CLIA UK & Ireland is set to host its 16th annual conference from 23-25 May 2024 in Southampton.
The event will feature ship visits, educational sessions, and a trade fair, offering travel agents an invaluable opportunity to enhance their expertise.
Unveiling the 2024 Conference Dates
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has announced its highly anticipated 2024 conference will take place from 23-25 May in Southampton. This landmark event, known as the largest annual travel agent gathering of its kind in Europe, promises a series of informative and engaging sessions designed to equip attendees with cutting-edge insights and resources.
Exciting Opportunities for Attendees
Participants at this year’s conference will experience an expanded programme. For the first time, agents have the choice to visit two ships over consecutive days from a selection of six, enhancing their understanding of the cruise offerings significantly.
Complementing the ship visits is the newly introduced ‘New to Selling Cruise Day’, set for 22 May. This initiative aims to help new agents become familiar with cruise sales dynamics.
Exploring a Diverse Fleet
The second day welcomes attendees aboard renowned vessels like Cunard’s Queen Anne, Silversea’s Silver Dawn, and Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess. This unique ship visit initiative offers agents unparalleled insights into luxury and mainstream cruising.
Concluding the event, attendees have the option to explore MSC Virtuosa, P&O Cruises’ Iona, or Fred Olsen’s Borealis. Notably, four ships will make their debut appearance at this esteemed conference.
Such firsthand experiences allow agents to grasp the diverse cruise options available, potentially resulting in more tailored sales strategies.
Educational and Networking Opportunities
In addition to ship visits, the conference will feature a series of educational sessions and a trade fair on its first day. These sessions are set to unfold in Southampton’s prestigious venues, offering agents a comprehensive overview of the latest industry trends.
Networking is at the heart of the conference, with a celebratory evening event planned to facilitate interaction between industry peers. These opportunities are vital for establishing connections and sharing insights.
The value derived from networking and educational activities is unquestionable, bolstering both professional development and business growth.
Perspectives from Industry Experts
CLIA UK & Ireland Managing Director, Andy Harmer, remarked on the significance of the 2024 conference, emphasising the expansive programme featuring more ships and an extended land agenda.
Harmer stated, “Our 2024 conference will be our biggest yet,” highlighting the value of firsthand insights gained from ship visits.
Registration for the event is set to open soon, with details on themes and speakers expected to further enhance agent engagement.
Looking Forward to Growth and Development
The upcoming conference not only aims to provide education and networking but also seeks to inspire future growth within the industry. By bringing together a diverse mix of ships and speakers, the event sets the stage for a dynamic exchange of ideas.
Agents attending this conference will benefit from a holistic understanding of the industry landscape, equipping them with the tools to drive sales and innovate within their respective businesses.
Conclusion
In summary, the 2024 CLIA conference in Southampton is poised to be a pivotal event for cruise industry professionals. With its array of activities, from ship visits to educational sessions, the conference promises to deliver valuable experiences and insights for all attendees.
In closing, the 2024 CLIA conference presents an unmissable opportunity for industry stakeholders to gain valuable insights, network, and explore new products, fostering professional and business growth.
