ACE Cruise Convention draws over 600 delegates from across Great Britain

The largest ever gathering of travel agents in the UK takes place in Dover this week – and they are all coming together to talk about cruise holidays.
Despite the present economic climate, cruising continues to ride the crest of the wave with a number of companies reporting unprecedented demand.

More than 600 delegates from across Great Britain are converging on the Cruise Terminal in Dover for the three-day ACE Cruise Convention (17-19 June) hosted by the Association of Cruise Experts. Its director Andy Harmer said: “Last year a record 1.5 million cruise holidays were taken by British passengers. The all-inclusive nature of a cruise means it offers exceptional value, particularly when we are all looking more closely at our budgets. A cruise provides inclusive meals, accommodation, entertainment for all ages and, of course, many exciting destinations. What we are seeing this year is very competitive pricing and exceptional added value benefits – so there’s never been a better time to take a cruise.”

There are 10 cruise ship launches this year with another 29 planned within the next three years. Ships vary from resort-style vessels through to small ultra-luxury yachts, and destinations include the ever popular Mediterranean, Caribbean and Baltic to off the beaten track ports in South America, Australia and the Far East.

The ACE UK Cruise Convention will provide an opportunity for travel agents to hear the very latest news and trends within the industry; visit cruise ships in port; attend business seminars and trade fairs; and hear from key industry leaders.

Andy Harmer commented: “The cruise industry is particularly exciting and innovative. Later this year we will see the launch of largest cruise ship ever built which includes an open ‘Central Park’ within its 16 decks. But cruising is also very diverse – we have small and medium sized luxury ships, companies which specialise in river and expedition cruising, family friendly ships and those that are dedicated to relaxation and exotic destinations. The key to success is ensuring the customer is matched with the right cruise for their requirement and this is where travel agents play such a significant role. ACE is here to provide the all important training and education so that we continue to see a successful industry.”

The third ACE UK Cruise Convention runs from Wednesday 17 June through until Friday 19 June at the Dover Cruise Terminal.