An interview with Jamie Loizou of AmaWaterways

Tell me something about yourself that most people don't know...

I was once a judge in a dog pageant with Elizabeth Hurley. We were selecting the dog with the waggiest tail…

Tell me what, in your opinion, is the one most significant thing that makes your cruise line different from its competitors?

The owners Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Gary Murphy. Their innovation, expertise, years of experience, leadership position in the river cruise industry, guest-centric planning and long term partnerships are all significant, but above all it is their warmth and personalities which filter through the whole Ama Family, as we like to call it, making it a very special company indeed.

What is the next big thing to come from your company?

Our Egypt programme which starts next year. The amazing AmaDahlia on the Nile is a stylish, intimate vessel with just 68 guests. Accommodation includes 24 balcony suites, and the onboard experience will be outstanding - combine that with the magic of exploring Cairo before the cruise, and the amazing treasures of the Upper Nile on included excursions from the ship, and you have a stand-out iconic experience which will be at the top of most people's bucket list.

Why do you love Mundy Cruising and what do you think is the secret of their 50 years of success?

We are kindred spirits really. Two companies totally focused on their people, and the personal touch in all their business dealings. At Mundy I know they are driven by an ethos to do what is right - and in turn this is right for the success of their business. The experience of their team means that they can ensure their clients travel on the right product, and this engenders a high level of customer loyalty. And they are all lovely to deal with so we always want to help them.