Cruise Challenge roadshow to return next month
With the autumn and winter leg of Cruise Trade News’ industry roadshow event, Cruise Challenge, kicking off on 12 September, we speak to readers to find out why this is the perfect event for agents looking to smash their sales targets
Now in its eighth year, Cruise Challenge, presented by Cruise Trade News, returns after a summer hiatus next month, with Chester first up on the roadshow calendar.
Packed with fun, interactive presentations, great food and, of course, the Cruise Challenge gameshow, this agent training event with a difference offers the chance for guests to boost their knowledge and network with some of the UK’s biggest lines and industry suppliers.
“Not only does the Cruise Challenge provide a great opportunity for agents to network with their peers, it’s also a chance for cruise lines to educate travel partners in a wholly fun and unique way,” says Lina Slater, chief operating officer of Real Response Media.
“The fact that this year’s roadshow will be travelling to more towns and cities than ever before goes to show how important these face-to-face events are for our industry.”
The Cruise Challenge will travel to five towns and cities between September and November, with spots still up for grabs at thecruisechallenge.com.
Final 2024 dates include:
Chester, 12 September
Sheffield, 19 September
Chelmsford, 7 November
Norwich, 21 November
London 28 November
Sign up today at thecruisechallenge.com
Why should I attend?
The Cruise Challenge promises an evening of interactive fun designed to arm agents with essential knowledge to help them smash their sales targets.
Each Cruise Challenge kicks off with a welcome reception before a series of short, interactive presentations invite the evening’s cruise line or tourist board partners to share their latest ship and itinerary updates.
Then, a sit-down dinner is served by the respective venue before attendees are split into three colour-coded teams, at which point the evening’s main event begins.
“I have attended the Cruise Challenge event on many occasions and can honestly say it is one of the best travel events on the annual social calendar to learn and have fun”
The gameshow, led by our sparkly-jacketed host, takes place around a giant board in the middle of the room, with participants taking turns to answer questions based off of the information they gathered from the presentations.
Guests who were listening attentively have the chance to win a host of prizes, including Champagne, luxury chocolates and sometimes even a free cruise holiday.
What our past attendees have to say
Muriel Morgan, travel agent at Travel Counsellors
“I have attended the Cruise Challenge event on many occasions and can honestly say it is one of the best travel events on the annual social calendar to learn and have fun. At each event I have attended there has been lovely food, drinks, as well as informative cruise presentations from various ocean and river cruise suppliers.
“A huge highlight of the evening is the Cruise Challenge game presented by Pete who has more energy than an Olympic athlete. During this game there are many prizes to be won, including bottles of bubbly, gift sets, goodie bags & vouchers.
“I would highly recommend this event to all agents whether you are new to cruise or very much established as there is always something new to learn & what better way than at a fun night out. I’m already looking forward to the 2025 event in Scotland.”
Tom Dumbrell national sales manager UK&I, Tauck
“What a unique format. The Cruise Challenge is a memorable way to engage with trade partners and witness very obvious results. With great venues, and well-organised events, these evenings are a perfect way to launch your brand or deliver key updates.
Michelle Tingley, crew HR business partner and former brand training manager, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
“Cruising holidays are on the rise, but not all cruise ships are the same. The Cruise Challenge is a perfect way for agents to strengthen their knowledge of the many different brands that are out there while having fun.
“Last year I attended 10 Cruise Challenge events all around the country; this year I am attending 11. I get to meet so many agents and talk to them about how we can help support them with their sales. It’s also nice to be able to put a face to a name. Once you have met someone it is far easier to build a relationship with them.
“My message to agents would be that it’s a fun experience, where you learn lots of invaluable expertise in a way that is unrivalled. If you don’t attend you are missing out, that’s for sure.”
Leon Hand, training manager EMEA, Celebrity Cruises
“The Cruise Challenge events are great fun, with a unique opportunity to showcase your product in front of a real mixture of travel agents. Love the interactive elements as these really embed the main learning points and the agents being very competitive love getting points and prizes!”
