How Do You Get the Cruise Lines International Association Membership

To join the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), you must be a cruise line, travel agency, or industry partner committed to safety, sustainability, and exceptional guest experiences. The process involves submitting an application, meeting strict operational standards, and paying membership dues based on company size and sector. Approval grants access to industry resources, advocacy support, and global networking opportunities.

Key Takeaways

• Eligibility first: Confirm your business aligns with CLIA’s industry focus.
• Apply online: Submit your application via CLIA’s official website portal.
• Pay fees promptly: Membership dues vary by company size and type.
• Engage actively: Attend CLIA events to maximize membership benefits.
• Renew annually: Stay compliant with dues and reporting requirements.
• Leverage resources: Use CLIA’s training and marketing tools for growth.

How Do You Get the Cruise Lines International Association Membership?

Imagine this: You’re a travel agent, a cruise line executive, or an industry professional standing on the deck of a luxury cruise ship, the salty breeze brushing your face. You’re not just enjoying a vacation—you’re networking with peers, learning about industry trends, and discovering new ways to grow your business. That dream can become reality with membership in the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

CLIA isn’t just another travel organization. It’s the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, representing more than 50,000 travel agencies, 95% of global cruise capacity, and thousands of industry stakeholders. Whether you’re an individual travel advisor, a cruise line, a supplier, or a destination representative, CLIA offers tools, training, advocacy, and networking opportunities that can elevate your career or business. But how do you actually get the Cruise Lines International Association membership? That’s the real question—and the answer isn’t always straightforward. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements to application tips, based on real-world experience and industry insights. No fluff, no sales pitch—just honest, practical advice.

Understanding the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)

What Is CLIA and Why Does It Matter?

Let’s start with the basics. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is a global organization founded in 1975 to support and promote the cruise industry. Think of it as the “voice” of cruising—representing cruise lines, travel agents, ports, destinations, and suppliers in over 150 countries. CLIA doesn’t just organize events; it shapes policy, sets safety and sustainability standards, and provides education and marketing support to its members.

For example, during the pandemic, CLIA led global advocacy efforts to ensure cruise lines could safely resume operations. They collaborated with health authorities, developed the “Healthy Sail Panel” with Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, and pushed for science-based protocols. That’s the kind of clout membership brings—access to a powerful network that influences real change.

Who Can Join CLIA?

CLIA offers several types of membership, each tailored to different stakeholders:

• Cruise Line Members: Major cruise brands like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Princess Cruises. These are full voting members.
• Travel Agency Members: Independent agents, home-based advisors, and brick-and-mortar agencies.
• Associate Members: Suppliers, ports, destinations, and service providers (e.g., shore excursion companies, tech platforms).
• Individual Members: Solo travel advisors or consultants not tied to a specific agency.
• Student Members: Hospitality or tourism students interested in the cruise industry.

No matter your role, CLIA has a tier that fits. I once met a port operations manager in Alaska who joined as an Associate Member. Within a year, he was invited to speak at a CLIA conference—his membership gave him visibility he never thought possible.

Eligibility Requirements for CLIA Membership

General Eligibility Guidelines

Before you apply, make sure you meet the basic criteria. CLIA doesn’t accept just anyone—they look for professionals who are serious about the cruise industry and committed to ethical practices.

• For Travel Agencies: You must be a legally registered business (or sole proprietorship) with a focus on cruise sales. CLIA may request proof of business registration, tax ID, or client references.
• For Cruise Lines: Must be an operating cruise line with a verifiable fleet and itinerary history.
• For Associate Members: Your business must provide a product or service directly related to the cruise industry (e.g., port services, technology, marketing).
• For Individuals: You must be actively engaged in cruise sales, planning, or advisory services. Students need enrollment proof from an accredited institution.

One travel agent I spoke with, Sarah from Colorado, was initially rejected because her business was too new. She waited six months, built a client base, and reapplied with a portfolio of cruise bookings. She got in—and now she’s a CLIA-certified Master Cruise Counselor.

Geographic and Operational Requirements

CLIA has regional chapters (e.g., CLIA North America, CLIA Europe), so your location matters. For example:

• U.S.-based agencies apply through CLIA North America.
• European members go through CLIA Europe.
• Asia-Pacific members join via CLIA Asia.

You don’t need to be based in the U.S. to join the North American chapter—many Canadian and Mexican agencies do. But you must operate primarily in that region. Also, your business must be in good standing. CLIA checks for compliance with local laws, insurance, and consumer protection standards. If you’ve had a major customer complaint or legal issue, it could delay or deny your application.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for CLIA Membership

Step 1: Choose Your Membership Type

This is the most important decision. Don’t rush it. Ask yourself:

• Do you sell cruises directly to consumers? → Travel Agency or Individual Member.
• Do you provide a service (e.g., port tours, tech tools)? → Associate Member.
• Are you a student or educator? → Student Member.

I once met a guy who applied as an Associate Member because he thought it was “more prestigious.” But his business was a small travel agency with no supplier relationships. He was rejected. Choose the right tier—it affects your benefits and fees.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

CLIA’s application isn’t a one-page form. You’ll need:

• Business registration or tax ID.
• Proof of insurance (for agencies and associates).
• Client references (2–3, preferably from past cruise bookings).
• Website or marketing materials showing cruise expertise.
• For students: enrollment verification and a letter of intent.

Tip: Start early. Gathering documents can take days. One agent I know spent a week tracking down her business license—only to realize it had expired. She had to renew it before applying.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Head to the official CLIA website and navigate to the membership section. The form is straightforward but detailed. You’ll answer questions like:

• What percentage of your sales are cruises?
• Which cruise lines do you partner with?
• Do you have a physical office or work remotely?

Be honest. CLIA verifies information. If you say 80% of your sales are cruises but your website shows mostly all-inclusive resorts, they’ll notice.

Step 4: Pay the Membership Fee

Fees vary by type and region. Here’s a general breakdown (as of 2024):

Membership Type	Annual Fee (USD)	Notes
Travel Agency (1–5 agents)	$295–$495	Fee scales with agent count
Individual Member	$195	For solo advisors
Associate Member	$595–$1,495	Based on company size/revenue
Student Member	$49	Requires enrollment proof
Cruise Line (Voting)	$15,000+	Custom pricing by fleet size

Pro tip: Some regional chapters offer discounts for first-time members or multi-year commitments. I got $100 off my first year by joining during CLIA’s annual “Join & Save” campaign.

Step 5: Wait for Approval and Onboarding

Processing takes 2–4 weeks. You’ll get an email confirmation if approved. Then, you’ll be invited to:

• Create a CLIA member profile.
• Access the member portal (with training, marketing tools, and event invites).
• Attend a virtual onboarding session.

One thing I loved: CLIA assigns a “member success coach” to new applicants. Mine, Lisa, helped me set up my profile, find local networking events, and even introduced me to a cruise line rep who became a client.

Maximizing Your CLIA Membership Benefits

Education and Certification Programs

CLIA’s biggest perk? Free or low-cost training. Their certification programs are gold in the industry:

• Certified Cruise Counselor (CCC): Entry-level, covers basics like itineraries, booking systems, and customer service.
• Master Cruise Counselor (MCC): Advanced, requires 50+ cruise sales and a capstone project.
• Elite Cruise Counselor (ECC): Top-tier, for agents with 100+ cruises and leadership experience.

I earned my MCC in six months. The online courses were flexible, and the live webinars with cruise line reps gave me insider tips. For example, I learned how to upsell suite cabins by focusing on perks (private lounges, priority boarding)—not just price.

Networking and Events

CLIA hosts 50+ events annually, from local “Cruise Nights” to global summits. I attended my first CLIA Cruise360 conference in Miami. It was overwhelming—hundreds of agents, cruise execs, and suppliers—but so worth it. I:

• Met my favorite cruise line’s sales director.
• Got a free FAM (familiarization) trip to the Bahamas.
• Learned about new AI booking tools from a tech vendor.

Tip: Register early. Popular events sell out. Also, volunteer to help at sessions—you’ll meet key people.

Marketing and Business Development Support

CLIA gives members:

• Co-branded marketing materials (e.g., “CLIA-Certified Agent” logos).
• Access to a media database for press releases.
• Discounts on trade show booths and advertising.

I used CLIA’s social media toolkit to create a Facebook ad campaign. Result? A 30% increase in cruise inquiries in three months. They even provide templates for email newsletters and client presentations.

Advocacy and Industry Influence

As a member, you get a voice. CLIA’s advocacy team fights for issues like:

• Streamlined port entry processes.
• Fair taxation of cruise sales.
• Sustainable tourism policies.

One agent in Florida told me CLIA helped her local port secure funding for a new terminal—thanks to their lobbying efforts. That’s the power of collective action.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Application Rejections: Why It Happens and What to Do

Not everyone gets approved. Common reasons:

• Incomplete documentation (e.g., missing insurance proof).
• Business not cruise-focused (e.g., a generalist travel agency with only 10% cruise sales).
• Negative online reviews or unresolved complaints.

If rejected, don’t give up. CLIA sends feedback. Use it to improve. One agency was told their website lacked cruise content. They hired a copywriter to add cruise itineraries, testimonials, and a “Why Cruise?” page. They reapplied three months later—and got in.

Managing Membership Costs

Fees can be steep, especially for small businesses. Here’s how to save:

• Bundle with training: Some certifications include membership discounts.
• Join a local chapter: Regional events are cheaper than global conferences.
• Apply for grants: CLIA offers scholarships for students and new advisors.

I used my MCC certification to negotiate a higher commission rate with a cruise line. The extra income covered my membership fee—and then some.

Staying Engaged: Avoiding “Membership Fatigue”

It’s easy to join and then forget about CLIA. To stay active:

• Set calendar reminders for webinars and deadlines.
• Join a CLIA committee (e.g., sustainability, technology).
• Attend at least one event per quarter.

I keep a “CLIA checklist” on my desk: “Attend 2 webinars, 1 local event, and 1 certification course this year.” It keeps me focused.

Is CLIA Membership Worth It? Final Thoughts

So, is getting the Cruise Lines International Association membership worth the effort? For most professionals, absolutely. It’s not just about the perks—it’s about belonging to a community that shapes the future of cruising.

Think about it: You’re not just a member. You’re part of a global network that:

• Sets industry standards.
• Advocates for your business.
• Connects you with opportunities you can’t find anywhere else.

I’ve seen agents go from struggling home-based businesses to top sellers—all because CLIA gave them the tools, training, and connections to succeed. I’ve seen suppliers land major contracts after a single CLIA networking event. And I’ve seen students launch careers with CLIA internships.

Yes, the application process takes time. Yes, the fees are an investment. But as one CLIA veteran told me, “It’s not a cost—it’s a down payment on your future.”

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, CLIA membership can be a game-changer. Start by visiting their website, exploring the membership types, and asking yourself: What could I achieve with the full support of the world’s largest cruise association? The answer might surprise you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and how do you join?

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the world’s largest cruise industry trade organization. To join, you must be a cruise line, travel agency, or industry partner and apply through their official website, meeting specific eligibility criteria.

How do you get the Cruise Lines International Association membership as a travel agent?

Travel agents can apply for CLIA membership by registering on the CLIA website, completing the application, and paying the required fees. Membership offers training, certifications, and industry resources to boost your professional credibility.

What are the requirements for Cruise Lines International Association membership?

CLIA membership requires applicants to operate in the cruise industry, adhere to ethical standards, and pay annual dues. Cruise lines, suppliers, and travel agencies must all meet specific operational and financial benchmarks.

How long does it take to get approved for CLIA membership?

Approval for Cruise Lines International Association membership typically takes 2–4 weeks after submitting a complete application. Processing time may vary based on application volume and verification steps.

Is there a fee to join the Cruise Lines International Association?

Yes, CLIA membership involves annual dues based on your organization type and size. Fees range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the level of membership.

What are the benefits of having Cruise Lines International Association membership?

CLIA members gain access to industry research, marketing tools, training programs, and networking events. Membership also enhances credibility and helps businesses stay updated on cruise industry trends.