CLIA will run three virtual training sessions to help travel agents prepare for CLIA Cruise Week, which this year runs from September 18-24.

The initiative aims to raise cruise awareness and know-how across the travel agent community.

The 45-minute training sessions, which are free of charge for CLIA members, start from tomorrow (31 August) and include:

• Making the most of the week – featuring advice and guidance from Luke Smith (Carnival Cruise Line), Ruth Venn (P&O Cruises) and Steve Williams (MSC Cruises), on 31 August at 9.30am
• Supercharging your cruise sales – with Debbee Dale and Leon Hand (Celebrity Cruises), on 11 September at 10.00am
• Focus on specialist cruising – with Angela Sloan (Uniworld Boutique River Cruises), Aishling McLoughlin (Hapag-Lloyd Cruises) and Connie Georgiou (Silversea), on 12 September at 9.30am

Cruise Week to ‘inspire’ agents

CLIA UK & Ireland MD Andy Harmer said: “We want everyone to be talking about cruise holidays during CLIA Cruise Week, so these training sessions are the ideal way to hone insight and know-how.

“We’re encouraging all agents who want to drive cruise enquiries and bookings to make the most of the training we have on offer, as well as taking advantage of the resources and initiatives running across Cruise Week, to leave them feeling suitably inspired.”

CLIA said it will unveil further training and learning resources for the trade, as well as announce key event updates, over the course of the week.

The association also recently revealed it will host two expedition-themed dinners for its cruise line and travel trade partners later this year.

The events will held in London on 10 October and in Manchester on 12 October.