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Agent 'cruise champions' celebrated at CLIA graduation ceremonyAgent 'cruise champions' celebrated at CLIA graduation ceremony
Two cruise training programmes for frontline travel agents have been successfully completed by the first cohort of graduates.CLIA introduced the six-month initiatives last year, with one focusing on river cruise and the other on expedition sailings. 33 agents qualified from the river programme and 32 from expedition.They received their special certification at a ceremony in Birmingham, which officially recognised them as river or expedition ‘cruise champions’. The training was aimed at agents who are new or have limited experience of the sectors and included a mix of classroom learning, monthly webinars, assessments and digital catch-ups.The programmes, which started in November, were created alongside CLIA river cruise and expedition operators. Content covered destinations, product training and sales techniques.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Congratulations to our first ever set of CLIA cruise champions. The dedication, commitment and engagement they have demonstrated has been outstanding and we're thrilled to see their achievements recognised.“Many thanks to our cruise line operators for all their support in delivering these programmes, which will ensure graduates are a go-to source of knowledge for both customers and colleagues alike. The feedback we've received has been so positive from everyone involved and we're now looking forward to welcoming a second round of agents on to the programmes later this year."Applications for the next trade cohort will open later this summer, and successful applicants notified during CLIA UK & Ireland Cruise Week, which takes place from September 15-21. The programmes will cover river, expedition and a new luxury option, all starting in November.For more information, go to cruising.org 20 June, 2025 -
CLIA Opens Registration for 2025 Ports & Destinations Dialogue at Seatrade Europe in HamburgCLIA Opens Registration for 2025 Ports & Destinations Dialogue at Seatrade Europe in Hamburg
Renewed Partnership for SMM and Seatrade Europe with Hamburg Messe und Congress Underscores Industry Commitment to Collaboration, Innovation, and SustainabilityBrussels, 19 June 2025 – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is pleased to announce that registrations are now open for the Ports & Destinations Dialogue 2025, taking place in Hamburg, Germany, on 8–9 September 2025, just ahead of Seatrade Europe, Cruise & River Cruise Convention from 10-12 September 2025.Back by popular demand, the Ports & Destinations Dialogue offers a unique platform for the cruise community to come together and engage in open, solutions-focused discussions on how to address shared challenges and shape a future of sustainable growth and development for cruise tourism in Europe and beyond.The 2025 edition will once again feature the highly requested one-to-one meetings, alongside dynamic plenary sessions and networking opportunities with senior cruise line executives, port authorities, destination leaders, and industry stakeholders.This announcement follows CLIA’s renewed partnership with Hamburg Messe und Congress, organisers of Seatrade Europe and SMM, reinforcing a shared commitment to innovation, decarbonisation, and international cooperation across the maritime sector.“Europe plays a vital role in the growth and evolution of the global cruise industry. Our partnership with Hamburg Messe and Congress provides a strong foundation for advancing shared priorities including decarbonisation, innovation, and international cooperation in support of the future of sustainable cruise travel,” said Bud Darr, president and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association.The Dialogue will form an integral part of Hamburg Cruise Week, leading into Seatrade Europe (10–12 September 2025)—the leading European convention and expo for ocean and river cruising—and followed by Hamburg Cruise Days (12–14 September), a public festival celebrating cruise travel with Europe’s largest parade of modern cruise ships.“We are more excited than ever about the future of the maritime industry,” said Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions – Maritime and Technology at Hamburg Messe. “CLIA’s Ports & Destinations Dialogue will add tremendous value to Seatrade Europe and further reinforce Hamburg’s role as a hub for maritime innovation and sustainable tourism.”Registrations for the Ports & Destinations Dialogue 2025 are now open.Further information and registration details can be found here. 20 June, 2025 -
CLIA announces record travel agent membership and host of new initiatives at annual conferenceCLIA announces record travel agent membership and host of new initiatives at annual conference
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has today (May 22, 2025) made a number of agent-friendly announcements and updates at its annual conference in Southampton.Over 850 delegates from across the trade heard from Andy Harmer, managing director UK & Ireland, who confirmed:There has been a 10% increase in CLIA membership since May 2024, with almost 4,300 agency members and 10,000 individuals now using CLIA's resources and trainingA further expansion of CLIA's online 'virtual ship tours' is being made, with 12 more vessels added this yearThe CLIA Cruise Champions Class of 2025 will graduate in June – and new for the next intake in the autumn will be a Luxury Cruise stream, to sit alongside the current Expedition Cruise and River Cruise programmesA complimentary 'New to Selling Cruise Virtual Day' has been announced for July 3, which is open to all cruise agent newcomersCLIA Cruise Week will this year take place from September 15 - 21. CLIA is encouraging the trade to start their planning now, while a raft of Cruise Week agent updates will be made over the next few monthsCLIA Conference runs to May 24. It is the largest UK travel agent of the year and today included business sessions and a networking trade fair. The next couple of days feature a sailaway party and up to two ships for agents to visit, from an overall choice of six:Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines' BalmoralP&O Cruises' BritanniaOceania Cruises' VistaPrincess Cruises' Sky PrincessMSC Cruises' VirtuosaRoyal Caribbean International's Independence of the SeasTwo optional pre-Conference opportunities were yesterday on offer to delegates: a 'New to Selling Cruise Day', featuring sales training and product updates, or an ‘Expedition Summit’, which was hosted on Swan Hellenic in Portsmouth.Andy Harmer said: “The cruise sector is thriving, and we're thrilled to see so many agents, cruise lines and partners come together to share ideas, learn and celebrate our progress. Many thanks to everyone who has made such a wide-ranging event possible."Our latest initiatives - from training days to enhanced virtual ship tours - reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting the trade with industry-leading information and advice. Whether agents are new to cruise or seasoned sellers, CLIA is here to help them grow their confidence, knowledge and bookings.” 22 May, 2025 -
New 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report Shows Cruising is a Vibrant Tourism Sector Growing Steadily to Meet Rising Consumer Demand and Delivering Significant Global Economic ImpactNew 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report Shows Cruising is a Vibrant Tourism Sector Growing Steadily to Meet Rising Consumer Demand and Delivering Significant Global Economic Impact
Latest trends in cruising reveal a dynamic sector driven by a breadth of experiencesThe cruise industry continues to attract passengers of all ages, with Gen-X and Millennials leading the way.From family-friendly adventures to high-end cultural journeys, cruise lines are continuously innovating to fulfill the aspirations of global travelers.Steady and responsible industry growth continues with 37.7 million cruise passengers projected in 2025 and consumers showing strong intent to cruise – 82% of cruisers will cruise again and 68% of international travelers are considering taking their first cruise.With more than $168 billion in global economic impact and 1.6 million jobs supported, the value of cruise tourism to communities is clear.WASHINGTON, May 22, 2025 --Cruise LinesInternationalAssociation (CLIA), the leading voice of the global cruise community, has released its annual State of the Cruise Industry report highlighting the industry's vibrancy driven by travel trends, diversity of cruising choices, and innovative travel experiences aligned with increasing consumer demand."CLIA's 2025 State of the Cruise Industry report shows that cruising continues to be one of the most dynamic and resilient sectors in tourism, growing in line with strong demand for cruise holidays, particularly among younger generations and new-to-cruise travelers," said Bud Darr, president and CEO of CLIA. "The industry is also an essential economic driver, contributing over $168 billion to communities around the world, supporting 1.6 million jobs and investing tens of billions today in the sustainable fleet of the future."2025 Trends Showcasing a Vibrant Travel SectorFirst-time cruisers are driving growth with 31% of passengers in the last two years being new to cruise, reflecting the sector's high satisfaction ratings and ability to attract new customers.Intent to cruise: 82% of those who have cruised plan to cruise again. Gen-X and Millennials are among the most enthusiastic cruisers, drawn to the variety of cruise experiences, ability to visit multiple destinations and value of a cruise holiday.Multi-generational travel: Cruise holidays offer experiences for all ages – nearly one third of cruise guests sail with three or more generations.Cruise travel earns higher satisfaction ratings compared to other holiday choices as shown in repeat factors – 25% of repeat cruisers sail two or more times per year; 14% of cruise travelers cruise twice a year; and 11% of cruisers take three to five cruises a year.Expedition and exploration cruises are the fastest-growing segments of cruise with 22% more passengers choosing these voyages in 2024 over 2023.Cruising Features Choice, Value, and SustainabilityVariety of choice: With over 300 ocean-going cruise ships and thousands of itineraries to choose from, there is a cruise for everyone. From family-friendly adventures to high-end cultural experiences to expedition journeys, the cruise industry is constantly evolving to fulfill the interests and aspirations of travelers.Responsible tourism: Cruise guests book their trips well in advance and cruise companies reserve port calls a year or more in advance, demonstrating that cruise tourism is managed tourism.Cruise is pursuing a variety of sustainable alternative energy sources and investing in propulsion technologies with conversion capabilities that can be adapted for use of low-to-zero-emissions fuels once they are available at scale.By 2028, 50% of all new cruise ship capacity will have engines that can run on LNG/methanol and are able to switch to bio- or synthetic-LNG with little or no engine modifications.More than 61% of CLIA's fleet is equipped to be able to connect to onshore power, a figure set to reach 72% by 2028.Important Economic ContributorWhile only two percent of global tourism, the cruise sector has significant economic impact in communities around the world, generating over $168 billion in global economic impact in 2023 – the highest on record. In the U.S., the cruise industry supported over $65 billion in total economic impact in 2023, supporting 290,000 jobs and $25 billion in wages and salaries.In addition, the cruise industry's impact benefits communities around the world through local sourcing of goods and services, and spending before and after each cruise as 69% of passengers stay one or more nights in a hotel. Additionally, 6 in 10 cruisers return to a destination they first visited by cruise, extending the economic impact of cruising to communities well into the future.The global cruise industry welcomed 34.6 million cruise passengers in 2024, with 37.7 million expected in 2025.North America remains the top source market for cruise, with a 13% increase in 2024 over 2023.In 2024, Caribbean/Bahamas/Bermuda itineraries remained the most popular, with 43% of all cruise passengers sailing to the Caribbean in 2024, followed by the Mediterranean and other European destinations.CLIA member lines will welcome 11 new ships to the global fleet in 2025; 56 new CLIA member ocean-going ships are on order from 2025-2036, representing a $56.8 billion investment and proof of the confidence in cruising's future.To put the industry growth in context, over 70% of cruise ships are small to mid-size – both now and through the 2030 orderbook.To viewthe full2025 Stateof the CruiseIndustryOutlook report, visit here.See CLIA's full Contribution of Cruise Tourism to the Global Economy 2023 report here. 22 May, 2025 -
Cruising gets younger as average age of UK & Ireland passengers fallsCruising gets younger as average age of UK & Ireland passengers falls
Record-breaking 2024 figures highlight Asia demand is booming and Canary Islands also growing rapidlyCruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has today (May 8, 2025) revealed that the average age of UK and Ireland cruisers has decreased again. The overall passenger figures for 2024 confirm the average cruise traveller is 54.3 years - down from 55.1 in 2023 and 57 in 2019.The findings come as CLIA stated that holidaymakers from the UK and Ireland took 2.4 million cruises last year, surpassing the previous highest total of 2.3 million in 2023.CLIA further stated:35% of passengers sailed in the Mediterranean, 26.5% Northern Europe and 13% the Caribbean.Asia & China saw the biggest passenger growth, at 96%. The Canary Islands followed with 31%.For the first time, the CLIA-member cruise line fleet exceeds 310 ocean-going vessels. Overall capacity increased by 3.4% across the year.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Cruising continues to capture the imagination of travellers across the UK and Ireland, as more and more people embrace the diversity, value and unique experiences a holiday at sea offers. With an increasingly younger demographic onboard and more ships in the global fleet, the future of cruising has never looked brighter. And the wider benefits the industry delivers to local economies, suppliers and communities highlight the positive impact cruising has on a global scale." 08 May, 2025 -
Industry and Government step onboard for New Zealand cruise focusIndustry and Government step onboard for New Zealand cruise focus
April 24, 2025 – Cruise leaders and industry stakeholders today joined New Zealand Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston for an on-board discussion on the direction of New Zealand’s cruise industry, putting a focus on close collaboration to achieve future prosperity.As the summer cruise season draws to a close, the Minister was welcomed aboard Celebrity Cruises’Celebrity Edge,part of Royal Caribbean Group’s fleet, during the ship’s latest visit to Auckland. The Minister was joined by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the New Zealand Cruise Association (NZCA), and cruise line representatives.The forum also included more than 30 tourism leaders and other port and destination stakeholders, who were given insights into the global cruise sector and its current outlook.CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said the meeting was an opportunity to highlight the cruise community’s commitment to New Zealand and address some of the challenges faced in the region.“New Zealand is a jewel among cruise destinations and consistently rates highly among international cruise passengers, which presents huge opportunities for New Zealand communities,” Mr Katz said. “Cruise tourism generates many millions of dollars for local businesses in New Zealand and supports thousands of Kiwi jobs, so we want to create an environment where cruising can prosper responsibly.”NZCA CEO Jacqui Lloyd said cruise tourism brought hundreds of thousands of international visitors each year, but warned numbers were declining in New Zealand in contrast to strong growth in the rest of the world.“Creating a successful cruise economy means achieving the right regulatory settings and encouraging close collaboration, so we can thrive in a well-managed way,” Ms Lloyd said. “We welcome the opportunity to discuss how New Zealand can attract more ships to our waters and reverse the decline, so we can strengthen the economic benefits for local communities around the country,” Ms Lloyd said.Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Louise Upston said the meeting had provided valuable insights.“Our Government has a clear priority to unleash economic growth. Tourism and hospitality – including the cruise industry – will be key contributors as we get back to 2019 visitor numbers. We know cruises bring big economic benefits with passengers spending money in our businesses and communities.“I look forward to further work with the cruise industry and across government agencies, as we jointly explore opportunities and address challenges.”While New Zealand has welcomed more than 40 international cruise ships over the past summer season, the NZCA calculates there has been a 20% reduction in cruise visitors due to reduced cruise ship deployment. Cruise lines have attributed the reduction to rising costs, government charges and regulatory complexities. 24 April, 2025 -
United team to put Australasia up front at Seatrade Cruise GlobalUnited team to put Australasia up front at Seatrade Cruise Global
March 31, 2025 – Australia and New Zealand will field their biggest ever delegation of cruise representatives at this year’s Seatrade Cruise Global conference in Miami next month, putting the region’s cruise destinations on show in front of international industry leaders.More than 30 organisations from both sides of the Tasman will take part in a joint mission including Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Australian Cruise Association (ACA), and the New Zealand Cruise Association (NZCA). The Australasian delegation will involve members of all three associations including ports, destinations and industry stakeholders, as well as tourism authorities representing each Australian state and New Zealand.The delegation will join events and discussions throughout the 40thanniversary Seatrade event, to be held from 7-10 April. As well as the conference and exhibition, delegates will join business meetings with global cruise industry counterparts and an Australasia panel discussion on the challenges and opportunities in the region.ACA Chief Executive Jill Abel said Seatrade Cruise Global would be an important opportunity to showcase some of the world’s most diverse and exciting cruise destinations.“We have led the Australian delegation to this event for over 30 years and are proud to have contributed to its growth and continued success,” Ms Abel said. “This year, our delegation brings extensive expertise across the Australian and South Pacific cruise landscape, including port operations, destination promotion, itinerary development, shore excursions, pre- and post-cruise experiences, and the food and beverage supply chain.”NZCA Chief Executive Jacqui Lloyd said the event was an opportunity to demonstrate New Zealand’s long-term vision for a thriving cruise economy."We’re thrilled to have so many new faces join us at Seatrade for the first time, connecting with cruise lines and sharing knowledge with other delegates,” Ms Lloyd said. “This exchange will only strengthen and enhance New Zealand’s cruise offering, and demonstrate New Zealand’s strong commitment to the cruise sector."CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said this year’s team would create an even bigger presence from a traditionally high-profile cruise region.“Australia and New Zealand represent one of the world’s most dynamic cruise markets and together offer some of the most spectacular cruise destinations on earth,” Mr Katz said. “This year’s Seatrade delegation will ensure cruise industry leaders from around the world have the enormous potential of this region front of mind. At the same time, it will allow our industry supporters from Australia and New Zealand to join discussions on the trends and issues shaping the global cruise industry.”The Australian delegation will include representatives from CLIA, the ACA, Destination NSW, SA Tourism Commission, Tourism NT, Tourism Queensland, Tourism Tasmania, Tourism WA, Visit Victoria, Auriga Pilots, Cruise Broome, Intercruises, Port Arthur, Port Authority of NSW, Port of Brisbane, Select Fresh Providores, Shorex Australia, TasPorts and Ports Victoria.The New Zealand delegation will include representatives from the NZCA, Tourism New Zealand, Air New Zealand, CentrePort Wellington, ID New Zealand, Napier Port, Northport Whangarei, Port of Auckland, Port of Tauranga, Port Marlborough, Port Otago, Primeport Timaru, and Wellington Cable Car. 31 March, 2025 -
CLIA expands trade support with expedition eventCLIA expands trade support with expedition event
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland today (March 20, 2025) hosted 70 delegates from across the trade at its CLIA Expedition Cruise Forum.Held at the Courthouse Hotel London, the event featured:Business sessions, outlining the latest expedition insights and trendsProduct training and networking, via individual cruise lines and associated partnersAs part of the day, CLIA's latest expedition partner, ExplorEarth, announced it is hosting a dedicated section on its website - www.explorearth.com/CLIA - exclusively for CLIA members. It will feature a piece by expedition expert and writer Mark Stratton, plus an 'Ask ExplorEarth' section where CLIA members can ask its team sales or product questions. Recommended CLIA partner cruises will also be highlighted.In addition, CLIA stated a dedicated 'Small Ship Cruising Day' will be held for the trade on May 7. A series of tailored assets, information and webinars will be made available to help agents increase their knowledge and promote the sector, which includes yacht, ship and coastal cruising, as well as expedition vessels.It follows the recent unveiling of a new ‘River Cruise Day’, which is being held on April 3.Andy Harmer, CLIA managing director UK & Ireland, said: "I'd like to thank everyone from across the expedition cruise sector who supported us today, and the fantastic feedback and engagement from all the agents who joined us. Expedition travel is thriving and we're excited to help our partners enhance their sales expertise by learning more about the wealth of options at their disposal."We're also pleased to reveal plans for a further dedicated cruise day, this time focussing on the wide range of small ships available to sell. I'd encourage all agents to keep an eye out for further details on this, as well as our upcoming event next month where we'll support the trade with all aspects of river cruise sales." 20 March, 2025 -
Cruise industry looks ahead to European Cruise Week 2025 in Rotterdam, in partnership with local and regional leadershipCruise industry looks ahead to European Cruise Week 2025 in Rotterdam, in partnership with local and regional leadership
CLIA returns with the second annual Cruise Week Europe from 12-14 March 2025Cruise Week features the annual European Summit and an Innovation ShowcaseRegistrations to attend Cruise Week Europe 2025 are openInnovation Showcase Exhibition sales are selling fastBrussels, 9 January 2025 - Registrations are open for the highly anticipated CLIA Cruise Week Europe 2025, taking place in Rotterdam from 12-14 March 2025. Held in Europe’s largest seaport, this premier event brings together decision-makers from across the cruise industry, along with policymakers, business partners, and suppliers, to shape the future of cruising.In partnership with the Municipality of Rotterdam, the Port of Rotterdam and Cruise Port Rotterdam, Cruise Week Europe 2025 will bring together top cruise line executives, industry innovators, and political leaders to showcase the industry’s commitment to sustainable and innovative tourism solutions. The event will highlight the cruise industry’s contributions to the European maritime sector and its leading role in environmental and technological advancements.Cruise Week Europe 2025 will feature an Innovation Showcase, a unique platform for companies supplying or interested in supplying the cruise industry, with a focus on maritime innovation, technology, new build and design and hospitality development. New in 2025 will be a platform to connect exhibitors with cruise line buyers through scheduled 1:1 appointments, special promotional sessions introducing new products and services, and a series of workshops for new to cruise sellers.Jason Liberty, global Chair, CLIA, and president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group said: “Rotterdam’s strong maritime heritage makes it an ideal location for Cruise Week Europe 2025. Europe is a leader in maritime technology development and cruise lines are making enormous investments to lay the foundations for a future of low to zero carbon fuels.CLIA’s annual European Summit is anopportunemoment for the industry and our partners to come together to discuss jointissues, share innovations,andagree on a pathway forward.”Mai Elmar, Executive Director, Cruise Port Rotterdam said: “The cruise sector is thriving with innovation, and collaboration is key. Cruise Week Europe is an opportunity for our community to come together to exchange ideas, learn from each other and showcase the best of our sector. We look forward to seeing more of the groundbreaking work being done by companies across the maritime cluster in sustainability and technology at the Innovation Showcase.”Samuel Maubanc, Director General Europe, CLIA, added: “The cruise sector is a key part of the European maritime transport industrial cluster. Cruise lines are driving innovation, investing in the development and use of new technologies and sustainable energy solutions that will apply across the maritime sector. We look forward to constructive and fruitful debates on how cruise can contribute to the competitiveness, sustainability and resilience of Europe’s maritime sector.”For more information, contact: Philomene Bouchon, CLIA, at [email protected] details on how to exhibit at the CLIA Innovation Showcase: click hereOr contact one of our team members: Emanuela @ [email protected] (EMEA); Joe@ [email protected] (Americas, Asia)About CLIA Cruise Week Europe 2025:CLIA Cruise Week Europe 2025 will gather decision-makers from cruise lines, senior representatives of shipyards, classification societies, ports and destinations, as well as government officials, experts in maritime technologies, and existing and potential cruise suppliers. The event will focus on fostering collaboration, sharing intelligence, and exploring new solutions for a sustainable future.For more information about this exciting event and to learn how your company can get involved, please visit www.cliacruiseweek.comThe Innovation Showcase:The Innovation Showcase is an exclusive exhibition organized to support the European Summit as part of CLIA Cruise Week.This premier event brings together cruise industry leaders, policymakers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders from across Europe and beyond to address cruise industry challenges and opportunities, offering participants unprecedented access to: senior industry leadership:Offering direct engagement with decision-makers shaping our industry, including top executives from major cruise brands and ship builders;Networking opportunities - providing focused opportunities to build lasting partnerships with buyers, suppliers, and executives in a single venue;Market insights - delivering first-hand knowledge of trends, innovations, and sustainability initiatives driving future growth in cruising and maritime businesses. 09 January, 2025 -
Accomplished Global Maritime Leader Bud Darr Appointed President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)Accomplished Global Maritime Leader Bud Darr Appointed President and CEO of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)
Darr returns to CLIA having previously led maritime technical and regulatory affairs at the global cruise association19 December 2024 (WASHINGTON) –Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)announced todaythatits Global Executive Committee hasappointedCharles “Bud” Darr as President and Chief Executive OfficereffectiveFebruary 3, 2025.Darr succeeds Kelly Craighead, who, earlier this year, announced her plans to leave theorganization at year’s end.Darr returns to CLIA, having previously held the post of Senior Vice President of Technical and Regulatory Affairs from 2010 to 2017.He joinsCLIAfrom MSC Group where heserved asExecutive Vice President, Maritime Policy and Government Affairsfor more than seven years. He has also held positionswithin the U.S. Coast Guard, including Deputy Chief of Maritime & International Law, and he has served in theU.S. Navy, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard.“Bud’s proven leadership and dedication to advancing the cruise industry’s policies and environmental leadership practices make him the ideal candidate to lead us into a new era of growth and innovation,” said Jason Liberty, Chairman of the Board, CLIA. “His extensive background and understanding of the maritime industry will be invaluable assets to CLIA as we set even higher benchmarks for success, and I look forward to working with him to drive our collective mission.”In his role as President and CEO, Darrwilllead thenext phase of CLIA’s global strategy atan importanttimefor the industry as the cruise sector builds on a strong and responsible growth trajectory in support of its 2050 sustainabilitytargets.A highly respected figure in the maritime world, Darr brings exceptional maritime experience and outstanding relationships across theglobal cruise industry and its related trade, equipment, ports, shipbuilders, and service providers.“I am thrilled to be returning to CLIA,andI am grateful for the confidence that the Global ExecutiveCommittee andCLIA-memberlines haveplacedin me,” Darr commented.“With the dynamic changes and opportunities ahead, this industry is poised to set new pathways and raise the bar for innovation and sustainability. I am eager to harness our collective expertise to propel us toward an even brighter future. Together, we will navigate the global complexities and reach significant milestones.”Darr will draw on his extensive experience from the broader maritime community, including his involvement with the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), BIMCO, UK Chamber of Shipping, Liberian Shipowners Council, SEA-LNG, Society for Gas as Marine Fuel, World Shipping Council, IMO World Maritime University, Cruise Safety and Sustainability Forum, and the Seamen's Church Institute (SCI),toenhance CLIA’s standing worldwide.Darr began his education in Submarine Nuclear Engineering and later obtained his formal undergraduate education at the US Merchant Marine Academy. During his service with the US Coast Guard, he studied law at the George Washington University Law School. 19 December, 2024