Clia UK has confirmed the dates for Cruise Week 2024 amid hopes this year will be “exceptional” for the sector.
The cruise trade body’s UK & Ireland managing director Andy Harmer encouraged agents to mark September 16-22 in their diaries during a media event in London on Wednesday.
The emphasis this year will be on destinations, Harmer said, with social media graphics to be distributed among Clia members.
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“The information we get is that agents do get a spike in interest during Cruise Week because cruising is being talked about more,” Harmer added.
Clia UK’s membership has grown by 16% in the year to date, he said, following an increase of 18% last year.
The numbers have been helped by luxury-specialist agents joining the ranks, according to Harmer.
He encouraged the industry to work together to ensure this year remains on track to be “exceptional” for market growth.
A successful tactic recently has been highlighting the distinct segments within the sector, he added.
This year’s Cruise Week will coincide with a Destination Showcase in Gibraltar, which will take place on September 15-17. Registration opens on July 3.
Live footage from Gibraltar will feature in the material promoted during Cruise Week in addition to recorded content.