DU Chicago 2026
June 25–28, 2026
A summer DU gathering designed for connection, learning, and momentum—right in the heart of the Midwest.
A summer DU gathering designed for connection, learning, and momentum—right in the heart of the Midwest.
About DU Chicago
DU Chicago is an intentionally sized, relationship-driven event created for agents who want to deepen supplier knowledge, sharpen their business, and spend meaningful time connecting with fellow agents and the Dugan's Team.
This event combines hands-on supplier experience, practical business-building discussions, and the kind of informal conversations that often spark the biggest breakthroughs.
A major highlight of DU Chicago is an exclusive ship inspection of Viking Octantis, paired with curated time to explore Chicago together and focused one-on-one goal-setting sessions.
Why Chicago?
- Centrally located and easy to access from across the country
- A Midwest DU event for agents who may not want to travel to the West Coast.
- Summer timing to better fit busy schedules
- A dynamic city that’s perfect for learning and connection
Who Should Attend?
DU Chicago is a great fit for agents who:
- Want to see a Viking ship firsthand and better understand how to sell expedition cruising
- Value relationship-based learning over large-scale conferences
- Enjoy sharing ideas, asking questions, and learning from peers
- Are looking for practical business strategies, not just theory
- Want dedicated time with the Dugan's Team to talk through goals and next steps
- Appreciate smaller, more intentional events with room for real conversation
- Prefer a centrally located summer event that fits into a busy travel season
Whether you’re focused on growing your cruise sales, refining your business systems, or simply reconnecting with the Dugan's community, DU Chicago was designed with you in mind.
DU Chicago Itinerary
This is a preliminary itinerary, and some events are still being confirmed. Updates may follow.
Meals:
Hot breakfast is provided for hotel guests.
Lunch will be provided on Friday and Saturday.
Dinner will be included at least 2 nights.
Early Bird pricing through January 31. Price increases February 1, 2026.
Thursday, June 25
Welcome & Connection
4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- DU Welcome Meet & Greet
- Working dinner with guided, informal conversation
- Get-to-know-you discussions with fellow agents and DU leadership
- A relaxed evening focused on connection, not presentations
Friday, June 26
Viking Experience + Chicago
Approx. 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Group transportation from the hotel
- Private ship inspection of Viking Octantis
- Supplier immersion and selling insights
- Afternoon and evening exploring Chicago together
- Group transportation back to the hotel
Saturday, June 27
Business Building Day
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Evening: Optional group activity or dinner (details to come)
- Supplier presentations and spotlights
- Business growth topics and best practices
- Interactive discussions and Q&A
- Real-life strategies from both suppliers and fellow agents
Evening: Optional group activity or dinner (details to come)
Sunday, June 28
Individual Focus
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- One-on-one individual goals meetings with the DU team
- Personalized discussion around your business, goals, and growth opportunities
- Departures following meetings
Hampton Inn & Suites -
Chicago/Mt Prospect
1 Randhurst Village Drive
Mount Prospect, Illinois 60056
Single/Double occupancy rates:
$135 per night, plus taxes
Guests can call 847-590-1860 to secure their guest rooms. Please reference “Dugan’s Chicago Event” to receive the Group rate.
Group rates include $10.50 per night parking. Agents not staying at the hotel can also pay the $10.50 parking fee to attend daily events.
FAQ
Am I allowed to bring a guest?
DU Chicago is a Dugan’s Travels agent-only event. Attendance is limited to active Dugan’s agents.
Can I share a hotel room?
Yes. You are welcome to share a room with another agent to help reduce hotel costs. Roommate coordination is the responsibility of the agents involved. We encourage you to use the Community to connect with other agents.
Am I required to stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites?
No, you do not have to stay at the event hotel. However, if you choose to stay at another hotel or drive in from home, you will need to meet us at the listed time for the ship inspection on Friday, either at the hotel or at the port (exact times TBD). Please plan ahead for parking and traffic if you choose to stay off-site.
Do I need to attend all scheduled activities?
Yes. Please plan your travel so you can fully participate in the event.
Agents should:
Agents should:
- Arrive with enough time to attend scheduled sessions
- Avoid booking flights that require leaving early
- Remain present for the full duration of the sessions they select
When should I plan to arrive and depart Chicago?
Agents should plan to arrive in Chicago by early afternoon on Thursday, June 25, in order to be ready for the 4:00 PM Welcome Meet & Greet.Arriving earlier in the day is encouraged to allow time for travel delays, hotel check-in, and a smooth start to the event.
Agents should plan to depart Sunday, June 28 after 12:00 PM, following the conclusion of individual goals meetings. Please do not book flights that require leaving early.
Agents should plan to depart Sunday, June 28 after 12:00 PM, following the conclusion of individual goals meetings. Please do not book flights that require leaving early.
Which airport should I fly into?
The most convenient airport for this event is:
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) – approximately 15–20 minutes from the event hotel
Midway Airport (MDW) is significantly farther and will not be as convenient for this event.
Will transportation be provided?
Yes. Group transportation will be provided for scheduled group activities, including:
- Transportation to and from the Viking Octantis ship inspection
- Group outings as outlined in the itinerary
- Transportation to and from the airport
- Any optional activities outside of the group schedule
What should I pack?
Business casual attire for sessions
- Comfortable walking shoes (especially for ship inspection day)
- Light layers (June weather can vary)
- Any notes or materials you’d like for business discussions