UPCOMING MEETING

ICHRIE Global Conference - Cruise SIG Meeting Agenda

WEDNESDAY, 24 July 2024 at 2:00 PM in Salon 6 

• Welcome and Introductions

• A conversation with Mr. Beheram “Bob” Tavadia: Royal Caribbean International Veteran.

• Cruise SIG member cruise with students? In the future.  Could be from Sydney one year as appealing destination…  or try a Virgin Cruise, etc.

• Fred is helping to lead a USF cruise on March 14, 2025 out of Tampa (over spring break).  There will also be a research conference by Cihan at the same time as my study@sea cruise class for spring semester.  Look for conference details.

• Maybe we can all meet at Sea Trade in Miami for 2025 (April 7-10) – usually a one day educators forum there.

• Stop by the Kendall-Hunt booth to see a copy of our Cruise Ship Management text. See Paul Carty –  maybe pick up a copy.

SPECIAL GUEST: Behram “Bob” Tavadia 

Behram “Bob” Tavadia has had an impressive thirty-nine-year career in the hotel and cruise industry. Born in Mumbai, India, his passion for travel and hospitality after working in Mumbai led him to Doha, Qatar, and eventually to the United States. He worked at the beautiful Doha Sheraton hotel for five years, holding various positions in the Front Office, Guest Relations, Rooms Division, and as Night Manager.

In 1986, Bob joined Royal Caribbean Cruises as a Purser on the M/S Song of America, cruising in the Caribbean. What was initially a two-month stint turned into an 18-year career at sea. He quickly advanced through the ranks, becoming Chief Purser, Food and Beverage Manager, Hotel Manager, and eventually Start-Up Hotel Manager. In this role, he successfully launched seven new ships, including four Voyager-class and three Radiance-class ships, which set new industry standards from Finland and Germany.

In 2004, Bob transitioned to a corporate role at Royal Caribbean Cruises. He was recognized for his strategic, loyalty, professionalism, and customer-centric leadership. He played a key role in transferring his extensive shipboard experience to shoreside operations, working in Hotel Operations, International Sales, Trade Support and Services, and Consumer Outreach. During this time, he helped expand Royal Caribbean’s operations into emerging markets such as China, Singapore, Mexico, and Brazil as part of a team.

Bob’s career is a testament to his dedication and passion for the industry.  After an impressive 34-year career with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, Bob decided in 2020 to transition to a shoreside life to spend more time with his family. Recognized by his peers and leaders as a true mentor, Bob continues to support youth through various academic engagements both nationally and internationally. Bob also runs a Non-Profit organization called the "Lion King Tavadia Foundation" with a humanitarian mission to support women, families and people who experience domestic violence and abuse. The foundation also supports "Making dreams come true".  

Currently, Bob specializes in hosting large and small corporate events globally through HelmsBriscoe. Additionally, he runs his own travel agency, offering luxury and personalized vacations as a one-stop shop. Bob’s dedication and passion for the industry have left a lasting impact, and his ongoing mentorship continues to inspire many.

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