Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland is currently hosting its annual river conference, RiverView, with a record 600 agents and cruise partners attending. The event has returned to Amsterdam  - which was most recently the host venue in 2024 - with delegates this year joined by celebrity cruiser Susan Calman as part of the conference business sessions.   Delegates have also attended a networking trade fair and training workshops. In addition, eight operators have ships moored locally for agents to visit and stay on. The line-up is:   * AmaWaterways - AmaSerena * Amadeus River Cruises - AMADEUS Riva * Avalon Waterways - Avalon View * Emerald Cruises - Emerald Luna * Riverside Luxury Cruises - Riverside Debussy * Riviera Travel - Geoffrey Chaucer * TUI River Cruises - TUI Maya * VIVA Cruises - VIVA ENJOY   During the event, CLIA announced the return of its one-day River Cruise Forum in Manchester. The Forum, taking place in October, will offer business sessions, networking and product training. Representatives from river cruise operators and associated partners will help lead sessions, with further details to be announced shortly.   CLIA also unveiled a new initiative, ‘Opportunity Docks’, which launches this month for all agent members. The new online platform will make a raft of videos available, covering:  

• Cruise brands and ships, including those at RiverView
• Destinations and itineraries
• Key people from across the industry

  The destination and itinerary information will be supplemented by a downloadable factsheet, covering additional detail including the CLIA cruise brands that sail to the highlighted ports of call.   CLIA additionally stated a limited number of tickets are available for its annual conference, which this year takes place from June 4-6 and will include business sessions, a networking trade fair, ‘Sailaway’ party and ship visits. An optional ‘New to Selling Cruise Sales Day’ will again take place the day before the conference starts.   Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “The record-breaking numbers we’ve seen at RiverView highlight the positive momentum and demand we’re seeing across the river cruise sector. Many thanks to everyone attending, our sponsors, and the river cruise lines who have made the sessions and ship visits possible.   “The events and initiatives we’ve announced today are designed to further enhance the knowledge and insight of agents who are already selling or looking to sell river cruise. By giving even greater access to the people, product and places that make river cruise so special, we’re ensuring the trade have everything they need to boost their bookings.”

  Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced its annual charity cycle ride will take place on June 3, 2026. The ride, which this year marks its tenth anniversary, will take place across the New Forest in aid of the Family Holiday Charity.   CLIA is encouraging cyclists of all abilities to take part, with the money raised helping families facing hardship enjoy a short break or day out together.   For the first time, three ride options are on offer, all starting from Lymington Sailing Club. The courses have been chosen due to their proximity to Southampton, the location of CLIA Conference, which takes place from the following day.   The three routes are:  

• 20km: start time 11:00am
• 50km: start time 10:00am
• 100km: start time 08:30am

  A finish time of approximately 12.30pm is anticipated for all routes. Food and drink will be served at the finish.   The ride is again being organised by Giles Hawke, vice-president international of Celebrity Cruises, who has managed arrangements since its inception.   Andy Harmer, managing director CLIA UK & Ireland said: "Reaching our tenth year is a real milestone and we're thrilled to have raised thousands of pounds for charity along the way. The ride has become an industry tradition and a brilliant way to support families who really need a break, while bringing colleagues together from across the cruise sectors. We're keen for as many people as possible to take part, regardless of ability, so they can get active, feel good and do good."   Bikes will be available to hire on the day at a reduced rate. Parking will be on offer for participants who drive to the starting point, with Lymington Town station a short walk or cycle away.   Sponsorship opportunities are available, while CLIA is also looking for volunteers to assist the support vehicles that will operate on the day.   The Family Holiday Charity is dedicated to helping families enjoy a short break or day out together. The charity gives families time away to reconnect, rest and create positive memories. Its work focuses on improving wellbeing, strengthening relationships and giving children experiences they might not otherwise have.   To join the ride, go to www.surveymonkey.com/r/CLIABikeRide2026   To make a donation, go to https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/clia-nf26

  Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has announced that the theme for this year’s CLIA Conference, which will take place from June 4-6 in Southampton, is ‘Cruise Ready’.   With cruise passenger numbers at record levels, the conference has been developed to ensure agents have the knowledge, confidence and industry connections needed to capitalise on the demand for a holiday at sea.   CLIA has also confirmed its 'early bird' cost of £155pp for agent members to join will finish on January 30, and is encouraging agents to book now to take advantage of this special rate.   CLIA Conference is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe and will bring together the cruise industry for ship visits, conference sessions, a trade fair and a celebratory sailaway evening party.   Andy Harmer, managing director CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “The theme ‘Cruise Ready’ reflects both the strength of demand we’re seeing for cruise holidays and the wealth of opportunities on offer for the trade. With more customers than ever actively considering a cruise, our role is to ensure agents have the insight, confidence and practical tools to convert that interest into bookings.   "We'll offer the training, first-hand ship experience and industry collaboration the trade need to further make cruise a core part of their business. And we recommend agents book as soon as they can to claim our special 'early bird' rate."   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.   An optional ‘New to Selling Cruise Day’ will take place on June 3, offering dedicated training and brand introductions for delegates who are keen to expand their cruise knowledge and boost sales.   Agents can register at https://trade.cruising.org/events/events-calendar   Keynote speaker details will be announced in due course.

  Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has confirmed that registration for its RiverView conference will close, subject to availability, in two weeks, on February 3, 2026.   The event, the 14th to be held, is dedicated to river cruise and will take place in Amsterdam from March 8-10, 2026. It will feature business sessions, a networking trade fair, multiple ship visits, hosted lunches and dinners, two nights of overnight onboard stays, plus an optional new-to-selling river cruise masterclass.   A limited number of twin-occupancy cabins remain available.   A total of eight operators will have ships moored in Amsterdam and open for agents to visit. The line-up is:   * AmaWaterways - AmaSerena * Amadeus River Cruises - AMADEUS Riva * Avalon Waterways - Avalon View * Emerald Cruises - Emerald Luna * Riverside Luxury Cruises - Riverside Debussy * Riviera Travel - Geoffrey Chaucer * TUI River Cruises - TUI Maya * VIVA Cruises - VIVA ENJOY   All other CLIA river cruise operators will be represented, and a number of associated suppliers will be on hand to meet at the trade fair and across the event.   Andy Harmer, CLIA managing director UK & Ireland, said: "River cruise continues to be one of the most compelling growth opportunities in cruise, particularly for agents looking to offer a more immersive, destination-rich experience to their customers. RiverView is designed to give the trade direct access to the ships, the brands and the expertise they need to sell river with confidence, and with places now limited, we’d encourage agents to secure their place while availability remains."   For more information or to register, go to: https://cruising.org/events/clia-riverview-conference-2026

  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.

  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, Seabourn   Dave 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 Travel   Andy 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

  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.

  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.”

  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.”

  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.”

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

  Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the UK Chamber of Shipping have signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance collaboration and coordination on key issues impacting the cruise industry in the United Kingdom.   Under the non-binding MOU, CLIA and the UK Chamber of Shipping will provide a strong voice in the UK, supporting shared cruise industry members on priority policy and operational matters.   CLIA Senior Vice President for Global Maritime Policy Donnie Brown and the UK Chamber of Shipping Director of Policy Peter Aylott signed the MOU today in London, renewing and enhancing an existing MOU signed in 2017.   The renewal sets out a clear framework for joint and continued support for initiatives such as the Cruise Industry and Government Forum, co-chaired by both organisations with the UK Department for Transport. It also supports collaboration on key policy matters, including those related to decarbonisation, workforce development and skills, and growth of the sector within the UK.   Bud Darr, President and CEO, Cruise Lines International Association, commented:   “Partnerships are essential to strengthening our voice as an industry.   Renewing this MOU strengthens our shared voice and will help us deliver the commitments contained within the UK Cruise Growth Plan and supports responsible cruise growth in the UK.”   Rhett Hatcher, CEO, UK Chamber of Shipping, said:   “We’re proud to strengthen our partnership with CLIA at a pivotal moment for the cruise industry.   By aligning our efforts, we are better equipped champion the sector and deliver meaningful outcomes for our members.”   The enhanced partnership comes weeks after the UK Government published its Cruise Growth Plan, developed alongside CLIA and the UK Chamber of Shipping. The Plan recognises the vital role of cruise in the UK and sets out a roadmap for long-term growth, enhanced infrastructure, and global leadership in sustainable and digital maritime practices. The new MOU will support the organisations as they work with Government to deliver the commitments of the Plan.   For more information, contact: Adam Newman, UK Senior Strategic Communications Manager, [email protected]