Elevating Travel Advisors at CruiseWorld
Written By: Jennifer Kruse, Associate Director, Trade Recruitment & Engagement – Northstar Events
Applications for the STAR Program at CruiseWorld are now open. The annual event takes place from November 6th through 8th in Fort Lauderdale, FL at the Broward County Convention Center, and encompasses supplier trainings, networking, ship inspections, informative general sessions and an Exhibitor Showcase.
The popular STAR (Select Travel Advisor Recognition) Program is a partially hosted opportunity designed to support the success of travel advisors by immersing each “STAR” in an enhanced and intensive VIP CruiseWorld experience. STAR Program participants engage in unique and customized programming that allows for exclusive event content and private, face-to-face supplier interaction—maximizing the onsite experience.
“The STAR Program aims to advance the industry by partially subsidizing conference expenses for up to 225 advisors to attend CruiseWorld,” said Alicia Evanko-Lewis, Executive Vice President, Global Events, Northstar Travel Group. “So often, advisors miss out on the incredible educational and networking opportunities at CruiseWorld because of cost and Travel Weekly is committed to investing in the professionals who will help our industry soar.”
In 2023, the STAR Program was sold out. It is widely accepted as the premier hosted opportunity for front line travel sellers, including advisors of all levels of experience. Accepted STAR participants received complimentary CruiseWorld registration, two (2) nights hotel accommodation, pre-event virtual programming and exclusive opportunities onsite at CruiseWorld.
What makes a STAR?
- Full-time travel professionals
- Advisors who are serious about growing their business
- Advisors who are actively looking for new opportunities to increase sales
Specific participation requirements and program criteria, as well as the application, can be found at cruiseworldshow.com/star-program. Potential CruiseWorld STARs must complete an online application and provide professional references to be considered. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
“CruiseWorld’s STAR Program provides an opportunity to conduct one-on-one meetings and get facetime with vendors,” said Julie Laible, Beach and Beyond Travel, a past STAR Program participant. “This is key to deciding what vendors to add to your portfolio.”
CruiseWorld isn’t just about cruise. The event brings together all facets of the leisure travel industry. Exhibitor categories include: airlines, attractions, business tools, car rental, cruise, destinations, hotels and resorts, professional services, rail, tour operators, packaged vacations, and more. Suppliers interested in participating can reach out to Emmy Morales at emorales@travelweekly.com to learn more.
Traditional CruiseWorld registration is open for those who are unable to fully engage in the STAR Program commitment, or who prefer a more flexible event experience. Those wishing to register traditionally can use code HBTA to receive $25 off the current registration rate.