Two groundbreaking, six-month training programmes are being launched for frontline agents in the cruise industry. These innovative programmes are designed to equip agents with essential skills and knowledge in the growing sectors of river and expedition cruising.
- The programmes will incorporate both classroom learning and digital elements, addressing various aspects of the cruise business.
- Each training will culminate in a formal graduation, recognising participants as certified ‘cruise champions’.
- Applications for these training programmes open shortly after the conclusion of Clia Cruise Week.
- The initiative aims to meet the increasing demand for specialist knowledge in river and expedition cruises.
In a significant move to bolster the capabilities of cruise agents, two comprehensive training programmes are being introduced by the cruise trade body, Clia. These six-month hybrid training modules aim to enhance the expertise of agents, particularly in the niche areas of river and expedition cruises.
The structure of these programmes is designed to combine traditional classroom settings with innovative digital learning methods. Sessions will encompass a thorough exploration of destination knowledge, product training, and essential sales techniques. Additionally, the curriculum will provide insights on identifying potential customers interested in river and expedition cruises.
Graduates of these programmes will receive a special certification, officially recognising them as ‘cruise champions’. This not only acknowledges their enhanced skill set but also positions them as key resource persons for both customers seeking cruise advice and colleagues within their agencies.
The first sessions are slated to begin in November, starting with an intensive full-day classroom training. To secure their place, agents must apply after Clia Cruise Week, scheduled for September 16-22. This approach aligns with the broader objective of equipping new and less-experienced agents with necessary competencies to thrive in these expanding markets.
Clia UK’s managing director, Andy Harmer, underscored the urgency of this initiative, noting that interest in river and expedition cruising is at an all-time high. He remarked on the critical role these programmes play in ensuring agents have the necessary knowledge and specialised advice to leverage the burgeoning demand effectively.
The introduction of these training programmes represents a strategic effort to elevate the proficiency of cruise agents in response to a growing market demand.
