The good news just keeps getting better for the 19 cruise lines and 16,500 travel agencies that are members of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Spurred by a strong upsurge in cruise travel, the tally for passengers choosing to sail last year surpassed – by far – all previous booking records. In all, a record 10.5 million people took a cruise in 2004, it was announced today at the 20th annual Seatrade Cruise Shipping Convention. CLIA predicts just over 11 million travelers will cruise in 2005.

– The cruise industry has long sought to respond to the ever-changing vacation tastes and desires of its passengers by enhancing onboard facilities and amenities, as evidenced in the comprehensive stem-to-stern multi-million dollar renovations routinely undertaken by the 19 member operators of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

Europe cruises will deliver a one-two punch this spring, summer and fall – the end result of which translates into a double whammy in value. The high cost of the euro against the U.S. dollar – coupled with extraordinary early booking opportunities – make 2005 Europe cruises doubly tempting. “Travelers who plan land vacations in Europe will pay more this year and perhaps experience sticker shock. However, travelers who opt for all-inclusive cruise vacations will pre-pay in U.S. dollars, significantly insulating them from currency fluctuations,” said Terry L.

Cella Baker, a veteran sales trainer, Alaska tourism association manager and former travel agency professional, has joined the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) as a Trainer. Baker will be based in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and begin presenting CLIA Agency Training Program (ATP) seminars in April. Baker brings more than 15 years of experience as a sales trainer and Alaska tourism association manager to her new position at CLIA.

Alaska offers crystalline glaciers, abundant wildlife and diverse cultural and historic attractions – all of which can be viewed from the deck or suite balcony of a cruise ship. The 49th State will figure prominently in cruise itineraries beginning this spring, when eight of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)’s 19 member lines position 27 ships in the region from April through October. “It would be nearly impossible for travelers to sample as many Alaskan destinations on a land tour as they can on a cruise,” said Terry L.

The cruise industry’s record-setting growth is not surprising in light of the tremendous success of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)’s travel agent training programs. Highly trained agents are the most productive cruise sellers, and more CLIA agents than ever are sharpening their skills and expertise through the association’s training and Cruise Counsellor Certification programs.

The year 2005 marks the 30th Anniversary of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the marketing and travel agent training arm of the North American cruise industry and the largest travel association in terms of agency membership. In celebration of this noteworthy achievement, and in recognition of CLIA’s continuing role as the primary training, educational and promotional resource for cruise retailers, the association will produce a commemorative publication scheduled for distribution this summer.

Sailing to quaint, picturesque Bermuda has never been easier – and with the Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) member lines, half the fun is getting there. This year, CLIA member lines will offer Bermuda sailings from six convenient East Coast cities aboard eight cruise ships, each of which boasts its own decidedly distinct ambiance and amenities. In short, there’s something for everyone: families, singles, newlyweds and seniors. There’s a reason why 40 percent of travelers return to Bermuda again and again.

TAPPING TECH: CLIA DESIGNATES 2005 ‘YEAR OF TECHNOLOGY’ Educational programs to provide agents with strong competitive edge NEW YORK – The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is always searching for ways to keep its member agencies head-and-shoulders above the competition.

INDUSTRY PREDICTS CRUISING WILL BE VACATION OF CHOICE IN 2005 Cruise lines to launch more ships, longer cruise programs, exciting new itineraries and expanded enrichment activities NEW YORK– Leisure cruising will continue to ride a wave of unprecedented passenger growth and popularity in 2005 buoyed by strong customer demand, an emphasis on ship introductions and innovations, more U.S.

WHEN BOOKING A CRUISE, WHO YOU GONNA CALL?

CLIA ACCREDITATION PROGRAMS HELP AGENT CRUISE SALES SOAR Elite certification ups the ante on CLIA agent training NEW YORK – The numbers speak for themselves. Simply put, Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) Cruise Counsellor Certification programs reap lucrative results for member agents. According to CLIA’s research, Certified Cruise Counsellor program graduates experienced an average individual cruise sales increase of 235% after obtaining CLIA certification.

The Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation (CICF) is celebrating its 10 year anniversary at a special event to be held aboard Carnival’s Victory on Thursday, August 14th. Sixteen New York City charities will be presented with charitable grants at a luncheon ceremony where CICF will award $100,000 in total grants to support local charitable organizations. Each of the sixteen charitable grant recipients focus their efforts on programs designed to improve the quality of life for underprivileged New York City residents.