CU EduCruises New Year’s Southern Caribbean 2027
Credit Union Volunteers’ Symposium
December 29th, 2027 – January 8th, 2028
Holland America Cruise Line - Rotterdam
Ft Lauderdale, Florida - round trip
EXPLORE TIMELY TOPICS THAT WILL IMPACT YOU AND YOUR CREDIT UNION’S SUCCESS
The pace of change in the financial services industry is both unprecedented and full of opportunity. To remain competitive, credit union leaders can no longer rely on "business as usual". Instead, they must embrace agility, adaptability, and forward-thinking leadership.
To successfully navigate this evolving landscape, credit union volunteers need a strong understanding of the leadership qualities and strategic skills that drive sustainable growth and long-term success. During this credit union cruise and conference, participants will gain valuable insights into the trends shaping the future of the industry, learn practical strategies for leading through rapid change, and discover how to turn today's challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation within their credit unions.
Celebrate the arrival of the New Year with an unforgettable 10 day Southern Caribbean adventure aboard Holland America. Sail away to the spectacular ABC Islands—Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao—where crystal-clear waters, colorful Dutch-Caribbean architecture, pristine beaches, and vibrant island culture create the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary holiday getaway. Ring in the New Year surrounded by ocean views, exceptional dining, world-class entertainment, and the signature service Holland America is known for. Start the year with sunshine, relaxation, and memories that will last a lifetime on this incredible island-hopping cruise onboard the Holland America Rotterdam with luxurious accommodations, diverse dining choices and endless entertainment.
Credit Union Topics We Will Navigate
All Sessions are very interactive. Questions, discussion, and exchange of ideas are highly encouraged. Plenty of networking opportunities throughout this educational journey.
• The Boardroom Questions That Shape High-Performing Credit Unions
• The CEO-Board Partnership: Building Trust, Alignment, and Accountability
• Winning the Talent Challenge: Recruiting Tomorrow's Volunteer Leaders
• Leading Through Change: The Skills Every Credit Union Leader Needs
• The DNA of Exceptional Credit Union Leadership
• Leadership Pitfalls: Why Strong CEOs and Boards Sometimes Fail
• Beyond Good: Achieving Greatness Through Vision and Innovation
• The Relevance Imperative: Staying Essential to Members in a Competitive Market
• Future-Proofing Your Credit Union: Strategies for Sustainable Growth
• And Much More!
Landing Big Benefits For Your Credit Union
Participate in several networking opportunities
Discuss new leadership concepts that can make a difference
Learn from others about their credit union
Discover how your credit union can thrive in times of change
Find solutions to problems your credit union is facing
Discover how an effective Board/CEO team equals future success
SPEAKERS FOR THE SYMPOSIUM
Tony Robinson
Tony Robinson is the President and Founder of Credit Union EduCruises, an internationally recognized organization that delivers destination conferences and executive leadership development programs for credit union professionals. Headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, Credit Union EduCruises has become a trusted resource for educating and inspiring credit union leaders around the world.
A sought-after keynote speaker and leadership consultant, Tony has presented educational programs in dozens of states across the U.S. and in 24 countries, sharing practical strategies that help credit unions strengthen governance, improve leadership effectiveness, and achieve long-term success.
His engaging and thought-provoking presentations cover a wide range of topics, including credit union leadership, board and CEO partnerships, governance best practices, world-class member service, succession planning, organizational growth, strategic planning, and understanding why some credit unions succeed while others struggle. Known for combining real-world experience with actionable insights, Tony equips volunteer leaders and executives with the tools they need to navigate change, strengthen their organizations, and better serve their members.
KATHY ROBINSON
Kathy Robinson has dedicated more than 35 years to advancing leadership excellence within the credit union movement. She is the President and CEO of EduQuest LLC, a nationally recognized training and consulting firm specializing in leadership development, governance, strategic planning, and organizational effectiveness for credit unions.
An accomplished speaker, consultant, and executive coach, Kathy has delivered educational programs for the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU), America's Credit Unions (formerly CUNA), CUES, numerous state credit union associations, and audiences in more than 15 countries. Her practical, engaging approach has helped thousands of volunteer leaders, executives, and emerging professionals strengthen their leadership skills and successfully navigate an evolving financial services landscape.
Beyond her consulting and speaking, Kathy has served in leadership roles on numerous nonprofit boards, bringing firsthand governance experience to her work with credit union boards and executive teams. She is also a Certified John Maxwell Leadership Speaker, Coach, and Trainer, equipping organizations with proven leadership principles that inspire growth, collaboration, and lasting success.
ABOUT THE SHIP – Holland America Rotterdam
Holland America Rotterdam
Set sail aboard the ‘Rotterdam’ to experience a cruise that will bring you to some of the most amazing ports in the Caribbean. Relax in stylish accommodations and enjoy all of the award-winning onboard experiences that make this beautiful ship so enjoyable. Experience endless ocean views, catch some sun on the numerous decks. And, invigorate your senses at The Spa. From unforgettable spaces to world-class amenities, and distinct features, you’ll rest and recharge the moment you board!
The Holland America chefs are true culinary artists who insist on serving the very finest cuisine! Each chef's menu is creative and the selections change every day. Pair that with impeccable service and you're in for an unforgettable gourmet experience. The ‘Rotterdam’ offers several optional seating times for its Traditional dining rooms along with several incredible specialty restaurants. Other food options are available throughout the ship, both day and night.
Whether you're in the mood for a cozy space to sip cocktails with someone special or a swanky place to savor a cigar and make new friends, the ‘Rotterdam’ has something for everyone, with multiple lounges ranging from intimate to high energy. Many wonderful choices that will fit whatever you desire.
To say the nightlife onboard is entertaining is an understatement. Illuminating the stage in captivating productions, the Holland America performers are some of the most talented musicians, singers and dancers at sea. The Broadway-Style Shows, lounge performers, movies and large casino are just some of the onboard entertainment you can enjoy as you escape completely. Entertainment is non-stop throughout the ‘Rotterdam’ – day and night!
PORT & SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE
Cruise Itinerary:
Day 1: December 29th - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Day 2: December 30th - RelaxAway Half Moon Cay, Bahamas
Day 3: December 31st - At Sea
Day 4: January 1st - Cabo Rojo, Dominican Republic
Day 5: January 2nd - At Sea
Day 6: January 3rd - Willemstad, Curacao
Day 7: January 4th - Kralendijk, Bonaire
Day 8: January 5th - Orangestad, Aruba
Day 9: January 6th - At Sea
Day 10: January 7th - At Sea
Day 11: January 8th - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
STATEROOM CHOICES:
Cruise Package Price (double occupancy):
Category VC Verandah: $4005.00 per person
Category VE Verandah: $3675.00 per person
Category C Oceanview: $3218.00 per person
DEADLINE TO BOOK: July 2, 2027
Initial Deposit: $600.00 per person
Final Payment: No later than July 2, 2027
Requirements: Valid US Passport, Valid 6 months from return date
CU EduCruise Conference Pricing:
$1,950.00 registration fee per symposium attendee if paid by credit card, plus credit card interchange fee
$1,750.00 registration fee per symposium attendee if paid by check
Early Bird Symposium Registration Fee Discount:
Before March 1, 2027 - $250 per meeting participant
From March 2, 2027 until June 1, 2027 - $100 per meeting participant
** Early Bird Discounts CANNOT be combined with any other conference fee discounts
Package Inclusions:
- 10-day cruise onboard Holland America – Rotterdam
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and treats onboard ship (fees apply for specialty restaurants)
- A variety of restaurants, coffee bars & lounges, room service
- Entertainment: Billboard Onboard, BB King’s Blues Club, Rolling Stone Lounge, World Stage & more
- Onboard shopping, spa & salon, fitness center, casino, family game room, pools, sports court, daily activities, trivia, bingo & more (fees may apply)
- Current taxes and port fee
- Holland America travel documents
From date of deposit to September 29, 2027 - Initial deposit of $600.00 per person plus cancellation fee
September 30 to October 29, 2027 - 50% package price cancellation fee plus cancellation fee
October 30, 2027 to time of departure - No refunds plus cancellation fee
Fox World Travel Cancellation Fee of $100.00 per reservation will apply in addition to any Fox Group Vacation or vendor cancellation penalties.
- Before purchasing your own airline tickets, please reach out to your travel advisor.
Airport Transfers (Ft Lauderdale only) - $34.00 per person, each direction.
Airport transfers can be added to your reservation and are offered only on the cruise departure and return dates. A flight itinerary will be required to add transfers. Rates are subject to change.
For peace of mind, we recommend purchasing travel protection insurance. Your travel advisor can discuss options with you, including medical expense coverage, pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers, trip cancellation, trip delay, lost, delayed, or damaged baggage and more. To cover pre-existing conditions, most policies must be purchased within 14 days of making your initial deposit. Travel protection insurance prices are based on your age and the trip cost.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Fox World Travel
Toll Free: 1-888-367-2571
educruises@foxworldtravel.com
