- CLIA confirms annual conference from 13 to 15 May 2027
- Event held in Southampton with refreshed format
- Business sessions split across two days
- Four new themed breakout workshops available
- Registration opens on 8 October
The Cruise Lines International Association has confirmed plans for its annual conference in 2027 with a refreshed format on offer to agents. The event will be held from 13 to 15 May in Southampton. Business sessions will be split across two days with day one held at Kings Conference Centre in Hedge End, Southampton and the second onboard P&O Cruises’ Britannia. The day one trade fair will be extended, providing more time and opportunities for networking with refreshments, competitions and giveaways.
Delegates can choose from one of four new themed breakout workshops, each offering practical insights and action points to take away. The sessions will be supported by cruise line experts and subject specialists with topics including sales and marketing, sector-specific sessions and a dedicated workshop for agents new to selling cruise. In addition to visiting Britannia on day two, delegates will be able to tour either Celebrity Apex or Sky Princess on day three including a brand presentation and lunch.
A revitalised Sailaway Party will also be launched, with details available closer to the time. The conference is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe and the 19th to take place. Registration opens on 8 October.
Andy Harmer, CLIA England and Ireland Managing Director, shared: “Our annual conference continues to be incredibly popular with the trade, and we’re always looking at how we can evolve it to deliver even more value. The changes we’re introducing for 2027 have been shaped by delegate feedback, with more time for our business sessions and trade fair, new practical workshops and greater choice over how agents spend their time with us. At the same time, the ship visits, networking and access to cruise lines that make the conference so valuable remain firmly at its heart. Our aim is for every agent to leave Southampton with new knowledge and connections, as well as practical ideas they can put into action straight away. We’re already looking forward to welcoming everyone in May.”
