Travel Agent Certification Program

Training & Business Startup

Becoming a certified travel agent with Cruise Planners is simple, affordable, and all-inclusive. For a one-time fee of $9,995, you’ll gain everything you need to launch a professional, home-based travel agency. Unlike stand alone certification programs, Cruise Planners combines industry-leading training, hands-on experience, marketing tools, and supplier access into one complete package.

What’s Included in Your Travel Agent Certification Package:

STAR University: 6 days of immersive, hands-on travel agent certification training in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, covering systems, sales, marketing, and business growth
Access to Cruise Planners’ award-winning technology and marketing tools, including booking platforms, lead generation, and automated campaigns
Exclusive supplier partnerships with top cruise lines, resorts, and tour operators, giving you competitive pricing and promotions
Round-trip transportation for ship inspections so you gain first-hand cruise industry knowledge

Hotel accommodations during training week for a seamless learning experience

Daily breakfast and lunch, plus select hosted dinners for networking and industry immersion

Why Choose Cruise Planners?

Your $9,995 investment isn’t just a fee—it’s a complete travel agent certification program and business launch package. You’ll graduate from STAR University as a certified travel advisor, equipped with the tools, support, and industry relationships to immediately start building your business.

Everything is thoughtfully designed to provide a seamless, inspiring start with real-world experiences that prepare you to succeed in today’s travel market.

Training in Fort Lauderdale, FL—home to the world’s leading cruise lines and resorts—gives you direct exposure to the heart of the travel industry

Travel Insurance – Compare and offer top-tier insurance options to protect travelers against cancellations, health concerns, and more.

Group Travel – From corporate retreats to family reunions, master the art of designing personalized itineraries for groups of all sizes.

Land Tours – Help travelers experience global landmarks, from African safaris to European city tours.

Luxury Travel – Access insider knowledge of exclusive destinations, high-end resorts, and premium experiences worldwide.

Cruises – Build expertise in top cruise brands and excursions, becoming a trusted cruise specialist.

Resorts – Help clients find accommodations that fit their budget and travel style, whether for romantic getaways or family vacations.

Becoming a certified travel advisor with Cruise Planners gives you more than a single course—it opens the door to lifelong learning and specialization across the travel industry. Our program goes far beyond basic onboarding, helping you build the expertise and tools needed to grow a thriving travel business.

Specialized Training & Recognition

Certified Travel Associate (CTA) & Certified Travel Counselor (CTC): Continue your professional education with advanced industry credentials that strengthen your expertise, elevate your reputation, and unlock greater earning potential.

CLIA Certification & Cruise Specialists Training: For those who want to become a certified cruise travel agent, Cruise Planners offers access to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) resources, cruise line supplier certifications, and first-hand experiences like ship inspections.

Disney Vacation Planner Certification: Advisors can expand into one of the most in-demand specialties by becoming a Disney Vacation Planner, helping families create unforgettable theme park and cruise vacations.

If you’re launching a travel business in Florida, Cruise Planners also ensures compliance with the Florida Seller of Travel requirements—so you can operate confidently across the state and nationwide.

Technology & Booking Systems

Every Cruise Planners franchise owner gains access to award-winning booking systems and automated marketing tools. This allows you to manage cruise travel, luxury travel, and resort vacations from one simple dashboard, while offering clients exclusive promotions they won’t find online.

Why Ongoing Training Matters

The travel industry is always evolving. That’s why Cruise Planners provides in-depth training not just at STAR University, but also through webinars, coaching, and national conferences. Whether you focus on luxury travel, cruise vacations, or all-inclusive packages, you’ll always have the support to grow as a trusted advisor.

How much does a travel agent certification cost?

Travel agent certifications typically cost $300–$5,000, but these options are generally limited to just the credential. A Cruise Planners franchise provides advanced travel agent certification plus booking technology, marketing support across print and digital, and access to top suppliers such as Disney, Sandals, Marriott, and Royal Caribbean. For $9,995, your investment delivers a turnkey travel business backed by a 150-employee home office team dedicated to supporting your success.

How long does it take to become a certified travel agent?

Most travel agent certification programs take weeks or months. With Cruise Planners, you can complete STAR University in just 6 days, giving you hands-on certification training and real-world travel experiences. The fee includes hotel accommodations, meals, hosted dinners, and ship inspections—so you’re fully immersed and ready to start booking right away.

Is it expensive to become a travel agent?

Becoming a travel agent doesn’t have to be expensive. Basic travel agent certification programs may cost between $300 and $1,500—but those only provide training and leave you to figure out the rest. With Cruise Planners, your investment of $9,995 includes STAR University certification training, hotel accommodations, meals, ship inspections, plus the technology, marketing tools, supplier partnerships, and mentorship to launch a full travel business. It’s not just a class—it’s a complete business startup package.

How much does the Cruise Planners franchise cost?

The Cruise Planners franchise costs $9,995, making it one of the lowest franchise investments available with very little overhead compared to other franchise opportunities. With this investment, you gain access to ongoing training and travel trend updates to stay competitive, powerful booking systems that make it easy to deliver exactly what your clients are looking for, and digital and social marketing tools to reach unlimited markets and grow sales. You’ll also receive exclusive access to top suppliers including Disney, Sandals, Marriott, and Royal Caribbean, which set Cruise Planners apart from competitors. In addition, your investment covers a 6-day STAR University travel agent certification program that includes hotel accommodations, meals, hosted dinners, ship inspections, and ongoing business coach mentorship, giving you a complete franchise travel business ready for success.

Where is STAR University travel agent certification training held?

STAR University training is held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a hub for the global travel industry. Known as the “Cruise Capital of the World,” Fort Lauderdale is home to major cruise lines, resorts, and tour operators—making it the perfect place to gain hands-on experience as a future certified travel advisor.