Connect26

Welcome to the CarTrawler Connect26 Conference

Welcome to the CarTrawler Connect26 Conference

Over three inspiring days, Connect26 sets the stage for inspiration, insight, and industry connection. From compelling keynote speakers to dynamic panel discussions with travel leaders, attendees will gain actionable insights and explore the ideas shaping the future of travel.

Connect26 offers an exclusive look at CarTrawler’s latest initiatives, with our team sharing key updates on our continued innovation and growth.

At its core, Connect26 is about building meaningful connections. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders from across the travel sector in a collaborative and inspiring environment.

Beyond the agenda, the experience extends to exceptional dining, world-class entertainment, and carefully curated activities designed to create moments to connect, recharge, and be inspired.

Take a look at last year’s highlights, we can’t wait to welcome you to Connect26!

Explore Connect26

Speakers
Key Timings
Activities
Getting There

Speakers

We have an incredible host of industry leaders joining us at the CarTrawler Connect26 Conference. Each speaker and panel brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, ensuring a dynamic and enriching conference experience for all attendees.

Anton Savage

MC & Moderator

Peter O’Donovan

Chief Executive,
CarTrawler

Gavin Sweeney

Chief Revenue Officer,
CarTrawler

Benedict Evans

Independent Technology Analyst

The Great Travel Debate: Competing Views, Connected Vision

Willie Walsh

Director General, IATA
Deputy Chair, CarTrawler

Phil Gouel

VP Product Development,
Southwest Airlines

 

Aileen McCormack

Chief Commercial Officer,
CarTrawler

Eddie Wilson

Chief Executive Officer,
Ryanair DAC

Future Forces: Technology, Trends & Leadership Shaping Travel

Oltion Carkaxhija

EVP & Chief Operating Officer,
Air France-KLM Group

Yvette Burke

VP Global Replacement & Leisure Sales,
Enterprise Mobility

Bob Kabil

SVP Online Sales Development,
Emirates & Emirates Holidays

Julie Burke

Partnerships Development Specialist,
Virgin Australia

 

Connected Conversations: A Candid Chat with CarTrawler’s Leadership

Interviewer

Laura Smith

EVP Global Sales & Partnerships,
Hertz

 

Andrew Murphy

Chief Business Officer,
CarTrawler

 

 

David Cotter

Chief Financial Officer,
CarTrawler

 

 

Ritchie Masterson

Chief Product & Technology Officer,
CarTrawler

Download the Connect26 Agenda

Click Here

Key Timings & Venue Locations

Arrival & Welcome Evening: CarTrawler’s Grand Connection

Wednesday, 25 March  |  18:00 – 22:30

The Grand Connection is your invitation to begin the Connect26 journey. Set in the Sugar Loaf Lounge overlooking the Wicklow Mountains, this relaxed networking mixer brings together global guests in a setting inspired by the golden age of travel.

On arrival, you’ll receive your Connect26 passport and be invited to journey through a curated world of flavours, moving between internationally inspired stations designed to reflect the diversity of perspectives gathered at Connect26. An elegant, immersive evening created to spark conversation and connection from the very first night.

Dress code: Smart casual
Location: Sugar Loaf Lounge, Powerscourt Hotel

The Connect26 Conference

Thursday, 26 March  |  09:30 – 16:00

The conference day is where the conversations that matter happen.

It’s a day designed to bring the industry together – to share ideas, challenge assumptions, and explore how travel is changing in practical, meaningful ways. Through keynote talks and panel discussions, speakers will share perspectives on the trends shaping the industry, the challenges businesses are navigating, and how technology and traveller expectations continue to evolve.

You’ll hear from senior leaders and decision-makers who are building, testing, and scaling new approaches from smarter use of data and technology to the growing role of AI. The day also offers direct access to CarTrawler’s leadership team, sharing our latest thinking, priorities, and direction for the year ahead.

Expect open discussion, real insight, and perspectives that help inform decisions back in your organisation.

Dress code: Business smart
Location: The Ballroom, Powerscourt Hotel

Connect26 Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony

Thursday, 26 March  |  18:00 – Late

As evening falls, Connect26 comes together for a celebration at the Powerscourt Hotel. Guests are welcomed with a drink’s reception at 18:30 in the Sika Restaurant, before moving to the Ballroom at 19:30 for the Gala Dinner and the annual CarTrawler Connect26 Awards.

When the formal programme concludes, the night continues beyond the Ballroom, with a series of moments designed to surprise, connect, and keep the energy flowing.

Dress code: Smart casual
Locations: Sika Restaurant and The Ballroom, Powerscourt Hotel

Optional Recreational Activities

Alongside the conference programme, guests are invited to take time to slow the pace, connect in a more relaxed setting, and experience a taste of Ireland through a curated selection of optional recreational activities.

Start the day with a guided morning run through the scenic Powerscourt grounds or a restorative yoga session designed to reset and recharge before the conference begins.

On arrival or departure day, guests may choose to enjoy a round of golf on one of Powerscourt’s championship courses, with the East and West courses offering panoramic views across the Wicklow Mountains and suited to a range of playing abilities.

During the conference stay, guests can also take part in an exclusive Powerscourt Distillery tour and Fercullen whiskey tasting, a Baileys tasting experience celebrating one of Ireland’s most iconic brands, or a Gaelic Games experience offering a light-hearted introduction to traditional Irish sport in a relaxed outdoor setting.

For those seeking rest and rejuvenation, complimentary access to the ESPA Spa facilities is included, featuring a 20-metre Swarovski crystal-lit indoor heated pool, hammam suite, jacuzzi, and gym.

As capacity across activities is limited, early registration is recommended. Further details and confirmations will follow.

Book activities & register your details

Click Here

Getting to Powerscourt Hotel

By Car

Driving from Dublin to Powerscourt Hotel takes approximately 50 minutes, traffic dependent. From Dublin Airport, follow signs for the M50 southbound. Continue on the M50 for about 30 minutes. Take Exit J7 for Enniskerry/Bray R117. Follow the signs for Enniskerry and Powerscourt Gardens, then continue toward Powerscourt Estate. At the village centre, bear left and follow signs to the hotel. 

Taxis 

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available from Dublin Airport for arrival at Powerscourt Hotel. As the hotel is located outside the city, we strongly recommend that guests arrange their return taxi in advance.

Return taxis can be organised directly with the hotel team on arrival or at check-in. We advise against leaving this until the day of departure to ensure availability and a smooth onward journey.

Airport Transfer Service

For a seamless and stress-free experience, we recommend pre-booking an airport transfer directly to and from Powerscourt Hotel. This option offers comfort, reliability, and peace of mind, particularly for return journeys.

Use the link below to book a trusted airport transfer service in advance of the event.

Book an airport transfer

Click Here