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STAR University

 Travel agent training + certification to launch a travel business. 

The Cruise Planners® Difference

America's Top Home-Based Travel Franchise ranked by Entrepreneur Magazine and Franchise Business Review

 
 

Purpose 

 STAR University is Cruise Planners’ travel agent training and certification program designed to help new advisors start strong. 

Welcome to Star University, where aspiring travel advisors transform their passion for travel into thriving businesses. Our purpose is to provide the knowledge, certifications, and hands-on experience needed to succeed as a professional in the fast-evolving travel industry—from cruise lines to land excursions, group trips, and Disney vacations.

 Want the full program details? Visit our Travel Agent Certification page 

STAR U Audience 1 (1)

Mission

 Our mission is to equip future travel advisors with structured travel agent training, real-world practice, and ongoing support to grow with confidence.  See what the day-to-day looks like on our Life as a Travel Agent page.  

Training Approach

Star University combines high-energy sessions with immersive, hands-on training.  You’ll learn sales, marketing, booking technology, and client experience systems that help you earn faster and retain clients. Curious about earning potential? Read How Much Do Travel Agents Make

  • Cruise Sales & Training – Develop expertise in selling cruises, learn about partnerships with top cruise lines, and gain insider access through ship tours and supplier training. 
  • Land Travel & Excursions Training – Explore how to design unforgettable land vacations, cultural excursions, and bucket-list trips that meet changing travel trends. 
  • Group Travel Training – Build the skills to manage profitable group bookings, from family reunions to corporate incentives. 
  • Disney Specialist Training – Earn recognition as a go-to advisor for magical Disney vacations with certification-level insights and sales strategies.  
STAR U Mission Statement

Benefits

STAR University provides structured travel agent training, certification pathways, marketing tools, and supplier access to help you launch and scale a profitable travel business. 

  • Become a recognized travel advisor with clear pathways toward IATA certification and supplier-specific certifications.
  • Access ready-to-use travel agent marketing materials and booking technology to grow sales.
  • Network with top industry partners, CLIA members, and experienced travel advisors.
  • Stay ahead of travel trends with ongoing webinars, broadcasts, and business coaching.
  • Gain the confidence and professional expertise to stand out in the competitive travel industry.

Philosophy

At STAR University, education is exciting, immersive, and transformational. Our philosophy centers on combining structured travel agent certification with real-world business training so graduates are prepared to build sustainable, profitable travel careers. We believe learning should go beyond theory — it should translate into confidence, competence, and measurable growth.

Our approach blends structured coursework, practical application, and meaningful industry connections so every advisor leaves ready to succeed. With STAR University, you don’t just join another training program — you join a global community of cruise travel agents and advisors shaping the future of the travel industry.

Theresa Scalzitti, Michelle Fee, Brian Shultz, and Scott Koepf at a Cruise Planners event

Your dream career is just one step away!

Earn your travel agent certification now

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