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CLIA to launch 2025 forum in Svalbard

CLIA Forum

CLIA unveiled a raft of trade-focused activities and initiatives for 2025 at yesterday’s Cruise Forum, including a new overseas forum in Svalbard

One of the more noteworthy announcements was CLIA’s first-ever Expedition Showcase, which will take place from 16-20 July in Longyearbyen, Svalbard.

The event, which will have limited spaces for agents, will include ships visits on AE Expeditions, Ponant, Quark Expeditions and Swan Hellenic, as well as business sessions, shore excursions, two hosted lunches and two hosted dinners.

Meanwhile, a new Art of Selling Cruise event will take place on 3 July in Leeds, with both CLIA and member cruise lines offering education and advice to agents. The event will pay particular emphasis on those who are new to the industry.

 Finally, a series of one-day, in-person forums for agents will take place nationwide, with each event focusing on sector of the industry.

The four events will include an expedition forum in London on 20 March; a luxury-focused forum on 18 June; a yacht and small ship sailing forum in Birmingham on 4 September; and a river cruise forum in Glasgow on 23 October.

Andy Harmer, managing director for UK & Ireland, CLIA, said: “Today’s Forum has been the ideal way to round off another successful year and I’d like to thank every agent and industry colleague who has made it all possible.

“We’re determined for the momentum to keep apace in 2025 and have ensured there are a wealth of new opportunities available for the trade to develop their expertise across the next 12 months. For everyone looking to bolster their sales, including during the upcoming Wave period, we’d urge them to think CLIA in the new year.”

Industry champions join Hall of Fame

Yesterday’s Forum also saw CLIA announce two new inductees to its Hall of Fame, with honours announced at the event’s evening Winter Ball.

Alison Earnshaw, managing director, World Travel Holdings UK, and Peter Shanks, managing director, UK & Ireland, Silversea were the latest industry figures to be added to CLIA’s Hall of Fame, joining the likes of Kay Greenway, Cruise Britain; Catriona Parsons, Hays Travel; and Edwina Lonsdale, Mundy Cruising.

Harmer added: “Congratulations to this year’s Hall of Fame inductees. Their exceptional careers are a testament to the power of expertise, passion and dedication in reaching the pinnacle of the cruise industry.

“They serve as inspiring role models, not only for their peers but also for everyone aspiring to begin or progress their career in the sector.”

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