggest?
Barbara: Explora Journeys is certainly setting a new benchmark - suites-only ships, butlers, curated dining, and a transformative wellness offering. And we can’t wait to see what Luminara from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection brings when it launches in September. It will redefine sea travel with an ultra-luxury, superyacht-style vibe.
Tony: Absolutely. For the most discerning travellers, bespoke smaller-ship voyages on Silversea and Seabourn or expedition cruises with Hurtigruten Expeditions have a range of luxury cruise itineraries. In addition, Scenic Eclipse offer world-class luxury with adventurous flair and exceptional service. You’re not just a guest - you’re treated as a VIP.
Talking of The Ritz-Carlton’s new ship Luminara launching soon, do you believe other luxury hotel brands will follow suit?
Tony: Yes, absolutely. Luxury brands are recognising that their loyal guests want similar levels of excellence at sea. Luminaras launch this September will set new standards. We will definitely see more high-end hospitality brands entering the cruise market - it’s a natural evolution.
Barbara: Cruise guests are looking for exclusivity and refinement. If they already love a luxury hotel group on land, they’ll trust that same standard on water. Indeed Four Seasons will soon be launching a yacht too! The potential for growth in this luxury yacht cruising sector is enormous.
Luxury Cruise lines are now offering itineraries visiting lesser-known locations - is this a growing trend?
Barbara: A growing number of cruise lines specialise in itineraries which include unique or lesser known ports as travellers love to explore new destinations. These luxury ships are much smaller, meaning that they can spend more time in these ports of calls – beating the crowds. Brands such as Azamara and Ponant visit a range of remote ports across their itineraries.
Tony: Panache’s Cruise Connoisseurs, given their in-depth cruise knowledge, are experts in helping travellers choose the best cruise itineraries visiting lesser-known and quieter ports. River cruises with Riviera Travel and Ama Waterways are proving popular as they incorporate a range of ports and destinations that are off the beaten track. With increasing demand for cruises that avoid crowded ports, we see this growth continuing apace.
What advice would you give to solo travellers interested in cruising?
Barbara: Don’t be intimidated. Cruising is one of the safest, most inclusive ways to travel solo. Many luxury lines now offer solo cabins or low single supplements. You’ll meet like-minded people and enjoy tailored activities without ever feeling alone.
Tony: Exactly. We’ve met many solo cruisers who’ve made lifelong friends. Panache Cruises also helps solo travellers find the right cruise tailored to their personal interests and whether you want to meet people or prefer your own company. It’s a very empowering way to explore the world.
We are excited to read about your recent cruise adventures. What can we expect from your first reviews?
Tony: Barbara and I recently sailed with Cunard on Queen Elizabeth cruising for 10 days around Japan. It was an unforgettable cruise and we look forward to sharing our experience for what was our first visit to this incredible country - full of surprises and amazing experiences.
Barbara: Taking a river cruise along the Duoro in Northern Portugal sailing from Porto with Ama Waterways had always been on our wish list. Our recent cruise on the newly launched AmaSintra was exceptional and we will highlight the exceptional on board service and enjoyable itinerary that made this cruise one to remember.
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