From a new venue to fresh session formats, Cruise Trade News is rolling out a swathe of new features for the 2026 Cruise Summit

The annual event, which will make its return on 14 September, will examine how the sector can turn the turbulent waters of 2026 into new opportunities.

The cruise and travel industry is navigating a period of unprecedented change. From geopolitical uncertainty and shifting consumer behaviours to advances in AI and digital marketing, disruption is reshaping how cruise brands interact with customers.

Click here to request to attend the 2026 Cruise Summit

This year’s Cruise Summit brings together innovators and senior industry experts to explore how cruise companies can thrive in this ever-changing landscape.

Across a day of insightful presentations, expert panels and thought-provoking discussions, attendees will examine the trends shaping the future of cruise. Key themes include the impact of AI and technology on customer acquisition and retention; emerging growth opportunities in river, luxury and expedition; and the importance of creating seamless experiences.

Here, we highlight five new things to look out for at the 2026 Cruise Summit:

1. New venue

For the first time ever, we’ll be taking the Cruise Summit to 30 Euston Square, London. The venue’s Auditorium, which will host the main conference sessions, offers tiered seating and a Dolby Atmos sound system to ensure every attendee feels even closer to the insights. The building can be found opposite Euston Square Station, or a short walk from King’s Cross and St. Pancras International.

2. In the hot seat

We’ll be inviting some of the cruise industry’s biggest names to face the music and take on our ‘In the Hot Seat’ session, where we’ll be asking the key questions on the minds of travel professionals across the country. The session will feature Marella Cruises CEO, Chris Hackney; Royal Caribbean International vice president and managing director EMEA, Gerard Nolan; MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys vice president of international sales, Antonio Paradiso; and Hurtigruten chief commercial officer, Iain Powell. There will be an opportunity for you to ask the experts a question, too, so get thinking.

3. Exhibition Hall

This year, a selection of our cruise line, technology and travel sector partners will exhibit at the Cruise Summit, giving you direct access to their teams of experts. Each will have a stand in the Exhibition Hall, fully equipped with everything you need to boost sales. Each stand will be operated by a company representative to answer any questions.

4. Have your say

Last month we launched a new survey to gauge the thoughts of our readers to help us build the content for this year’s Cruise Summit. There’s still time to share your thoughts, so make sure to get your insights submitted soon.

5. Expert speakers

Speakers for this year’s event include Nico Beukes, UK, Ireland and Nordics CEO of technology platform Insider One; Hayley Moore, vice president of sales and marketing for UK emerging markets for Hurtigruten; Amanda Docherty, head of trade UK and Ireland for Riviera Travel; Sam Conway, head of business development for Travelzoo; and Nick Cooper, head of market for HolidayPirates Group.