Christine Duffy told delegates that there is currently “such a big focus on the environment” within the sector.

“Aidaprima [which entered service in April 2016] was the first cruise ship to use LNG [liquefied natural gas]. I believe that this technology is leading the industry. We must make sure that we are educating customers about the benefits of LNG to demonstrate the industry’s commitment to the environment.”

Duffy also urged agents to reassure customers about the safety of the cruise sector.

“I do think if people are asking questions you should all feel comfortable as agents to reassure them about the work we are doing on safety [as an industry],” she said.

Elsewhere she heralded the recently announced growth in cruise passengers, insisting: “This truly is the golden age of cruise.”

Meanwhile, when asked whether the line had longer term plans to place a ship in the UK or Europe, Duffy replied: “The UK and European market is important but we don’t have any plans to change what we’re doing currently.”

Questioned as to whether Carnival Cruise Line would consider having a ship sailing ex-UK itineraries, she replied: “I would never say never – we move to where the demand is.”