CLIA President and CEO Bud Darr to join Cruise360 Australasia

June 25, 2025 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) President & CEO Bud Darr will lead an expanded line-up of international speakers at this year’s Cruise360 Australasia conference, joining cruise line leaders from around the world in Brisbane this August.

Mr Darr will present the event’s opening-day keynote on the state of the global cruise sector, setting the stage for two days of discussions on the opportunities and challenges presented in a rapidly changing industry and its continued focus on responsible cruise tourism as part of its ambitious sustainability initiatives.

This year’s 10^th Anniversary Cruise360 conference on 27-28 August will be the biggest ever held in Australasia, bringing together more than 800 CLIA members including travel agents, cruise line representatives, ports & destinations, travel industry suppliers and other cruise sector stakeholders.

The sold-out conference will have the theme Navigate, Innovate, Excel – giving delegates invaluable knowledge and direction within the global industry, including practical insight to help them evolve and thrive in the future.

CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said this year’s Cruise360 Australasia would offer more international speakers than ever before.

“Cruise360 Australasia has become the biggest annual event on this region’s cruise calendar and a critical forum for our industry as we unite around our strengths and direction,” Mr Katz said. “Bud Darr is one of the most experienced and respected maritime leaders in our global community, and we’re delighted to have him join us in Brisbane to share his insights.”

Bud Darr became President & CEO of CLIA in February, having previously held the post of Senior Vice President of Technical and Regulatory Affairs from 2010 to 2017. Prior to his return to CLIA, he served as Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy and Government Affairs at MSC Group for more than seven years. During his accomplished career in maritime, he has also held positions within the US Coast Guard, including Deputy Chief of Maritime & International Law, and has served in the US Navy, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard.

Cruise360 Australasia 2025 will be held at the Royal International Convention Centre Brisbane, with a packed program of speakers and panel discussions, as well as an extended Cruise360 Exhibition. The full line-up of international speakers and regional leaders will be announced soon.

See Cruise360 Australasia 2025.