CRUISE DIRECTOR - HUGH LESLIE

I joined Swan Hellenic in April 1993 after serving as a Purser's Officer with P&O/Princess, sailing on many of the company’s ships including Canberra, Oriana and Royal Princess (now Artemis). I worked the last three seasons of Swan Hellenic’s Orpheus (1993/1995), all through the first period with Minerva (1996-2003) – including the Maiden Voyage – and also all through the whole period with Minerva II (2003-2007), also including the Maiden Voyage.  I ‘retired’ in April 2007, but was recalled in 2008 to act as relieving Cruise Director

Favourite Ports: I have always enjoyed Swan Hellenic's original stomping ground, the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East. I also very much enjoying cruising in South East Asia.

Memorable moments: Many and regular!! Coconut Plucking Monkeys at Kuantan in Malaysia spring to mind. After 'plucking' their coconuts, in a fit of bad temper the monkeys hurled their coconuts like missiles at the passengers assembled below the palm trees. Never have so many moved so fast in such a short space of time!

Working on board worthwhile: Most of the Swan team have worked with the Company for many years; this creates a great cameraderie as we have come to know each other very well. Sometimes too well! I am told that the on board team can tell my mood from the tone of voice of my first announcement each morning!

Spare time at home: After four weeks on board I enjoy time to myself. I have a close circle of friends and socialising with them is a continual pleasure. I am also a big opera fan and attend as often as time and budget allows.