CLIA recognises more than 60 new river and expedition Cruise Champions
CLIA has recognised more than 60 travel agents as its latest river and expedition Cruise Champions, following completion of a seven-month training programme designed to build specialist knowledge in two of cruising’s fastest-growing sectors.
The agents received their certification at a graduation ceremony in Birmingham after completing a programme that combined classroom learning, monthly webinars, assessments and digital catch-ups. Now in its second year, the initiative is aimed at agents with limited experience in river and expedition cruising.
Content was delivered alongside CLIA member operators and covered destinations, product awareness and sales techniques.
Andy Harmer, Managing Director, CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “Many congratulations to all our Cruise Champions. These programmes have helped them build specialist expertise in two of the fastest-growing cruise sectors and the graduates should be very proud of what they have accomplished.
“Throughout the courses, agents have shared real-life experiences, customer success stories and practical insights, helping to create a genuinely collaborative learning environment. It’s been particularly rewarding to see their knowledge, confidence and enthusiasm develop, equipping them to better support customers and grow their cruise business.
“Many thanks to our cruise line members for their continued support in helping deliver training and expertise. We look forward to welcoming another trade cohort later this year and continuing to invest in the development of cruise professionals.”
The next round of programmes will launch in November, covering river and expedition cruising, with applications opening in August.
Windstar opens 2028/29 Asia season as demand for Star Seeker nearly doubles
Windstar Cruises has opened its 2028/29 Asia season aboard the 112-suite Star Seeker, as demand for its regional sailings continues to grow.
The line said bookings for Star Seeker’s 2027 Asia voyages have nearly doubled compared with the same period last year, demonstrating rising interest in small-ship itineraries.
The new season will sail across Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore, combining overnight stays, extended Cruise Tours and itineraries designed to reach both major cities and smaller regional ports.
Windstar highlighted Star Seeker’s ability to dock closer to city centres, including Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as access smaller destinations such as Krabi and Ko Yao Noi, which are not typically served by larger ships.
Janet Bava, Chief Commercial Officer at Windstar Cruises, said demand for Asia is running significantly ahead of previous years, with travellers increasingly seeking immersive and personal travel experiences.
The line will also introduce an early booking offer for the 2028/29 season, available for guests booking by 31 July 2026. The promotion includes suite selection priority, a complimentary all-inclusive package, onboard credit and savings for those paying in full at the time of booking.
Windstar said its Asia itineraries will also include Destination Discovery events and a range of Cruise Tours in destinations including Hanoi, Chiang Mai, Angkor Wat and Kyoto.
Azamara and Premier Golf promote global cruise and golf partnership for 2028 sailings
Azamara Cruises has announced a global partnership with Premier Golf to deliver a series of cruise-based golf experiences launching in 2028.
This spans 23 sailings across Europe, Asia, the Americas, Australia and New Zealand, combining Azamara’s destination-focused itineraries with golf access at leading courses worldwide.
A strong focus will be placed on Asia, aligning with Azamara’s deployment of itineraries across Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.
Selected itineraries will include access to courses such as Valderrama in Spain, Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland, Kingsbarns in Scotland, Old Head of Kinsale in Ireland, Tokyo Golf Club in Japan, Cabot Bordeaux in France, Seven Mile Beach Golf Club in Tasmania and New South Wales Golf Club in Australia.
Each sailing will include onboard PGA professional support alongside golf-focused events, including welcome and farewell receptions, coaching sessions, talks and social gatherings. Optional pre- and post-cruise golf resort extensions will also be available.
Travel agents will earn 10% commission on golf packages, with Azamara and Premier Golf also launching a dedicated training chapter within the Azamara World Academy to support sales and product knowledge.
