CruiseOne, a leading U.S. franchise operation of more than 550 independent cruise-only travel professionals, and Cruises Inc., the nation’s original host agency network with nearly 500 independent contractors, announces the highlights of their 2009 National Conference which will take place from September 14 though 22 onboard the Celebrity Mercury sailing throughout Alaska and Canada.

Titled, “Xperts in Cruising”, the 9-day program includes general sessions, targeted workshops and seminars created to enhance the attendees’ knowledge and insight to the many new products and services offered by CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. Attendees will also have the opportunity to earn CLIA credits towards their ACC and MCC.

“This year’s conference will give our agents and owners the opportunity to become true destination experts and learn how to continue building their overall sales”, advised Dwain Wall, the companies Senior Vice President and General Manager. “With the industries top executives in attendance, our partners are sure to have a wonderful opportunity to meet face to face with the most influential industry leaders”.

“Our independent agents and franchise owners will have the opportunity to experience the wonders of Alaska”, said Steven Hattem, Vice President, Marketing and Sales for CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. “We are also excited to have been selected to host the next exclusive reveal for the Oasis of the Seas where Vicki Freed, Senior Vice President Sales, Royal Caribbean will join us to share the details of this next generation and revolutionary cruise ship from Royal Caribbean”.

Other notable industry attendees include; Dondra Rizenthaler, Senior Vice President, Sales, and Jeffrey Clarke, VP National Sales, Celebrity and Azamara; Edie Bornstein, Vice President, National Accounts and Business Development, Carnival Cruise Line;  Dave Stockert, Vice President Training, Holland America Line; Mike Wiersemra, Vice President, Sales, Viking River Cruises; Rudolph Schreiber, President and Kristen Karst, Vice President Sales, Amadeus Waterways;  Marc Mancini, President, Marc Mancini Seminars will also be presenting in association with Terri Burke, Vice President, Industry Relations, Norwegian Cruise Line; plus many others cruise and travel industry leaders.