Well, at the O2 Guildhall, they certainly wouldn't let the elephant on board – apparently, it didn't have a passport!
More than 600 travel agents gathered for the UK's biggest cruise event, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Conference 2026. CLIA Managing Director Andy Harmer and Travel Weekly's Lucy Huxley transformed the stage into a full-blown circus spectacular, complete with music from The Greatest Showman.
It perfectly demonstrated how the cruise industry is becoming bigger, bolder and more exciting than ever before.
The trade fair itself was overwhelming, with countless suppliers showcasing new products and innovations. There is certainly a lot happening in the future of cruising – watch this space!
During the conference, I had the opportunity to visit two very different ships: P&O Cruises' Britannia and Oceania Cruises' Insignia.
Britannia – P&O Cruises' Flagship
Britannia is known as the flagship of the P&O fleet, as she has no sister ship.My first impression was the jaw-dropping Grand Atrium. This stunning central space is the perfect place for guests to enjoy an evening drink or a casual coffee. As passengers embarked, I noticed many naturally gravitated towards this beautiful area.
Britannia truly offers something for everyone. The onboard cookery school is a fantastic concept – I would have loved the opportunity to cook alongside Marco Pierre White! (A little name dropping never hurts.)
Dining and bar experiences are of a very high standard. Guests can enjoy gin-tasting experiences and fine wines at The Glass House, although unfortunately I had to take their word for it as I didn't get the chance to sample them myself. Britannia is very much focused on premium culinary experiences.
I was particularly impressed with the inside single cabin. It felt surprisingly spacious, and all of the cabins I viewed were stylish and well-designed.
When it comes to entertainment, Britannia has it covered. Spectacular live productions take place in the Headliners Theatre, while The Limelight Club combines a three-course dinner with intimate live performances.
During my visit, I also learned that P&O Cruises will be launching a dedicated Travel Agent Live Chat service later this year, which is great news for agents and customers alike.
For those new to cruising, the conference highlighted some of the most common myths surrounding sea sickness, as well as clarifying exactly what is included in the cruise fare.
I also attended the Sail Away Party, where the atmosphere was electric. Travel agents, cruise representatives and suppliers were all exchanging tips while enjoying live music and a DJ. It genuinely felt like being on the top deck of a mega-ship during sail away. An unforgettable evening.
Oceania Insignia – Boutique Luxury at Sea
Visiting Oceania Insignia was like attending a masterclass in boutique luxury.
Much smaller than many contemporary cruise ships, Insignia accommodates just 670 guests and was aptly described as a "private country club on water." Being adults-only adds to the sophisticated atmosphere.
One of the advantages of a smaller ship is the ability to visit tiny and exotic ports that larger vessels simply cannot access. This makes Insignia particularly appealing to well-travelled cruisers looking for unique destinations.
Oceania's motto is "The Finest Cuisine at Sea," and I was able to visit both the Grand Dining Room and Toscana restaurant, as well as enjoy lunch in the Polo Grill.
The cabins were elegant and stylish, featuring Oceania's renowned Ultra Tranquility Beds, designed to provide the best possible night's sleep. I would certainly have liked to test that claim myself!
Luxury is at the heart of the Oceania experience. Every stateroom includes a minibar stocked with soft drinks and premium Bulgari toiletries. I was also delighted to discover that the solo staterooms are oceanview cabins with no single supplement.
Another feature that stood out was Oceania's flexible drinks package policy. If only one guest in a cabin wishes to purchase a drinks package, they can do so. Most other cruise lines require all guests sharing a cabin to purchase the package, making Oceania's approach particularly appealing for couples with different preferences.
Accommodation ranges from entry-level staterooms through to luxurious suites complete with butler service and a host of exclusive benefits.
A particular highlight for me was the spa, which guests can use free of charge.
Thanks to the ship's smaller size, it felt incredibly easy to navigate. On larger ships, it would probably take me at least two days to find my bearings – although I do enjoy the adventure of discovering new spaces.
Entertainment is of West End standard, with guest performers such as Gareth Gates and talented resident musicians creating a relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere throughout the ship.
Final Thoughts
After three inspiring days at CLIA Conference 2026, I feel fully recharged and more excited than ever about the world of cruising.
So, which ship would you choose – the royal elegance of Britannia or the luxurious boutique charm of Insignia?
For more information and to book your next voyage, contact me at Miles Morgan Travel, Cheltenham:
Sibyl Brandon-Jones
Miles Morgan Travel
📞 01242 808549
✉️ sibyl.brandon-jones@milesmorgantravel.co.uk
