A Few New Crew for 2016
Every year since the company was founded back in 1949, Argosy Cruises has depended on a swell of its workforce leading up to the summer months. Seattle is, of course, both lovely and handsome during the winter months, but most travelers head to the Emerald City in July and August when the sunlight is plentiful and the clouds are few.
We spoke with a few members of the crew who joined Argosy for the first time this season about how they heard about the position, what advice they had for next year's new crew, and what their favorite #ArgosyMoments of the summer have been.
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Nick Lundquist
Hometown: Waconia, Minnesota
How did you hear about the Hospitality/Tour Guide position?
Before Argosy I had been a substitute teacher and a tour guide on a paddle boat. I had a lot of experience narrating and saw that pop up in the job description.
Favorite boat in the fleet?
Because of the narrating piece, I've worked the most on the Spirit of Seattle. I've spent the most time on her and she's the boat I'm most familiar with, so she's my favorite.
What's some advice you'd give next year's new crew?
Get to know your captains. Each one is different, with slightly different expectations of their crew. Be sure to ask them questions and really learn what they require of you.
What is your favorite #ArgosyMoment from this year?
I specifically requested to work a Camp Goodtimes trip this summer. I really enjoy working with kids in general, but the Goodtimes mission is so amazing and touching, I was honored to be able to be a part of it. And during the trip we saw orcas, so the day was a huge hit for everyone on board.
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Rachel Graf
Hometown: Albuquerque, New Mexico
How did you hear about the Hospitality/Tour Guide position?
I heard about the position on Facebook, and through another Argosy crewmember. I had been bartending for a while but was looking for a new position somewhere with more challenge for me. I was also a event planning intern, and
What is your favorite #ArgosyMoment from this year?
This may be more of an unusual answer, but I worked a really beautiful celebration of life charter this summer that has stuck with me. Being part of a crew that worked with the family to create a personal tour around the city for them was very memorable. It's very touching and quite an honor to help families remember their loved ones.
What's some advice you'd give next year's new crew?
Learn the value of teamwork. When you put in the effort that you expect of others, it brings the whole team up.
What's your favorite spot on the waterfront to hang out at (besides Argosy)?
I really enjoy spending time at Ivar's in Pier 54. So many historical Seattle photos everywhere...and their happy hour is really good!
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Kevin Thruelsen
Hometown: Issaquah, Washington
How did you hear about the Hospitality/Tour Guide position?
My wife actually worked here before me, and when there were openings again for crew she recommended I go for it.
Favorite boat in the fleet?
I really like the funky and classic Sightseer, but I spent a lot of time on the Queen's Launch this year up at Jetty Island. I love all the wood detailing on the inside, and the history that she's got. She's very memorable.
What's some advice you'd give next year's new crew?
I'd tell them to recognize the opportunity they have in front of them here at Argosy. This workplace has a rare ability to deliver a wide variety of experiences for not only guests, but employees as well. There is so much to learn here, and I have appreciated the training system in place that sets employees up for success.
If you could charter your own Argosy cruise, what would you do?
I think the Lady Mary is just such a sexy boat. I'd charter her for a see-it-all epic cruise from Lake Washington, through the Locks, and into Elliott Bay and back. For entertainment I'd book an '80s glam metal cover band and have my guests dress the part as well!
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Daniel Diaz
Hometown: Oxnard, California
How did you hear about the Hospitality/Tour Guide position?
I've had a few different jobs in the boating industry, like kayak tour guide and working in a boat yard. I was a deckhand on a paddleboat just before I headed up to Seattle from California, and my captain said to check out Argosy Cruises once I got up here.
What's some advice you'd give next year's new crew?
This is an excellent place to be if you're looking to challenge yourself. We wear so many different hats as crew -- deckhand, bartender, tour guide, vessel maintenance, clean-up crew -- there's so much to learn. Also, remember that you're a tour guide, not a stand-up comedian!
What is your favorite #ArgosyMoment from this year?
It's so hard to choose just one moment! Overall I've met some really great people here that I will be friends with for the rest of my life. That's very meaningful to me, and not something I expected from a job.