Technology will be theme of CLIA conference
Technology in the cruise industry is to be the sub-theme of CLIA UK & Ireland’s 12th annual conference, taking place in Southampton from May 23 to 25.
Specific conference sessions and speakers will have a technology theme, including ship design, new onboard initiatives, and updates on latest investments in technology from member cruise lines.~
Andy Harmer, senior vice-president membership and UK & Ireland director, said: "Technology will be running as a sub-theme of the conference, alongside the main #GenerationCruise focus.
"There’s no denying that in 2018, and beyond, technology is a crucial part of our everyday lives, and this is mirrored in customers’ increasing demands for a seamless experience whilst on holiday.
"The cruise industry is often taking the lead in the introduction of new technology to enhance the holiday experience and is widely being rolled out by a number of cruise lines and across fleets.
"Sessions at the conference will look at how technology is impacting ship design and the experience on-board, plus how technology can be used to engage a new cruise customer. "
New technology includes wearable technology, face recognition, the use of apps and robots; plus new technology around the industry’s ongoing environmental efforts.
The keynote speakers for the conference will be announced over the next few weeks, said CLIA.
The three-day conference will include a trade fair on May 23, a full-day of conference and networking sessions plus gala dinner on May 24, and the conference will close on May 25 onboard Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess, followed by the opportunity to look around the ship
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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