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Italian Shipping Academy and CLIA build links for the future of cruiseItalian Shipping Academy and CLIA build links for the future of cruise
Genoa, 14 March 2024 – As the maritime industry works towards a more sustainable future, the Italian Shipping Academy (Fondazione Accademia Italiana della Marina Mercantile) and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the CLIA Cruise Week in Genoa to develop together activities in recognition of their mutual interests in the field of maritime education and training.The aims of the MoU, signed at the Jean Nouvel Pavillion at the Genoa Fair by Italian Shipping Academy’s President Mr. Eugenio Massolo and CLIA’s Director General, Europe Mme Marie-Caroline Laurent, will include collaborative activities to encourage young people to consider a career at sea. The partnership between CLIA and IMSSEA (International Maritime Safety Security and Environment Academy) – the international agency of the Italian Shipping Academy – will include a wide collaboration in international projects, particularly in the areas of environmental protection and safety.Eugenio Massolo, President of the Italian Shipping Academy: “This MoU is a significant milestone for the Italian maritime industry and for our institution as well, because it can bring a stronger relationship between the Association and the future crews onboard. We are very glad to sign it today in Genoa, and we are looking forward to being involved in CLIA’s next activities to be engaged in a wider range of global opportunities.”Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe CLIA: “The cruise industry provides fantastic career options, offering an inclusive, multicultural work environment with excellent opportunities for advancement. We are very pleased to be building our cooperation with the Italian Shipping Academy to help inspire the next generation of seafarers”.The cruise industry provides fantastic career options, offering an inclusive, multicultural work environment with excellent opportunities for advancement. We are very pleased to be building our cooperation with the Italian Shipping Academy to help inspire the next generation of seafarersMarie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe CLIAIn 2024 cruise lines will employ a multinational workforce of nearly 300,000 seafarers, and tens of thousands of employees on land. CLIA member lines rely on a truly global workforce, representing more than 150 countries. The industry offers excellent opportunities for advancement and is proud of its high retention rates which are upwards of 80%.CLIA is the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, providing a unified voice and leading authority of the global cruise community. On behalf of its members, affiliates, and partners, the organization supports policies and practices that foster a secure, healthy, and sustainable cruise ship environment, promoting positive travel experiences for the more than 30 million passengers who have cruised annually. The CLIA community includes the world’s most prestigious ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines; a highly trained and certified travel agent community; and widespread industry stakeholders, including ports & destinations, ship development, suppliers, and business services. CLIA represents 95% of the world’s ocean-going cruise capacity, as well as 54,000 travel agents, and 15,000 of the largest travel agencies in the world.The Italian Shipping Academy, founded in 2005 and recognized as the ITS Foundation in 2011 with the name of “Higher Technical Institute Foundation for Sustainable Mobility – Maritime Transport and Fishing Sectors”, is a public institution that issues qualifications from the Ministry of Education in tertiary education. The “mission” of the Academy is to provide specialized training aimed at occupations with a high professional and technological content, based on the needs of companies in the industry, and in particular in the strategic areas of maritime and logistics. 25 March, 2024 -
Craig Harris joins CLIA Hall of FameCraig Harris joins CLIA Hall of Fame
March 9, 2024 – New Zealand maritime industry stalwart Craig Harris has been inducted into cruising’s Hall of Fame at the 21st Cruise Industry Awards for Australasia, recognising his leadership role in the industry for more than four decades.In front of more than 500 guests at a gala celebration in Sydney hosted by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) on Saturday, Mr Harris was announced as the 18th member of the Hall of Fame by Ben Angell, the Chairman of CLIA in Australasia and Vice President & Managing Director of Norwegian Cruise Line APAC.“Craig has not only shaped but significantly advanced the cruise sector in our region,” Mr Angell said. “He is synonymous with innovation, dedication, and leadership, and his efforts have been pivotal in transforming New Zealand into a premier cruise destination,” he said. “He exemplifies the very essence of this award, encouraging us all to strive for excellence and to make a lasting difference in the world of cruising.”As the New Zealand Managing Director for ISS-Mckay Ltd since 2008, Mr Harris has been responsible for facilitating smooth cruise operations throughout the country as a provider of port agency and maritime services. Having founded Cruise New Zealand in 1994, he has fostered collaborations between ports, cruise operators, and the local tourism sector, opening new doors for the industry around the country.His other accolades have included becoming a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit and receiving the 2012 Horwath HTL Sir Jack Newman Award for outstanding leadership in the New Zealand tourism industry.Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS) Regional Chief Executive Officer for Asia Pacific David Pratt paid tribute to Mr Harris and his contribution to the industry.“Craig’s knowledge and drive and support to the cruise industry is recognised globally,” Mr Pratt said. “Tirelessly working to maximise the community, passenger, vessel experience as well as crew welfare whilst in port, he has openly shared his knowledge and passion for the industry and helped forge the career paths and success of many.”CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said Mr Harris was a dedicated ambassador for New Zealand’s cruise industry.“Craig’s expertise stems from his seafaring background, and it has enriched vessel operations and passenger experiences across New Zealand,” Mr Katz said. “His legacy is an inspiration to us all, and his contributions will continue to shape the New Zealand cruise industry for generations to come.”CLIA’s 21st Cruise Industry Awards were held at Sydney’s Star Event Centre on Saturday March 9, where a total of 18 awards were presented to travel agents and other members of the Australasian cruise community. 09 March, 2024 -
Tourism and government unite as CLIA hosts on-board industry forumTourism and government unite as CLIA hosts on-board industry forum
March 8, 2024 – Tourism industry leaders and key government officials had a first-hand taste of this year’s vibrant summer cruise season yesterday, as Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) joined with Celebrity Cruises to host Austrade’s quarterly national Visitor Economy Stakeholder Forum in Sydney.More than 30 representatives from national industry bodies and government agencies boarded Celebrity Edge at Circular Quay, where they gained insight into Australia’s $5.6 billion-a-year cruise industry and its role within the broader tourism sector.CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz gave an update on the success of Australia’s cruise revival and the global industry’s path to decarbonisation, while Celebrity Cruises Vice President & Managing Director of Australia & APAC Tim Jones hosted a post-meeting lunch and inspection of Celebrity Edge.“Cruising has been the star performer in Australia’s tourism recovery and the current summer season is among the most successful we’ve ever had in this part of the world,” Mr Katz said. “Bringing tourism industry leaders and government agencies on board meant we were able to provide first-hand insight into this thriving industry, while at the same time discussing issues that affect Australia’s wider tourism economy into the future.”The Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) Visitor Economy Stakeholder Forum meets quarterly for direct discussions between tourism industry leaders and partners in government. Yesterday’s forum included updates from Commonwealth agencies including Austrade, Australian Border Force, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.CLIA was joined by the Australian Cruise Association (ACA) as well as representatives from the office of the Minister for Trade and Tourism, the Australian Airports Association, Australian Amusement Leisure & Recreation Association, Australian Business Events Association, Australian Chamber of Commerce, Australian Regional Tourism, Australian Tourism Export Council, Australian Tourism Industry Council, Clubs Australia, Ecotourism Australia, International Education Association of Australia, Tour Guides Australia, Tourism and Transport Forum, Welcome to Country, and the Zoo and Aquarium Association. 08 March, 2024 -
Global cruise leaders to meet in Genoa on occasion of Cruise Week EuropeGlobal cruise leaders to meet in Genoa on occasion of Cruise Week Europe
Government Ministers from across Europe, global cruise line leaders, and senior representatives ofinternational institutions to meet at CLIA’s European Summit in GenoaMore than 100 exhibitors to showcase at CLIA’s inaugural Innovation Expo as part of Cruise Week EuropeUnique event for the cruise industry in Europe and globally to meet high-level cruise decision-makers20 February 2024, BRUSSELS — Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading authority of the global cruise industry, announces a strong line up of Government Ministers, cruise line global CEOs, and international institution representatives confirmed to attend Cruise Week Europe in Genoa, 11-14 March.The cruise industry will be turning out in force with many of the world’s leading cruise line CEOs confirmed to attend the event, which is being organized this year in partnership with the Liguria Region, Genoa City Council, Genoa Ports, and the Genoa Chamber of Commerce.During CLIA’s European Summit, cruise line leaders will convene with governments and key stakeholders. A host of high-profile attendees scheduled to attend include: Daniela Santanchè, Minister of Tourism, Italy; Nello Musumeci, Minister of Civil Protection and Sea Policies, Italy (invited); Maurizio Leo, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance, Italy; and Edoardo Rixi, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Italy; Marina Hadjimanolis, Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of Cyprus; Olga Kefalogianni, Tourism Minister, Greece (invited); Myron Flouris, Secretary General for Tourism Policy and Development, Greece; and Rosan Morillo, Secretary of State for Tourism, Spain (invited); Einar Vik Aarset, Director General, Norwegian Coastal Administration; Heino Nau, DG MARE coordinator on the blue economy; István Ujhelyi MEP, Vice-Chair, TRAN Committee of the European Parliament.CLIA’s annual European Summit, which follows successful Summits in Genoa and Paris, is the moment when the cruise community and its stakeholders – shipyards, port authorities and terminals, NGOs, and international organisations – come together to debate key policy priorities, industry trends, and common challenges and ambitions. The Summit will feature CEO panel sessions on how to move beyond aspiration to implement net zero emissions targets and the importance of structuring tourism development in destinations, as well as sessions on marine life protection, sustainable tourism practices, workforce diversity and investment in skills.The Summit will also include sessions on marine life protection, sustainable tourism practices, workforce diversity and investment in skills.This year, CLIA Cruise Week will feature the first-of-its-kind Innovation Expo, a new forum where more than 100 exhibitors will showcase solutions and products from across Europe. With a packed programme of showcases and industry talks on sustainable supply-chain and innovation in the cruise ecosystem, a sold-out exhibition floor, and high registration numbers, this will be an event not to miss.The lead sponsors for Cruise Week Europe 2024 are RINA (Founding Leader) and Lloyd’s Register (Premier Sponsor) and Fincantieri (Premier Sponsor). The European Summit is supported by Risposte Turismo. For the full list of sponsors, who are making it possible for this unique event to take place, please click here: https://www.cliacruiseweek.com/sponsors/For the full programme of Cruise Week Europe 11-14 March, including a full list of confirmed speakers, please click here: www.cliacruiseweek.comNotes to Editors:For media interested in attending in person please kindly contact Julie Green or Philomene Bouchon at [email protected] for further details and media accreditation. 20 February, 2024 -
First anniversary of the signature of the Sustainable Cruise Charter in the Mediterranean: The sector presents its first positive assessment and recalls its commitmentsFirst anniversary of the signature of the Sustainable Cruise Charter in the Mediterranean: The sector presents its first positive assessment and recalls its commitments
CLIA, in partnership with the Interregional Directorate of the Mediterranean (DIRM) is happy to present the results of the Charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean.As the first step in the application of the Charter, the DIRM conducted audits in 2023 aimed at evaluating the performance of cruise companies on the 13 commitments contained in the text.The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) organizes, on the occasion of the trade show for an innovative maritime industry, Euromaritime, a presentation of the results of the Charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean. This Charter, signed in October 2022, between the French Government and the main cruise players, aims to reduce the environmental impact of cruising while promoting innovative technological solutions in the realm of sustainable development.As the first step in the application of the Charter, the Interregional Directorate of the Mediterranean Sea (DIRM) conducted audits in 2023 aimed at evaluating the performance of cruise companies on the 13 commitments contained in the text (see link below). Vessels receiving a compliance rate greater than 80% were awarded a certificate of conformity. These audits were carried out between September 21 and November 21, 2023, by the lead actor for LRQA certification in the presence of an observer from the DIRM and took place in the ports of Marseille, Toulon, Cannes, and Nice.At the end of this work, all 12 CLIA member vessels audited were given a certificate of conformity with the commitments of the Charter. These results are a testament to the numerous efforts made by cruise stakeholders to continually improve environmental practices in terms of emissions and waste treatment and to accelerate their energy transition in favor of achieving our carbon neutrality objectives.The efforts made in recent years by the sector should reach a new key stage next year with the installation of shoreside electrical connections in Toulon and Marseille. A long-time promoter of this solution, the sector has nearly 50% of its global fleet already equipped with such connections which will enable the reduction of emissions and noise pollution to nearly zero when the ships are docked.Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General of CLIA Europe declared: “This first anniversary of the Charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean is an opportunity to celebrate the collective efforts of the cruise sector to continuously improve its environmental performance. We are very pleased that all CLIA members involved have received the 2023 certification awarded by the authorities. These efforts to reduce our impact on the environment must continue with a closer partnership between public authorities and ports. We are fully committed that cruise becomes an ever more sustainable way of discovering the world.”This first anniversary of the charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean is an opportunity to celebrate the collective efforts of the cruise sector to continuously improve its environmental performance. We are very pleased that all CLIA members have received the 2023 certification awarded by state services.Marie-Caroline Laurent, CLIA Director General EuropeEric Banel, Director General of Maritime Affairs said: “The Sustainable Cruise Charter in the Mediterranean illustrates the capacity of maritime stakeholders to commit to a concrete and ambitious energy transition fully and collectively. We are delighted with the first results of this audit which also demonstrates very fruitful collaboration between the public and private sectors.”Follow this link to get more information on the French Charter: https://mer.gouv.fr/sites/default/files/2022-10/charte.pdf 19 February, 2024 -
Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, Named Chairman of Cruise Lines International AssociationJason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, Named Chairman of Cruise Lines International Association
19 January 2024 (WASHINGTON DC)—Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading authority of the global cruise industry, today announced that Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty has been appointed Chairman by its Board of Directors. Liberty succeeds Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises S.A. who served in the role since January 2021.“On behalf of the CLIA community including ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines, suppliers, business partners, travel advisers, and agencies, I would like to congratulate Mr. Liberty on his appointment as CLIA chair. Mr. Liberty assumes the chairmanship at a time when the industry is building on the momentum of strong demand and our members are advancing ambitious sustainability initiatives in pursuit of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050” said Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of CLIA. “Mr. Liberty is a highly versatile and strategic leader who will help us build on this resurgence of travel and realize our global operating ambitions."“I would also like to thank Mr. Vago for his leadership as chair over the past three years, navigating challenging times and creating a solid foundation for the industry’s future growth,” Craighead added.Liberty became Royal Caribbean Group’s president and CEO in early 2022, following a career spanning nearly two decades in the cruise industry and having served as the company’s Chief Financial Officer for many years. Last year, he drove powerful gains in the Group’s business, becoming one of the top performing stocks of the year. He stewards three industry-leading brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, known for game-changing innovations in their respective industry segments; as well as joint ventures in Germany-based TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, of which the company is a 50% owner.“I am excited and honored to lead this organization as we enter a new era of cruising. With consumer demand continuing to accelerate, we are doubling down on our commitment to decarbonization and sustainable growth, ensuring that we are not only investing in our oceans and communities, but preserving them for generations of travelers to come,” Liberty said. “I look forward to working with CLIA leadership and our partners around the world to further position cruise vacations as an accessible and responsible option for today’s travelers that create positive ripple effects across the globe.”Cruise is one of the fastest growing sectors of travel and tourism and is forecasted to reach 106% of 2019 levels in 2023—with 31.5 million passengers sailing—and approximately 35 million passengers in 2024.The global chair for CLIA provides leadership to the CLIA Global Executive Committee and the Board of Directors, responsible for establishing the overall strategic direction of the association on behalf of its cruise line members representing 95% of the world’s ocean-going cruise lines. As part of CLIA’s long-term strategy, CLIA member lines have set inspiring sustainability goals, and each year the CLIA member fleet becomes more efficient as member lines embrace new technologies, innovations and, as available, the uptake of sustainable alternative fuels.CLIA provides an important and unified voice for the global cruise line industry representing cruise lines, suppliers, business partners, and a robust travel advisor community. 19 January, 2024 -
Cruising to 2030 and beyond – decisions on near-future newbuildings and existing fleet challengesCruising to 2030 and beyond – decisions on near-future newbuildings and existing fleet challenges
MEPC80 outcomes, fit for 55 and the impact of the orderbook all top the cruise segment’s agenda.2023 was a busy year on the regulatory front, and the cruise industry, like many other sectors, is sizing up the outcomes of July’s MEPC80 meeting as well as the inclusion of the maritime sector in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) – the world’s first carbon price on shipping which comes into force on January 1.As other segments evaluate engine retrofits and the installation of energy-saving devices, what impact do the interdependencies between cruise stakeholders have in determining effective choices and how is the sector rising to difficult decisions given some of the uncertainties ahead?There is no questioning of course, the importance of robust, comprehensive and transparent disclosures to drive and support the sustainability agenda for emerging regulatory requirements.According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), accessibility of funding for sustainable shipbuilding will be key to the sectors’ energy transition ambitions, along with port and shoreside infrastructure to keep the transition a fair and equitable one.“Recognising the importance of the cruise value chain for the European maritime industry, it is vital to enable faster access to funding for sustainable shipbuilding and maritime equipment manufacturing to support Europe’s world-leading position. This will require deployment of sustainable maritime fuels and new technologies to help the sector decarbonise,” says Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIA.Implementation of the EU Green Deal to support decarbonisation of cruise will need to ensure adequate port infrastructures are in place. Investment in shoreside electricity must be made available and the development, scale-up and availability of sustainable maritime fuels and related infrastructure must be promoted.Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIA“Implementation of the EU Green Deal to support decarbonisation of cruise will need to ensure adequate port infrastructures are in place. Investment in shoreside electricity must be made available and the development, scale-up and availability of sustainable maritime fuels and related infrastructure must be promoted.” she added.Whilst the goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 is being supported by cross supply chain research and development, in order to assess the various pathways to decarbonisation, a single solution has not yet emerged. Achieving net zero will most likely require a combination of different technologies and fuels.Michele Landro, LR’s Vice President, Head of Passenger Ships Segment is optimistic about the energy transition pathways open to the cruise sector.“As cruise lines identify future fuel pathways to move away from fossil fuels, the availability of these alternative fuels will impact how quickly the industry can progress towards a more sustainable future. There is a critical need for governments to invest in the infrastructure necessary to increase availability of bunkering for new fuels at ports around the world and LR is committed to providing support for a regulatory environment that supports the production, distribution, and use of renewable fuels,” he explains.“CLIA Cruise Week provides the perfect platform for the cruise industry to come together with policy makers, innovators and suppliers. At the LR Cruise Forum during CLIA Cruise Week, we will be engaging with key stakeholders from the sector, focusing on the global energy transition, sustainability and other key issues the cruise sector faces in the coming years.” Landro added.Lloyds Register is one of the premier sponsors atCLIA Cruise Week – Europe 2024which will take place between 11-14 March 2024 at the Jean Nouvel Pavilion In Genoa, Italy with the Lloyd’s Register Cruise Forum taking place on 12 March. 09 January, 2024 -
CLIA honours Hall of Fame inducteesCLIA honours Hall of Fame inductees
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has revealed its latest Hall of Fame recipients. The honours were announced today (December 19) at CLIA's annual Winter Ball, and awarded to:Jacqueline Dobson, president, Barrhead TravelTony Andrews, managing director, cruise.co.ukRuth Marshall, vice president international general counsel and managing director, RCL Cruise LtdJacqueline Dobson's experience within the travel sector spans over two decades, having originally joined Barrhead as a trainee. She has worked in a variety of roles including sales, marketing, business development, product and commercial, as well as establishing the UK’s largest experience store in Glasgow. She now leads a team of over 1000 employees across Barrhead Travel's network.Tony Andrews was this year promoted to managing director of cruise.co.uk, having originally joined the cruise specialist in 2000. He became product and commercial director in 2015, then deputy managing director in 2019. He is now responsible for spearheading the company’s growth in the UK market.Ruth Marshall has been at Royal Caribbean since 2007. She joined as Associate Vice President Legal Counsel International, before assuming her current role in 2018. She was credited by CLIA for her industry-wide work across the past few years. Ruth will shortly leave the company after 16 'wonderful' years.The awards were presented on behalf of the industry by Royal Caribbean's Ben Bouldin, who is also CLIA Chair UK & Ireland; MSC’s Antonio Paradiso; and Princess Cruises’ Eithne Williamson.Andy Harmer, CLIA managing director UK & Ireland, said: "Many congratulations to our Hall of Fame inductions. They have all enjoyed hugely impressive careers and are proof positive of how knowledge, passion and drive can get you to the very top of the industry."They are fantastic role models for colleagues across the sector, as well as everyone looking to start their journey in cruise."The CLIA Hall of Fame was launched last year. The awards will be a regular fixture in the cruise calendar and presented annually at the CLIA Winter Ball.Click images to download 19 December, 2023 -
CLIA unveils further plans for 2024CLIA unveils further plans for 2024
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has today (December 19) made a raft of additional announcements for 2024 at its annual CLIA Cruise Forum.The event saw Andy Harmer, Managing Director UK & Ireland, provide updates to over 250 delegates from across the industry. This represented the largest ever number of partners to attend the event.Andy revealed:The theme of next year's CLIA Conference will be #DiscoverMore, as it will have a particular focus on the wealth and variety of destinations that are accessible via cruise ship. The conference will take place from May 23-25 in Southampton and is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe.Additional places at the Conference will be made available to CLIA members, which originally sold out in a record-breaking 48 hours, with almost 600 registrations. In addition, CLIA has announced that it has partnered with P&O Cruises, who will now include Britannia as part of the ship visit programme. CLIA will update those agents, currently on a waitlist, who have secured a place in the new year.Further places may be made available for CLIA's RiverView event, which will be held in Amsterdam from March 11-13 next year and has similarly sold out. Details are to be confirmed.CLIA will once again support the Compass Project, which aims to create greater social mobility, diversity and inclusivity in the travel and cruise industry. The project is a partnership with Mundy Cruising and St John Bosco College in Battersea, and enables sixth-form students from socially diverse backgrounds to learn more about travel and associated career opportunities.Agents are being encouraged to join two monthly trade-friendly webinar sessions next year, both of which were announced recently. 'Focus on…' sessions will take place live each month for 30 minutes and highlight opportunities within a different sector of the cruise industry, while 'CLIA in conversation' will comprise monthly sessions, also live and for 30 minutes, with in-depth news, analysis and guest speaker insight.The forum also featured speakers including:Ben Bouldin, CLIA Chair UK & IrelandSimon Jack, Business Editor for BBC NewsRyan Uhl, Chief Brand Strategy Officer at Mail Metro MediaLinden Coppell, Vice President Sustainability & ESG at MSC CruisesDanae Sheehan, Voyage Tracker Manager & Editor from SeabournA panel discussion with Eithne Williamson, VP Princess Cruises UK & Europe; Lee Haslett, Global Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal; Paul Melinis, Managing Director UK & Europe at APT Luxury River Cruises & Tours; and Giles Hawke, VP & MD UK, Ireland and EMEA at Celebrity CruisesCLIA has previously unveiled events and initiatives including new sections on its website, such as a New-to-Selling Cruise hub, Virtual Ship Tours and a 'Countdown' page for upcoming ship launches.Andy Harmer said: "2023 has been a fantastic year for the cruise industry and I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has played their part. You could see from the positivity at the Forum that our members are thriving, and that is a great tribute to the innovation, determination and collaboration we see across the sector."We all want this momentum to continue into the new year and beyond, so have made a series of trade-friendly announcements to help start 2024 with a flourish. We can't wait to see what the new year brings." 19 December, 2023 -
CLIA confirms airlines partnership agreementCLIA confirms airlines partnership agreement
Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines & Air France/KLM have been confirmed as event partners with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). The partnerships will enhance the carriers’ brand awareness across the cruise industry, bringing them into CLIA’s wider community of cruise lines, travel agents and executive partners.The airlines are part of a collective joint venture and their agreements with CLIA comprise:Headline sponsorship of CLIA Conference 2024. The conference will be held from May 23-25 in Southampton, and is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe. It will include ship visits, conference sessions, an industry trade fair and a celebratory evening event.Virgin Atlantic will sponsor this year’s CLIA Cruise Forum on December 19 in Windsor. The forum is a major event in the travel calendar, offering a one-day seminar and networking opportunities for 100+ senior travel agents, agency managers and owners, as well as business executives and media.Air France/KLM are the official airline partner for the CLIA RiverView 2024 Conference. It will take place from March 11-13 in Amsterdam and highlight the latest river cruise ships, information and selling advice. The conference will include multiple ship visits, key speaker sessions and a networking trade fair. Air France / KLM are offering discounted airfares from UK to Amsterdam for all delegates.All three events have sold out. The airlines will have networking stands at the events, and their branding will be displayed across associated assets and online platforms.A host of other activities with CLIA have also been agreed, including:A recent webinar with all four airlines, which included brand overviews, trade-friendly advice and sales tips. The session is available here.Having further content feature online, including brand profiles, trade-friendly news and updates, and contact details.Brand insight and information in CLIA's agent newsletters, podcasts and marketing materials.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Fly cruise continues to increase in popularity for UK and Ireland guests, so our agreement with Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Air France and KLM is perfectly-timed to capitalise on this demand. The airlines can further increase their awareness and exposure across the industry, while agents can benefit from their extensive flight availability and expertise.”Nicki Goldsmith, Virgin Atlantic director of sales, said: "We are extremely excited to be joining the CLIA partnership as an extended joint venture. We know there is huge growth opportunity within the cruise industry across mainstream, luxury and river cruise and we are confident that Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM can support this growth throughout our destinations and premium product offering for all cruise customers. We look forward to working with the cruise lines and cruise agents more closely." 15 December, 2023