CLIA announces 2025 conference dates and schedule

CLIA UK & Ireland has revealed its 2025 conference will be held from May 22-24 in Southampton.

The conference, the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe and the 17th to take place, will include ship visits, conference sessions, a trade fair and a celebratory sailaway evening event. An optional 'New to Selling Cruise Day' has also been added on May 21 - which will combine sales training and brand introductions from select suppliers - for agents who are new to cruise.

The first day of the event will comprise conference sessions and a full industry trade fair in the evening. Both activities will be held in Southampton-based venues.

Attendees will have the option to visit Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral, P&O Cruises' Britannia or Oceania Cruises' Vista on day two. The sailaway party will follow that evening.

Attendees will then have the choice to visit MSC Virtuosa or Princess Cruises' Sky Princess on the final day.

Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: "Our 2025 conference promises to be a standout date in the travel trade calendar. Not only will we showcase an incredible selection of ships, but we’ll also deliver the latest industry insights and practical knowledge through a diverse range of in-person sessions. Every cruise sector will be covered, including ocean, river, expedition, yacht and sailing, making this a truly immersive event for agents.

"We're seeing unprecedented momentum across the industry, so next year is the ideal time to join us, whether agents are just starting their cruise sales journey or are simply looking to top up their knowledge. We can't wait to welcome trade partners once again."

The conference will open for registration shortly; CLIA EMBARC ID card holders receive an exclusive discounted link to register.

Details of the theme and keynote speakers will be announced in due course.

For more information, visit www.cruising.org