Master Cruise Counselor FAQ
Short, honest answers about the MCC and the levels around it.
Build Your Cruise CareerMaster Cruise Counselor FAQ
How long does it take to become a master cruise counselor?
CLIA allows two years for the MCC itself, after the ACC (two years) and usually the CCC (18 months) before it. How quickly you actually finish depends mostly on how fast you can make the required bookings and take the cruises.
What does the MCC cost?
CLIA charges membership and an enrollment fee, and notes that the courses, certificate programs, ship inspections and personal cruises are extra. Fees change, so check CLIA’s current prices rather than relying on any figure you see quoted elsewhere.
Do clients care about MCC?
CLIA says research shows professional designations are an important consideration for consumers choosing an advisor. In practice, the knowledge behind the letters is what clients notice most.
Will MCC increase my income?
We make no income claims. A designation can strengthen credibility and expertise; earnings depend on your business, your market and your effort.
Is this site part of CLIA?
No. Master Cruise Counselor is an independent guide in the Smart Traveler network. CLIA’s own pages are the official source for every requirement.
Can I use the MCC letters while I am still working toward it?
No. Use the designation only after CLIA has awarded it. Until then, describe yourself accurately, for example by naming the level you currently hold.
Do I need to be home-based or work in a storefront agency?
Either works. CLIA’s requirement is an affiliation it can verify: a letter from your host agency, or business records if you hold your own agency membership.
What if I sell mostly river cruises?
Bookings, inspections and cruises must involve CLIA member lines, which include river lines that are CLIA members. The RiverView certificate program is one of the options that count toward the MCC.
Where can I find a list of CLIA graduates?
CLIA’s certification overview page links to a list of its graduates.
A Note on Sources
Every requirement on this site was read from CLIA’s own certification pages in October 2026 and summarised in our words. CLIA updates its program from time to time and states that requirements depend on the year you enroll, so treat CLIA’s pages and your own Logbook as the final word.
If you spot something here that no longer matches CLIA’s current requirements, CLIA’s version is the one that counts; its professional development team also offers short career-counselling appointments to help advisors choose the right level.
More for cruise sellers: Cruise Agent University (training from the beginning), Sell and Sail (selling from home, agent trips and seminars at sea), Cruise Selling and Be a Travel Advisor. Industry news and suppliers are in the Official Travel Industry Directory; your clients can browse the Official Cruise Directory and the Official Travel Directory.
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