Technology in the cruise industry will be a sub-theme of the Clia UK & Ireland annual conference.
Specific conference sessions and speakers will have a technology theme, encompassing all angles of the industry including ship design, new on board initiatives, and updates on latest investments in technology from member cruise lines.
New technology includes wearable technology, face recognition, the use of apps and robots; plus new technology around the industry’s on-going environmental efforts.
Keynote speakers for the 12th annual conference on May 23-25 in Southampton will be announced over the next few weeks.
Andy Harmer, Clia senior vice-president membership and UK & Ireland director, said: “Technology will be running as a sub-theme of the conference, alongside the main #GenerationCruise focus.
“There’s no denying that in 2018, and beyond, technology is a crucial part of our everyday lives, and this is mirrored in customers’ increasing demands for a seamless experience whilst on holiday.”
He added: “The cruise industry is often taking the lead in the introduction of new technology to enhance the holiday experience and is widely being rolled out by a number of cruise lines and across fleets.
“Sessions at the conference will look at how technology is impacting ship design and the experience on-board, plus how technology can be used to engage a new cruise customer.”
The event will feature a trade fair on May 23 and a day of conference and networking sessions plus a gala dinner on May 24. The conference will close on May 25, on Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess, followed by the opportunity to explore the ship.