The Mediterranean’s most influential cruise leaders are set to gather for the highly anticipated Seatrade Cruise Med 2024, the premier business-to-business event in the cruise industry. Scheduled for September 11-12, 2024, in Málaga, Spain, this landmark event promises to set the course for the future of cruising in the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas.
A Convergence of Powerhouses
The opening keynote, “State of the Mediterranean Cruise Industry,” will feature a stellar lineup of industry powerhouses. This influential panel is scheduled for Wednesday, September 11, from 10:00 to 11:30 AM. Under the theme “Partnering for Progress,” the session will delve into current market dynamics, future priorities, and the critical role of collaboration in navigating the challenges and opportunities.
Moderated by Mary Bond, Group Portfolio Director of Seatrade Cruise, the panel will include:
- Figen Ayan, President, MedCruise
- Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, CLIA Europe
- Wybcke Meier, CEO, TUI Cruises
- Chris Theophilides, CEO, Celestyal Cruises
- Mario Zanetti, President, Costa Cruises
These leaders bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, representing the pulse of the cruise industry in the Mediterranean. Their insights will be crucial as the industry seeks to recover, innovate, and thrive in a rapidly evolving market.
Beyond a Conference: A Platform for Innovation
Chiara Giorgi, Global Brand Director of Seatrade Cruise, emphasized the significance of this event:
“Seatrade Cruise Med 2024 is more than just an event; it’s a unique convergence of industry leaders, innovative thinkers, and passionate professionals from across the cruise sector. This year, we’re offering unparalleled opportunities for networking, discovering the latest trends, and gaining actionable insights that will drive the future of cruising in the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas.”
Attendees will be immersed in cutting-edge content, a world-class exhibition, and dynamic networking opportunities designed to propel their businesses forward in a dynamic and increasingly competitive market.
Diverse and Thought-Provoking Sessions
The two-day conference will feature a robust program of forums and workshops that address the industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. Key sessions include:
- Common Ground: Port Association Dialogue
- Key Source Markets Cruising the Med
- Navigating the Decarbonisation Journey
- New Players in the Med
- Orderbook Update: A Changing Seascape for Ports & Destinations
- The New European Entry/Exit System: Practical Application and Recommendations
These sessions are crafted to provide practical knowledge and foster discussions that could shape the strategic direction of cruise operations in the region.
An Unmissable Workshop on Expedition and Boutique Cruising
One of the standout sessions is an immersive workshop led by Liz Gammon, Seatrade Cruise Expedition Ambassador and a leading expert in the cruise industry. Scheduled for Wednesday, September 11, from 03:30 PM to 05:00 PM, the workshop titled “Redefining Port & Destination Experiences for Expedition & Boutique Cruising Beyond the Poles” will offer attendees practical advice from top cruise executives on curating innovative destination experiences. This session is particularly crucial as the industry pivots toward more personalized and unique cruising experiences, especially in the rapidly growing expedition and boutique cruising segments.
Join the Global Cruise Community
Seatrade Cruise Med 2024 is expected to attract over 2,000 attendees from over 80 countries, making it a global event. Participants will be able to engage with leaders, innovators, and peers, all working towards a common goal of advancing the cruise industry in the Mediterranean.
For more information on the complete conference program and to register, visit Seatrade Cruise Med 2024.
This event promises to shape the future of cruising in the Mediterranean and beyond—don’t miss the chance to be part of this pivotal moment in maritime history.
Written by: Don Power