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Josh Weinstein, President & CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc, named Chair of the Global Executive Committee of Cruise Lines International AssociationJosh Weinstein, President & CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc, named Chair of the Global Executive Committee of Cruise Lines International Association
Washington, D.C. – 8 January 2026 - Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading authority of the global cruise community, today announced that Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation & plc, has been named Chair of CLIA's Global Executive Committee (GEC) for a two-year term from 2026 through 2027. Weinstein succeeds Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, who served as Chair during a period of continued industry recovery and growth.Weinstein brings decades of leadership experience in the global cruise sector to the role and will work closely with the GEC to advance the industry's shared priorities, including safe and reliable operations, responsible growth, and constructive engagement with governments, ports, destinations, and other stakeholders worldwide."I am honored to chair the work of the global cruise sector at a pivotal time for our industry," said Weinstein. "Delivering extraordinary cruise experiences depends on a sustained focus on safe, reliable operations and effective coordination across the sector. As we build for the future, the industry will continue to demonstrate its commitment to responsible growth, achieving our greenhouse gas reduction short-term goals and long-term ambitions, deepening relationships with our ports and destination partners, investing in workforce development, and contributing positively to the communities we serve."As Chair, Weinstein will lead the direction that the GEC provides CLIA, including helping to shape the association's strategies and ongoing efforts to advance policies that enable responsible operations, foster innovation, strengthen stakeholder trust, and support initiatives that allow the cruise sector to continue delivering economic and social benefits in key markets worldwide."Josh brings deep experience and a thoughtful, collaborative approach to the role," said Bud Darr, President and CEO of CLIA. "On behalf of our members, I look forward to working closely with him, the Global Executive Committee, and the Board of Directors to advance the industry's shared priorities, including safe operations, responsible growth, and constructive engagement with governments, ports, and destinations worldwide."About the Global Executive Committee (GEC)The CLIA Global Executive Committee (GEC), together with CLIA's president and CEO, is responsible for establishing the association's overall strategic direction, guiding its long-term priorities, and overseeing work that supports the collective interests of CLIA members across global markets.https://cruising.org/global-executive-committeeAbout the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the leading authority of the global cruise community. CLIA members and partners include the world's most prestigious ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines; a business community of leading ports, destinations, shipyards and maritime product and service providers; and the largest network of travel professionals who specialise in cruise travel. Together with its members and partners, CLIA supports policies and practices that foster safe, secure, healthy and sustainable cruise operations; tourism strategies that maximise the socioeconomic benefits of cruise travel; and technologies and innovations designed to support the industry's pursuit of net zero emissions by 2050.For more information, please visit cruising.org or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. 08 January, 2026 -
CLIA announces Hall of Fame 2025 inducteesCLIA announces Hall of Fame 2025 inductees
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has revealed its latest Hall of Fame recipients. The honours were announced yesterday (December 17, 2025), at CLIA's annual Winter Ball, and awarded to:* Dave Mills, Iglu* Paul Hardwick, Fred Olsen Travel* Lynn Narraway, SeabournDave Mills is chief commercial officer at Iglu and has been at the company since 2003. He was present in Iglu's first commercial cruise deal and has been part of the product and commercial department ever since. Dave leads all commercial operations and plays a key role in advancing Iglu’s position within the sector.Paul Hardwick is director of retail at Fred Olsen Travel and is responsible for all B2C business, shops, franchisees, licensees and homeworkers. He has been with the company for 16 years and has led its expansion, while ensuring it has become more efficient, both operationally and commercially.Lynn Narraway is the vice president UK & EMEA at Seabourn. She leads trade-partner relationships in these regions, growing the luxury line's market presence and sales. Lynn has spent over 25 years working for Carnival Corporation, was previously chair of CLIA UK & Ireland, and is ‘madrina’ of Seabourn Pursuit.The awards were presented on behalf of the industry by Iain Baillie, Janet Parton and Eithne Williamson, at the 1920s themed event.In addition, industry recognition awards were presented to:* Lindsay Haslehurst, World Travel Holdings* David Ness, Trailfinders* John Wilson, The Travel Network Group* Jonny Peat, Advantage Travel Partnership* Louise Hunter, Barrhead TravelAndy Harmer, CLIA managing director UK & Ireland, said: "This year’s Hall of Fame inductees represent the very best of cruise. Their leadership, passion and unwavering commitment to excellence have shaped the sector we know today. We are proud to honour them, as they continue to inspire colleagues across the industry and champion its future growth."The CLIA Hall of Fame was launched in 2022. Awards are presented annually at the CLIA Winter Ball. The previous winners are:· Kay Greenway and Cruise Britain· Catriona Parsons, Hays Travel· Edwina Lonsdale, Mundy Cruising· Tony Andrews, cruise.co.uk· Ruth Marshall, Royal Caribbean· Jacqueline Dobson, Barrhead· Alison Earnshaw, World Travel Holdings· Peter Shanks, Silversea 18 December, 2025 -
Agent places now open as CLIA's Expedition Showcase returns to SvalbardAgent places now open as CLIA's Expedition Showcase returns to Svalbard
Agents can now apply for a place for Cruise Line International Association's (CLIA) Expedition Showcase 2026.The event will again be held in Longyearbyen, in the Svalbard archipelago, from July 24-27 - with travel on the days either side. The destination is one of the primary starting points for Arctic expedition departures.The schedule includes business sessions, local excursions and hosted ship visits on CLIA expedition operators AE Expeditions, HX Expeditions, Silversea, Ponant and Swan Hellenic.Due to the more remote location, CLIA has prepared a packaged event bundle including return flights from Heathrow with SAS Scandinavian Airlines, airport to hotel transfers and four nights' accommodation with breakfast.CLIA's inaugural Expedition Showcase was similarly held this year in Svalbard.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK and Ireland managing director, said: “We can’t wait to return to Svalbard for an expedition cruise event like no other. As the world’s northernmost settlement and a gateway to Arctic exploration, it’s the ideal setting to help agents truly immerse themselves in expedition cruising."Gaining first-hand insight into ships, destinations and shore experiences is vital for building confidence and sales expertise in this growing sector. Following the strong demand for last year’s Showcase, we’d encourage agents keen to develop their expedition knowledge to apply now.”CLIA has also confirmed that a very limited number of places are available for its RiverView Conference in Amsterdam in March, and main CLIA Conference in Southampton in June.For more information on CLIA events, member agents can go to cruising.org. To apply for the Expedition Showcase, click here. 17 December, 2025 -
CLIA announces details of 2026 Expedition SummitCLIA announces details of 2026 Expedition Summit
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has confirmed details for its next Expedition Summit, taking place on May 8, 2026.The annual trade event will feature a ship visit to HX Expeditions’ MS Fram in Dover, giving agents the chance to step on board one of the line’s most recognised expedition vessels. MS Fram carries up to 250 guests and underwent a major refurbishment in March 2025, which introduced a new Science Centre, refreshed suites and cabins, and redesigned public areas and crew facilities.The Summit programme will also include dedicated business sessions, networking opportunities and a pre-event dinner in Canterbury on May 7. Registration will open shortly, with over 100 agent places available.Andy Harmer, CLIA managing director UK & Ireland, said: “Expedition cruising has never been more popular, and next year’s Summit reflects our continued commitment to supporting agents who want to take advantage of the opportunities this sector presents. We look forward to bringing the trade together for another insightful, engaging and inspiring programme.”Nathaniel Sherborne, SVP and MD, EMEA / ANZ and Global Sales Enablement at HX Expeditions, said: "Welcoming the trade on board MS Fram is a fantastic opportunity to showcase what makes HX Expeditions truly unique. Expeditions are about curiosity, connection and going beyond the expected, and MS Fram embodies that spirit in every journey she undertakes. As we approach our 130 year milestone, it feels especially meaningful to share that heritage with agents. We’re delighted to partner with CLIA and to play a role in equipping agents with the knowledge and confidence to grow successfully within the expedition sector.”The 2026 Summit is the third to take place, following previous events hosted in partnership with Seabourn and Swan Hellenic. July’s CLIA Expedition Showcase, held in Svalbard, marked the industry’s first trade event of its type in a polar destination. 10 December, 2025 -
CLIA announces Cornish Gems as Associate PartnerCLIA announces Cornish Gems as Associate Partner
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK and Ireland has confirmed that Cornish Gems is now an Associate Partner.Cornish Gems is a luxury holiday lettings company offering an exclusive collection of handpicked properties across Cornwall. The company provides guests with stays that combine five-star comfort and contemporary design with authentic Cornish charm.They will now get an Associate Partner profile page at trade.cruising.org, including company information and trade contacts. Associate Partner membership also offers access to member-only events, and the opportunity to connect with CLIA’s extensive trade network via its company newsletter, online trade sales noticeboard and UK trade Facebook group.Michelle Baillie, Cornish Gems managing director, said: "We are thrilled to become an Associate Partner of CLIA. This partnership gives us the opportunity to showcase our handpicked luxury properties and first-class experiences to a wider audience, combining exceptional service with the distinctive charm and character that make Cornish Gems so special."Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Cornish Gems represents the best of British coastal hospitality, making them a perfect fit for CLIA’s network. Many travellers who enjoy exploring by sea also love discovering beautiful destinations, and this partnership reinforces how cruise and land experiences can perfectly complement each other.” 17 November, 2025 -
CLIA announces Beyond Cruising as Associate PartnerCLIA announces Beyond Cruising as Associate Partner
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK and Ireland has confirmed that Beyond Cruising is now an Associate Partner. As part of the agreement, the UK-based tour operator will be an official sponsor of next year's CLIA Conference.Part of USAirtours Worldwide, Beyond Cruising offers curated cruise and land holiday packages for the travel trade, featuring a wide choice of cruise lines, flexible durations and seamless land extensions worldwide.They will now get an Associate Partner profile page at trade.cruising.org, including company information and trade contacts. Associate Partner membership also offers access to member-only events, and the opportunity to connect with CLIA’s extensive trade network.Beyond Cruising will exhibit at CLIA Conference, as a Premium Sponsor, which will take place from June 4-6, 2026, in Southampton. It is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe and will include ship visits, conference sessions, an industry trade fair and a celebratory evening event. Registration for the event is now open to all CLIA members.Guy Novik from Beyond Cruising said: “We’re delighted to join CLIA as an Associate Partner and to be part of such a passionate community of cruise professionals. Beyond Cruising was created to help travel agents grow their cruise business with confidence. Partnering with CLIA allows us to deepen that support and share our expertise with the wider trade community."Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Beyond Cruising as an Associate Partner and sponsor of next year’s CLIA Conference. Curated cruise and land holiday packages, combined with a strong commitment to supporting the travel trade, makes them a valuable addition to our community. We look forward to working together to further support and inspire the travel trade.” 06 November, 2025 -
CLIA confirms return of 'Cruise Champion' training programmesCLIA confirms return of 'Cruise Champion' training programmes
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has announced details of its 'Cruise Champion' training programmes for frontline travel agents. Two separate hybrid learning courses have been launched: one with a focus on river cruise and the other on expedition cruise.Almost 80 agents will join the six-month learning programmes, culminating in a graduation ceremony in June 2026.The programmes, which returns for their second year, are aimed at agents who are new or have limited experience of the sectors. They will include a mix of virtual activity including product training webinars, panel discussions and virtual workshops, supported by self-study, monthly knowledge reviews and an end of programme final assessment.Content will cover destination and product training, as well as sales techniques. CLIA has created the programme alongside its river cruise and expedition cruise line operators.The programmes starts in November via an in-person launch day.Andy Harmer, CLIA managing director UK & Ireland, said: “We’re thrilled to bring back our 'Cruise Champion' programmes, which give agents the chance to build real expertise in two of the fastest-growing sectors of cruising. We had such positive feedback from the first cohort of agent graduates we're confident we will equip frontline sellers with the confidence and knowledge to inspire customers and grow their business.” 22 October, 2025 -
Registration opens for CLIA Conference 2026Registration opens for CLIA Conference 2026
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has opened registration for next year's CLIA Conference, which will take place from June 4-6 in Southampton.The event - the largest annual travel agent conference of its kind in Europe, and the 18th to be held - will bring together the cruise industry for ship visits, conference sessions, a trade fair and a celebratory sailaway evening party.An optional ‘New to Selling Cruise Day’ will take place on June 3, offering dedicated training and brand introductions for agents who are keen to expand their cruise knowledge and boost sales.The first full day of the main conference will include business sessions at the O2 Guildhall, followed by an evening trade fair.On day two, delegates can choose to visit Cunard’s Queen Anne or P&O Cruises’ Britannia, with an evening sailaway party at the O2 Guildhall.The final day will feature ship visits to Celebrity Apex, MSC Virtuosa, Oceania Cruises' Oceania Insignia or Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: "CLIA Conference brings the cruise community together in a way no other event does - and 2026 will be no exception. From exploring extraordinary ships to hearing from inspiring speakers, agents will come away with new ideas, stronger connections and the sales insight to grow their business."It’s also our opportunity to recognise and celebrate the trade’s ongoing role in shaping the incredible success story that cruise has become."Agents can register at www.cruising.orgDetails of the conference theme and keynote speakers will be announced in due course. 20 October, 2025 -
CLIA unveils 2026 conference dates and scheduleCLIA unveils 2026 conference dates and schedule
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has announced its 2026 conference will be held from June 4-6 in Southampton.The conference, the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe and the 18th to take place, will include ship visits, conference sessions, a trade fair and a celebratory sailaway evening party. An optional 'New to Selling Cruise Day' will take place on June 3 - which will combine sales training and brand introductions from suppliers - for agents who are looking to build their cruise knowledge and bookings.The first full day of the event will comprise conference sessions and an industry trade fair in the evening. The conference sessions will take place at the O2 Guildhall, with trade fair details to be confirmed.On day two, attendees will have the option to visit Cunard's Queen Anne or P&O Cruises' Britannia. The sailaway party will follow that evening at the O2 Guildhall.Delegates will then have the choice to visit Celebrity Apex, MSC Virtuosa or Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Grandeur on the final day.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland Executive Director, said: "CLIA Conference is always a highlight in the travel trade calendar and 2026 will be no exception. With a line-up of stunning ships to visit, training opportunities and inspirational speakers, we’ll be giving agents the insight and tools they need to grow their cruise sales."The conference is also the ideal opportunity to celebrate the vital role the trade plays in bringing a holiday at sea to life, and to connect with colleagues and partners from across the industry."Registration opens shortly. Details of the theme and keynote speakers will be announced in due course. 19 September, 2025 -
UK Government and industry launch Cruise Growth Plan to Boost Maritime Tourism and Coastal EconomiesUK Government and industry launch Cruise Growth Plan to Boost Maritime Tourism and Coastal Economies
LONDON, UK – Tuesday 16 SeptemberIn a landmark move to strengthen the UK’s maritime and tourism sectors, the UK Government, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and the UK Chamber of Shipping have jointly launched the UK Cruise Growth Plan.This strategic framework outlines shared commitments between government and industry to support the continued growth of the UK cruise sector benefiting the national economy, UK ports, and coastal communities. The commitments are designed to encourage sustained private investment and increased collaboration between Government departments, including within the Devolved Administrations, to help responsibly grow the cruise sector.The cruise industry already contributes £5.8 billion annually to the UK economy and supports 60,000 jobs across the country. The Cruise Growth Plan recognises this vital role and sets out a roadmap for long-term growth, enhanced infrastructure, and global leadership in sustainable and digital maritime practices.The Plan focuses on key areas including workforce development, safety, security, accessibility, and sustainable growth - positioning the UK as a premier destination for cruise tourism and maritime innovation.The Value of Cruise to the UK:£5.8 billion annual contribution to the UK economy60,000 jobs supported nationwideOver 50 UK ports visited by cruise ships each yearMore than 2 million UK residents take cruises annuallyOver 2 million day visits by cruise guests to UK ports every year60% of cruise guests return to destinations they visitedMaritime Minister, Keir Mather said:“The cruise industry is vital to the UK economy, bringing in £5.8 billion and supporting thousands of jobs across the country.That’s why we’ve launched our Cruise Growth Plan to continue driving private investment into the sector, creating jobs and opening up new opportunities for coastal communities.”Andy Harmer OBE, Managing Director, CLIA United Kingdom & Ireland, commented:“Cruise Lines International Association is delighted to partner with UK Government on the UK Cruise Growth Plan.The forward-looking plan provides a clear roadmap for the future of cruising in the UK. Its shared commitments will enhance safety, security, and accessibility in the industry, while its focus on investment and future skills will allow the UK to remain a leader in the international cruise market in the years to come.Cruise contributes £5.8 billion annually to the UK economy and supports more than 60,000 jobs. By reinforcing the sector’s vital role in the nation’s maritime and tourism ecosystems, the plan firmly embeds cruise within the Government’s growth agenda. With CLIA member cruise lines pursuing net zero by 2050, the plan will help foster further collaboration between industry and Government to achieve our shared decarbonisation aims.This agreement reflects years of partnership between industry and Government, with a joint ambition: a thriving UK cruise sector that drives economic growth and benefits coastal communities in all four nations.”Rhett Hatcher, CEO, UK Chamber of Shipping, said:“The UK Chamber of Shipping welcomes the UK Cruise Growth Plan as a timely and collaborative blueprint for the future of our cruise sector.The Plan reflects the shared commitment, in partnership with government, to unlocking the sector’s full potential for responsible growth and skills development. The joint commitments focus on the strategic priorities of positioning the UK as a world-leading hub for cruise tourism and maritime investment and growing a diverse and skilled workforce while maintaining globally recognised safety standards.We remain committed to shared goals on decarbonisation and call for continued collaboration to ensure environmental sustainability is embedded in future cruise sector planning. The Chamber stands ready to work with all partners to ensure that growth and green transition go hand in hand.”Key Objectives of the Cruise Growth Plan:Positioning the UK as a Premier Cruise MarketIntegrating cruise into national tourism strategiesFeaturing UK cruise destinations in international marketing campaignsExploring infrastructure investment opportunities at UK cruise portsDeveloping the UK’s Maritime Skills BaseFuture-proofing training for seafarers in emerging fuels, technologies, and vessel typesCreating career pathways for shore-side maritime and hospitality roles in coastal communitiesSupporting Coastal Communities and British PortsEmpowering communities to shape and benefit from cruise tourismConsidering cruise operations in national planning reformsCollaborating on digital immigration and border systemsThe Cruise Growth Plan represents a unified commitment to ensure the UK cruise sector continues to thrive, innovate, and deliver economic and social value across the country. The full plan can be found hereUK Cruise Growth Plan - GOV.UK. 16 September, 2025