Cruise360 backs future-ready cruise specialists

July 8, 2026 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced a new theme for its Cruise360 Australasia conference this spring: “Future Ready. Client Ready. Cruise Ready.”

Aimed at putting delegates on course for success in a new era of cruising, the 2026 theme will shape a packed two-day program at the International Convention Centre Sydney on 17-18 September.

CLIA Executive Director in Australasia Joel Katz said this year’s conference would reflect a market in which clients were more informed, more digitally enabled and more selective.

“This year’s theme speaks directly to the role of today’s cruise advisor – one who is ready for a changing market, ready for a more informed and digitally connected client, and ready to convert strong cruise demand into real business growth,” Mr Katz said. “Cruise360 will focus on the skills, insights and confidence needed to remain trusted, relevant and commercially successful.”

Cruise360 Australasia will combine a global industry perspective with practical professional development, helping travel advisors understand major demand, capacity, product and consumer trends.

A key focus will be how advisors can use new tools, including AI, without losing the human judgement, trust and personal service that remain at the heart of successful travel advice.

Cruise360 will also explore growth opportunities across different segments, including luxury, expedition, river cruising, responsible travel and first-time cruise conversion.

“In a new environment, the best-placed travel advisors will be those who are AI-aware, client-focused, commercially confident, and still deeply human,” Mr Katz said. “An underlying message at Cruise360 this year will be that the best travel advisors will not simply respond to change, they will be equipped to lead clients through it.”

Cruise360 Australasia will include a two-day conference program, an industry cocktail event and an extensive exhibition showcasing CLIA cruise lines, destinations, industry suppliers and CLIA Executive Partners.

Limited tickets are available exclusively to CLIA members via Cruise360 Australasia 2026.