CLIA is set to introduce two new overseas events, enhancing its live portfolio with trade-friendly gatherings in Gibraltar and Barcelona.
- The first event, a Destination Showcase, will take place from 15-17 September in Gibraltar, featuring destination training and local excursions.
- In Barcelona, the CLIA Weekender from 24-26 October will allow delegates to experience various cruise ships departing from overseas ports.
- Key attendees will benefit from ship visits, exploring ships like Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas and MSC’s World Europa.
- These events aim to provide agents with first-hand insights into cruise destinations, aligning with increasing demand for diverse cruise experiences.
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is poised to expand its event portfolio by hosting two notable gatherings in Gibraltar and Barcelona later this year. These developments were announced by Andy Harmer, CLIA’s managing director for the UK & Ireland, at the association’s annual conference in Southampton. With approximately 850 cruise industry delegates in attendance, Harmer highlighted the importance of these events in providing trade-friendly opportunities for the burgeoning cruise market.
Gibraltar will host the inaugural event, the Destination Showcase, from 15-17 September. This showcase centres on destination training, with educational sessions supplemented by local familiarisation visits and excursions, underscoring Gibraltar’s appeal as a cruise destination. The event is being organised in partnership with Visit Gibraltar, offering delegates preferential hotel rates, and includes ship visits on Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam and Azamara Quest.
Concurrently, the CLIA Weekender is scheduled for 24-26 October in Barcelona. This new event will showcase a variety of cruise ships that typically operate from international ports, providing trade professionals the opportunity to experience life on board. Delegates will inspect multiple vessels, including Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, MSC World Europa, and Windstar Cruises’ Wind Star, as part of a comprehensive programme designed to offer valuable insights.
An evening reception in Barcelona on 24 October will allow participants to network, complemented by built-in time to explore the vibrant city. These strategically planned events are a response to the increasing demand across various cruise sectors, with a focus on offering agents enhanced opportunities to gain and impart first-hand knowledge to customers.
According to Harmer, “These two events will give agents the ideal opportunity to immerse themselves in renowned destinations and a range of fantastic ships.” The sentiment was echoed by Gibraltar’s Minister for Tourism, Christian Santos, who expressed enthusiasm about showcasing Gibraltar to cruise professionals. Amid evolving industry trends, such as shifting demographics and the rising popularity of expedition cruises, these events reflect CLIA’s forward-thinking approach to industry network expansion.
CLIA’s new initiatives in Gibraltar and Barcelona signify a strategic move to enhance global engagement within the cruise industry community.
