CLIA Masters Program opens for top cruise specialists

February 1, 2023 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is preparing to welcome its first intake of Masters candidates for 2023, allowing top cruise specialist travel agents to gain the association’s highest qualification.

Beginning March 20, the latest Masters Program will offer a six-week course designed to help travel agents stand out as cruise specialists and move into an environment beyond mainstream selling. Participants will learn how to pursue new revenue streams, create a unique brand differentiation, and forge a unique position in a competitive retail landscape.

CLIA Head of Training & Development Peter Kollar said the Masters Program was available exclusively to CLIA agents in Australasia & Asia who had achieved Ambassador status.

“Fewer than 2% of retail travel agents are CLIA Masters, which means they have a substantial advantage when it comes to standing out from the crowd,” Mr Kollar said. “The program’s candidates already have among the best cruise knowledge in the industry, so this course is designed to take them further to focus on business development and creating new strategies to build their client base and sales.”

Other aspects of the 2023 Masters Program include capitalising on data and technology and understanding the evolving online retail environment. It will show candidates how to maximise their personal strengths, how to analyse and reach their target audience, how to develop brand strategies and business planning skills, and how to become integral to their clients’ online environment.

After completing the Masters course and assignment, successful participants will receive 100 accreditation points and enter the prestigious CLIA Cruise Masters ranks, with a higher search ranking on the CLIA Australasia website.

To take part, member agents can register their interest by email to info-aus@cruising.org or visit CLIA Masters Program for more information.