CruiseWorld Invites Advisors to Apply for Elite STAR Program
Contributed By: Mary Pat Sullivan, Executive Vice President, Marketing and Partnerships, Northstar Travel Group
CruiseWorld by Northstar continues its commitment to travel advisor development with the STAR (Select Travel Advisor Recognition) Program. This year’s event will take place November 4–6, 2026, at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The highly regarded STAR Program is a partially hosted opportunity designed to support travel advisor success by immersing each STAR in an elevated and exclusive VIP CruiseWorld experience. Participants gain access to customized programming that includes exclusive event content, supplier meetings, and pre-event engagement opportunities—all designed to maximize the overall event experience.
“The STAR Program was created to support the continued growth and development of travel advisors by expanding access to the industry-leading education and professional opportunities offered at CruiseWorld,” said Alicia Evanko, Executive Vice President of Global Events, Northstar Travel Group. “Talented and dedicated advisors deserve the opportunity to take advantage of the valuable learning experiences, meaningful connections, and career-building insights this event provides. Travel Weekly and Northstar Travel Group are proud to champion the advancement of advisors who are shaping the future of our industry.”
These experiences enable STAR participants to stay current on the latest industry trends and best practices, empowering them to create unique itineraries and consistently exceed client expectations.
Through a comprehensive application and review process—including reference checks and an evaluation of current business practices—the STAR Program curates a select group of the industry’s most dedicated and professional travel advisors. Advisors chosen to participate receive complimentary conference registration, two nights of hotel accommodations, and exclusive opportunities to connect one-on-one with suppliers before and during the event.
Qualifications for the STAR Program include:
- Being a full-time travel professional
- Demonstrating a strong commitment to growing their business
- Actively seeking new opportunities to increase sales
- Being available to attend CruiseWorld onsite November 4–6, 2026, as well as participate in virtual event components taking place in October 20-22
Specific participation requirements, program criteria, and the application can be found at www.cruiseworldshow.com/star-program. Prospective CruiseWorld STARs must complete an online application and provide professional references to be considered. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
“The STAR Program was invaluable in providing direct access to cruise line executives and industry leaders, said Sara Jane Stroupe of Globe Trot Travel Co. “Through focused sessions, small-group discussions, and hands-on learning opportunities, I was able to deepen my product knowledge, refine sales strategies, and gain insight into upcoming industry innovations. The curated networking opportunities also made it easy to build meaningful relationships that will directly support the continued growth of my business.”
For advisors unable to fully commit to the STAR Program—or those who prefer a more flexible event experience—traditional registration for CruiseWorld is now open. Advisors can also save $25 by using code TPN.
CruiseWorld goes beyond cruising, bringing together every facet of the leisure travel industry under one roof. Exhibitor categories include airlines, attractions, business tools, car rentals, cruise lines, destinations, hotels and resorts, professional services, rail, tour operators, packaged vacations, and more. Suppliers interested in participating can contact Emmy Smotrys at ESmotrys@northstartravelgroup.com or visit www.cruiseworldshow.com/why-exhibit.