EC Un-Plugged:

The Spirit of Chicago welcomed WGN’s morning news anchors aboard for some amazing performances by the staff, dancing, live music on the outside observation deck, and an all-around great time. Many thanks to our vibrant, friendly and fun Spirit of Chicago staff!

Hey readers, click on the link below to see some great highlights of the cruise:

WGN TV on Spirit of Chicago

Hope you enjoy watching! I know I did.

If you’d like, read some comments from recent July guests aboard the Spirit of Chicago!

“This was head and shoulders above other inland cruises we’ve experienced.”
-Claire

“The staff and DJ were so much fun! Keep up the great work!”
-Terri

“The servers were very sweet and entertaining, we had a blast and it made my mom’s birthday very special, thank you!”
-Michelle

“The meal was above and beyond our expectations.”
-Mike

“Everything was excellent – the DJ was awesome. Loved the entertainment.”
-Ida

“Food was very good; hospitality was great.”
-Cathy

“The food and service was great. The views were spectacular. I would definitely do it again and recommend it to anyone traveling to Chicago.”
-Tara

‘til next week…

Hello readers! I have a special treat for you today. Read below to learn a bit about an extremely dedicated shipmate who has been with Entertainment Cruises since 2002!

Shipmate Spotlight: MARIAH in Chicago

Mariah joined Entertainment Cruises eight years ago as a Deckhand aboard Seadog and Mystic Blue. With hard work and leadership, she was promoted to First Mate and then to Captain. More recently, Mariah has been working in the office first as the Administrative Assistant, and currently as the Cruise Coordinator. Never far from the water, she still drives both Mystic and Seadog in the evenings and on weekends. Over the years, Mariah’s work has been recognized with the Shipmate of the Year award and several OSS honors.

Of all the WOWs you have been involved in, which is your favorite and why?

Every year we have a boy with a disability who comes down to cruise Seadog with his grandma. He always remembers the returning staff and is always excited to be there. Coincidentally, he’s been on my boat for the last four years. Each year we try to give him something new (shirt, visor, etc.) that helps make him feel like he’s part of the crew. I’m hoping that he’ll be on my boat again this year. It’s been an ongoing WOW that more and more of the staff get involved in.

Who have been the role models in your life? Why are they role models? Are there certain aspects of OSS that you see your role models demonstrate?

My parents were fantastic role models for me. They both helped me develop a strong work ethic (which I’ve needed to keep up with peak season). One aspect of OSS that my parents demonstrated is the value “We will treat others with respect.” They always taught me that even if you don’t understand or agree with someone else’s choices or behaviors, everyone deserves respect.

Many of our shipmates have boarding photos from various cruises. Do you have a boarding photo that is particularly special to you? If so, why is it so special?

I have a Seadog boarding photo from when my mom cruised during her chemotherapy treatment. I really love that photo because she wasn’t feeling well at all, but didn’t let cancer stop her from enjoying Chicago in the summer.

Thank you Mariah, for sharing with us a little insight about yourself and your role here at EC!

Have a great weekend everyone.