Andy Harmer is the Director of CLIA UK and Ireland, a familiar face in both the industry and the media, and one of cruising's most passionate advocates...
Q: Describe your organisation in no more than 50 words...
A: The Cruise Lines International Association is a global cruise industry association whose role is to bring people together and facilitate conversations. In the current climate, that role is key as CLIA brings together government agencies, medical experts, operations executives and more to discuss how ships will be able to resume sailing. In more normal times, CLIA embraces the multiple stakeholders in the industry, including agents, ports, local operators and all the many members of the supply chain, helping them to understand and develop the many opportunities in this exciting and vibrant sector of the travel industry.
Q: What is your proudest moment as it relates to your organisation?
A: I never fail to be proud to see the culmination of the work we have done - happy guests returning to the rivers and oceans year after year, and new customers blown away by the excitement of their first cruise.
Q: Tell me something about yourself that most people don't know...
A: I used to do some television acting on Hong Kong TV. Just before I left, I was offered my own show, so in another life I could have been a star! (Editor's comment - you'll always be a star to us, Andy).
Q: Why do you love Mundy Cruising and what do you think is the secret of their 50 years of success?
A: Mundy Cruising appeals to clients who want the very best advice. Because they invest their time and energy in training and expanding their knowledge, this is their focus: they are not in it for a quick sale. Edwina and Matthew and their team understand everything about the luxury cruise market, and express it with an unmistakeable passion.
