Hundreds of vivid and intriguing literary characters have graced the pages of our favourite books over the past century. Some brave, bold and full of good intentions; some sly, sneaky and determined to hinder the story’s protagonist. But how would our favourite fictional characters adapt to life on a cruise ship? We have used our imagination to explain how five of our favourite characters might enjoy a cruise getaway, after jumping from the pages of some of history’s best-loved books.

Jay Gatsby

Jay Gatsby – the Great Gatsby himself created by Scott Fitzgerald (pictured right) – I’m sure would adore the Cunard and Crystal Cruise lifestyle. As a well-known millionaire and socialite, he would most likely spend the majority of his time on-board flaunting his wealth and chatting to fellow passengers in his ship’s bars and lounges, whilst ordering the finest liqueurs for everyone in the room.

Despite the initial shock when he realises that there is no prohibition at sea (and therefore no way for him to make money), he would likely adapt to life on-board straight away by splashing out on spa treatments and duty-free boutique items for himself and those around him. With Gatsby’s money, who wouldn’t?

Miss Havisham

Despite her bitter, vengeful persona, I still have Great Expectations that a cruise holiday is exactly what Miss Havisham would have needed to shake off the cobwebs and get over her heartbreak. If only someone had mentioned it to her at the time!

I can see it now – Havisham shuffles aboard draped in a tattered wedding dress; skin like wax and face like thunder. Then – out of the corner of her eyes – she sees the on-board Aqua Park. Next thing you know she stripped down to her bikini, racing down an exhilarating waterslide and splashing into the deep blue pool. She might even go on to meet a nice new man in the ship’s nightclub and shake off her profound melancholy.

Mr. Toad

Lovable rogue Mr. Toad – from Kenneth Grahame’s famous novel Wind in the Willow – is a man (or toad in fact) of routine. It is for this reason that I’m sure he would love life aboard a cruise ship and would likely opt for set dining times each day, rather than going for the more flexible options. Also, as a toad of wealth, he would not settle for the smaller, more casual on-board eateries. Heavens no! It would only be appropriate for him to dine in the ship’s grandest venues, sampling the finest cuisine.

Toad’s self-centred nature is bound to get the better of him whilst on-board. I’m sure he would spend extended periods of time in the spa and salon, indulging in the personalised service he is entitled to. There may not be any motorcars on-board, but he would have the time of his life none the less.

Hannibal Lecter

Upon boarding his vessel, Hannibal Lecter may wonder if the wait staff will serve him fava beans and a nice Chianti in the ship’s main dining room. Perhaps – but hopefully he won’t ask for liver on the side! Aside from his psychopathic tendencies, Hannibal Lecter is a refined, cultured and well-travelled individual, so it would be no surprise to see him relaxing with a drink in a sophisticated lounge or attending one of the on-board lectures to broaden his already considerable knowledge of the world.

Complimentary shore excursions are also certain to be popular with Hannibal, offering the chance for him to explore the fascinating destinations on his itinerary with an expert guide. Let’s just hope he is cured of his cannibalistic ways and doesn’t find any new victims in port!

James Bond

After heading straight to the bar to order a martini (shaken not stirred), I can only imagine James Bond ending up in one place whilst on-board – the ship’s casino room. Whilst sipping his drink and eyeing up various glamorous female passengers, Bond would have a great time in the casino, gambling on roulette, blackjack and poker. He wouldn’t even have to worry about giant lazers, dastardly masterminds or complex moon bases whilst on-board – as the ship is likely to be supervillain free.

After charming the ladies and striking it lucky in the casino, 007 would no doubt retire to his luxurious suite accommodation and revel in his room’s gadgets and gizmos, from the flat screen television to individual climate control.

Image Credits:

Jmabel – wikimedia.org

Milowent – wikipedia.org

Robert Ferrieux – wikimedia.org

Paul K – flickr.com

Designed Soul – deviantart.com

Themeplus – flickr.com