In late October, a group of cruise line and travel agent representatives came together at the Real Response Media partner lunch.

At the event, held in central London, attendees discovered the new initiatives that Real Response Media has launched this year across its two cruise brands – Cruise Trade News and World of Cruising – as well as the ideas and plans in place to capitalise on further growth in 2024.

A key focus was the growth in digital content and solutions, with both brands seeing increases in online traffic and engagement. Social media reach has also increased this year, particularly through LinkedIn for Cruise Trade News.

Cruise Trade News editor Gary Peters showcased the new-look print magazine, which launched in the October issue, highlighting what’s new and how the publication is now entering a new era with a greater focus on long-form content and supporting travel agents with training advice and destination-led coverage.

Working together and opportunities for 2024

Real Response Media commercial director Tracy Clenshaw said: “It was wonderful to host many of our key partners in the industry, as we showcased what we have achieved together this year and the opportunities that await in 2024.

“Alongside the huge growth in digital for Cruise Trade News and World of Cruising, our events have also gone from strength to strength, not least with the ever-popular Cruise Challenge, which has achieved record attendance figures and visited more cities across the country than ever before.

“Across print and digital we’re producing more cruise-focused content than any other media brand out there, with a mix of news, advice-led articles, video content and comprehensive and hard-hitting features and analysis.”

Cunard director of UK sales Tom Mahoney said: “On behalf of the Cunard team, I would like to say a big thank you to Cruise Trade News.

“Cruise Trade News is innovating to meet the needs of partners and it was great to see the new-look issue on display, where the depth and quality of the content really reflects the passion and pride that is evident in all the team do and achieve.”

P&O Cruises director of sales Ruth Venn added: “It was great to meet with the Cruise Trade News team and to hear about their successes this year.

“The new-look magazine is fantastic, with new features providing relevant and topical updates. 2024 looks set to be another year of innovation and success that P&O Cruises looks forward to being a part of.”