The Travel Network Group is planning to hold a dedicated cruise conference next year as it looks to boost sales among its members.
Currently, around 20% of TTNG’s bookings are for cruise and around a fifth of its travel agent members sell cruise packages, but new Cruise Sales Director John Wilson believes both figures can grow significantly.
“We should be growing our share of existing business and growing overall volumes, both in ocean and river cruising” he said.
About 3% of TTNG’s sales are for river cruises. “That’s a decent chunk, but there is scope for it to be so much more,” added John, who joined the business three weeks ago.
Speaking at the TTNG overseas conference in Bucharest, which has attracted more than 400 delegates, John said he was aiming to launch a dedicated cruise conference early in 2026, ‘probably’ in March or April.
“The date and venue is to be confirmed, but I would like it to be on water somewhere,” he said. “I have started talking to partners about where we will hold it.”
He said members were ‘all very keen’ to have a dedicated cruise event. “I want to first gather feedback, then we will determine what’s the most effective format,” he added.
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