Managing director UK & Ireland Andy Harmer said the conference provied the "ideal opportunity to take in the latest insight and information," but how does CLIA intend to maintain the wave of momentum afforded by this year's conference?
"If I were there were an event that showcased the very best of the cruise industry - including the incredible positive momentum we’re seeing amid record passenger numbers - it was last month’s CLIA Conference."
Discovering more
"The three-day gathering, which we themed #DiscoverMore in recognition of the extensive range of selling opportunities cruise destinations offer, was attended by a record 850 delegates in Southampton. With a wide range of activities on offer, including having seven ships available to visit, conference sessions, an industry trade fair and sailaway party, it was the ideal opportunity to take in the latest insight and information.
"As a wealth of destinations are available to cruise guests via ocean, river, expedition and smaller ships, the conference was the perfect platform to highlight how the world is within easy reach via our member lines. In fact, we have over 20 vessels entering the market this year alone, which will allow the cruise lines to further expand their itineraries and ports of call, giving guests even more choice. As such, the yet-to-cruise market is more important than ever, with the allure of the immersive destinations we serve a critical hook in tempting customers onboard."
Post-conference confidence
"With such a wide variety of destinations available, the trade can feel confident recommending a cruise to their customers no matter where they want to explore. And when you combine this with the incredible service and offerings onboard, it makes an escape at sea the ideal holiday choice, both for newcomers and experienced cruisers alike.
"We've also enhanced our training materials to ensure the trade are covered for all the key ports of calls. The CLIA website contains a wide range of tailored materials to suit every agent, regardless of their learning preferences, with material including factsheets, training modules, specialist podcasts and videos just a click away.
"If you missed out on CLIA Conference or are keen to sample more of the cruise experience, we have two more essential events coming up this year. Our Destination Showcase will return from September 15th-17th in Gibraltar, while a new event, the CLIA Weekender, will take place in Barcelona from October 24th-26th.
"Don’t miss out!"
Andy Harmer is CLIA's managing director UK & Ireland.
