Speaking of wellness, we sat down with two very special Captain’s Club members, Michael and Vickie Whitworth this month. They’ve made time to nourish their souls, sailing the world with us for the last twenty years.
When Michael and Vickie Whitworth look at their stack of SeaPass cards and albums of vacation photos, they ask themselves, “How did we get so lucky to do all of this?” Booking their first cruise with Celebrity was a lucky chance. Nearly 25 years after graduating from college, Vickie had gone back to graduate school and earned her master’s degree. To celebrate her graduation, they threw a proverbial dart at a “dartboard of vacation ideas” which included both cruise and land vacation options, according to Vickie. The couple chose Celebrity Infinity for its enticing Honolulu to Vancouver itinerary, having no idea that their lives would change forever.
That first sailing was in the spring of 2003 and would mark the beginning of 20 years of life-enriching experiences with Celebrity. This month, they’re celebrating their 53-wedding anniversary—and next May, they’ll celebrate the 20th anniversary of their first cruise on board Celebrity Eclipse (sailing from Sydney to Honolulu). Over the last two decades, cruising has become more than just a getaway or celebration for them. It’s an important part of their lives, and something for which they feel extremely grateful.
Self-described “small towners” from the Midwest, Michael and Vickie initially worked as educators with severely handicapped adults and children. Even after they both switched careers, they continued to volunteer with critically and chronically ill children. This often meant they’d find themselves fundraising, rather than celebrating, during an anniversary or birthday. This is the source of their profound sense of gratitude—and why they approach each sailing with utmost appreciation. They also deeply value the close connections they’ve found with fellow members and crew throughout the years. And, in Michael’s words, they’re amazed at how Celebrity “over-delivers on the promise of excellence” every sailing.
“What makes it so special for us is not the beautiful ships, although they are spectacular; it is not where they go, although that is miraculous; it’s not the tremendous food, although that is wonderful; it is not the entertainment, although that is unbelievable; it is the PEOPLE of Celebrity that not only continue to draw us back, but also have such an important impact on us and our lives,” said Michael.
The feeling is mutual. It’s the people and members, like Michael and Vickie, that keep us motivated to deliver exceptional experiences. And, we can’t wait to welcome them aboard Celebrity Eclipse next May as they celebrate the 20th anniversary of their very first cruise on Celebrity Infinity.
