Budapest, Hungary | 12th – 14th March 2026
Our Vision in Action Cruise Conference brought Members together in the stunning city of Budapest for two days of insight, inspiration and connection. Designed to support growth in the ever-evolving cruise sector, the event combined expert-led sessions, valuable networking opportunities and memorable experiences, all set against one of Europe’s most beautiful backdrops.
DAY 1
A Warm Welcome Onboard
Members were warmly welcomed onboard AmaMora, one of AmaWaterways’ beautiful river cruise ships, bringing together colleagues, partners and friends to kick off the conference. It was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect, meet new faces and set the tone for the days ahead.
From the very start, there was a real buzz of energy and collaboration, with everyone excited to make the most of the conference.
Time to Discover Budapest
With the conference officially underway, we stepped beyond the ship to experience Budapest first-hand, exploring its history, culture and iconic sights – an essential part of bringing Budapest to life and inspiring future travel conversations.
Budapest Walking Tour
To begin exploring the destination, guests took part in a walking tour through Budapest, soaking up the city’s rich history and iconic sights.
Experiencing destinations first-hand is such an important part of selling travel, and the tour offered a perfect introduction to what Budapest has to offer.
Evening Illumination Cruise
The evening was rounded off with a truly unforgettable experience – an illumination cruise along the Danube aboard AmaWaterways’ beautiful AmaMora.
As the city lit up at night, guests were treated to breathtaking views of Budapest’s landmarks, creating the perfect setting for relaxed networking and conversation, and a memorable start to the conference.
DAY 2
Insight, Strategy and Inspiration
Gary Lewis, CEO, opened Day 2 with a business update and shared more about Vision, our all-in-one technology platform designed to support Members in running and growing their businesses.
Vim Vithaldas, CCO, then outlined our cruise strategy, highlighting the opportunities available within this key sector, before Ross East, Group Marketing Director, went through the marketing support and plans for the next 12–18 months to help our Members grow their cruise sales.
Partner Perspectives and Member Insights
With the conference in full swing, we focused on learning, sharing and connecting. Members had the chance to hear directly from industry experts, gain practical insights from their peers, and explore new ideas and opportunities to grow their cruise businesses.
Presentations & Members Panel
The morning continued with a presentation from our hosts, AmaWaterways, followed by an engaging Members panel.
Featuring Craig Goodridge, Craig Goodridge Travel (Independent Travel Experts), Ralph Thacker, Hops Travel (Worldchoice) and Gemma Antrobus, Haslemere Travel (TTA), the panel offered valuable real-world insights and experiences from across the network, providing practical takeaways and inspiration for fellow Members.
Presentations & Networking
Throughout the afternoon, Members took part in a series of Business Partner presentations, gaining further insight into products, opportunities and developments within the cruise sector.
This was followed by a lively marketplace networking session, where Members connected with partners, shared ideas and explored new ways to grow their businesses.
Celebrating Success in Style
The conference was rounded off in style with a fantastic dinner and farewell celebration, bringing everyone together to reflect on a successful few days.
It was the perfect opportunity to celebrate the connections made, the ideas shared and the opportunities ahead.
Looking Ahead
Overall, the Vision in Action Cruise Conference was a brilliant showcase of the power of collaboration, insight and community.
We look forward to continuing to support our Members as they build on this momentum and grow their cruise businesses in the months ahead.
