Expanded Cruise360 program sets out to Navigate, Innovate, Excel

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced a bumper program for next month’s Cruise360 Australasia conference in Brisbane, drawing on its biggest-ever contingent of international speakers to help delegates Navigate, Innovate, and Excel in cruising.

Marking the event’s 10^th Anniversary, this year’s Cruise360 conference will provide the most comprehensive program ever offered in Australasia, with two days of international insights, practical knowledge and thoughtful panel discussions – all designed to help travel agents thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.

The sold-out event on August 27-28 will begin with the global insights of CLIA President & CEO Bud Darr who will give a keynote State of the Industry address in his first visit to Australia. He 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 & plc), Gavin Smith (Royal Caribbean International), Ben Angell (Norwegian Cruise Line), Deb Corbett (PONANT Explorations) and Lisa Pile (Regent Seven Seas Cruises).

Other sessions cover virtually every element of cruising, including 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 uplifting insights into creating “the brand of you”, explaining how travel advisors can elevate their personal brand and establish lasting client trust.

CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said this year’s theme for Cruise360 Australasia – Navigate, Innovate, Excel – would put a focus on equipping travel agents for success.

“Our 10^th 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,” Mr Katz said. “Our program has been designed to reach further than ever, giving practical knowledge to suit both seasoned experts and new-to-cruise consultants.”

Full details are available at Cruise360 Australasia Program.