Participating in the CLIA Conference in Southampton this year gave me the opportunity to meet with industry colleagues and visit Ventura and brand new Harmony of the Seas. Both family friendly ships, it was good to be able to compare what each ship had to offer – as well as take a look around a brand new mega-ship.  Ventura had a more traditional cruise-ship feel, we were treated to a fabulous lunch on board – Marco Pierre White had designed the menu and he was there throughout the day.

Harmony of the Seas is so big that it is divided into 7 neighbourhoods – this is a clever way to ensure that the space works well and is not disorientating or overwhelming.  A ship of this size can offer a large range of dining venues and public areas and great facilities for couples and families alike.  The conference highlight for me was actually the conference speeches – international names from the cruise industry offering their insights into the trade with an emphasis on change and the future – fascinating.