Hays Travel has held its annual Cruise Conference.

The event began on Friday 20 June when guests boarded Cunard’s iconic Queen Mary 2 at Southampton and set sail for Rotterdam.

The conference, held over four nights, welcomed representatives from a host of cruise companies, as well as Hays Travel retail agents, Independence Group members and Personal Travel Consultants – offering them a great chance to network and expand their expertise.

Attendees also enjoyed a cocktail party and standout entertainment, as they experienced cruise life just as our customers do.

Catriona Parsons, Hays Travel’s Head of Cruise, said: “Cruising continues to grow in popularity with our customers and is a strategic focus for us at Hays Travel. Our 2025 Cruise Conference was the perfect opportunity to update delegates from across our group on news and opportunities in cruise, all while experiencing Cunard’s beautiful Queen Mary 2.

“We had expert-led sessions from our partners and Head Office teams and the event allowed attendees to share ideas and immerse themselves in the full cruise experience.

“My huge thanks to everyone who attended and our supplier partners - Ama Waterways, Cunard, Holland America Line, Hurtigruten Cruises, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Vista - for an unforgettable weekend.”

What our colleagues thought:

Cheryl Green, Hays Travel PTC, added: “For me, the thing to take away from the weekend was that there really is something for everyone when it comes to cruising.

“People are always looking for things that are different and immersive. Cruising can almost make you feel like royalty, but equally it doesn’t have to be like that if you prefer something more informal.

“It was fantastic to meet so many experts over the weekend. They really are experts in their field and the enthusiasm for the ships in their fleets was amazing.”

 ^ Cheryl Green with the Queen Mary 2 in the background

Laura Longhurst, Hays Travel’s Halesowen Branch Manager, said: “Being able to engage with suppliers and colleagues from across the business is priceless, especially when it helps shape ideas to take back to branch and the wider region.

“I have now built a network of people I can call upon to share ideas with and really shape my cruise business in branch.

“I was surprised and delighted by the diverse mix of guests onboard, from couples and families to groups of friends.

“One of the standout moments of the trip was an exclusive tour of the ship’s bridge – a rare glimpse behind the scenes at the heart of the vessel’s operations.”