At Click&Go Holidays, we are proud to be recognised as Ireland’s Leading Cruise Specialists, helping you find the right cruise holiday through expert advice, first-hand experience and personalised service.

As part of our Team Spotlight series, we are introducing the people behind the bookings, the cruise experts who help consumers navigate the world of cruising every day. From first-time cruisers to experienced travellers searching for their next unforgettable sailing, our team brings real experience and genuine passion to every conversation.  

In this edition, we are speaking with Michelle McMullen, a multi-award-winning cruise specialist with more than 25 years’ experience in the travel industry. Since joining Click&Go Holidays in 2021, Michelle has helped countless customers discover the world of cruising and find the right cruise holiday for their travel style.

In this Team Spotlight:

About Michelle

Michelle’s passion for cruising began in 2019 when she stepped onboard her first cruise ship. Since then, she has sailed on a variety of ships and itineraries, exploring destinations across the Mediterranean and Caribbean while experiencing different cruise lines and onboard styles.

“Since my first cruise, I have become completely obsessed with cruise holidays and honestly wouldn’t holiday any other way.”

Today, Michelle combines her extensive travel industry experience with first-hand cruise knowledge to help customers confidently plan their perfect cruise holiday.

What Customers Say About Michelle

At Click&Go Holidays, we are proud to be rated excellent on Trustpilot, with thousands of customers reviews recognising the service and expertise provided by our team.  

Trustpilot

Favourite Cruise Experience

Celebrity Beyond

When asked about her favourite cruise holiday, Michelle admits it is difficult to just choose one.

“it’s difficult to pick one, but my cruise onboard Celebrity Beyond in 2022 stands out. It was a 10-night cruise and after experiencing it, I realised 7 nights is simply not enough.”

For Michelle, the ship itself was unlike anything she had experienced before.

“The Magic Carpet was incredible, enjoying a cocktail at the Sunset Bar while watching the sun go down was unforgettable. I loved the relaxing atmosphere in Eden, the Rooftop Garden and the world-class dining across the ship. Captain Kate was onboard too, which made the experience even more memorable.”

One of Michelle’s standout dining experiences on Celebrity Beyond was Le Petit Chef.

“This was one of my favourite experiences onboard. A tiny 3D animated chef is projected onto your dining table and tells an interactive story throughout the meal. It was something completely different and the food was amazing too.”

Michelle also highlights the variety of entertainment onboard.

“We enjoyed everything from Vegas-style productions and acrobatic performances to quizzes and themed nights like the Shine the Night party and my personal favourite, the Silent Disco. We loved every minute of it.”

Favourite Cruise Line and Destination

Why Michelle Loves Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises remains Michelle’s favourite cruise line.

“I love the relaxed atmosphere and modern design of the ships. There are so many beautiful spaces around the ship, and the service always feels personalised.”

As a self-confessed foodie, Michelle particularly enjoys Celebrity’s dining offering.

“The crew to passenger ratio is excellent and Celebrity Cruises really delivers an elevated dining experience onboard.”

The Eastern Mediterranean and Adriatic

When it comes to destinations, Michelle is particularly passionate about the Eastern Mediterranean and Adriatic.

“My favourite port of call is Dubrovnik; I love the history, the paved streets and the beautiful Baroque architecture throughout the old town.”

Another destination she never tires of visiting is Santorini.

“Santorini is one of my favourite cruise ports. The views are breathtaking, especially from Oia. Every time we visit, we stop at the same restaurant overlooking the sea, I also had my first gyros there.”

Michelle recommends planning ahead when visiting Santorini during the summer months. I would recommend booking an excursion, or if you’re feeling energetic, tackling the 588 steps to the top.”

What Michelle Loves Most about Cruise Holidays

For Michelle, cruising combines convenience, variety and relaxation in a way that no other holiday can.

“I love waking up somewhere new each day and opening the balcony doors to see where we’ve docked. You unpack once but get to experience so many different destinations.”

She also appreciates the flexibility that cruising offers.

“You can do as little or as much as you want. Sometimes we don’t even leave the ship because there is so much entertainment and so many activities happening onboard.”

After a day of exploring ashore, Michelle enjoys returning to the ship knowing the evening is already planned.

“All I have to decide is which show to watch and which martini to try next.”

Michelle’s Top Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Choose the Right Ship

Michelle believes choosing the right ship is just as important as choosing the right destination.

“While the itinerary is important, I think your first cruise should be about finding the right ship. Families may want waterparks and activities, while others may prefer a smaller ship with a more intimate atmosphere.”

Arrive the Day Before

“If possible, fly out the day before your cruise. It removes any stress, gives you time to explore the embarkation city and means you can start your cruise feeling relaxed.”

Download the Cruise App

Michelle also recommends downloading the cruise line app as soon as the cruise is booked.

“It’s the best way to pre-book your excursions, speciality dining and onboard extras. There are often offers available before departure and the app is very useful during the cruise for tracking spending and checking the daily planner.”

What Makes Cruises Different from Other Holiday Types?

For Michelle, one of the biggest advantages of cruising is the value.

“It has to be the value. Your meals are included and there is so much choice. The buffet alone offers food from all over the world.”

She also enjoys the convenience of adding drinks package.

“We always take a drinks package because it means we can completely relax and enjoy ourselves without worrying about the bill at the end of the cruise.”

Most importantly, cruising allows her to experience multiple destinations while only unpacking once.

“Once I am on the ship, I am at my happy place.”

Life as a Cruise Specialist at Click&Go Holidays

Sharing First-Hand Experience

What Michelle enjoys most about her role is helping customers navigate the huge range of cruise options available.

“Sharing my experiences and knowledge, guiding people towards the right ship and helping create a holiday they will remember forever is incredibly rewarding.”

Creating Future Cruise Fans

Michelle particularly enjoys helping customers who are unsure about cruising.

“There is nothing better than helping someone book their first cruise and then seeing them come back completely hooked and ready to book again.”

Building Long-Term Relationships

One of the most rewarding aspects of the role is the relationships Michelle has built with repeat customers over the years.

“I have many repeat clients and it’s always lovely when customers take the time to call or email after their cruise to let me know they had a fantastic holiday and that my recommendations worked well.”

What’s Next on Michelle’s Cruise Bucket List?

Despite her extensive cruise experience, there is one destination that remains firmly at the top of Michelle’s list.

“Alaska. I want to see the glaciers, the wildlife in their natural habitat, experience whale watching and take in the incredible wilderness.”

Alaska continues to be one of the world’s most iconic cruise destinations and remains a dream sailing for many experienced cruisers.

Ready to Plan your Cruise Holiday with Michelle?

Whether you are considering your very first cruise or planning your next sailing, the team at Click&Go Holidays are here to help.

As Ireland’s leading Cruise Specialists, our team combines first-hand experience with expert advice to help customers find the right ship, itinerary and cruise line for their holiday.

To speak directly with Michelle McMullen, you can email her on michellem@clickandgo.com or call her and speak to her today on 01 5397743.