The New York Jewish Travel Guide recently conducted an interview with Matthew Shollar, co-founder and chief visionary officer of Transcend Cruises, focusing on their charter-only river cruise line and their commitment to serving kosher travelers. Here’s a detailed summary of part two of our discussion:

NYJTG: Thank you for taking the time to continue our conversation. Can you share with us some of the most popular routes or destinations for your program, and why do they stand out?

Shollar: Our program offers a diverse range of routes and destinations, each with its own unique appeal. One standout destination is the Moselle region, known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages. Cruising along the Moselle River provides a tranquil experience, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the countryside. Holland and Belgium cruises have also gained popularity due to their rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Unlike traditional cruises that focus solely on major cities, our itineraries delve deeper into lesser-known towns and regions, providing passengers with an authentic and immersive experience. Additionally, our cruises from Frankfurt serve as a gateway to hidden gems within a 100-mile radius. From quaint towns to scenic landscapes, these lesser-known destinations offer a glimpse into the heart of Europe, away from the crowds and tourist traps. Sustainability is also a key factor, as shorter distances result in reduced fuel consumption, contributing to an eco-friendlier travel experience.

NYJTG: Could you please elaborate on the procedures in place to cater to passengers with dietary restrictions and allergies? Additionally, could you explain the process for organizations wishing to bring their own food and wine onboard?

Shollar: Absolutely. We take great care in catering to passengers with dietary restrictions and allergies. Our kitchen operates with flexibility, allowing us to prepare meals from scratch based on individual requests. Whether it’s gluten-free, paleo, vegan, or specific allergies like garlic intolerance, we ensure that every dish meets the dietary needs of our guests. This personalized approach extends to our menu offerings, where passengers can order meals tailored to their requirements, guaranteeing a satisfying culinary experience for all.

Regarding outside food and wine, we have a dedicated culinary team onboard, but we’re open to accommodating organizations that wish to bring their own chefs or dietary specialists. However, we maintain control over the galley operations to ensure compliance with kosher standards and seamless integration with our onboard services. We’ve had groups, such as an Indian group with specific dietary needs, bring their own chef onboard, and we work closely with them to ensure a harmonious culinary experience for everyone.

Transcend Cruises, New York Jewish Travel Guide

NYJTG: Are passengers allowed to tour the kosher kitchen facilities to ensure transparency in food preparation? And do you have a shabbat elevator for people with mobility issues?

Shollar: We’ve taken passengers on tours of our kosher kitchen facilities upon request. We believe in transparency in food preparation, and we’re more than happy to showcase our processes to interested guests. Additionally, we do have accommodations for passengers with mobility issues, including a Shabbat elevator to ensure accessibility for all guests. We want to ensure that everyone can fully enjoy their experience onboard, regardless of any mobility challenges they may have.

NYJTG: How are the Shabbat dinner and lunch typically prepared? Is this aspect included as part of the program?

Shollar: Shabbat dinners and lunches are an integral part of our program, and they’re prepared with meticulous attention to detail. We ensure that all meals are prepped in advance, adhering to Shabbat-appropriate guidelines. Additionally, we offer a range of menu options to cater to different preferences and cultural backgrounds, ensuring that each meal experience is meaningful and satisfying for our passengers. We strive to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where passengers can fully embrace the spirit of Shabbat while enjoying delicious cuisine.

NYJTG: Can the cruise line arrange for Jewish entertainers or lectures to enhance the cultural experience of the group?

Shollar: While we don’t typically organize entertainment programs ourselves, we’re open to facilitating cultural experiences tailored to our passengers’ interests. We offer flexibility in programming and can assist in coordinating activities such as lectures or performances by Jewish entertainers, enriching the overall cultural experience for our guests. We believe in providing a well-rounded experience that celebrates Jewish heritage and culture, and we’re committed to offering a variety of engaging activities onboard.

Transcend Cruises, New York Jewish Travel Guide

NYJTG: How does the cruise handle emergencies or unforeseen circumstances that may impact the observance of Jewish laws?  

Shollar: Our primary concern is always the safety and well-being of our passengers. In the event of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, we have protocols in place to address any challenges while ensuring compliance with Jewish laws. Our proximity to the shore ensures quick access to medical assistance if needed, and our staff is trained in first aid to provide immediate support onboard. Additionally, we have a fully trained technical team onboard who can address any technical issues that may arise, ensuring a seamless experience for our passengers. We prioritize safety and adherence to Jewish laws in all aspects of our operations, and we’re committed to providing a safe and comfortable environment for our guests at all times.

NYJTG: How do you evaluate customer feedback and reviews, and what steps do you take to improve your services based on that feedback?

Shollar: Customer feedback is invaluable to us, as it helps us continually improve and refine our services. We actively solicit feedback from our passengers and carefully evaluate reviews to identify areas for enhancement. Our commitment to delivering a five-star experience drives us to constantly strive for excellence in all aspects of our operations. We take customer feedback seriously and use it as a valuable tool for enhancing the overall passenger experience onboard. Our goal is to exceed our passengers’ expectations and provide them with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

NYJTG: What safety and security measures are in place during charter river cruises to ensure the well-being of passengers?

Shollar: Passenger safety is our top priority, and we have stringent safety and security measures in place to safeguard our guests. Our controlled access system ensures that only authorized individuals are allowed onboard, and we employ additional security measures, such as access control and private security personnel, when necessary. Furthermore, we conduct regular safety drills and maintain a fully trained technical team on board to address any emergencies promptly.

Transcend Cruises, New York Jewish Travel Guide

NYJTG: How does your company promote its brand and programs to potential customers?

Shollar: As primarily a business-to-business (B2B) operation, we focus on building strong partnerships with travel agents, event planners, and other third-party organizations. Our presence at industry trade shows, webinars, and podcasts allows us to engage with industry professionals and promote our unique offerings effectively. By prioritizing targeted marketing efforts and leveraging our network of partners, we ensure that our brand and programs reach the right audience and resonate with potential customers.

For more information:

Story by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide.com, and New York Jewish Guide.com

For all the details and to organize your Kosher Charter River Cruise trip, connect with Transcend at matthew@transcend.cruises or visit https://www.transcend.cruises/.

To access the first part of our conversation, kindly click on the following link:

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