Theme announced for CLIA Conference

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has announced that the theme for this year’s CLIA Conference, which will take place from June 4-6 in Southampton, is ‘Cruise Ready’.

With cruise passenger numbers at record levels, the conference has been developed to ensure agents have the knowledge, confidence and industry connections needed to capitalise on the demand for a holiday at sea.

CLIA has also confirmed its ‘early bird’ cost of £155pp for agent members to join will finish on January 30, and is encouraging agents to book now to take advantage of this special rate.

CLIA Conference is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe and will bring together the cruise industry for ship visits, conference sessions, a trade fair and a celebratory sailaway evening party.

Andy Harmer, managing director CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “The theme ‘Cruise Ready’ reflects both the strength of demand we’re seeing for cruise holidays and the wealth of opportunities on offer for the trade. With more customers than ever actively considering a cruise, our role is to ensure agents have the insight, confidence and practical tools to convert that interest into bookings.

“We’ll offer the training, first-hand ship experience and industry collaboration the trade need to further make cruise a core part of their business. And we recommend agents book as soon as they can to claim our special ‘early bird’ rate.”

The first full day of the main conference will include business sessions at the O2 Guildhall, followed by an evening trade fair.

On day two, delegates can choose to visit Cunard’s Queen Anne or P&O Cruises’ Britannia, with an evening sailaway party at the O2 Guildhall.

The final day will feature ship visits to Celebrity Apex, MSC Virtuosa, Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Insignia or Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur.

An optional ‘New to Selling Cruise Day’ will take place on June 3, offering dedicated training and brand introductions for delegates who are keen to expand their cruise knowledge and boost sales.

Agents can register at https://trade.cruising.org/events/events-calendar

Keynote speaker details will be announced in due course.