The 2023 CLIA Conference emphasised a significant shift in global perceptions towards cruise holidays. This landmark event, held in Southampton, saw over 750 attendees eager to explore fresh opportunities within the industry.
This year’s theme, focused on recognising the invaluable contributions of travel agents, reflected an unprecedented rise in interest and enthusiasm for cruise experiences worldwide.
Opening the Doors to New Cruising Opportunities
At the CLIA Conference 2023, a vibrant declaration echoed throughout Southampton: ‘The world is waking up to what a cruise holiday is all about.’ This bold statement from Ben Bouldin, the CLIA chair, was heard by over 750 attendees, making it the largest travel agent gathering of the year.
Of the delegates present, a striking 65% were first-time attendees, and nearly a quarter had yet to experience a cruise. Such data underscores the open-mindedness and curiosity driving the cruise industry’s growth. Many agents are embarking on this journey for the very first time, eager to expand their horizons.
Sustainability: The Forefront of Industry Conversations
As is now customary at major industry events, discussions around sustainability took centre stage. Bouldin, addressing the necessity of the cruise sector in striving for a greener and cleaner world, highlighted the ongoing commitment: ‘Collaborate with other sectors, as no one holds all the answers today.’
Further commitment came from Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Royal Caribbean Group’s vice-chair of external affairs, who expressed confidence in the industry meeting its ecological targets. She affirmed, ‘Cruise is focused on doing the right thing for the planet.’
The Rise of Luxury and Expedition Cruising
Luxury cruising emerged as a significant focus, with Silversea president Barbara Muckermann emphasizing the huge opportunity within this lucrative market. She pointed out the stark contrast: the $2bn annual luxury cruising market compared to the $170bn luxury travel sector.
Muckermann highlighted expedition cruising as a gateway for attracting non-cruisers. This niche presents vast potential in converting prospective guests into enthusiastic cruise patrons.
The concept of luxury cruising offers a path for guests to explore extraordinary destinations without sacrificing comfort, thus expanding the appeal of cruise holidays beyond the traditional market.
Engagement and Education: Preparing Agents for Success
In a bid to prepare travel agents for upcoming opportunities, CLIA announced its most extensive trade engagement campaign yet. This ambitious 12-month initiative encompasses a variety of activities, designed to empower agents with knowledge and experience.
Scheduled activities include regional ship visits across the UK and Ireland slated for August and the eagerly anticipated CLIA Cruise Week from 18-24 September. These events aim to sharpen agents’ skills and cruising acumen.
Expanding Agent Resources through Events
CLIA’s educational efforts include a range of specialist cruise webinars, covering Europe, worldwide river cruise, and ultra-luxury cruises. These sessions are tailored to enhance agents’ understanding of diverse cruise offerings.
Complementing these virtual learning experiences are two expedition dinners in London and Manchester, scheduled for October, offering agents additional networking opportunities.
Furthermore, the CLIA Destination Residential in Porto will provide agents with firsthand cruise experiences, pivotal for developing comprehensive knowledge of the industry’s evolving landscape.
Celebrating Success and Inclusivity in Cruise Travel
The success of the 2023 CLIA Conference was celebrated by Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland MD, who was elated by the positive feedback. Harmer stated, ‘More agents than ever before are recognising the opportunities within the cruise sector.’
He announced the ‘superhero-charged’ programme of events as a testament to CLIA’s dedication to inclusivity, providing agents with unprecedented opportunities for education and engagement.
Fostering a Community of ‘Cruise Heroes’
As the event drew to a close, the notion of agents as ‘cruise heroes’ was firmly established. The plethora of new delegates highlights the industry’s expanding reach and appeal to a broader demographic.
The 2023 CLIA Conference underscored the potential of cruising as a burgeoning travel segment. By embracing sustainability, luxury, and innovation, the industry is poised for significant growth.
The event’s success highlights the cruise sector’s readiness to adapt and thrive, promising rewarding opportunities for agents and travellers alike.
