The awards draw nominations from throughout the cruise industry and recipients are determined by a selection panel that includes representatives from the CLIA Strategic Trade Advisory and Review Board and Trade Relations Committee.

“The nominees for Hall of Fame represent the best and brightest individuals within our industry and the winners this year are some of the most talented and dedicated members of this group,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO of CLIA. “We are proud to host the Hall of Fame Cruise Industry Awards to highlight the ongoing dedication and passion these individuals have for advancing the cruise industry.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to an individual from any aspect of the cruise industry who is an advocate for cruise travel and has made remarkable, positive contributions to the cruise industry. Cleary started her travel agency business 25 years ago in her mother’s basement, driven by her love for travel. The company is now among the largest sellers of cruises in North America, with more than $135 million in annual cruise volume. One example of Cleary’s innovative approach to marketing is CruCon’s partnership with leading entertainment and lifestyle retailer HSN. Exclusive deals from CruCon, featuring multiple major cruise lines and itineraries, are promoted to HSN viewers. Cleary has won numerous awards and honors throughout her career for both her achievements in the cruise industry and her philanthropic efforts.

“Words cannot express how grateful I am to receive this prestigious award which I share with the dedicated staff at CruCon Cruise Outlet,” said Cleary, the company’s founder. “We are a true team focused on making people’s travel dreams come true each and every day. Who knew that a modest business I started 25 years ago based on my passion for travel would become what it is today. I am thankful and excited to see what the future holds.”

Founded in 1997, CruCon Cruise Outlet is a full-service North American cruise travel agency working with guests from across the world. With its headquarters in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, the company sends over 100,000 people on cruises every year.

About CruCon Cruise Outlet

CruCon Cruise Outlet is part of Travel Leaders Group – one of North America’s largest travel agency organizations. In business for nearly 20 years, CruCon is a fully staffed cruise agency with certified cruise specialists who are all under one roof. Honors include Royal Caribbean’s Chairman’s Award, Celebrity Cruise’s Chairman’s Award and Norwegian Cruise Line President’s Club Elite Agency of the Year. CruCon has also been voted “Best” for seven years by Travelzoo, and holds memberships with prestigious organizations such as Cruise Lines International Association and American Society of Travel Agents.

2018: Year of the Travel Agent
Travel Leaders Group has named 2018 Year of the Travel Agent. Over the last decade, the travel agency industry has flourished through technology, the growth of travel options and personalized service. Travel Leaders Group represents approximately 52,000 travel agents with unmatched expertise in 135,000 destinations and 53,000 areas of interest. Travelers and suppliers have rediscovered the value a professional travel advisor delivers to the travel experience. Travel agents help to move people around the world, and keep our economy growing.