New certification course turns travel advisors into trusted cruise experts amid record-setting consumer demand for cruising
The Travel Institute today announced the launch of its Certified Cruise Travel Specialist course for travel advisors to develop specialized expertise in cruise planning, sales and client recommendations. The self-paced online course helps advisors navigate the full cruise planning journey, from understanding cruise categories and itineraries to matching clients with the right cruise experience, selecting staterooms, evaluating pricing and promotions, planning shore excursions and recommending travel protection. Upon completion, travel advisors can more confidently guide their clients through the growing marketplace of cruise experiences spanning luxury, premium, contemporary, river, expedition, sailing and yacht options.
The growing cruise market is driving increased demand for advisors with specialized cruise knowledge. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) 2026 State of the Cruise Industry Report, a record 38 million passengers are forecast to sail in 2026, rising to 42 million by 2029. Nearly 90% of cruisers say they intend to sail again, while more than 60% book through a travel advisor, underscoring the significant opportunity ahead for advisors who understand the industry and how to sell cruises.
“Today’s cruisers have more choices than ever, which makes expert cruise travel guidance even more essential,” said Taylor Ruecking, president of The Travel Institute. “The Cruise Travel Specialist course turns advisors from order-takers into curators of the perfect cruise experience for their clients, fostering trust and repeat business while helping advisors capitalize on one of travel’s fastest-growing sectors.”
The course was developed by The Travel Institute with input from subject matter experts, support from cruise partners AmaWaterways, Royal Caribbean, and Scenic Cruises and incorporates industry information provided by CLIA.
What is the Cruise Travel Specialist course?
This self-paced, 10- to 12-hour online certification program for travel advisors covers the full cruise planning journey:
- Cruise categories and itinerary styles
- Client discovery and matching
- Pricing and promotions
- Stateroom selection
- Shore excursions and port experiences
- Documentation and travel protection
- Pre- and post-cruise planning
- Marketing cruise experiences
To earn the Certified Cruise Travel Specialist designation, advisors must complete the course, pass a multiple-choice proctored exam and finish the required Experiential Checklist. Students have 12 months to complete their studies, which include engaging multimedia lessons, industry insights, real-world examples, interactive learning activities and knowledge checks.
“Travel advisors play a vital role in creating unforgettable vacations and building lasting client relationships, which
is why Royal Caribbean is proud to collaborate with The Travel Institute on the Cruise Travel Specialist course,” said Vicki Freed, CTC, senior vice president, Sales and Trade Support and Service at Royal Caribbean. “As cruising evolves and attracts new audiences, advisors who invest in their expertise are better equipped to inspire confidence, personalize recommendations and match clients with the right experience. This program is an investment in the advisor, their business, and the value they bring to every client.”
The Travel Institute’s Cruise Travel Specialist course is available now for $89, plus a $50 exam fee. Education Hub subscribers can access the course in their library at no additional cost, with a $30 exam fee. Subscribers also receive hundreds of hours of additional destination training, business education and professional development resources.
Learn more about The Travel Institute, becoming a travel advisor and certification programs.
