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Mandarin Oriental boss hints at cruise expansion ahead of ‘first entrée’ in Egypt

Luxury cruise
Emma Dooney
4 September 2026

Kristin Ruble, Chief Commercial Officer at Mandarin Oriental, says the hotel brand hopes to increase its cruise product following the launch of its Nile experience.

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Mandarin Oriental

Kristin Ruble, Chief Commercial Officer at Mandarin Oriental, says the previous Fan Club model was a "bit dated" 

The luxury hospitality veteran said she is “looking forward” to the river ship’s debut – before hinting it won’t be the last of Mandarin Oriental’s cruise journey. 

“This is our first entrée, and it’ll be great once it launches,” Ruble told TTG. 

Mandarin Oriental announced its expansion into luxury cruising in February with the introduction of a boutique Nile River vessel. The ship – which has not yet been built – will complement the group’s first properties in Luxor and Aswan, creating an “integrated, destination-led journey.”