Speaking - Hugh Darley

Hugh Darley is a well-respected and experienced destination speaker who delivers his presentations in an entertaining, insightful and unique style. Hugh’s motivational speeches “inspire others to dream” and draw upon his career as a Disney Imagineer to an internationally sought-after vision planner for the cruise and hospitality industry.

Hugh is passionate about enhancing customer experience as he delivers engaging presentations on how to improve the destination travel experience for consumers.

As a professional speaker, Hugh has worked with some of the world’s most iconic brands and companies including Walt Disney World, Paramount Parks, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Sandals, Luxor and Hard Rock.

As a trusted expert, Hugh is a frequent speaker at Sea Trade/Cruise Shipping Miami, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), and the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA). He recently spoke at the Retro Magic Conference that celebrated 41 years of Epcot Center.

"Hugh Darley had our audience at RetroMagic 2023 - Celebrating 40 Years of Epcot engaged and in stitches as he shared stories from his early years working in themed entertainment design. He was unfamiliar to our guests but after he left the stage they were anxious to tell him how much his work personally meant to them. His talk taught us to show no fear in speaking truth to power and rise to new challenges. He illustrated how those lessons led to his own career advancement and success. We've had many requests to book him for a return engagement."

Brian Miles Lake Buena Vista Historical Society

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“It is a pleasure to listen to Hugh Darley speak. His experiences are vast, so he is able to rivet his audience with a variety of stories and accomplishments that go beyond ordinary imagination. Hugh’s talent is that of communicating a magical picture to intrigue and excite. His speeches create a desire to know more, to ride his magical carpet and be transported.”

Dr. Tommie R. Blackwel Former Vice President of the US Space and Rocket Center

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“Hugh Darley gave a dynamic presentation at Seatrade Cruise Global's first Shark Tank-like workshop. His concept for a floating pier complex sparked great interest among the judges and the audience.”

Anne Kalosh Editor, Seatrade Cruise News

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“It isn't too often you find speakers that can almost make you relive an experience alongside them. I had the pleasure of attending a conference where Mr. Darley spoke about his days with Walt Disney Imagineering, and the talk he gave was nothing short of inspiring. From his stories to the insight he provided, his presence on stage was captivating, to say the least, and there wasn't a moment where I wasn't fully engaged. Mr. Darley has a unique ability to perfectly convey emotion and energy through his talks in such a way that no details are missed, and none are forgotten. Not only was his talk greatly informative, but it was entertaining, a pleasure to listen to, and delivered some laughs. I've seen many speakers throughout my education, and it is the one that stood out far from the others and will forever be one I will remember.”

Casey Rose Student, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

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"Hugh Darley had our audience at RetroMagic 2023 - Celebrating 40 Years of Epcot engaged and in stitches as he shared stories from his early years working in themed entertainment design. He was unfamiliar to our guests but after he left the stage they were anxious to tell him how much his work personally meant to them. His talk taught us to show no fear in speaking truth to power and rise to new challenges. He illustrated how those lessons led to his own career advancement and success. We've had many requests to book him for a return engagement."

Brian Miles

Lake Buena Vista Historical Society

“It is a pleasure to listen to Hugh Darley speak. His experiences are vast, so he is able to rivet his audience with a variety of stories and accomplishments that go beyond ordinary imagination. Hugh’s talent is that of communicating a magical picture to intrigue and excite. His speeches create a desire to know more, to ride his magical carpet and be transported.”

Dr. Tommie R. Blackwell

Former Vice President of the US Space and Rocket Center

“It isn't too often you find speakers that can almost make you relive an experience alongside them. I had the pleasure of attending a conference where Mr. Darley spoke about his days with Walt Disney Imagineering, and the talk he gave was nothing short of inspiring. From his stories to the insight he provided, his presence on stage was captivating, to say the least, and there wasn't a moment where I wasn't fully engaged. Mr. Darley has a unique ability to perfectly convey emotion and energy through his talks in such a way that no details are missed, and none are forgotten. Not only was his talk greatly informative, but it was entertaining, a pleasure to listen to, and delivered some laughs. I've seen many speakers throughout my education, and it is the one that stood out far from the others and will forever be one I will remember.”

Casey Rose

Student, Student Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University