Being the first Cruise Director for South Sea Cruises new catamaran, SABRE comes with the territory.
Elizabeth Antonio, Liz to those who know her personally, was a former Fiji Airways senior Purser with 21 years of experience.
Of Rotuman heritage, she describes herself as an infused Pacifica in that she has Tuvaluan, Wallisian and Samoan ties too.
The proud mother, entrepreneur and career woman, resides in Lautoka.
As the Cruise Director for SABRE, she manages, maintains and grows the hospitality aspect of the the brand new 78-foot sailing catamaran.
SABRE offers unique day cruise experiences to the Mamanuca Islands.
It sails on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.
“I liaise with the Captain of the vessel and co-ordinate not just with my SABRE team, but also with our internal departments/ partners to ensure that our guests have phenomenal SABRE experiences!”
“I was a purser, line trainer and an UYS facilitator for Fiji Airways, employed for the last 21 years until COVID-19 hit.
“The transition has been a challenging yet exciting one.”
“Albeit the years of experience helped.”
“To work and adjust to a new environment, understand a new craft and it’s terminology.”
“To grow a vision and brand that South Sea Cruises Group had birthed over three years ago, to be its first Cruise Director and set/raise benchmarks and be the only woman in the team can be daunting.”
“But I have had a very supportive system in the SABRE team and of course my family.”
“I acknowledge South Seas Sailing & SSGC for providing an inclusive, creative and growth opportunity with SABRE.”
How many places have you visited around Fiji?
Having lived on Viti Levu,
I have only visited Savusavu, Wakaya, Laucala, Taveuni, the Yasawas, the Mamanucas and Rotuma.
Monuriki Island in the Mamanuca group.
What is the one place in Fiji you would take visitors?
Monuriki, the crown jewel of the M a m a n u c a Group.
Although uninhabited, the pristine beaches and captivating turquoise waters offer such tranquil settings to unwind.
The rich diversity of undersea life is also an added attraction.
Coffee Hub is located in the Essence Of Fiji building, next to Mobil service station, Nadi Back Road . The cafe and lounge is operated by the well known Barista “Zoro”. It has easy parking and amazing coffee.
What is your favourite place for coffee/pie?
The Coffee Hub for my caffeine fix.
Nothing like home cooked/baked so I’d have to say Odette Hatch’s & @QUINS for my pastry/sweets go – to.
What is your favourite backyard spot?
Home sweet home – It’s relaxing, rejuvenating and totally private.
Source: https://www.travelandleisure.com/hotels-resorts/luxury-hotels/kokomo-private-resort-wedding-buyout-island-fiji
What is one place in Fiji that remains on your bucket list?
Kadavu.
I’d have to say the attraction is the renowned Astrolabe Reef, to be able to snorkel with manta rays.
Feedback: maraia.vula@fijisun.com.fj