Meet Lisa Gatlin. Lisa is a Senior Manager for the Trip Development Group Land and Cruise team for Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions. From researching cruise itineraries for our guests to determining selecting excursions and activities throughout the program, the Trip Development team for Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions does it all.
Over the last ten years, Lisa’s helped develop unique and exciting trips and enjoys the ever-changing destinations that guests get to explore. “There’s always a new destination to explore, new people to meet and new stories to tell,” she explained. “To be able to work with such unique and interesting people throughout the world and discover hidden gems to share with our guests so that they create memories and learn a bit more about the world is really fascinating and rewarding!”
When asked if Lisa has a favorite expedition she shared: “Each destination we visit is always so different and unique — whether it’s exploring an iconic city or whitewater rafting in a national park! I must say that Antarctica and Patagonia is at the top of my list though! Experiencing the pristine beauty of the destination and the connection that is felt with nature when you are there is really special.”
Some of Lisa’s latest work will be available to guests on the recently announced the expansion of Expedition Cruise offerings with the addition of Arctic trips in the summer of 2023. The new destination will focus on Svalbard, an archipelago in the Arctic region of Norway. Also returning in 2023: Trips to Antarctica & Patagonia and the Galápagos Islands along with pre-cruise escapes to Buenos Aires and the Amazon.
“It’s always exciting when we launch brand new programs. This one will take our guests to the northernmost settlement in the world, which is so unique,” she said. “Now we’ll be able to take our guests from the bottom of the world, visiting the penguins in Antarctica, to the top of the world to see the polar bears of the Arctic!”
Lisa continued, “Since this is the first Adventures by Disney experience cruising in polar regions where there is no true set schedule, the ship’s itinerary is defined by nature in the moment. We truly had to be creative in how we looked at this program and allow nature to take the lead!”
The Trip Development team focuses on the authentic stories of the destination and creates immersive experiences that offer something for everyone. “Whether it’s searching for wildlife on a nature walk or playing a game of Family Fjord on board the ship, there’s always something to do on Expedition Cruises,” Lisa explained. “The heart and soul of our experiences are our Adventure Guides. Our Adventure Guides help to bring stories to life! We couldn’t do it without their energy, expertise, curiosity and excitement to share the world.”
Even in the farthest corners of our world, teamwork is key to success for all Disney cast members. Be sure to stay tuned for more #DisneyCastLife Spotlights and tell us what other roles you’d love to see featured in the comments below!
