Why Global Travel Industry Leaders are Converge in Amsterdam?

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Dive into the 2024 ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam, March 13-16. Enhance your industry knowledge with workshops and networking at the Mövenpick.

The 2024 ASTA River Cruise Expo, set to take place from March 13-16, will offer an unparalleled experience in Amsterdam at the Hôtel Mövenpick Amsterdam City Centre. This premier event is the perfect opportunity for those keen on advancing their river cruise industry knowledge through expert-led workshops, forming essential connections with industry leaders, and partaking in social activities that foster meaningful partnerships.

Why Attend?

The Expo offers numerous benefits to its attendees, including:

• Expert-Led Learning: Gain insights from seasoned professionals in the river cruise industry.
• Networking Opportunities: Interact with top industry executives and connect with fellow professionals.
• Business Expansion: Discover strategies to grow your river cruise business.
• Marketing Insights: Learn how to effectively convert prospects into loyal clients.
• Exclusive Ship Events: Attend special evening events on river cruise ships for unique networking opportunities.

Event Highlights

• Specialized Workshops: Training sessions led by the river cruise sector’s top educators.
• Executive Networking: Opportunities to meet with leading figures from prominent river cruise brands.
• Enchanting Tours: Explore destinations that will captivate and impress clients.

Participating Ships for 2024

Attendees can choose from an impressive selection of twelve ships brought by nine distinguished River Cruise companies:

• Riverside Debussy
• Riviera MS Geoffrey Chaucer
• Uniworld S.S. Victoria
• Scenic Emerald Dawn
• AmaWaterways AmaMora
• AmaWaterways AmaSerena
• Viking Sigrun
• Amadeus Cara
• Avalon Imagery II
• Tauck MS Joy
• Viking Ve
• Avalon Passion

Detailed Agenda

Wednesday, March 13

• Travel Marketing & Conversion Mastery Workshop: A session by Travel Marketing and Media designed to enhance conversion and sales techniques.

Thursday, March 14

• Opening Plenary: Kickoff with insights from Sandra McLemore, Zane Kerby, and Jackie Friedman.
• Session I: Advanced River Cruise Sales Tactics with speakers:
• Jackie Friedman, President, Nexion
• Kristie Keller, Owner, Addicted to Adventures LLC
• Karen Quinn-Panzer, Owner, Quinn Panzer Travel
• Alisa Spatafora, Luxury Travel Advisor, Alisa Travel Designs
• Vernae White, Agency Owner, Voyages By Vernae
• Session II: Educational Keynote on Expanding Your River Cruise Business by Sandra McLemore.
• Session III: Converting Cruise Skeptics into Enthusiasts featuring:
• Nicole Edenedo, Senior Editor, Travel Weekly
• Donna Manz, European River Cruise Specialist, Caddie Travel
• Melinda Fortunato, President, Best Travel, LLC
• Christen Perry, Classic Travel Connection
• Maria Evangelista, JMJ Travel Services

Friday, March 15

• Exhibition Area Sessions: A morning and afternoon trade show, plus ship open house for firsthand experiences.
• Onboard Dining: Lunch and dinner sessions to enjoy the culinary offerings of river cruising.

Saturday, March 16

• City Sightseeing Tours: Exclusive excursions organized by river cruise lines for attendees.
• Grand Finale Soirees: End the Expo with memorable parties aboard river cruise ships with themes like St. Patrick’s Day and retro 70s night.

Sunday, March 17

• Departure for Post-Expo Journeys: Please prepare your luggage for the next leg of your journey.

Key Information for Attendees

• Check-In and Registration: Start your Expo experience at the Passenger Terminal, where badges are mandatory for participation.
• Welcome Mixer: An exclusive reception on the first day to network and set the tone for the event.

The 2024 ASTA River Cruise Expo is more than just a conference; it’s a key to unlocking success in the river cruise industry. Don’t miss this chance to learn from the best, meet influential figures, and experience the magic of river cruising in Amsterdam.

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