8 Things I Learned About Meeting Wealthy People on a Cruise

We just returned from a Christmas cruise to the Caribbean, 12 nights including three black-tie-formal evenings onboard Cunard's flagship, Queen Mary 2. This was our 19th trip with Cunard, and we usually make new friends on each voyage, keeping in touch for years afterward. We engage with everyone as equals, regardless who they are, staff or passengers. We smile and try to be complimentary. When sailing on a luxury cruise ship, you are meeting people under ideal circumstances. People are relaxed, and everyone has plenty of time on their hands. And it's a safe bet that everyone has done well for themselves if they are cruising over Christmas and dressing in black tie for New Year's Eve. Although business comes up in conversation ("What do you do?"), I try not to dwell on it, although I will ask questions, giving others the opportunity to talk if they are so inclined. Here are eight examples of how we met and mingled with people over 12 nights.