CruiseWorld by Northstar is once again investing in the future of the travel advisor community through its Select Travel Advisor Recognition (STAR) Program, with applications now open for the 2026 program taking place Nov. 4 to 6 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center.
Designed for travel advisors looking to elevate their business, the STAR Program offers a partially hosted VIP experience that provides enhanced access to CruiseWorld's industry-leading education, supplier relationships and professional development opportunities. Through exclusive programming, private supplier engagement and pre-event networking opportunities, STAR participants gain valuable insights and connections designed to help them grow their business and stay ahead in an evolving marketplace.
"The STAR Program was created to support the continued growth and development of travel advisors by expanding access to the industry-leading education and professional opportunities offered at CruiseWorld," said Alicia Evanko, executive vice president of global events for Northstar Travel Group. "Talented and dedicated advisors deserve the opportunity to take advantage of the valuable learning experiences, meaningful connections and career-building insights this event provides. Travel Weekly and Northstar Travel Group are proud to champion the advancement of advisors who are shaping the future of our industry."
At a time when clients increasingly expect personalized expertise and insider knowledge, the STAR Program helps advisors sharpen their competitive edge. Participants gain exposure to the latest industry trends, product developments and sales strategies, equipping them with the tools needed to create exceptional travel experiences and drive business growth.
Admission to the STAR Program is competitive. Through a comprehensive application and review process that includes professional references and an evaluation of current business practices, CruiseWorld selects a limited group of advisors who demonstrate a strong commitment to professional excellence and business development.
Selected advisors receive complimentary CruiseWorld registration, two nights of hotel accommodations and exclusive opportunities to connect directly with cruise lines, destinations, tour operators and other travel suppliers before and during the event.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a full-time travel professional
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to growing their business
- Actively pursue opportunities to increase sales and expand their expertise
- Be available to participate in CruiseWorld Nov. 4 to 6 as well as virtual event programming Oct. 20 to 22.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Interested advisors must complete an online application and provide professional references for consideration.
"The STAR Program was invaluable in providing direct access to cruise line executives and industry leaders," said Sara Jane Stroupe of Globe Trot Travel Co. "Through focused sessions, small-group discussions and hands-on learning opportunities, I was able to deepen my product knowledge, refine sales strategies and gain insight into upcoming industry innovations. The curated networking opportunities also made it easy to build meaningful relationships that will directly support the continued growth of my business."
CruiseWorld brings together the broader leisure travel industry, offering advisors access to destinations, hotels and resorts, tour operators, airlines, attractions, rail, packaged vacations, business services and more.
For travel advisors seeking new partnerships, fresh selling strategies and opportunities to accelerate their business growth, the STAR Program provides a unique pathway to maximize the CruiseWorld experience.
Advisors looking to attend CruiseWorld traditionally can register at cruiseworldshow.com/register for the price of $325 through Aug. 31.