Cruise Shipping Miami offers free events for agents

Travel agents are receiving complimentary admission to some events at the Cruise Shipping Miami trade show, scheduled for March 10-13 at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

Agents may attend two free training sessions and walk the exhibit floor all three days. They are also invited to a welcome reception on Tuesday evening.

“A majority of cruises still are sold by travel agents, and it is in the best interest of the cruise industry to have well-informed cruise sellers providing guidance and value to consumers,” said Daniel Read, director of the cruise event portfolio for UBM Live, which produces the show.

The training sessions, led by CLIA trainer Celia Baker, will take place Thursday, March 13. “Cruise Events: Creative Ways to Increase Your Sales,” is scheduled for 8:30–10 a.m. It offers tips on how to plan, publicize and present a successful cruise event, including venue selection, timing, supplier relationships and on-site sales.

“Selling Successfully Across Cultures,” scheduled 2–3:30 p.m., will explore the subtle values, behaviors and practices that can influence the decision-making process when clients of different cultures consider a cruise vacation.

To register, travel agents should access the online registration form and special promotional code.

More than 10,000 people and 1,000 exhibitors are expect to attend the conference, which draws participants worldwide.

Follow Tom Stieghorst on Twitter @tstravelweekly.