An interview with Dan Russell, Chicago General Manager (our Chicago boats, day-to-day GM life, and a little bit of football).

Hi Dan,

Thank you for taking the time to share a little bit about you and what you do with us today.

1. How long have you been with Entertainment Cruises?

“13 years” (wow)

2. What is your favorite part about your job?

“Two things:

-Happy guests

-Watching our young professionals grow in their careers (and playing a role in that, of course)”

3. Which vessel/specialty cruise is your favorite Chicago product?

“Our ...

Lake-Breeze Dinner Lounge aboard Mystic Blue. It is very laid back atmosphere (which I really need right now), casual, good food. It’s like a lounge on the water.”

4. Describe your favorite memory about a guest.

“We have dozens, no hundreds of engagements aboard Odyssey every year. It never ceases to amaze me that people choose to go onboard the Odyssey to celebrate one of the biggest moments of their lives (and we get to be a part of it). I am honored and flattered to have that aboard our vessels. It is really special.”

On to more pressing matters…

5. The USC Marching Band made a showing at Navy Pier last week in front of our Chicago cruising vessels; did you happen to catch a glimpse of the action?

“I’ve seen it in years past. They come every other year, always in mid-October. And there are always tons of USC fans. Since they have no NFL team, they follow their USC football all over the country (plus, it’s an excuse to come to Chicago and go to Navy Pier).”

6. What were your thoughts on the USC, Notre Dame game?

“No, but I’ve been to many of them both here and in Los Angeles. I must say those LA supporters are a classy group of fans. I’ve always loved that game. It’s a good, fan friendly game.

Now about the game, I’m happy that Notre Dame made a game of it in the end. If only they had scored the last touchdown. They lost by one touchdown and they were on four yard line – heartbreaking. Although, 5 minutes earlier they were down by 20 points…”

7. You know, I am from Los Angeles, and well, I was going to rub it in, but I guess I’ll just stop right there.

8. In one sentence, describe why EC rocks.

“We rock because we have people uniquely and perfectly suited to do what we do down on Navy Pier.”

Thanks again Dan! And readers, talk to you soon.

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