The Clia UK & Ireland conference in Southampton will feature a ‘New to Selling Cruise Day’ in May 2025, offering specialised training for newcomers.
This initiative aims to enhance the skills of agents new to cruise sales, featuring brand introductions and sales training from select suppliers.
The ‘New to Selling Cruise Day’ is an innovative addition to the Clia UK & Ireland conference, specifically designed to support agents who are newly venturing into cruise sales. This special day will feature comprehensive sales training and will allow agents to engage directly with key suppliers. This approach is tailored to build confidence and understanding in the cruise market.
By attending this event, agents will have the opportunity to learn directly from established industry professionals and gather insights that are crucial for expanding their sales portfolio. The interactive nature of the event aims to foster a deeper connection with the cruise sector.
Taking place from May 22-24, 2025, the conference is heralded as Europe’s largest gathering for travel agents, promising extensive engagement opportunities through its varied sessions.
The first day comprises enlightening conference sessions and a bustling trade fair, both strategically designed to maximise learning and networking among attendees.
A highlight of the conference includes exclusive ship visits. Agents will have the chance to explore Fred Olsen’s Balmoral, P&O’s Britannia, and Oceania’s Vista on the second day.
These visits offer a unique perspective into different cruise lines, helping agents better understand the offerings and experiences available for clients.
The day will conclude with a sailaway party, providing a relaxed setting for networking and discussing the day’s learnings.
On the concluding day, attendees can choose tours of MSC Virtuosa or Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess.
These tours are designed to provide practical insights into ship operations and luxury offerings, enhancing the agents’ capability to sell effectively.
Each tour is meticulously curated to highlight pivotal features and services that appeal to diverse customer needs.
Specific themes and keynote speakers have yet to be disclosed, but they promise to deliver significant insights into the pressing issues within the cruise industry.
These sessions are crafted to encompass every segment of the cruise market, including ocean, river, expedition, yacht, and sailing, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of trends and strategies.
Andy Harmer, managing director of Clia UK & Ireland, asserts that the 2025 conference will be a landmark event in the travel calendar due to its extensive offerings and expert sessions.
He anticipates unprecedented industry momentum and sees this as an ideal opportunity for agents at all levels to deepen their market knowledge.
The event promises a vibrant exchange of ideas and strategies, crucial for navigating the evolving cruise landscape.
Registration for the conference will open soon, with exclusive discounts available for Clia Embarc ID card holders.
The upcoming Clia conference is set to redefine cruise sales training, offering unparalleled learning and networking opportunities.
With exclusive ship visits and diverse sessions, it promises to be a pivotal event for agents keen to expand their expertise in the cruise industry.
