CRUISE Lines International Association’s (CLIA) expanded Cruise360 program is aiming to help delegates ‘Navigate, Innovate, & Excel’ when it hits Brisbane next month (CW 09 Jul).
Marking the event’s 10th anniversary will be its largest-ever contingent of international speakers, to provide the most comprehensive Cruise360 ever offered in Australia.
The sold-out event on 27-28 Aug will begin with the global insights of CLIA President & Chief Executive Bud Darr (pictured), who will give a keynote state of the industry address in his first visit to the country.
Darr will be followed by a panel discussion on the landscape within Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, involving regional cruise line heads Peter Little (Carnival Corporation); Gavin Smith (Royal Caribbean; Ben Angell (Norwegian Cruise Line); Deb Corbett (Ponant Explorations); and Lisa Pile (Regent Seven Seas Cruises).
Other sessions will include presentations and interviews on translating global trends into local sales; unlocking growth in the expanding luxury cruise sector; developing business in the fly-cruise market; harnessing emerging opportunities among Gen Z travellers; and enhancing bookings through upselling and cross-selling.
A series of panel discussions will combine international leaders with regional experts, offering insight into succeeding in expedition cruising; the trends shaping cruise itineraries; myths and misperceptions in river cruising; and how to create successful career paths for the consultants of tomorrow.
A final presentation from brand marketing expert Sue Currie will provide insights into creating “the brand of you”, explaining how travel advisors can elevate their personal brand and establish lasting client trust.
Local CLIA Managing Director Joel Katz said this year’s theme will focus on equipping advisors for success.
“Our 10th anniversary Cruise360 Australasia conference will bring together industry leaders and sales experts like never before, giving travel advisors the insights needed to understand the evolving cruise sector and unlock the opportunities it offers,” enthused Katz.
“Our program has been designed to reach further than ever, giving practical knowledge to suit both seasoned experts and new-to-cruise consultants,” added Katz. MS
