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Art Gallery and Art Auction Program

An ever-changing collection of fine art and limited-edition prints adorns our ships’ corridors. These works aren’t just pleasing to the eye — many are available to buy during our art auctions. Sip some champagne, browse the gallery, and bid on a piece to take home as a trip memento. These auctions feature works from the masters of the Renaissance to contemporary luminaries. A series of enrichment lectures and cocktail viewing parties, led by the art auction staff, typically precedes the auction, usually held at the end of the sailing.

The collections include oil and acrylics paintings, water colors, drawings, hand-signed limited edition etchings, Lithographs, serigraphs and hand-embellished graphic works as well as a wide selection of autographed sports Memorabilia and a unique collection of rare animation art.

The Art Auction Program is featured on alll Carnival ships.

Park West Gallery conducts the Art Auction Program.

For post cruise inquiries, please contact Park West Gallery at www.parkwestgallery.com  or 305 817-6400.

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Princess ® Fine Arts

A souvenir that lasts a lifetime.

Princess® Fine Arts offers extraordinary art auctions and exhibitions featuring word-class artists from around the world, along with enriching lectures and special events.

Find art that speaks to you

Art is personal. The pieces you display express who you are, where you’ve been and what matters to you. The gallery team at Princess Fine Arts can help you find the ideal artwork for any situation, whether you’re looking for a gift for a loved one, redecorating your home or office or in need of a memento from your voyage. Special financing is available, so you never have to leave the perfect piece behind.

Artists as unique and varied as you are

Our onboard galleries feature works from a variety of artists, from Baroque geniuses like Rembrandt to modern masters of light and mood like Thomas Kinkade. Plus, with our exclusive E-Gallery, guests can easily browse our full collection of over 10,000 works of art.

Join in on the auction — or just enjoy the show

Our live auctions — complete with sparkling wine — are invigorating events with prizes, unique works of art and the buzz of conversation of fellow art lovers. If you’re looking to deepen your experience, drop by one of our art seminars or artist exhibitions and delve deeper into the world of fine art.

Create your collection with confidence

Princess Fine Arts is operated by Park West Gallery, with over 50 years of service excellence. Your satisfaction is what matters most, which is why we offer the Princess Fine Arts 50/50 Satisfaction Guarantee. When you purchase a work of art through Princess Fine Arts, you can exchange that artwork at any time within 50 months. It’s that easy.

We ship worldwide

Princess Fine Arts offers worldwide shipping and custom framing options. No matter where you live, we will make sure your artwork arrives at its new home just the way you want it.

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What To Expect At A Cruise Ship Art Auction

All of the major cruise lines offer art auctions and other opportunities to explore art and maybe buy something. While initially, this might seem intimidating to some people, these art auctions are actually a lot of fun ... and no you don't even have to buy anything!

The Park West Gallery is by far the most common company that you will see running art auctions on cruise ships and frankly they do a great job. I am generally skeptical of anyone trying to sell me stuff on a cruise ship but on our trip aboard the Norwegian Sky last month I had the chance to spend time with the couple running the art auctions there. Unlike my negative impression, I had previously - this couple from South Africa was completely transparent and open. 

While not all cruise lines or ships offer a full art auction, almost every cruise line from Carnival to Viking Ocean Cruises offers an art feature. For instance, Holland America Line partners with London gallery, ArtLink to showcase works from emerging artists including hosting lectures, cocktail parties, and visiting artists that some times will join the cruise to talk about his or her work. Viking Ocean Cruises doesn't offer a traditional art auction but integrates Nordic art into the overall ship design in a natural way. Art helps bring an air of luxury and mental as well as emotional journey of learning that I welcome in any format.

What Did I Learn About Cruise Ship Art Auctions?

During the four days that I spent on Norwegian Sky out in the Bahamas (the formal is essentially the same regardless of the ship), I learned quite a bit and came to respect the concept of cruise ship art auctions in a way that I didn't expect I would. In fact, while I started the week looking at them as silly time-wasters at best and a scam at worst, I left the cruise with a positive impression.

These Are Real Pieces Of Art!

While most of the art that you will find in a cruise ship art auction are prints and lithographs, they are genuinely collectible. You will often have the auctioneer present at least one EXTREMELY high priced item - on our ship it was a $30,000 piece to talk about and set the tone. Then they will follow-up with more affordable pieces in the hundreds and thousands as well as "specials" where you will bid on a secret bundle.

You can even "bid" on a chance to buy something. I really enjoyed that since it gave us a chance to raise our hand ... without actually being forced to buy something. 

Don't (Purposely) Waste the Art Auction Team's Time!

To an extent, the auction team knows that certain activities are designed simply to bring you to the gallery office so that they can talk with you one-on-one. While there's no problem with you raising your hand for the chance to buy something, don't waste the people's time. If you truely have no intention of buying something then tell them right upfront and don't have them create an appointment to meet in person. 

However, I did find that I learned a lot about both the art as well as art auctions and even what it's like to work on a cruise ship by talking with the team 

You Will Get Some Cool Free Stuff!

Free stuff is what has drawn my wife and I to cruise ship art auctions in the past and it will be why we attend one in the future as well. Generally speaking, everyone who attends will get a small print and a glass of champaign - though some lines are more liberal with the bubbly than others. 

You also have a good chance to win an actual print if you follow the giveaway instructions completely. This might include getting extra entries by visiting the gallery office, or bringing the invite you received from your cabin steward the night before. 

In our case on this past cruise, we actually won a couple different pieces and bought one as well for less than $100. Shipping was $29 so I found that many people who win, actually decline the prize thinking that it is a scam. You will also get the opportunity to have the art certified for (my opinion), an INSANE amount of money. However, if you are into this then maybe that fee is worth it. For me and Heather, she liked the art and that's all that matters. I don't care if an art expert says it is valued at $500 or $5.

You Can Get A Free Glass Of Champaign!

I already mentioned this above, but yup ... you get a free glass of champaign and sometimes more than one. This generally isn't the greatest bubbly on board but it isn't terrible and a free drink on a cruise ship is something special in its own right. So, let's raise our glass to this standing tradition!

You Will Learn Something About Art At The Auctions!

While various art auctioneers have different skill levels and scripts to work with, these guys generally are pretty good. This is especially true for the folks I've met at Park West Gallery. Often there will be at least one auction focused on a specific artist and in the case of Norwegian Cruise Line, there's almost always art from Guy Harvey, Wyland who designed the bow artwork on two of their ships. There will also be short documentary videos highlighting certain unique techniques used by the artists and occasionally more in-depth opportunities to see the evolution of an artist's style by comparing different pieces of art.

Cruise Ship Art Auctions Are Designed To Make Money!

While these auctions absolutely have an entertainment and educational value, they (like everything on most cruises) is designed to make money. Some cruisers who attend will spend hundreds and thousands of dollars on art that they see at the auction or while browsing the gallery, but for most, it is a way of buying a souvenir of the trip. There are dozens of options priced affordably under $100 if you simply want to buy something pretty. 

The art auctions also make money by offering framing and appraisal services as well as shipping fees. Even that free piece of art we won might have cost us more than $100 if we had accepted the shipping, appraisal, and framing options.

You Don't Have To Buy Anything At the Art Auction!

However, you can go to the art auction and not spend a dime too! There's absolutely no obligation to do anything except enjoy your free champagne and be polite. I actually asked the couple running the auctions on our cruise about this and they said that most people never buy something but they appreciate anyone who attends with an open mind and some intellectual curiosity.

Yes, You Should Go, Relax, Enjoy Your Champaign, and Learn Something New!

Ultimately, you'll get what you put into it. You can attend one action and then leave. If that's your intention then ask the auction team if there are specific days where they will focus on one artist or another. Otherwise, make the auction part of your daily routine and you're certain to learn something. At the very least, it is great people watching, you'll typically get a free print, you might even win something that they can ship home to you (extra fee), you can enjoy your free champaign and a comfy chair.

It's that simple, so have fun and maybe you'll learn something new!

Thanks for reading. We hope this was helpful!

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author bio info

James is an avid fan of all types of cruising but especially enjoys exploring the Pacific coastal regions since it perfectly captures the elements that he is passionate about, including natural beauty, conservation, opportunities to explore new cultures, and meeting some fantastic new people too. 

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The Art of the Cruise: Q&A with Park West Gallery

Wondering what a cruise ship art auction is all about? First: it’s exhilarating, exciting and educational, even if you don't know a thing about art. Second: it’s about learning to appreciate the finer things in life, which can include surprisingly affordable art - the ultimate of all vacation souvenirs! Imagine hanging a Thomas Kinkade in your living room or a colorful Peter Max at your office. Wow, what a great cruise memory you’ll be able to enjoy every day! Third: Did I mention there’s free champagne?

You don't have to be an art aficionado to buy what you love. Some of the Park West Gallery artists that have captivated me over the years include French painter Jean Claude Picot and Salvador Dali's Divine Comedy series, as well as artists Tomasz Rut from Poland and Shari Erickson of Atlanta.

Let’s learn more about the art of the cruise! Here’s my Q&A with Stoney Goldstein , Vice President of Sales for the land-based Park West Gallery of Southfield, Michigan. Since 1969, Park West has had the pleasure of helping over 2 million clients start a love affair with collecting art. They ship about 6,000 artworks to their clients every single week and proudly offer auctions on every ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, including the new Norwegian Bliss .

I don't know anything about art and I've never attended an onboard auction before. What's your advice?

The wonderful thing about art is that you don’t need to know anything to enjoy it. The best advice we can give is, “Follow your eye.” You will know when a certain work of art connects with you—you’ll just feel it. And, once an artwork catches your eye, don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Besides the art auctions, do you offer any other events onboard?

We're always very excited about our shipboard programming. These aren't just art shows-they're events! On a seven-day Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary, we will usually offer around three unique auctions, each with a different theme and featured artwork. You can come, have a glass of champagne on us, and watch the auctioneer go. If you've never attended a live auction before, it's quite an experience. Everyone who attends receives a small promotional artwork and then we do raffles for larger works throughout the auction.

But we don't just do auctions. Throughout a weeklong cruise, we also usually hold three to five different art seminars, receptions, or exhibitions. Our art experts might take you through 30,000 years of art history in 30 minutes or they might host a "night at the museum" evening art gala. Our goal is to make art engaging and fun for everyone.

I’ve heard that art is expensive.

We pride ourselves on carrying artwork that will fit every budget. If you just want one small painting for your living room or if you're completely redoing your corporate offices, we have an incredible variety of artwork available.

In fact, we recently rolled out an all-new e-gallery to all of our onboard galleries. If you can't find exactly what you're looking for on the ship, one of our personal art consultants can help you browse over 2,300 works in our digital galleries. We even have a tool that will allow you to try out different frames on each work in our e-gallery, so you can know exactly what it will look like when you get it home.

What art mediums will passengers see onboard Norwegian Cruise Line ships? Are there any new techniques?

Park West offers a huge variety of artistic mediums—unique paintings of all kinds, watercolors, etchings, graphic works, lithographs, sculptures—the list goes on and on.

Our artists are constantly experimenting with new and exciting mediums. We have two new mediums, in particular, that our artists and collectors absolutely love. One is called dye sublimation, where the artist uses an advanced technique to transfer their image onto glass, metal, or plastic surfaces. That's related to our other new medium, the caldograph, where the artist bonds their image onto a wooden panel-it's a modern twist on a classic medium. ("The Mona Lisa" was actually painted onto a wood panel!)

Are some art mediums more popular than others? 

Our clients love variety, so it's hard to say if one medium or size is more popular than another. We sell art of all shapes and sizes. On Norwegian Cruise Line, we definitely see a lot of interest in artwork from Peter Max, Lebo, and Guy Harvey, which makes sense because all three have painted the hulls of Norwegian ships. It's no surprise, after seeing a work of art that big, that a cruiser might want to take a piece of that home with them.

For more information, read: A Closer Look at the Hull Art on Norwegian Cruise Line Ships .

I need an insider tip: what are your favorite up-and-coming artists you can get enough of?

Park West is always adding to our family of artists. Recently, we’ve fallen in love with the work of Matt Beyrer , who creates these breathtaking paintings on wood that really incorporate the grain of the materials he’s working with. In terms of up-and-coming names, we also adore Orlando Quevedo , a gifted magic realist from Cuba, and Alexandre Renoir , a brilliant landscape artist who is actually the great-grandson of the famous Impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir.

Why should I buy art onboard when I can buy it on land?

At Park West, we're big believers that art should be for everyone. One way we put that into practice is by holding our art auctions on cruise ships. We don't expect you to come to us-we're going to bring the art to you. While you're having the vacation of a lifetime, we want to make sure that you have access to some of the most beautiful art in the world. You can browse, you can learn more, or maybe you bring home something to brighten your kitchen or office. If you leave your cruise with a new passion for art, our mission is accomplished.

There seem to be some misconceptions about onboard art auctions, can you clarify?

A lot of people only know art auctions from movies, where they seem stuffy, snobby, and expensive. In reality, our auctions are the exact opposite. We want to welcome you. Come browse with us, have a drink with us, see the show, and ask us a million questions. We love it. And, with our 40/40/40 guarantee-where you can return any artwork for 40 days or exchange any artwork for 40 months-you don't have to worry about post-vacation buyer's remorse either.

Where can cruisers find out more about the artists Park West Gallery represents?

The best source of information is parkwestgallery.com . We have full biographies of all of our artists, galleries of their works, and feature articles and interviews where you can learn even more about them.

Does Park West Gallery offer physical land-based galleries?

Yes. Park West has a beautiful gallery in our hometown of Southfield, Michigan, which is also connected to the Park West Museum, a free-to-the-public museum where we display our private collections of old and modern masters like Picasso, Renoir, Rembrandt, and more. In addition to our home gallery, every year, Park West holds several traveling land events in vacation destinations all over the world. These are often made available to our VIP collectors and they can involve excursions, fine dining, auctions, and opportunities to meet some of your favorite artists.

All images courtesy of Park West Gallery.

10 Reasons to Buy Art on a Cruise Ship

If you’re like most cruisers, the highlight of your year is stepping aboard a cruise ship for a week of fun in the sun. Everyone has a favorite part about a cruise. Some love the unique dining options, others the onboard amenities like pools, movie theaters, mini-golf courses and tons more. If you’re new to cruising, you might not know about one of the most fun, interesting and informative events that take place at sea: a cruise ship art auction. 

Art is a big deal on board today’s cruise ships and companies like Park West Gallery curate incredible galleries full of works from well-known painters and sculptors. Millions of people have already started their art collections with the help of Park West curators and auctioneers and they’re ready to help you next! 

There are tons of reasons why you should check out the art auction on board your next cruise, here are 10 of our favorite! 

Experience Something New

How many art auctions have you attended? For most people, the answer is not many. An art auction is a great way to experience something new while on vacation. Curious passengers can learn more about how auctions work and what kinds of art are available. Speaking with a gallery attendant is a great way to dip your toes into the art auction world and open yourself up to a whole new hobby you didn’t know you loved! 

Mingle with Other Guests

Meeting new people is a staple of any cruise. Whether it’s sitting by the pool or taking the tender to shore, cruisers are a social bunch who love to mingle with their fellow passengers. Art auctions curated by Park West Gallery on board a cruise ship are a wonderful place to chat with other cruisers about art or anything! Who knows, the people you meet could become great cruising friends in the future! 

Park West Gallery staff offer more details about each piece | Photo: Park West Gallery

Learn More About Yourself

Viewing and appreciating art can also be a great way to learn more about yourself. What pieces stand out to you? Is it the colors? The shapes? The medium? Does the art evoke an emotional reaction? How do your thoughts compare to those around you? The best part about art is there is no wrong answer. What art you find beautiful is unique to you and it says something about who you are as a person. 

Learn More About the Art World 

What is it about art that makes it so popular? Why are some paintings worth more than others. Why do some painters use a certain technique and others don’t? These are all questions that art novices might have when they attend a cruise ship art auction for the first time. Learn more about how paintings come to be auctioned and discover how and why curators build their collections the way that they do. The art industry is massive, global and constantly.

A Park West auctioneer takes bids | Photo: Park West Gallery

Find Something You Like  

Whether you’re an experienced collector or simply looking for something to brighten up a room in your home, attending an art auction on a cruise makes it easy to view and bid on pieces that YOU like! You can find pieces from household names like Peter Max or Romero Britto or something from an artist you aren’t familiar with. All that matters is you love looking at the piece you bid on and want it to be a part of your life moving forward! 

RELATED:   The Best Place to Buy Art? On a Cruise Ship!

Jumpstart Your Home Collection 

Having a personal art collection is a wonderful hobby that many enjoy. Cruise ship art auctions are an opportunity to grow your own collection, no matter your taste in art. Park West curates works made from a variety of mediums and across various artistic styles. You can choose to accent your collection with unique pieces or follow a common theme throughout your personal gallery, it’s entirely up to you! 

Cruise ship art galleries have a variety of works | Photo: Park West Gallery

It’s an Exclusive Opportunity 

The art sold on board cruise ships by galleries like Park West comes with a certificate of authenticity and they provide a complete description of each work sold. In many cases, the works have been archived by the gallery for many years prior to putting them up for auction so it’s fair to say the art is exclusive and challenging to find outside of a cruise art program. If you see something you like, chances are, you’ll never have the chance to bid on it again! 

They’re Fun!  

If you’ve never been to an auction before, art or otherwise, you might not realize how much fun and excitement there can be. Watching the speedy auctioneers take bids and command the room is entertainment in itself, but just wait until a bidding war breaks out over a Picasso sketch or a Rembrandt etching. You can feel the drama in the room! This isn’t a stuffy, monotone art lecture…it’s an interactive event with more action than most realize! 

A Park West Gallery curator speaks with a guest | Photo: Park West Gallery

Free Champagne 

Even if you aren’t looking to buy art on a cruise ship, those who attend the event are privileged to a free glass of bubbly when they arrive. Why not take a quick break from all the fun in the sun to enjoy a cold glass of sparkling wine and check out pieces by famous artists from all over the world! 

You Can Pre-Register For Buying Credits

If you’re cruising soon, Park West is offering a $50 buying credit and a free gift to those who pre-register for their ship’s auction. Park West Gallery curates galleries on the following cruise lines: Carnival, Celebrity, MSC, Norwegian, Princess and Royal Caribbean. Anyone sailing on those cruise lines can pre-register quickly and easily on the Park West Gallery website.

Do you like to buy art on a cruise ship? Let us know in the comments below! 

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How Cruise Ships Are Building Gallery-Worthy Art Collections

In recent years, cruise lines have done much to reshape the sailing experience: exploring partnerships with star-level chefs to elevate the food , investing heavily in luxury spa and wellness programs , and even revamping entertainment to include live DJs and drag brunches on board . Now, they're investing in another way to change the ships—onboard art collections. 

The sheer number of works on even a small ship can be dizzying. The 600-passenger Seabourn Ovation carries 1,600 works of art from nearly 120 artists, while its sister ship, Seabourn Encore , has a similar number. Seabourn turned to Tal Danai, founder and CEO of art consultancy ArtLink , to source and commission all of the art for both. He and three curators worked closely with noted designer Adam Tihany, who led the design vision for the ships, to create a narrative to guide the project. For Ovation the theme was “revisited memories,” and the team created a mood board, complete with key words and touch points as well as possible artworks and artists, that they could reference when considering works.

Once the direction was set, the curators’ job was to work with artists to either purchase existing works or commission original pieces. Danai and his team wanted to make the corridors—the main arteries of the ship—places of interest. They put together hundreds of drawings, postcards, and books—and gave one each to the artists they worked with, asking them to imagine they bought it years ago or as if the postcard fell out of a book. “We told them to make a manifestation of what they felt, and we got beautiful works of art,” Danai said. “One artist embroidered a classic botanical drawing, one cut out the images from a book and left only text. Now, passengers walk by and look, and relate to a piece of art.”

Danai and his team also commissioned a number of craft pieces, including vases from Korean artist Yoo Eui Jeong, whose work is in museum collections in Korea and Norway. They commissioned artist Valeria Nascimento to create a black porcelain work for the wall of the ship's Japanese restaurant; they had her son, Lucas, create a white porcelain piece that hangs opposite, separated by a window.

The works in the Art Cafe on Silversea's Silver Muse was sourced primarily from emerging Italian artists.

Commissioning and purchasing pieces from living artists makes a lot of sense for luxury cruise ships on many levels, says Italian art curator Monica Cembrola , founder of Monica Cembrola for Art. For Silversea , she and her team of three curators gathered 600 works of contemporary art, most sourced directly from Italian artists, to create a collection themed “the lightness of travel” for the line's new 600-passenger Silver Muse . “We had a very conservative budget, so instead of going to galleries, we gave younger artists a chance and bought directly from them,” Cembrola says. “The artworks are imposing and intriguing, and the passengers notice—they post photos on Instagram.” 

Artists like Donato Pompa are featured in the ship’s Art Cafe. While the artwork on board isn’t for sale, so many passengers inquired about purchasing works that Cembrola asked the artists to remake certain pieces to sell to them. Her team also curated the collection on the soon-to-launch Silver Moon, which is based around chromatic and figurative pop art, mixed media, and collage.

At Windstar , where speed is of the essence as they quickly grow their fleet of ships, most art in the new public spaces will be prints and lithographs from contemporary artists and photographers. “It’s cost-effective and faster,” says Ray Chung, director of design at the Johnson Studio at Cooper Carry. “We have three ships being fitted out in one year.” But the aim is always to keep passengers delighted with unexpected beauty and detail. 

Windstar's new Cuadro 44 restaurant features Spanish-themed art and tableware.

That's not uncommon for cruise lines that know they have some advantages in how they display these works. When Ponant was building the 184-passenger Le Jacques Cartier explorer ship, they commissioned Paris-based graffiti artist Shuck One to create an ocean-and-nature themed piece on the raw steel of the ship. Then they covered it up—except for a secret porthole where passengers can catch a glimpse of the hidden work. “It’s a surprise and delight moment for passengers when they discover the piece,” says Jean Emmanuel Sauvée, president and CEO of the line.

It's a lesser-known aspect of cruising, but these lines are giving young and contemporary artists visibility and more paths to earn a living through their art. They're also surrounding passengers with original artwork, sculpture, tapestries, photography, and ceramics—enriching the cruise experience and creating moments of enchantment along the way. 

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $200.

EXPERIENCE ART

• Innovations

Step aboard a Celebrity ship and discover remarkable art galleries, filled with diverse works from some of the biggest names in the art world.

Our long-time partnership with Park West Gallery, the largest art dealer in the world, not only brings a collection of incredible art on board each ship, but also their high-energy, thrilling live art auctions. On your next vacation, join the excitement, have a glass of champagne, and watch the bidding get fast and furious.

The onboard galleries are filled with works from contemporary and classic artists you’ll never forget. And, if you can’t find the art you’re looking for in the ship collection, the Art Team can introduce you to Park West’s exclusive E-Gallery, which gives you access to over 10,000 works from their archives. They’re experts at helping you find the perfect art.

On select ships, you’ll also enjoy Park West’s interactive digital art walls, where you can access the entire Park West art catalog with the touch of a finger.

Browse the art gallery. Learn something new at an entertaining art seminar. Bid on works from your new favorite artist. Or do it all.

Edge Exposed: The Art, Architecture and Design Tour

Marvel at a stunning collection of art and design aboard Celebrity Edge®, the most refined ship at sea, where innovation literally surrounds you. View exciting contemporary works by renowned artists, architects, and designers on a guided tour. Learn more about the awe-inspiring Magic Carpet, the world's first cantilevered platform that is a true feat of engineering, the majestic Grand Plaza with its dazzling chandelier, the impressive brass pendulum installation and much more.

REGISTER EARLY FOR CELEBRITY’S ONBOARD ART AUCTIONS. GET A $100 BID CREDIT AND A FREE GIFT!

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Cruise Destinations

Authentic art, exciting auctions: the ultimate cruise ship experience.

Key Takeaways

• Park West Gallery ensures authenticity and high standards in art auctions on cruise ships
• Art auctions on cruise ships are fun and interesting events
• Collections on cruise ships include various styles and mediums
• Park West Gallery offers guidance and insights for art buyers

The Authenticity of Artwork on Cruise Ships

The Thrill of Art Auctions at Sea

A diverse collection of artistic treasures.

Famous Artists and Masterpieces on Board

Guided insights for art enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i participate in the art auctions on cruise ships, are the art collections on cruise ships limited to paintings, or are there other types of artwork available, can i purchase artwork from the auctions even if i am not on the cruise ship, are there any additional fees or charges associated with purchasing artwork at the auctions, how often do the art collections on cruise ships change, and how can i stay updated on the latest offerings.

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team.

From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

Arctic Adventure: Uncharted Destinations With Le Commandant Charcot

Art Auctions on Cruise Ships: Unleashing Your Inner Collector

Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Royal caribbean’s loyalty program: levels and perks revealed.

• Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society loyalty program has multiple levels that are reached based on a points system.
• Platinum tier is reached at thirty cruise points and offers perks such as complimentary photos, laundry services, and exclusive access to staff members.
• Pinnacle Club is the highest level, requiring 700 cruise points, and grants members all perks from lower levels as well as additional benefits like complimentary drinks, discounted beverage packages, and access to exclusive lounges and restaurants.
• The loyalty program also includes benefits for families, with children sharing their parents’ status tier and receiving discounts on ice cream, arcade credits, and complimentary drink coupons.

Loyalty Program Tiers

Earning Points

Platinum tier benefits.

Pinnacle Club Perks

Family benefits, how long does it take for loyalty points to expire, can i request to add missing cruise points if i forgot to have them added after a previous cruise, can perks be shared among friends traveling together, does celebrity cruises honor crown and anchor status for all levels, is there a limit to the number of points that can be earned in the loyalty program, ideal time for a bahamas cruise: beat the crowds and heat.

• November to May is the ideal time for a Bahamas cruise, as it offers fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere.
• Booking before Thanksgiving in November may provide better pricing for a Bahamas cruise.
• The average high temperature in the Bahamas is 86 degrees, with an average low of 71 degrees.
• Cruising in November to May offers a more comfortable climate compared to July, which has temperatures around 83 degrees.

Weather and Temperatures

Personal considerations, are there any specific events or festivals in the bahamas that i should consider when planning a cruise, are there any specific activities or excursions that are highly recommended during a bahamas cruise, can you provide any tips or recommendations for first-time cruisers to the bahamas, what are some popular cruise lines that offer bahamas itineraries, are there any specific ports in the bahamas that are known for their beautiful beaches or unique attractions, exploring the charms of bimini, bahamas: adventure, views, and local delights.

• Bimini, Bahamas offers pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
• The destination is known for its vibrant marine life and sense of adventure.
• Travelers can enjoy activities such as renting kayaks to explore secluded coves and beaches, and sipping cocktails with panoramic views.
• Local cuisine in Bimini includes fresh seafood, conch salad, cracked conch, and coconut shrimp.

Places to Visit

Tips for traveling.

What are some popular water activities to do in Bimini, Bahamas?

Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit in bimini, can you recommend any local restaurants or food specialties in bimini, are there any festivals or events that take place in bimini throughout the year, what is the best way to get around the island of bimini.

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Work Hard. Play Hard. See the World. Start a Career.

As a brand ambassador for park west gallery—the world’s largest art dealer—you'll travel the world by cruise ship while developing entrepreneurial and management skills that will last a lifetime., art auctions abroad.

The Park West Gallery Story

Since its establishment, Park West Gallery has connected over 3 million clients to the wonders of art collecting.

Cruise Ship Jobs with Park West

Pursue a long-lasting and fulfilling career in the fine art and auction world with Park West Gallery while fostering your passion for travel.

Professional Training

Take part in Park West Gallery’s comprehensive training program that prepares you to take on the exciting challenge of hosting live art auctions aboard cruise ships.

Cruise Ship Lifestyle

While working on a cruise ship with Park West Gallery, no two days are alike. From visiting exotic ports of call to hosting art seminars for guests, the rewards of an onboard career are endless.

Travel the world on board some of the largest cruise ships in the world from cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival

Work on a team of experienced fine art salespeople who will help you build your sales acumen and reach your career goals

Work for both salary- and commission-based compensation selling fine art from artists ranging from Pablo Picasso to Peter Max

Graduate from our exclusive training program administered by the most successful auctioneers in the company

Save for tomorrow—food and cabin is free on board all our partner cruise lines

SEE ALL AVAILABLE JOB POSTINGS

Represent some of the world’s most talented contemporary and historic artists.

While working on board, you represent prestigious artists from around the world. From artistic masters like Pablo Picasso, Albrecht Durer, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Marc Chagall to contemporary icons like Peter Max, Michael Godard, Mark Kostabi, Romero Britto, Kre8, Daniel Wall, and David “Lebo” Le Batard—Park West Gallery’s collection of artists have changed the face of art history.

• Cruise Ship Jobs
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Art for Cruises

Curating Art for Cruise Ships

As international art consultants, Artelier delivers expert art curation for cruises, including custom art and complete cruise art collections. With our extensive expertise in providing art for superyachts and hotels, we understand how to meet the expectations of luxury cruise guests. Our art consultants source and  commission artists to create bespoke art for cruise spaces, such as cruise lobby art, restaurants and art for spas.

Services for Cruise Art

Art Consultancy for Cruises

Understand the Project Vision

Each cruise art project has a unique context, interior design scheme and brand principles. Artelier consults with project teams to establish a deep understanding of the vision for the cruise ship art, and how this can be communicated through accessories and art for the cruise.

Contextual Art Research

Through in-depth research, Artelier unearths thematic ideas for the cruise art project, incorporating them in the cruise ship's paintings, sculpture commissions, and feature walls.  This thematic approach offers a rich basis for a coherent cruise ship art collection. 

Concept Development & Curation

Artelier identifies key locations for art in the cruise – including art for the cruise lobby, art for the leisure and spa areas, and cabin wall art. We decide on how to display art in the cruise, and specially curate the onboard art so that it creates maximum impact in each room. 

Art Specifications & Detail Design

We review each artwork location in the cruise ship to establish sizes for artworks, and finalise the design of custom art commissions. As art consultants for cruises, we provide creative direction and technical expertise like art framing, art installation and fire safety.

Art Procurement & Commissions

Our consultants oversee sourcing accessories and art for the cruise and manage the art commissioning process, providing specialist art market insight and art fabrication expertise in order to ensure the highest standards of quality across the cruise art project. 

Project Management

Providing turnkey project management for cruise art projects, Artelier coordinates and supervises each stage of producing custom art for cruise ships.  As art consultants for cruise projects, we monitor time-scales and ensure all safety regulations are adhered to.

Logistics & Installation

Artelier's art consultants manage team liaison and offer full support in organising logistics for delivering art for luxury cruise ships, including: labelling, packing, shipping, import and export documentation for hotel art, delivery and specialist fine art installation services on site.

Our Scope of Services are tailored to each project

Discover Case Studies

Contemporary Paintings

Marble & Bronze Sculptures

Custom Art Installations

Bespoke Wall Murals

Sculptural Vases & Accessories

Wall Art Commissions

Multimedia Art

Feature Walls and Finishes

Locations for Art in Cruises

Art for Cruise Lobby

Art for Master Suite

Art for Cruise Spa

Art for Stairwell

Art for Cabins

Art for Restaurant & Bar

Art for Bathrooms

Art for Cruise Deck

Key Types of Artwork for Cruises

Further information.

Whichever stage your hotel project is at, Artelier can advise on creative direction and artwork concepts. We can provide a turnkey art service, overseeing the project from initial ideas to installation – contact us to learn more about how we can tailor our services to you. 

Explora Journeys Unveils New Art Collection and Experiences

• July 15, 2024

Explora Journeys unveiled a new art collection and immersive art experiences onboard the Explora, including limited-edition screenprints and lithographs by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtensteinand an original acrylic and silkscreen on canvas by Andy Warhol.

Curated by the owner’s family, art selection onboard the Explora I features a blend of renowned and emerging artists. Guests can discover limited edition prints in suites and corridors, three-dimensional paper wall reliefs, specially commissioned paintings in the restaurants and sculptural masterpieces by Yves Dana in the lobby.

On deck five,  guests can find Yinka Shonibare’s British Library collections: Philanthropists (2021), Activists (2021), Actors (2020), Female Artists (2020), and Writers (2019).

Koray Savas, vice president of hotel operations at Explora Journeys, said: “Art has always been one of the main focal points of the guest experience on board our ships. The carefully curated art selection features a blend of renowned and emerging artists, alongside master artisans, creating an immersive art experience for guests throughout their journey. From the suites to the restaurants, and from the public areas to the lounges and lobby, the artworks enhance every space, ensuring that each guest’s experience is enriched with beauty and inspiration.”

Galleria d’Arte now features a privately-owned collection of limited-edition prints from two pop art masters: Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Additionally, expert art luminaries and hosts will guide guests through these artworks, elevating the art experience onboard.

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Love Exploring

We’ve Found the World’s Most Beautiful Cruise Ships

Posted: January 6, 2024 | Last updated: January 6, 2024

When it comes to cruising, it really is more about the journey than the destination – and today's cruise ships focus more and more on passenger experience. Designs and aesthetics are constantly improving and being elevated with spaces curated by top interior designers, high-end suites that rival those in 5-star hotels and even extensive art collections on board. We take a look at the world's most beautiful cruise ships that bring a little extra sparkle, inside and out.

MS Rotterdam, Holland America Line

The 2,668-guest MS Rotterdam is the third in the Pinnacle Class series for Holland America Line. At 984 feet (300m) in length, the craftmanship used to create the classic nautical lines of the ship’s exterior reflects almost 150 years of expertise within the company. Her interiors dazzle too, with fluid lines, vibrant colors and airy, light-filled spaces from the shared areas to the staterooms and suites.

Music is the ship's main inspiration, on show everywhere from the atrium’s dramatic harp-like sculpture to the impressive World Stage, where musicians play against a wraparound LED screen. Thoughtfully curated art is displayed throughout the decks and staterooms too, from museum-quality antiques and works by the masters to avant-garde sculptures and thought-provoking photography by emerging artists. Together, they make up a floating gallery of 2,645 pieces of work ranging in value from around $500-$620,000.

Silver Moon, Silversea

Silversea's  Silver Moon maintains the small-ship intimacy and spacious all-suite accommodation that the cruise line has become known for – yet takes it to a whole new level. The ship's high-end suites have been enriched with elegant decor, premium amenities and luxurious details such as handcrafted beds by Savoir. Bespoke crystal panels by luxury French brand Lalique have been incorporated into the brand's signature restaurant, La Dame.

The innovative new culinary enrichment programme Sea and Land Taste (SALT) is designed to immerse guests in culinary experiences, from classes and market trips to extra-special meals. Dining spaces are filled with unique objects and arts and crafts pieces that draw on influences from all over the world, while color palettes throughout are used to enhance the dining experience. Lighter tones brighten the demo area, the main restaurant has rich details and accents, while the bar has a darker, more mysterious feel.

Scenic Eclipse, Scenic Cruises

Scenic Eclipse  promises to deliver an ultra-luxury cruise experience for up to 228 guests. Her indulgent suites are flooded with natural light thanks to the floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, which open onto a private veranda or terrace. All 114 suites are furnished with king-size beds, ambient lighting and lounge areas. The Owner’s Penthouse Suites are even more incredible, each with its own spacious curved terrace, private spa pool and sun loungers, plus a private lounge and dining area.

The shared spaces are pretty decadent too. There's the 550-square-foot (51sqm) Senses Spa, emblazoned with gold leaf, and multiple pool areas. The stylish Whisky Bar has a floor-to-ceiling translucent quartz display case with 110 varieties of the spirit, while a sculpture of a gown – consisting of 5,400 spoons – marks the entrance to French Champagne bar Lumière.

Disney Wish, Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line’s imagineers have once again created a world of enchantment, this time aboard the Disney Wish . The ship welcomed her first guests in summer 2022 and has a distinctly Disney design concept inspired by timeless tales. The motif of 'enchantment' manifests throughout the ship, from the magical forest setting of the Walt Disney Theatre and storybook-inspired staterooms to the fairy-tale-castle Grand Hall, where a dazzling wishing star descends from the shimmering chandelier above.

The Wish Tower Suite, set high in the forward funnel of the ship (which displays the cruise line’s Micky Mouse logo), is a 1,966-square-foot (183sqm) penthouse in the sky and the most unique Disney Cruise Line accommodation yet. Another of the ship's magical features is Disney’s first Frozen -themed theatrical dining experience, which brings the world of Arendelle to life through immersive live entertainment and world-class cuisine infused with Nordic influences.

Regatta, Oceania Cruises

Regatta is the flagship vessel of Oceania Cruises' fleet and a shining example of the OceaniaNEXT rebuild of the brand’s four 684-guest Regatta Class ships. Her 342 lavish suites and staterooms showcase designer furnishings, while the reimagined public spaces feature Tuscan marble, a revamped color palette of soft sea and sky tones, works of art and a tasteful renewal of fabrics, furnishings and light fixtures.

Regatta has four restaurants including the iconic Grand Dining Room, which has been decked out with new bejeweled chandeliers. Other beautifully refreshed spaces include Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, eight lounges and bars and a casino. Her decks are made from the finest teak, custom stone and tile work, and her lounges, suites and staterooms have luxurious Neoclassical furnishings.

Royal Clipper, Star Clippers

Royal Clipper is one of Star Clippers’ three tall ships and officially the largest square rigger in service. The elegant vessel cuts through the water gracefully, just like the legendary clippers from a bygone era. The five-masted, fully rigged tall ship, which has 42 sails, is beautiful to look at. Her Clipper heritage is reflected in polished brass and gleaming brightwork, expansive teak decks, swimming pools, informal dining, a convivial tropical bar and a comfortable piano bar.

The balance of maritime nostalgia and modern cruising is spot-on. Passengers can recline in the bowsprit net suspended above the sea or climb the mast to the Crow's Nest for stunning panoramic views as they sail. The 18,944 square feet (1,760sqm) of open deck and three swimming pools create an expansive outdoor environment. Another notable feature is the Captain Nemo Lounge, the ship's spa and health club, with underwater glass portholes.

Seabourn Encore, Seabourn

Seabourn Encore is the newest striking ship in the cruise line's ultra-luxury fleet. Modeled on the trio of ships introduced with Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Encore represents another stage in the evolution of small ship cruising. There are 300 suites in total, including 16 penthouse suites and five penthouse spa suites, all with verandas facing the ocean.

Seabourn Square, designed to be an innovative concierge lounge, invites guests to access every shipboard service in a relaxed, living-room atmosphere. The Square's thoughtful layout includes a library, upscale shops, an outdoor terrace and a coffee bar, all arranged across a light-filled space with dark-wood accents, a subtle color palette and striking blue velvet armchairs.

Le Ponant, Ponant

Le Ponant  is the flagship vessel of French cruise company Ponant. The three-mast cruise yacht, which relaunched in summer 2022, has undergone a complete refit and refurbishment. Designed by French studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, her common areas have refined, clean lines with an elegant finish. The color palette – consisting of off-white, taupe and caviar gray – reflect the classic, sophisticated style, with no need for embellishments or bling.

The accommodation is equally streamlined and elevated, with the number of staterooms and suites halved to just 16, housing a maximum of 32 guests. These are spread over three decks, each benefiting from large windows, and include a particularly lovely and spacious Owner Suite. The company has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant, giving guests the sense of being on their own private yacht.

MSC Virtuosa, MSC Cruises

MSC Virtuosa was named in homage to the skill and expertise of the architects and shipyard partners who designed and built it. The ship carries all the signature features of an MSC Cruises’ ship. At its heart are glamorous, gleaming mirrored surfaces in the atrium, centered around a sparkly Swarovski-studded staircase linking all three decks of the ship.

The beautifully designed indoor promenade has the longest LED dome at sea and images on the high ceiling can change from an underwater adventure to a space exploration scene. The ship has 21 bars and lounges all with their own style and unique decor, from the futuristic white and blue of the Starship club featuring Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, to the earthy colors of traditional pub Masters of the Sea.

Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Apex is part of Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series. The ship showcases the talents of British designer Kelly Hoppen CBE, American designer Nate Berkus, Paris-based design firm Jouin Manku and British architect Tom Wright. Hoppen’s inspiration for the accommodation was to create an outward-facing design emphasizing the outdoor scenery. Each of the ship's two Iconic Suites, positioned high above the bridge, have more than 2,500 square feet (232sqm) of opulent indoor and outdoor space, complete with private terrace and hot tub.

The Grand Plaza is one of the ship's most interesting spaces, inspired by the piazzas of Italy. Its chandelier transforms the atmosphere from day to night, with the lighting changing from warm and inviting to bright and dramatic. Other beautifully imagined areas are the Rooftop Garden and the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered, floating platform set 13 floors above sea level.

Queen Mary 2, Cunard

Cunard’s flagship  Queen Mary 2 exudes classic style and elegance. Designed by a team of British naval architects, the traditional ocean liner has a long, sleek bow that makes her ideal for transatlantic crossings. Its black hull, red stripe, distinctive red-and-black funnel crown and bright white decks evoke the appearance of ocean liners of a bygone era.

The lavish accommodation includes beautiful duplex suites, each with a spiral staircase, walk-in closet, marble bath and private balcony. A daily afternoon tea is served by white-gloved waiters in the Queens Room restaurant, while Godiva at Sir Samuel’s has a decadent display of pralines and truffles. Elsewhere, the planetarium 3D cinema sends guests on an epic voyage across the solar system.

Seven Seas Splendor, Regent Seven Seas

An art collection worth around $5 million is displayed throughout the  Seven Seas Splendor . The impressive floating gallery includes more than 500 crystal chandeliers and more than an acre of Italian marble which fits in well with the ship's sophisticated style. Other standout aspects are the mythical dragon that greets diners at Pacific Rim restaurant and the alcoves that jut over the ocean at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Each of the beautifully appointed suites has a private balcony, while the palatial Regent Suite – perched on the 14th deck – has a wraparound veranda over the ship’s bow. Its custom-made Treesse mini-pool spa is situated on the front balcony, while the king-sized Vividus bed was handcrafted by upscale Swedish brand, Hästens.

Viking Octantis, Viking Cruises

The new Polar Class  Viking Octantis  is imagined by the same interior designers, nautical architects and engineers who designed the cruise line’s longships and ocean ships. An integrated bow creates a longer waterline for the ship, featuring the company’s signature Scandinavian influence. Each stateroom has a Nordic-style balcony and a sunroom, while floor-to-ceiling, distortion-free glass allows guests to take in the views and keep the elements out. The top of the panoramic glass lowers to transform the stateroom into a sheltered lookout.

The stunning Explorers’ Lounge, pictured, has two decks at the bow of the ship with double-height windows to take in the scenery. Other cleverly laid-out areas include the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area just above sea level with has recessed couches and lava rock fire pits, and the Aquavit Terrace and pools, set under a retractable glass dome. The design of the spa and fitness center is in keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, featuring a thermal suite with traditional Norwegian badestamp (wood-sided hot tub).

Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Cruises

Emerald Cruises’ first-ever luxury superyacht, Emerald Azzurra , launched in March 2022. She stretches to 361 feet (110m) in length and carries just 100 guests across 50 deluxe suites and staterooms. The yacht's sleek design enables her to venture to ports and harbors many other, bigger cruise ships are unable to access. Onboard, the infinity-edge pool offers incredible views of passing scenery.

There are six suite and stateroom categories on the Emerald Azzurra, each wonderfully luxurious (though some a little more so). The oversized Owner’s Suites are the most opulent, with separate bedroom and lounge areas. Best of all, guests can soak up the sun from the large private curved terrace with uninterrupted views. Designer wing chairs and footstools are a fixture in the Observation Lounge, and can be taken outside on clear days and for cinema evenings.

Now take a look at more exciting new cruise ships coming soon

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Lifestyle | Buying art on a cruise ship could get you in…

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Lifestyle | buying art on a cruise ship could get you in deep water.

My husband and I faced an unusual situation at our house: a blank wall. I had moved some art around, leaving a glaringly empty wall in the entryway. This wouldn’t normally be a problem, but DC and I have different tastes and different philosophies about acquiring art. I like to buy art from local artists. He likes art from “known” artists. We also both work, so we don’t have the luxury of strolling through art galleries or going to art auctions at Sotheby’s. So, the wall stayed bare.

“We’ll look on our cruise,” DC said a couple months back, referring to a long-planned vacation coming up.

I sighed. He’s a bigger fan of cruises. The thought of these oversized ships with their central parks, ice rinks, massive buffets and free-flowing alcohol used to make me want to climb into a tent with a granola bar and read a book by flashlight. But he convinced me to try. I have come around. And that’s marriage.

He has also convinced me to attend the ship’s art auctions, which I used to think were cheesy, because, in fact, some of the art for sale is cheesy.

Park West, the company that runs art auctions for many cruise lines, knows what their cruising customers like. They also know that when vacationers are out to sea with all their cares on a distant shore, they are primed to splurge. They hold a glass of champagne in one hand and a numbered paddle in the other. They sit on velvet chairs in a room with others in the same boat, literally. Next, a fast-talking auctioneer unveils artworks on stage, extols the virtues of the artist and the piece, and explains why you must that minute become its owner.

Numbers and money — from $50 to five figures — fly. Gavels bang. And next thing you know, someone is going home with a signed, numbered, framed Salvador Dalí. It’s crazy. But I’ve decided if my husband and his wallet are open to buying art on a ship, I’m on board.

We agreed on this. We wanted a contemporary — preferably original — work that was a water motif since we live in Florida and in our budget. Although the chances of finding a piece that hit that sweet spot was as likely as finding a casino on Mars, we told the auctioneer what we were looking for. He opened his laptop and pulled up several works on the ship, including one from a rising Florida artist that miraculously checked all our boxes. He showed us the actual piece and price.

We researched the artist online to find out what his pieces sold for. The opening bid for the framed original was much lower. “Sailing at Dawn” is on its way to our home.

The whole experience made me realize I needed a refresher on fine art. Whether on land or sea, the uninitiated can quickly get into deep water buying art. Back home, I called fine art appraiser Susan Filebark, of Vero Beach, Florida. Filebark learned her craft from her mother, who appraised art for museums, and had as one of her maxims: “Never buy art on a cruise ship!”

We got that laugh out of the way, then she helped me break down what affects art value, so if you ever find yourself with a paddle in one hand and champagne in the other, you’ll be ready.

• The artist. How well-known the artist is will affect the sales price. Some collectors only want signed originals or limited-edition art from listed artists, defined as an artist who has sold art at an auction.

• Original or limited-edition works. Although a one-of-a-kind signed original will command the highest price, if an original by an artist you like is out of your price range, look for serigraphs, stone lithographs or engravings by that artist. These limited-edition prints are produced in multiples yet are still considered fine art. Because the printing plates deteriorate with multiple impressions, production stops when the artist, who generally oversees the printing, no longer approves the quality, thus making a limited-edition piece.

• Signed and numbered. In the bottom margin of a limited-edition print is a fraction, such as 42/150, written in pencil. That indicates it is the 42nd print in a run of 150. The artist typically signs each print. Usually, these print runs are under 250. Runs much over that make the print less valuable.

• Giclées. An ink-jet printing technique that transfers digitized scans of fine art directly onto canvas, giclées allow for realistic reproductions at affordable prices. To tell the difference between a giclée and an original, look closely with a magnifying loupe for any pixilation or cross-hatching. Also feel it. A giclée won’t have any paint build up from brushstrokes. The exception is with hand-embellished giclées, where the artist (presumably) paints over parts of a giclée to give it an authentic look, and signs it. Though this will raise the value, it’s still a giclée underneath.

• Open-edition prints. These are basically posters with large press runs. They are worth only their decorative value. Sometimes artists sign posters, say at a museum exhibition, which may increase the value, but it doesn’t make it a limited-edition print.

• The value hierarchy. If Filebark were to use dollar symbols like in a dining guide to assign value from most to least expensive, an original would be $$$$$, a signed limited-edition print would be $$-$$$ and a giclée would be $. I have all of these in my home.

“If you want to buy art by a certain artist,” Filebark says, “look in the secondhand market. Watch for works to come up at art auctions or find the artist and buy direct from their studio.”

Galleries are also an option. Or, if you like having a wide selection, a choice of frames, the cost of shipping included and free champagne, check your snobbishness at the door and consider buying art on a cruise ship.

Marni Jameson is the author of seven books including the newly released “Rightsize Today to Create Your Best Life Tomorrow,” “What to Do With Everything You Own to Leave the Legacy You Want,” and “Downsizing the Family Home.” You may reach her at [email protected].

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What Is it Like Being an Art Auctioneer on a Cruise Ship?

Auctioneer Nikki van der Merwe gets the crowd excited at a Park West auction.

When Park West’s art auctioneers tell people what they do for a living, a common reaction is “Wait, WHAT ?” It’s an understandable reaction. Meeting a lawyer or an accountant is an everyday experience. But how often do you meet someone who sells world-class art on luxury cruise ships all over the world?

Once people get past the initial “How did I not know this job exists?” phase, they’re usually filled with questions about the international art auctioneer lifestyle. They want to know about living on a cruise ship, conducting auctions, everything!

With this in mind, we asked a few of Park West’s top auctioneers to give us an inside peek into their world and answer some of their most frequently asked questions about being a cruise-ship art auctioneer.

1). What is your favorite part of running an art auction?

What keeps me coming back for more, even after 4 years, is the rush and exhilaration of a live art auction. Every week, in front of that crowd, I learn something new. – Jared Hamer

The bidding is the best part for me . – Matt Whittam

I can break my favorites into three main parts:

• The pride of creating a fun experience, which is, in many occasions, more entertaining than the other onboard events on the cruise.
• The feeling of presenting art, keeping it real and objective, while also allowing the attendees to enjoy themselves and see how they can learn more.
• The challenge of using my entertaining skills during my art presentations to create a successful auction. – Chris Greyvenstein

Park West’s live auctions will be one of the most entertaining moments of your cruise voyage.

2). Why do you think so many people love buying art while they’re on vacation?

I think they get really involved with our events and start enjoying the environment. They always find at least one work they like. – Matt Whittam

Art is a universal language without cultural borders, and sometimes it tells us a story about ourselves. This is bound to happen to any human being at some point in their life. Park West just makes that experience possible for people every week. – Jared Hamer

Auctioneer Matt Whittam gets the bidding started.

3). What is it like living on the ship where your clients can see you every day of the cruise?

It’s almost like having an extra crew of friends for the week. In a small way, you feel a little bit famous. – Matt Whittam

If you love people, you will love working on a cruise ship. If you are a little shy, it’s the best place to learn how to get over it. I’ve met over 70 different nationalities onboard. – Jared Hamer

It’s great. People see us all the time around the ship. We get daily comments about the auctions or people shouting at us. Even out in port, people stop by to ask questions. I love it. – Chris Greyvenstein

Auctioneers Irene van Huyssteen and Jared Hamer enjoy themselves on an excursion from one of their many cruise voyages.

4). What’s one of your favorite memories of a live auction?

A few weeks ago, we did a 14-day cruise, which is amazing because you get to spend more time with your guests and they turn into your friends. On the final day, our clients took over the microphone and started to conduct the auction. They gave away a hand-signed work from all the team members and then thanked us for the great time they had with us. I will always remember that. – Jared Hamer

I remember one time I bent down to pick up a raffle ticket and my trousers ripped, large enough that the whole front row saw it. It was so bad that I had to send a team member to go get me another suit. I changed halfway through the auction. – Matt Whittam

5). Auctioneers are known for talking fast. How do you talk that fast and not get lost during the auction?

Using tonality while annunciating is one of the greatest ways to keep the attention of your guests. You can always make it sound fast depending on your tonality. – Matt Whittam

Annunciating is a great way not to get lost in the words. It’s about having a rhythm and keeping the tempo. It’s pretty easy really and, with practice, anyone can do it. – Jared Hamer

I make a point of slowing it down. But you have to keep the balance between fast and slow. You want to keep the energy for the fun attendees that came for a live show, but also keep it professional for interested collectors. – Chris Greyvenstein

Auctioneer Chris Greyvenstein is an expert at talking slowly, but keeping it exciting.

For the latest art and auctioneer news, follow Park West Gallery on  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  Instagram .

Want to learn more about becoming a Park West art auctioneer and traveling the world to spread the joy of art? Visit Art Auctions Abroad !

Learn more about Park West’s world-class auctioneer program:

• Park West Auctioneer Spotlight: Alex White
• Park West Auctioneer Spotlight: Alan Ridderhof
• Park West Auctioneer Spotlight: Nilesh Gurung
• Park West Gallery Auctioneer Spotlight: Mike Grobler

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Home and Garden

Home and garden | buying art on a cruise ship could get you in deep water — or not  .

My husband and I faced an unusual situation at our house: a blank wall. This wouldn’t normally be a problem, but we have different tastes and different philosophies. I like to buy art from local artists. He likes art from “known” artists. And we rarely have time to stroll through galleries or go to art auctions together.

“We’ll look on our cruise,” DC said a couple months back. I sighed. He’s a bigger fan of cruises. The thought of these oversized ships with their central parks, ice rinks, massive buffets and free-flowing alcohol used to make me want to go camping. But he convinced me to try. I have come around. And that’s marriage.

He has also convinced me to attend the ship’s art auctions, which I used to think were cheesy, because, in fact, some of the art for sale is the kind where two olives hold hands and dance in a martini glass. This isn’t a judgment. It’s simply a fact.

Park West, the company that runs art auctions for many cruise lines, knows what their cruising customers like. They also know that when vacationers are out to sea with all their cares on a distant shore, they are primed to splurge. These mates hold a glass of Champagne in one hand and a numbered paddle in the other, while a fast-talking auctioneer unveils artworks on stage and explains why you must — that very minute — become its owner.

Numbers and money (from $50 to five-figures) fly. Gavels bang. And next thing you know, someone is going home with a signed, numbered, framed Salvador Dali. It’s crazy. But I was on board.

We agreed on this much: We wanted a contemporary, preferably original work, about 30- by 40 inches with blues and oranges, a water motif and, oh, in our budget. So we told the auctioneer what we were looking for. He opened his laptop and pulled up several works on the ship, including one from a rising Florida artist that miraculously checked all our boxes.

We researched the artist online to find out what his pieces sold for. The opening bid for the framed original was much lower. Now, “Sailing at Dawn” is on its way to our home.

Back home, I called Florida fine art appraiser Susan Filebark, who learned her craft from her museum art-appraiser mother, and had a maxim: “Never buy art on a cruise ship!”

We got that laugh out of the way, then she helped me break down what affects art value, so if you ever find yourself with a paddle in one hand and Champagne in the other, you’ll be ready.

The artist: Fame affects sales price, of course. Some collectors only want signed originals or limited-edition art from listed artists, i.e., those who have sold art at an auction.

Original or limited-edition: A signed original will command the highest price, but if that’s out of your price range, look for serigraphs, stone lithographs or engravings by that artist. These limited-edition prints are still considered fine art. Because the printing plates deteriorate with multiple impressions, production stops when the artist no longer approves the quality, thus making it a limited edition.

Signed and numbered: Look for a fraction, such as 42/150, written in pencil on the bottom margin of a limited-edition print. That indicates it is the 42nd print in a run of 150. The artist typically signs each print. Usually, these print runs are under 250. Runs much over that make the print less valuable.

Open-edition prints: These are basically posters. If the artist signs it, perhaps at an exhibit, it may increase the value, but it doesn’t make it a limited edition. Candace Hill, a Colorado art appraiser, offered this example: At auction, a signed poster of Andy Warhol’s “Marilyn” sold for $952. A signed limited-edition silkscreen print sold for $156,250, and a signed original sold for $28 million.

“If you want to buy art by a certain artist,” Filebark says, “look in the secondhand market. Watch for works to come up at auctions or find the artist and buy direct from his studio.”

Marni Jameson has written seven books, including “Downsizing the Family Home.” Reach her at [email protected].

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