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Global cruise leaders to meet in Genoa on occasion of Cruise Week EuropeGlobal cruise leaders to meet in Genoa on occasion of Cruise Week Europe
Government Ministers from across Europe, global cruise line leaders, and senior representatives ofinternational institutions to meet at CLIA’s European Summit in GenoaMore than 100 exhibitors to showcase at CLIA’s inaugural Innovation Expo as part of Cruise Week EuropeUnique event for the cruise industry in Europe and globally to meet high-level cruise decision-makers20 February 2024, BRUSSELS — Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading authority of the global cruise industry, announces a strong line up of Government Ministers, cruise line global CEOs, and international institution representatives confirmed to attend Cruise Week Europe in Genoa, 11-14 March.The cruise industry will be turning out in force with many of the world’s leading cruise line CEOs confirmed to attend the event, which is being organized this year in partnership with the Liguria Region, Genoa City Council, Genoa Ports, and the Genoa Chamber of Commerce.During CLIA’s European Summit, cruise line leaders will convene with governments and key stakeholders. A host of high-profile attendees scheduled to attend include: Daniela Santanchè, Minister of Tourism, Italy; Nello Musumeci, Minister of Civil Protection and Sea Policies, Italy (invited); Maurizio Leo, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance, Italy; and Edoardo Rixi, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Italy; Marina Hadjimanolis, Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of Cyprus; Olga Kefalogianni, Tourism Minister, Greece (invited); Myron Flouris, Secretary General for Tourism Policy and Development, Greece; and Rosan Morillo, Secretary of State for Tourism, Spain (invited); Einar Vik Aarset, Director General, Norwegian Coastal Administration; Heino Nau, DG MARE coordinator on the blue economy; István Ujhelyi MEP, Vice-Chair, TRAN Committee of the European Parliament.CLIA’s annual European Summit, which follows successful Summits in Genoa and Paris, is the moment when the cruise community and its stakeholders – shipyards, port authorities and terminals, NGOs, and international organisations – come together to debate key policy priorities, industry trends, and common challenges and ambitions. The Summit will feature CEO panel sessions on how to move beyond aspiration to implement net zero emissions targets and the importance of structuring tourism development in destinations, as well as sessions on marine life protection, sustainable tourism practices, workforce diversity and investment in skills.The Summit will also include sessions on marine life protection, sustainable tourism practices, workforce diversity and investment in skills.This year, CLIA Cruise Week will feature the first-of-its-kind Innovation Expo, a new forum where more than 100 exhibitors will showcase solutions and products from across Europe. With a packed programme of showcases and industry talks on sustainable supply-chain and innovation in the cruise ecosystem, a sold-out exhibition floor, and high registration numbers, this will be an event not to miss.The lead sponsors for Cruise Week Europe 2024 are RINA (Founding Leader) and Lloyd’s Register (Premier Sponsor) and Fincantieri (Premier Sponsor). The European Summit is supported by Risposte Turismo. For the full list of sponsors, who are making it possible for this unique event to take place, please click here: https://www.cliacruiseweek.com/sponsors/For the full programme of Cruise Week Europe 11-14 March, including a full list of confirmed speakers, please click here: www.cliacruiseweek.comNotes to Editors:For media interested in attending in person please kindly contact Julie Green or Philomene Bouchon at [email protected] for further details and media accreditation. 20 February, 2024 -
First anniversary of the signature of the Sustainable Cruise Charter in the Mediterranean: The sector presents its first positive assessment and recalls its commitmentsFirst anniversary of the signature of the Sustainable Cruise Charter in the Mediterranean: The sector presents its first positive assessment and recalls its commitments
CLIA, in partnership with the Interregional Directorate of the Mediterranean (DIRM) is happy to present the results of the Charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean.As the first step in the application of the Charter, the DIRM conducted audits in 2023 aimed at evaluating the performance of cruise companies on the 13 commitments contained in the text.The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) organizes, on the occasion of the trade show for an innovative maritime industry, Euromaritime, a presentation of the results of the Charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean. This Charter, signed in October 2022, between the French Government and the main cruise players, aims to reduce the environmental impact of cruising while promoting innovative technological solutions in the realm of sustainable development.As the first step in the application of the Charter, the Interregional Directorate of the Mediterranean Sea (DIRM) conducted audits in 2023 aimed at evaluating the performance of cruise companies on the 13 commitments contained in the text (see link below). Vessels receiving a compliance rate greater than 80% were awarded a certificate of conformity. These audits were carried out between September 21 and November 21, 2023, by the lead actor for LRQA certification in the presence of an observer from the DIRM and took place in the ports of Marseille, Toulon, Cannes, and Nice.At the end of this work, all 12 CLIA member vessels audited were given a certificate of conformity with the commitments of the Charter. These results are a testament to the numerous efforts made by cruise stakeholders to continually improve environmental practices in terms of emissions and waste treatment and to accelerate their energy transition in favor of achieving our carbon neutrality objectives.The efforts made in recent years by the sector should reach a new key stage next year with the installation of shoreside electrical connections in Toulon and Marseille. A long-time promoter of this solution, the sector has nearly 50% of its global fleet already equipped with such connections which will enable the reduction of emissions and noise pollution to nearly zero when the ships are docked.Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General of CLIA Europe declared: “This first anniversary of the Charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean is an opportunity to celebrate the collective efforts of the cruise sector to continuously improve its environmental performance. We are very pleased that all CLIA members involved have received the 2023 certification awarded by the authorities. These efforts to reduce our impact on the environment must continue with a closer partnership between public authorities and ports. We are fully committed that cruise becomes an ever more sustainable way of discovering the world.”This first anniversary of the charter for sustainable cruising in the Mediterranean is an opportunity to celebrate the collective efforts of the cruise sector to continuously improve its environmental performance. We are very pleased that all CLIA members have received the 2023 certification awarded by state services.Marie-Caroline Laurent, CLIA Director General EuropeEric Banel, Director General of Maritime Affairs said: “The Sustainable Cruise Charter in the Mediterranean illustrates the capacity of maritime stakeholders to commit to a concrete and ambitious energy transition fully and collectively. We are delighted with the first results of this audit which also demonstrates very fruitful collaboration between the public and private sectors.”Follow this link to get more information on the French Charter: https://mer.gouv.fr/sites/default/files/2022-10/charte.pdf 19 February, 2024 -
Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, Named Chairman of Cruise Lines International AssociationJason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, Named Chairman of Cruise Lines International Association
19 January 2024 (WASHINGTON DC)—Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading authority of the global cruise industry, today announced that Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty has been appointed Chairman by its Board of Directors. Liberty succeeds Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises S.A. who served in the role since January 2021.“On behalf of the CLIA community including ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines, suppliers, business partners, travel advisers, and agencies, I would like to congratulate Mr. Liberty on his appointment as CLIA chair. Mr. Liberty assumes the chairmanship at a time when the industry is building on the momentum of strong demand and our members are advancing ambitious sustainability initiatives in pursuit of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050” said Kelly Craighead, president and CEO of CLIA. “Mr. Liberty is a highly versatile and strategic leader who will help us build on this resurgence of travel and realize our global operating ambitions."“I would also like to thank Mr. Vago for his leadership as chair over the past three years, navigating challenging times and creating a solid foundation for the industry’s future growth,” Craighead added.Liberty became Royal Caribbean Group’s president and CEO in early 2022, following a career spanning nearly two decades in the cruise industry and having served as the company’s Chief Financial Officer for many years. Last year, he drove powerful gains in the Group’s business, becoming one of the top performing stocks of the year. He stewards three industry-leading brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, known for game-changing innovations in their respective industry segments; as well as joint ventures in Germany-based TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, of which the company is a 50% owner.“I am excited and honored to lead this organization as we enter a new era of cruising. With consumer demand continuing to accelerate, we are doubling down on our commitment to decarbonization and sustainable growth, ensuring that we are not only investing in our oceans and communities, but preserving them for generations of travelers to come,” Liberty said. “I look forward to working with CLIA leadership and our partners around the world to further position cruise vacations as an accessible and responsible option for today’s travelers that create positive ripple effects across the globe.”Cruise is one of the fastest growing sectors of travel and tourism and is forecasted to reach 106% of 2019 levels in 2023—with 31.5 million passengers sailing—and approximately 35 million passengers in 2024.The global chair for CLIA provides leadership to the CLIA Global Executive Committee and the Board of Directors, responsible for establishing the overall strategic direction of the association on behalf of its cruise line members representing 95% of the world’s ocean-going cruise lines. As part of CLIA’s long-term strategy, CLIA member lines have set inspiring sustainability goals, and each year the CLIA member fleet becomes more efficient as member lines embrace new technologies, innovations and, as available, the uptake of sustainable alternative fuels.CLIA provides an important and unified voice for the global cruise line industry representing cruise lines, suppliers, business partners, and a robust travel advisor community. 19 January, 2024 -
Cruising to 2030 and beyond – decisions on near-future newbuildings and existing fleet challengesCruising to 2030 and beyond – decisions on near-future newbuildings and existing fleet challenges
MEPC80 outcomes, fit for 55 and the impact of the orderbook all top the cruise segment’s agenda.2023 was a busy year on the regulatory front, and the cruise industry, like many other sectors, is sizing up the outcomes of July’s MEPC80 meeting as well as the inclusion of the maritime sector in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) – the world’s first carbon price on shipping which comes into force on January 1.As other segments evaluate engine retrofits and the installation of energy-saving devices, what impact do the interdependencies between cruise stakeholders have in determining effective choices and how is the sector rising to difficult decisions given some of the uncertainties ahead?There is no questioning of course, the importance of robust, comprehensive and transparent disclosures to drive and support the sustainability agenda for emerging regulatory requirements.According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), accessibility of funding for sustainable shipbuilding will be key to the sectors’ energy transition ambitions, along with port and shoreside infrastructure to keep the transition a fair and equitable one.“Recognising the importance of the cruise value chain for the European maritime industry, it is vital to enable faster access to funding for sustainable shipbuilding and maritime equipment manufacturing to support Europe’s world-leading position. This will require deployment of sustainable maritime fuels and new technologies to help the sector decarbonise,” says Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIA.Implementation of the EU Green Deal to support decarbonisation of cruise will need to ensure adequate port infrastructures are in place. Investment in shoreside electricity must be made available and the development, scale-up and availability of sustainable maritime fuels and related infrastructure must be promoted.Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIA“Implementation of the EU Green Deal to support decarbonisation of cruise will need to ensure adequate port infrastructures are in place. Investment in shoreside electricity must be made available and the development, scale-up and availability of sustainable maritime fuels and related infrastructure must be promoted.” she added.Whilst the goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 is being supported by cross supply chain research and development, in order to assess the various pathways to decarbonisation, a single solution has not yet emerged. Achieving net zero will most likely require a combination of different technologies and fuels.Michele Landro, LR’s Vice President, Head of Passenger Ships Segment is optimistic about the energy transition pathways open to the cruise sector.“As cruise lines identify future fuel pathways to move away from fossil fuels, the availability of these alternative fuels will impact how quickly the industry can progress towards a more sustainable future. There is a critical need for governments to invest in the infrastructure necessary to increase availability of bunkering for new fuels at ports around the world and LR is committed to providing support for a regulatory environment that supports the production, distribution, and use of renewable fuels,” he explains.“CLIA Cruise Week provides the perfect platform for the cruise industry to come together with policy makers, innovators and suppliers. At the LR Cruise Forum during CLIA Cruise Week, we will be engaging with key stakeholders from the sector, focusing on the global energy transition, sustainability and other key issues the cruise sector faces in the coming years.” Landro added.Lloyds Register is one of the premier sponsors atCLIA Cruise Week – Europe 2024which will take place between 11-14 March 2024 at the Jean Nouvel Pavilion In Genoa, Italy with the Lloyd’s Register Cruise Forum taking place on 12 March. 09 January, 2024 -
CLIA honours Hall of Fame inducteesCLIA honours Hall of Fame inductees
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland has revealed its latest Hall of Fame recipients. The honours were announced today (December 19) at CLIA's annual Winter Ball, and awarded to:Jacqueline Dobson, president, Barrhead TravelTony Andrews, managing director, cruise.co.ukRuth Marshall, vice president international general counsel and managing director, RCL Cruise LtdJacqueline Dobson's experience within the travel sector spans over two decades, having originally joined Barrhead as a trainee. She has worked in a variety of roles including sales, marketing, business development, product and commercial, as well as establishing the UK’s largest experience store in Glasgow. She now leads a team of over 1000 employees across Barrhead Travel's network.Tony Andrews was this year promoted to managing director of cruise.co.uk, having originally joined the cruise specialist in 2000. He became product and commercial director in 2015, then deputy managing director in 2019. He is now responsible for spearheading the company’s growth in the UK market.Ruth Marshall has been at Royal Caribbean since 2007. She joined as Associate Vice President Legal Counsel International, before assuming her current role in 2018. She was credited by CLIA for her industry-wide work across the past few years. Ruth will shortly leave the company after 16 'wonderful' years.The awards were presented on behalf of the industry by Royal Caribbean's Ben Bouldin, who is also CLIA Chair UK & Ireland; MSC’s Antonio Paradiso; and Princess Cruises’ Eithne Williamson.Andy Harmer, CLIA managing director UK & Ireland, said: "Many congratulations to our Hall of Fame inductions. They have all enjoyed hugely impressive careers and are proof positive of how knowledge, passion and drive can get you to the very top of the industry."They are fantastic role models for colleagues across the sector, as well as everyone looking to start their journey in cruise."The CLIA Hall of Fame was launched last year. The awards will be a regular fixture in the cruise calendar and presented annually at the CLIA Winter Ball.Click images to download 19 December, 2023 -
CLIA unveils further plans for 2024CLIA unveils further plans for 2024
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has today (December 19) made a raft of additional announcements for 2024 at its annual CLIA Cruise Forum.The event saw Andy Harmer, Managing Director UK & Ireland, provide updates to over 250 delegates from across the industry. This represented the largest ever number of partners to attend the event.Andy revealed:The theme of next year's CLIA Conference will be #DiscoverMore, as it will have a particular focus on the wealth and variety of destinations that are accessible via cruise ship. The conference will take place from May 23-25 in Southampton and is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe.Additional places at the Conference will be made available to CLIA members, which originally sold out in a record-breaking 48 hours, with almost 600 registrations. In addition, CLIA has announced that it has partnered with P&O Cruises, who will now include Britannia as part of the ship visit programme. CLIA will update those agents, currently on a waitlist, who have secured a place in the new year.Further places may be made available for CLIA's RiverView event, which will be held in Amsterdam from March 11-13 next year and has similarly sold out. Details are to be confirmed.CLIA will once again support the Compass Project, which aims to create greater social mobility, diversity and inclusivity in the travel and cruise industry. The project is a partnership with Mundy Cruising and St John Bosco College in Battersea, and enables sixth-form students from socially diverse backgrounds to learn more about travel and associated career opportunities.Agents are being encouraged to join two monthly trade-friendly webinar sessions next year, both of which were announced recently. 'Focus on…' sessions will take place live each month for 30 minutes and highlight opportunities within a different sector of the cruise industry, while 'CLIA in conversation' will comprise monthly sessions, also live and for 30 minutes, with in-depth news, analysis and guest speaker insight.The forum also featured speakers including:Ben Bouldin, CLIA Chair UK & IrelandSimon Jack, Business Editor for BBC NewsRyan Uhl, Chief Brand Strategy Officer at Mail Metro MediaLinden Coppell, Vice President Sustainability & ESG at MSC CruisesDanae Sheehan, Voyage Tracker Manager & Editor from SeabournA panel discussion with Eithne Williamson, VP Princess Cruises UK & Europe; Lee Haslett, Global Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal; Paul Melinis, Managing Director UK & Europe at APT Luxury River Cruises & Tours; and Giles Hawke, VP & MD UK, Ireland and EMEA at Celebrity CruisesCLIA has previously unveiled events and initiatives including new sections on its website, such as a New-to-Selling Cruise hub, Virtual Ship Tours and a 'Countdown' page for upcoming ship launches.Andy Harmer said: "2023 has been a fantastic year for the cruise industry and I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has played their part. You could see from the positivity at the Forum that our members are thriving, and that is a great tribute to the innovation, determination and collaboration we see across the sector."We all want this momentum to continue into the new year and beyond, so have made a series of trade-friendly announcements to help start 2024 with a flourish. We can't wait to see what the new year brings." 19 December, 2023 -
CLIA confirms airlines partnership agreementCLIA confirms airlines partnership agreement
Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines & Air France/KLM have been confirmed as event partners with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). The partnerships will enhance the carriers’ brand awareness across the cruise industry, bringing them into CLIA’s wider community of cruise lines, travel agents and executive partners.The airlines are part of a collective joint venture and their agreements with CLIA comprise:Headline sponsorship of CLIA Conference 2024. The conference will be held from May 23-25 in Southampton, and is the largest annual travel agent event of its kind in Europe. It will include ship visits, conference sessions, an industry trade fair and a celebratory evening event.Virgin Atlantic will sponsor this year’s CLIA Cruise Forum on December 19 in Windsor. The forum is a major event in the travel calendar, offering a one-day seminar and networking opportunities for 100+ senior travel agents, agency managers and owners, as well as business executives and media.Air France/KLM are the official airline partner for the CLIA RiverView 2024 Conference. It will take place from March 11-13 in Amsterdam and highlight the latest river cruise ships, information and selling advice. The conference will include multiple ship visits, key speaker sessions and a networking trade fair. Air France / KLM are offering discounted airfares from UK to Amsterdam for all delegates.All three events have sold out. The airlines will have networking stands at the events, and their branding will be displayed across associated assets and online platforms.A host of other activities with CLIA have also been agreed, including:A recent webinar with all four airlines, which included brand overviews, trade-friendly advice and sales tips. The session is available here.Having further content feature online, including brand profiles, trade-friendly news and updates, and contact details.Brand insight and information in CLIA's agent newsletters, podcasts and marketing materials.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Fly cruise continues to increase in popularity for UK and Ireland guests, so our agreement with Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Air France and KLM is perfectly-timed to capitalise on this demand. The airlines can further increase their awareness and exposure across the industry, while agents can benefit from their extensive flight availability and expertise.”Nicki Goldsmith, Virgin Atlantic director of sales, said: "We are extremely excited to be joining the CLIA partnership as an extended joint venture. We know there is huge growth opportunity within the cruise industry across mainstream, luxury and river cruise and we are confident that Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM can support this growth throughout our destinations and premium product offering for all cruise customers. We look forward to working with the cruise lines and cruise agents more closely." 15 December, 2023 -
Cruise Lines International Association announces the promotion of Donnie Brown to Senior Vice President of Global Maritime PolicyCruise Lines International Association announces the promotion of Donnie Brown to Senior Vice President of Global Maritime Policy
WASHINGTON, December 6, 2023 -- Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice for the global cruise industry, announced the promotion of Donnie Brown to Senior Vice President, Global Maritime Policy, effective December 1, 2023. In this new role, Brown will lead CLIA's strategic efforts to coordinate the cruise industry's positions on technical, regulatory, and policy matters related to cruise ship safety, security, and environmental stewardship."Donnie has made significant contributions to CLIA and the cruise industry over the past nine years, and I am thrilled for him to now take the helm as Senior Vice President, Global Maritime Policy," said Kelly Craighead, President and CEO of CLIA. "Our maritime policy work on behalf of our member cruise lines is essential to advancing the industry's leadership position in responsible and sustainable tourism practices and on our path to net-zero emissions by 2050. I know Donnie’s deep experience in myriad maritime and policy matters will help guide the industry on its sustainability journey."Brown joined CLIA in 2014 as Director of Environmental and Health and was promoted to Vice President, Global Maritime Policy in 2017. In his previous positions, Brown led the development, presentation, negotiation, and implementation of global industry positions on legislative, regulatory, and policy matters involving security, environmental stewardship, and health.Additionally, in close consultation with the CLIA Global Committee on Marine Environment Protection, he led delegations to the International Maritime Organization, where he represented the global cruise industry during international treaty negotiations and other matters.Prior to joining CLIA, Brown served a distinguished career in the United States Coast Guard, including as legal counsel to senior Coast Guard officials and federal interagency leaders where he facilitated consensus on national and international policy matters. Brown is a graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy and the University of Miami School of Law.“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to lead the Maritime Policy team and look forward to carrying out CLIA’s strategic workplan in consultation with our members and in support of the broader cruise community,” shared Brown. 06 December, 2023 -
CLIA presents cruise industry’s Action Plan for Greece to the Greek GovernmentCLIA presents cruise industry’s Action Plan for Greece to the Greek Government
CLIA meets with Greek Ministers, for the first time after the elections in June, to discuss how to maximise the benefits to Greece from cruising and help to unlock its potential for sustainable growth as a cruise hub.Athens, 28 November 2023– Representatives of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), members of the Government, and key stakeholders discussed CLIA’s proposed Action Plan for Greece for the next five years, during a CLIA visit in Athens last week.Development of homeporting activities, the opening of new destinations, and the need for port infrastructure to meet the requirements of the EU Fit For 55 legislation, as well as the potential for cruise shipbuilding in Greece, the extension of the cruise season, and opportunities for seafarers were all on the agenda.Represented by Marie Caroline Laurent, Director General of CLIA in Europe and Maria Deligianni, CLIA’s National Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, and joined by cruise line members, CLIA met with the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Mr. Christos Stylianides, Minister of Culture Ms. Lina Mendoni and the Deputy Minister of Tourism Ms. Elena Rapti.CLIA’s Director General in Europe, Marie Caroline Laurent, said: “The goal of our proposed Action Plan is to maximise the benefits to Greece from cruising and help to unlock its potential for sustainable growth. Our plan was well received by the Ministers, and we are pleased that our vision is consistent with the Government’s priorities”.We welcome this development and, with great respect for the communities that support the cruise sector, we cooperate on itineraries, port operations, and improved destination management practices, to provide sustainable, optimal experiences for communities and visitors.Maria Deligianni, CLIA’s National Director, Eastern MediterraneanCLIA’s National Director, Eastern Mediterranean Maria Deligianni added: “Greece is seeing great growth in cruising the last years, bringing significant benefits to its economy, generating more than €1,1 billion euros annually and supporting thousands of jobs. We welcome this development and, with great respect for the communities that support the cruise sector, we cooperate on itineraries, port operations, and improved destination management practices, to provide sustainable, optimal experiences for communities and visitors”.The meeting with the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Mr. Christos Stylianides confirmed the need for port infrastructure and investments for development of homeporting activities and the opening of new destinations. Discussions also focused on the need of port infrastructure to meet the requirements of the EU Fit For 55 legislation, and production and supply of sustainable marine fuels at key ports in Greece. Discussions also included how the recent revitalization of shipyards in Greece and the potential for cruise shipbuilding could represent a business opportunity for the country. CLIA also shared how it is raising awareness of career opportunities in the cruise sector through educational ship visits for Greek students.The meeting with Minister of Culture and Sports Ms. Mendoni confirmed that concrete steps are being taken to develop new archaeological sites to highlight the country’s unique cultural history, as well as to improve conditions at existing sites, including the Acropolis in Athens. CLIA congratulated the Minister for the actions already taken to improve the guest experience and noted that the Acropolis of Athens can serve as a model of sustainable tourism management practices for other archaeological sites of global significance.The Deputy Minister of Tourism Ms. Rapti embraced CLIA’s proposal to work jointly on extending the cruise season and opening new destinations given the wide variety of options that Greece can offer to cruise visitors. CLIA stressed the need for a holistic approach to destination management to manage tourism flows. Discussions also covered the need to encourage partnerships among Eastern Mediterranean countries, highlighting the uniqueness of the region which brings together three continents: Europe, Africa, and Asia. Lastly, the Minister embraced CLIA’s initiative to inform the young people about the vast range of career opportunities in the cruise sector.The delegation also met the President of Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Mr. Vassilis Korkidis, the President of the Hellenic Ship Suppliers and Exporters Association Mr. Nikolaos Mavrikos, the Director General of the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS) Ms Katerina Peppa, the General Manager of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) Ms Maria Gatsou, and the Director General of HELMEPA, Ms Olga Stavropoulou.Notes to EditorsCLIA’s proposed Action Plan for Greece is based on five pillars:1. Extend the tourist season and promote new destinations locally, as well as regionally by encouraging partnerships among Eastern Mediterranean countries.2. Create the right port infrastructure and operating environment including:the development of a berth allocation system and policy locally for the careful planning of cruise ship arrivals & departures,the development of port infrastructure and berths for homeport activities and for better itinerary planning,the infrastructure to accommodate the application of the new EU border rules, which will be implemented by Autumn of 2024,the development of shipbuilding and repair activities for cruise ships in Greece.3. Develop sustainable tourism practices, including the need for destination management plans for the popular destinations that will offer a holistic approach to tourism management locally.4. Introduce onshore power solutions to match environmental technologies deployed onboard and support the production and supply of sustainable marine fuels, in which we believe Greece can play a major role as a maritime nation.5. Inform and raise awareness between Greeks on employment opportunities in shipping and cruise industry specifically, as well as build the skills of the next generation of seafarers. 28 November, 2023 -
CLIA navigates Greek maritime students through the world of cruisingCLIA navigates Greek maritime students through the world of cruising
The Cruise Lines International Association organised educational cruise ship visit for students of the University of Piraeus onboard MSC Splendida in PiraeusAthens, 26 October 2023– CLIA continues to celebrate 2023 as the “European Year of Skills” and to actively contribute to the development of skills in the cruise industry by organising one more educational cruise ship visit for students in Greece. This time the invitation was addressed to postgraduate students from the Maritime Studies Department of the University of Piraeus who had the opportunity to get onboard the cruise ship MSC Splendida of MSC Cruises at the Port of Piraeus on Saturday, October 21. The students had the opportunity to navigate through the world of cruising, learning about career opportunities in the cruise business and the industry’s actions on sustainability.Hosted by CLIA’s National Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Mrs Maria Deligianni and MSC Cruises’ Vice President Sustainability & ESG, Mrs Linden Coppell, who presented virtually, as well as honored by the presence of the President of the Piraeus Port Authority, Mr Yu Zenggang, students of MSc in Shipping Management and MSc in Ports and Coastal Economy of the University of Piraeus were offered the opportunity of a guided tour of MSC Splendida in order to experience what cruising is about. The students were accompanied by Mr Thanos Pallis and Mr Aggelos Pantouvakis, professors of the Maritime Studies Department of the University of Piraeus.Welcoming the students onboard MSC Splendida through a video message, the Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Mr Christos Stylianides said: “Cruising is one of the most important tourist activities in Greece and in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region. The cruise sector is expected to bring even greater value to the sea tourism industry and at the same time bring significant benefits to all involved parts, it boosts the blue economy and demonstrates our commitment to ensuring sustainability in the maritime industry”. Regarding the prospects for cruise in Greece Mr. Stylianides noted that “all experts agree that the positive course of the industry in our country will continue and we hope that we will have a further increase in cruise ship calls, which from next year may even exceed 10%”.Executive Chairman of BoD of PPA S.A., Mr. Zenggang Yu expressed gratitude to CLIA and MSC Cruises for hosting an educational ship visit, emphasizing the significance of Piraeus as the largest passenger port in Europe and a vital Mediterranean cruise destination. Mr. Yu underlined the economic benefits brought by the cruise industry, particularly the growth in homeporting despite pandemic challenges. This is verified through a research study conducted by the Dept. of Maritime studies of the University of Piraeus which found that cruise tourists contribute significantly to the local economy, not only in Athens but also in Piraeus. The global economic impact of the cruise industry and sustainability efforts at Piraeus port are both in focus through decarbonisation and recognition for sustainability. Mr. Yu concluded by encouraging students to enjoy the presentations and ship visit and whished them success in their studies and professional careers.Maria Deligianni, National Director, Eastern Mediterranean, CLIA presented an overview of trends and key figures for the cruise industry globally and in Greece as well as CLIA’s latest Sustainability report issued October 2023. “This initiative is part of CLIA’s priority to engage with students and young people who are interested in the dynamic cruise industry and raise awareness about its significant and growing impact on the economy and employment at global, European, and local level”, said Mrs Deligianni. “As a cruise industry we are sailing to a better future, and these young students are our future. We are delighted to be able to host these students onboard and give them the chance to “taste” and “feel” what cruising is about”, she added.As a cruise industry we are sailing to a better future, and these young students are our future. We are delighted to be able to host these students onboard and give them the chance to “taste” and “feel” what cruising is about.Maria Deligianni, National Director, Eastern Mediterranean, CLIALinden Coppell, Vice President Sustainability & ESG, MSC Cruises presented the environmental technologies onboard and the MSC Cruises sustainability strategy, as well as facts about cruise industry careers. “Our sustainability programme is organised around four key pillars: Planet, People, Place and Procurement, ensuring that our attention is focused on the issues that matter the most. At MSC Cruises, we firmly believe that our people are the cornerstone of our success and employ talented team members worldwide. We understand that nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth in a safe and supportive environment is paramount, and we work to ensure that we have a skilled and motivated workforce to achieve our sustainability goals and deliver exceptional experiences to our passengers” she said.Professor Thanos Pallis noted on behalf of the University of Piraeus: “Cruise is a sector demonstrating great potential. It is also a sector that is based on the coordination of several stakeholders in order to achieve this potential in an economical, environmental, and socially sustainable way. This educational visit provided a unique opportunity to our postgraduate students to better understand the multiple and multidimensional efforts of cruise lines, and the port of Piraeus, in achieving such sustainable growth in all respects, and discuss the contribution of cruise activities to local communities. All these while experiencing a cruise vessel in full operation and the unique hospitality that MSC Cruises offers to its guests. Congratulations to CLIA Europe for this commendable initiative and to MSC Cruises for making this a unique experience for our students. Our Department of Maritime Studies will work with all partners involved to give to such educational visits a periodical character”.The cruise industry offers a high-quality work environment with competitive wages and benefits, as well as training for crew members to perform jobs skillfully and advance on a rewarding career path. CLIA member cruise lines employ a multinational workforce in a huge variety of jobs, onboard as well as onshore, also including guest services, medical, entertainment, chefs etc. Often more than 60 nationalities may be working together onboard a ship at any time. Cruise also provides the most advanced opportunities for women in maritime, as 94% of women seafarers across the world are working in the cruise industry. At the same time, CLIA member cruise lines have focused on programmes that remove barriers for entry and offer independence for workers with disabilities.About the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)CLIA is the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, providing a unified voice for the industry as the leading authority of the global cruise community. On behalf of its members, affiliates and partners, the organization supports policies and practices that foster a secure, healthy, and sustainable cruise ship environment, promoting positive travel experiences for million of travelers who cruise annually. This year, CLIA forecasts that annual the number of passengers will reach 31.5 million passenger – surpassing 2019 levels. The CLIA community includes the world’s most prestigious ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines; a highly trained and certified travel agent community; and a widespread network of stakeholders, including ports & destinations, ship development, suppliers, and business services. For further information, please visit cruising.org or europe.cruising.org. 27 October, 2023