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CLIA Statement regarding incorrect reports about cruise operations in Amsterdam 21 July 2023CLIA Statement regarding incorrect reports about cruise operations in Amsterdam 21 July 2023
In response to inaccurate reports about cruise operations in Amsterdam, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) shares the following statement:We are aware of the media reports about the future of cruise in Amsterdam. As the port has publicly stated, cruise ships have not been banned from Amsterdam. Furthermore, the port and Passenger Terminal Amsterdam have already pledged to undertake investments worth millions of Euros in port infrastructure and shoreside electricity for the long-term. There have been discussions on its relocation outside the city centre which started back in 2016 and which are still ongoing.We are working with the authorities to accommodate the views expressed by Council members while continuing to support the communities that benefit from cruise tourism. Of the more than 21 million visitors that Amsterdam receives each year, around 1% arrive by cruise ship, with cruise tourism contributing around 105 million Euros to the city annually. 21 July, 2023 -
CLIA Statement regarding the Revised Strategy for Reduction of GHG from International Shipping agreed to by International Maritime Organization (IMO) Member StatesCLIA Statement regarding the Revised Strategy for Reduction of GHG from International Shipping agreed to by International Maritime Organization (IMO) Member States
(WASHINGTON DC, 7 July 2023) Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) congratulates IMO Member States on agreeing to an ambitious Revised Strategy for Reduction of GHG from International Shipping on 7 July 2023.Cruise lines are at the forefront of developing innovative environmental technologies and practices aimed at reducing emissions and are investing in the development of sustainable marine fuels and environmental technologies.With every new ship comes new technologies and greater efficiencies that make them more sustainable. The Revised Strategy agreed to at the IMO sends a strong signal to markets and fuel suppliers that should provide the new technologies and alternative fuels needed in order for the maritime sector to do its part in achieving net zero GHG emissions by or around 2050 consistent with the Revised Strategy.Although sustainable marine fuels and technologies are not yet available at scale, cruise lines are addressing these challenges with significant investments, innovative approaches, and systems designed to help the cruise sector transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels. Multiple pilot projects and collaborative initiatives are underway, and new engines and propulsion technologies are actively being planned and tested for use on cruise ships.Cruise lines are preparing for and embracing new technologies, innovations, and the uptake of alternative fuels as they become available. One example is battery technology, which can help to ensure engines and fuel cells operate at their most efficient and can supply short periods of zero-emissions power. More than 15% of cruise ships entering service in the next five years are specified to be equipped with fuel cells or battery storage to allow for hybrid power generation once the technology is available.Additional information and examples:Trialing includes exploring the expanded use of biofuels (already in use on four ships), synthetic carbon fuels, and electric batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and methanol fuel cells.Near-term solutions, which are currently being tested on ships, are offered by sustainable biofuels – namely, advanced biofuels (using non-food biomass), including bio-methanol and biomethane.Medium-term options being explored include synthetic e-fuels like e-methane and e-methanol. The first ships incorporating methanol are scheduled to be delivered in 2024. Seven ships incorporating methanol are due to be launched by CLIA members during the next five years.For more information on these and other sustainability initiatives, please contact [email protected]. 07 July, 2023 -
European Parliament debate: Empowering Women in Transport: The Maritime industry and the role of the EU, 27 June 2023European Parliament debate: Empowering Women in Transport: The Maritime industry and the role of the EU, 27 June 2023
Women are under-represented in the maritime sector.This event was the opportunity to share the positive example of cruise, and to raise awareness among the maritime community and policy makers about the importance of attracting women and young people to the maritime sector.To listen, two episodes of the “Shipping Podcast” by Lena Göthberg.Listening to those podcasts gives you a clear view of the issues raised that day.In the first episode, you clearly hear the intervention of Vanessa De Michelle, 1st Officer Carnival Maritime and Costa Cruises, sharing her experience onboard and giving her insights: https://ow.ly/X5a450PsFHoAt the beginning of the second episode, you can hear the discussion after the video testimony of Martel Fursdon, Deputy Captain of Ventura, P&O Cruises, was shown to the audience: https://bit.ly/479AvD9“My place is on a ship!”It was great to hear Vanessa De Michelle, 1st officer at Carnival and Costa Cruises, sharing her experience as a woman officer onboard of a cruise ship in front of stakeholders from European institutions, brought together by MEP Vera Tax in the European Parliament to discuss Empowering Women in Transport: The Maritime industry and the role of the EU.Women are under-represented in the maritime sector. However, Out of the 2% of women seafarers globally, 94% of them are in the cruise industry.This event was the opportunity to share the positive example of cruise, and to raise awareness among the maritime community and policy makers about the importance of attracting women and young people to the maritime sector.The cruise industry was represented in the panel by Vanessa De Michelle, 1st officer Carnival Maritime and Costa Cruises, who gave a motivational speech regarding her own career path from cadet to 1st officer and highlighted elements that she considered could help in attracting more women to pursue a career in the maritime industry.We also shared a “seafarer testimony” video of Martel Fursdon, Deputy Captain of Ventura, P&O Cruises which provided food for thought and discussion.The advice they gave to the audience to make women feel welcomed on board are:The “role model” factor: having a role model and being a role model is helping to create trust and confidence for women.Team spirit: It is critical to create a good team spirit on board, among women and with men.The speak up culture: Understanding that whenever you speak up, there is a result and actions are taken.Other panelists were Lena Göthberg, presenter and producer of the Shipping Podcast, Line Heimstad, European Transport Workers Federation, ETF, David Kerr, member of Commissioner Dalli’s cabinet and Sotiris Raptis, Secretary-General of European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA) and the debate was moderated by Marjolein Van Noort, EU representative of the KVNR | Royal Association of Dutch Shipowners.Summarizing the debate, MEP Tax noted the following key elements:Show & Tell! Strengthen the awareness of the sector, especially among young people [man and woman!] by talking to them.Build and invest in the work culture, both on board and ashore.Facilitate practical matters on board including sanitary facilities and already take this into account when building ships, but also facilitate the right work clothing.Work together in the maritime cluster to offer new and current seafarers a maritime career that also provides clarity if you would like to have children in the future.Have data, there is still too little of that knowledge.MEP Tax pointed out: “A good work environment for women is a good workplace for everybody. The more diverse a workforce is, the better it will perform.”It is well known that a diverse teams boost creativity and Innovation. Workplace diversity creates greater opportunities for professional growth.Achieving gender equality and empowering all women and girls is one of the Sustainable Development Goals. The cruise industry takes this goal seriously.Out of the 2% of women seafarers globally, 94% of them are in the cruise industry. At the same time, in the cruise sector, around 50% of women hold positions of mid-level seniority or higher. Cruise provides advancement opportunities for women, both on and off the ship.MEP Tax concluded by indicating that she looks forward to continuing the dialogue and emphasized that gender equality is not just a responsibility of women, but of all of us and that this requires awareness and concrete actions. 30 June, 2023 -
CLIA joins RSB to support shipping industry to sail more sustainablyCLIA joins RSB to support shipping industry to sail more sustainably
7 June 2023, Brussels – Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the world’s largest cruise industry trade association, has joined the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) as part of its commitment to chart the course to net-zero carbon cruising by 2050. By becoming a RSB member, CLIA will also join over a hundred other organisations to support the continuous development of RSB’s Principles & Criteria – the world’s most trusted and credible approach for advancing the just and sustainable transition to a net positive world.In its mission to achieve net zero, CLIA cruise lines members are exploring many exciting and innovative avenues, including sustainable marine fuel (SMF) – given that 75% of its global cruise fleet is already capable of using SMF, once available at scale. CLIA’s membership to RSB’s collaborative network will therefore focus on leveraging access to RSB’s new Sustainable Marine Fuel Platform.As part of this platform, CLIA will work with other leading organisations in the maritime industry to address sustainability issues in marine fuel, develop approaches to engage with regulators, and advocate for consistent and robust sustainability practices.“Joining the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials signals the importance that the cruise sector places on collaboration as part of the transition to a sustainable economy. The development of sustainable marine fuels will be key to decarbonisation of shipping. We look forward to sharing expertise and exchanging ideas as part of our drive to discover the innovations and new technologies that will help to achieve our collective climate ambitions.” – Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General Europe, CLIA.“We are thrilled to welcome the Cruise Lines International Association to our collaborative network. We all look forward to working with CLIA to support the cruise sector to achieve their net-zero ambitions, sustainably. Unlocking collaboration within and across sectors is one of the most vital approaches to building a sustainable biocircular economy and we look forward to working with CLIA in our RSB Sustainable Marine Fuels Platform, as well as in our cross-cutting work on Book & Claim, power-to-X and much more. Together, we look forward to working collaboratively to drive positive change in the marine sector.” – Hannah Walker, Outreach and Engagement Director and lead on SMF at RSB.About CLIACLIA 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 organisation supports policies and practices that foster a secure, healthy, and sustainable cruise ship environment, promoting positive travel experiences for the more than 30 million passengers who have cruised annually. 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 europe.cruising.org or cruising.org.About RSBThe Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) is a global, multi-stakeholder and independent organisation that drives the development of a bio-based and circular economy. RSB has the world’s most trusted, peer-reviewed, global certification standard for sustainable biomaterials, biofuels and biomass production, from which it provides credible tools and solutions for sustainability that mitigate business risk and contribute to achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. For further information, visit https://rsb.org. 07 June, 2023 -
European Parliament Roundtable on Sustainable, Accessible, Inclusive Cruise Tourism – Supporting Local Communities and DestinationsEuropean Parliament Roundtable on Sustainable, Accessible, Inclusive Cruise Tourism – Supporting Local Communities and Destinations
Great discussion at the European Parliament on Sustainable, Accessible, Inclusive Cruise Tourism with Bernard Vanheule, Costa Cruises, Alessandro Carollo, Royal Caribbean Group, Marie-Caroline Laurent, CLIA Director-General in Europe, Claudia Tapardel, Moderator, Josianne Cutajar, MEP, Petar Vitanov, MEP, Elena Kountoura, MEP and Cristian-Silviu Buşoi, MEPOn 31 May, CLIA, together with four MEPs, hosted a Roundtable in the European Parliament focusing on sustainable, accessible and inclusive cruise tourism. The event brought together stakeholders from European institutions and various organisations to discuss:Sustainability onboard and in the ports and destinations we visit,DiversityAccessibility of cruise tourismWith thanks to MEPs Elena Kountoura, Cristian-Silviu Buşoi, Josianne Cutajar and Petar Vitanov for their important contributions to the debate. The debate also included interventions from Marie-Caroline Laurent, CLIA Director-General in Europe, Bernard Vanheule, Costa Cruises and Alessandro Carollo, Royal Caribbean Group. There was particular interest in the finding that cruise is often the only holiday option for travellers with reduced mobility, and the ways in which cruise lines support accessible holidays – with possible learnings for the rest of travel and tourism. The efforts made by cruise lines to promote gender equalitywas also welcomed as well as the way the industry supports local traditions, cultures, and economies.This roundtable illustrates that the initiatives we have highlighted today are essential and that we are a force for good. We fully contribute to European objectives like implementing the EU Green Deal or supporting the destinations we visitMarie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe 02 June, 2023 -
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Announces 2023 Hall of Fame Cruise Industry Award WinnersCruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Announces 2023 Hall of Fame Cruise Industry Award Winners
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced the 2023 CLIA Hall of Fame Cruise Industry Award winners. The awards identify individuals and organizations whose efforts and accomplishments represent a significant contribution to the cruise industry. Award winners were inducted during the CLIA Hall of Fame Cruise Industry Awards & Gala Dinner during the CLIA Cruise360 conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Thursday, April 20th, 2023.“The 2023 Hall of Fame Winners are an extraordinary group of industry leaders with incredible passion for travel and limitless dedication to their clients and guests,” said Kelly Craighead, CLIA President and CEO. “They are innovators, visionaries, and a shining example of how hard work and leadership lead to success. CLIA is proud to honor their contributions.”CLIA congratulates its Hall of Fame Inductee Class of 2023LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNERSAwarded to two individuals — one from the CLIA North American Travel Trade Membership and one from either a CLIA Global Cruise Line Member or River Marketing Affiliate — who are lifetime champions of cruise travel and have made monumental contributions to the cruise industry.Michael BayleyPresident and CEORoyal Caribbean InternationalAt the helm of the world’s largest and most innovative cruise line, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley leads a global team of more than 50,000 employees who deliver memorable family vacations to more than five million international guests on 26 ships that sail to more than 290 destinations.Bayley is responsible for the cruise line’s entire operation, which also includes private destinations Labadee, Haiti, and Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas – the first in a series of private island destinations around the world known as Perfect Day Island Collection. A key focus of his is to inspire every team to deliver the unrivaled and award-winning Royal Caribbean experience of innovation and excellence from ship to shore.Bayley’s responsibilities also include key operations for Royal Caribbean Group, the cruise line’s parent company. He oversees the corporation’s destination and port development, consisting of various ongoing projects in different stages around the world.Within the industry, Bayley is recognized as a thought leader and proponent of partnership across governments, cruise lines and trade organizations. He’s on the global board of directors for Cruise Lines International Association and is an executive committee member of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association as well as a co-chair of its Americas Cruise Tourism Task Force, which builds cooperative relationships with destinations.The president and CEO began his 40-year career in 1981 as an assistant purser on Royal Caribbean’s m.s. Nordic Prince. In his 10 years at sea, he worked in a variety of positions, each with increasing responsibility. His success led him to become vice president of guest satisfaction, fleet operations; senior vice president of hotel operations and onboard revenue; and later as executive vice president of operations, overseeing marine, hotel, tour and ground operations, and commercial development. He spent time based in Europe as chairman and managing director of Island Cruises, a joint venture between First Choice Holidays – a leading U.K. Tour Operator – and Royal Caribbean. Bayley also once served as vice president at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.The industry veteran has pioneered the concept of cruising in emerging markets across the globe. In 2008, as executive vice president of international sales and marketing at Royal Caribbean, Bayley opened offices in 11 countries in Europe, Latin America, and Asia, and he was instrumental in opening and developing the China market. He was named president and CEO of Celebrity Cruises in 2012 and was responsible for improving the line’s overall financial performance when he expanded the vacation offering to guests in the premium segment. He then became president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International in 2014.Gloria BohanPresident and CEOOmega World TravelGloria Bohan has had a lifetime of groundbreaking impact on the travel industry, facilitating exciting new trends and shaping how the industry conducts business. Gloria founded Omega World Travel in Fredericksburg, Virginia in 1972, providing leisure travel services to the public. Over the past 50 years, Ms. Bohan has transformed Omega’s initial one-person office into an international full-service travel management company.Now based in Fairfax, VA, Omega’s sales revenues have exceeded $1 billion a year. Omega was ranked the 4th largest privately-owned travel agency in the United States by Business Travel News (2020), is the largest woman-owned travel agency, and is certified as a woman-owned business by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (“WBENC”). Omega’s on and off-site corporate offices, government offices, and call centers are located in cities throughout the United States and in the United Kingdom, Europe, and Korea. Ms. Bohan also owns Cruise.com, one of the largest online cruise sellers, and TravTech, a travel technology company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for the industry. In addition, Omega’s M.I.C.E. division offers an events department with hybrid meeting software that achieves maximum attendance numbers.Gloria has frequently been recognized for her achievements in the travel industry, including receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards from Northstar Travel Group’s Travel Weekly (2021), The American Society of Travel Advisors (2019), and the Executive Women’s Forum (2011). Ms. Bohan was inducted into the Washington Business Hall of Fame in 2011 and has been named one of the 25 Most Influential Leaders in the Travel Industry by Tour and Travel News. She has further been listed as one of the Most Powerful Women in Washington by Washingtonian Magazine and Woman of the Year by The Network of Entrepreneurial Women.Though best known for her achievements in travel, Gloria has also been an ardent supporter of education and community-orientated endeavors. Ms. Bohan began her career as a New York City Public School teacher and has long supported the Junior Achievement program which pairs participating youth with business mentors. In the early 2000s, Gloria and her late husband established the Gloria and Dan Bohan Foundation which fosters entrepreneurship and encourages more diverse participation in our economy. Ms. Bohan credits her many successes to giving others a chance to tap into their creativity, the excellent support of businesses around the world, her partnerships with the Travel and Hospitality industry, and her dedicated staff.TRAVEL AGENCY INNOVATOR AWARD WINNERAwarded to a CLIA Travel Agency Member or Premier Agency Member that has demonstrated innovative and visionary leadership in their approach to promoting cruise travel, growing their cruise travel sales, and supporting their affiliated travel advisors.Michael ConsoliMichael Consoli is the owner of Cruise Planners/Michael Consoli & Associates and has been a Cruise Planners franchise owner for 20 years. He is the #1 producing agent in the Cruise Planners network and had a record sales year of $24 million in 2022. Consoli has been on 250+ cruises on all different lines and strives to share these experiences with his clients through social media, video, and first-hand accounts of his travels.Consoli’s team consists of a seasoned support staff of four members who all play an integral role in helping him plan and execute countless personalized trips for his guests. Their goal is to help their guests realize their vacation dreams, assist them in planning a trip that exceeds his guests’ expectations, all while making sure his clients are provided exceptional service and value.Each year, Consoli curates several invitation-only trips, which he personally escorts for his clients. This allows him to take the agent-client relationship to a higher level, providing him the ability to better understand their travel style, and assists him in planning future trips tailored for his clients. Consoli cherishes the relationships he has built with industry executives, travel agent peers and, of course, his loyal clients. It is these relationships, combined with the exceptional service he provides his clients that allow him to continue to receive recognition as Viking’s Global Top producer, Cruise Planners’ #1 Luxury and #1 River Cruise agent as well as top producer status with Celebrity, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Tauck year after year.ELITE CRUISE COUNSELLOR OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERAwarded to a CLIA Individual Agent Member who has demonstrated their career commitment to professional development through achievement of Elite Cruise Counsellor or Elite Cruise Counsellor Scholar status – the pinnacle of CLIA certification – with the requisite sales requirements as well as significantly impacted the travel agent landscape through contributions to their agency.Diane Mason, ECCSDiane Mason was born in St. Louis, MO but has lived in many areas of the United States. While serving as an Aircraft Mechanic Hydraulics Technician (AMH2) in the United States Navy, (1983–1989), she enjoyed the opportunity of living abroad in a variety of locations, as well. While in the US Navy Reserves, Diane attended Travelers Choice School of Travel in Honolulu, HI, graduating in 1989. After successfully completing ‘comprehensive Travel Theory & Apollo Computer Reservations’, she began building her repertoire of extensive travel experience as a local island tour builder on Oahu and the outlying islands.Diane’s journey towards becoming a million-dollar corporate agent began in the 90’s with companies such as Uniglobe, Travel One and SAIC. These experiences set her up for success and were instrumental in creating The Cruise Planner, LLC (aka–The Cruise & Travel Planner). Initially starting her business in the Virginia Area in 1998, she moved back to her hometown of St. Louis, MO in 1999 until relocating to Gulf Breeze, FL in 2022.Diane earned her CLIA certification as an Elite Cruise Counselor Scholar in 2012 becoming the only ECCS in the entire state of Missouri. Diane quickly realized that CLIA Certification was an integral part of building a successful travel agency. Diane’s passion to educate, train, and grow top producing, successful travel advisors became evident when her team of independent contractors achieved various levels of certifications through CLIA, with two of them also earning ECC.Diane volunteered for many years in the Booster Club at a local high school in Missouri, assisting in concession stand sales which provided much needed funds. This resulted in safe and successful grad night events for the local youth. Being an active, highly effective business networker in the community, she not only helped to grow her own business but assisted in helping her colleagues grow their businesses as well. She is currently a member of the FBE women’s veteran group, supporting women veterans of all military services. Diane currently resides with her husband Jim and their 6-Month-old French Bulldog named Emmy Lulu. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, walks in the neighborhood and shell hunting on the most beautiful beaches along the panhandle. 30 April, 2023 -
CLIA 2022 Europe Market ReportCLIA 2022 Europe Market Report
On the road to industry recoveryThe cruise market continued its growth trajectory in 2022.Throughout the year, intent to cruise continued to rise – surpassing 2019 levels – and cruise ships were once again bringing full ships to ports around the world and positively contributing to their local economies.In 2022, more than 20 million people around the world chose to take a cruise holiday.In Europe there were 5.8 million (+228% on 2021) and the three main destinations were the Mediterranean (38.4%), Northern Europe (29%) and the Caribbean (10.6%).The sector trend is positive, also looking to the future. Indeed, according to an international survey, the “desire for cruises” continues to grow. 85% of those who have been on a cruise say they want to do it again and 73% of those who have never taken a cruise are considering the option. Within these two categories, 71% consider it “likely” or “very likely” to board in the next two years.Growing awareness of climate protection and sustainabilityThe passenger numbers for 2023 and opinion surveys tell us that the industry’s ability to innovate, diversify the offer and become more sustainable are producing results and we can be rightly optimistic for the futureMarie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIAThe cruise industry is pursuing net zero carbon cruising by 2050 and driving efforts to become one ofthe most sustainable forms of tourism. CLIA data shows the passengers are becoming more aware of sustainable tourism: 83% of cruise passengers who sailed in the past 12 months said they were ‘much more’ or ‘more’ aware of environmental and sustainable tourism. “Despite the challenges of recent years, cruise lines have continued to carry out an ambitious environmental program and every year the fleet becomes more efficient and sustainable so as to reach the goal of zero carbon emissions by 2050” – says Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, CLIA.“The passenger numbers for 2023 and opinion surveys tell us that the industry’s ability to innovate, diversify the offer and become more sustainable are producing results and we can be rightly optimistic for the future”, she adds. 28 April, 2023 -
New data shows UK cruise industry innovating, diversifying, and attracting new holidaymakersNew data shows UK cruise industry innovating, diversifying, and attracting new holidaymakers
More people open to trying a cruise than ever beforeCruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has revealed that holidaymakers from the UK and Ireland took around 1.7 million cruise holidays last year, nearing demand levels last seen in 2019.In data published today (April 27, 2023), CLIA revealed that:In 2022 British and Irish holidaymakers took around 1.7 million cruises, up from 479,000 the previous year.The Mediterranean remains the number one destination for cruise travellers from the UK and Ireland.The top three destinations in 2022 were: 38.4% travelled to the Mediterranean, 29% to Northern Europe, and 10.6% to the Caribbean.The UK and Ireland markets accounted for 29% of all European source passengers.Globally, over a quarter (27%) of those who sailed for two or more nights in the last 12 months travelled in a party consisting of three or more generations, a sign that cruise holidays offer a great experience for all ages.The average age of UK & Ireland cruise guests last year was 55.8 years, as cruising continues to diversify and attract holidaymakers of all ages.The average length of a cruise by British or Irish holidaymakers in 2022 was 9.7 days (down slightly on 2019).Intent to cruise is stronger than ever. 85% of cruise passengers from the UK and Ireland say they intend to take a holiday at sea again (a 6% increase from 2019), and 60% will do so in the next two years (up from 53% in 2022).Strikingly, 70% of those who have never cruised before would consider a cruise in the next few years (up from 68% in March 2022), showing more people are open to trying a cruise than ever before.Growing awareness of sustainabilityThe cruise industry is pursuing net zero carbon cruising by 2050 and driving efforts to become one of the most sustainable forms of tourism. CLIA data shows the British travelling public is becoming more aware of sustainable tourism: 76% of British cruise passengers who sailed in the past 12 months said they were ‘much more’ or ‘more’ aware of environmental and sustainable tourism.Ben Bouldin, Chair, CLIA UK & Ireland, said:“Cruise lines are always challenging themselves to innovate and diversify, and constantly reinventing the cruise experience. This forward-looking approach is at the heart of the cruise industry’s success and is also why we are committed to sustainability. This is a flagship industry for the UK, and these latest figures show that we will continue to contribute to the economy and jobs.”Andy Harmer, Managing Director, CLIA UK & Ireland, said:“Cruise holidays have once again captured the imagination of the British public. A holiday at sea offers something for everyone, from action-packed experiences and visiting new cultures, to onboard entertainment, and relaxation. And the word is out as we are seeing more people than ever interested to try out a cruise for the first time.” 27 April, 2023 -
Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum 2023, ThessalonikiPosidonia Sea Tourism Forum 2023, Thessaloniki
Thessaloniki, 25 April 2023CLIA Global Chairman, Pierfrancesco Vago opened the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum on Tuesday morning, underlining Greece’s role as an important cruise hub and reveals action plan for growth.Dear all,Good morning.I’m delighted to be here with you today in Thessaloniki, for the first in-person Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum since 2019.And thank you to those members of the Government who could be here today even in a pre-election period including:Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Governor, Region of central MacedoniaKonstantinos Zervas, Mayor of ThessalonikiAnd Olympia Anastasopoulou, General Secretary of Tourism Policy and Development, Ministry of Tourism, Hellenic RepublicAs an industry, we weathered the storm together.Now, we are making waves again.After three years of reduced operations, 2023 is when we return to our pre pandemic growth trajectory.We expect up to 33 million cruise passengers worldwide, exceeding 2019 volumes by over 11%.And when it comes to the East Med, cruise ships from all brands are coming back ahead of the summer season.Greece now has an extraordinary opportunity to strengthen its position as a cruise hub in the region and today I will outline the key actions to achieve this.Europe is one of the top cruise regions in the world.It is the second largest market globally, attracting 21% of the world’s cruise travellers.During the downturn, European governments led the way by working collaboratively with us, particularly in the East Med.Together, we took the necessary steps to enable a phased, safe and responsible return to service.And here I want to convey a special thanks to Greece, and in particular the University of Thessaly, and Professor Christos Hadjichristodoulou.They were a key part of the EU Healthy Gateways project to support the restart of our vessels here in the region, and in Greece itself during the pandemic emergency.And they continue with their important input through the EU Healthy Sailing – Horizon Europe Project.The cruise industry benefits local economies here and across the whole of Europe.In 2021 for example with restrictions still in place, cruising starting with the yards generated 41 billion Euro of economic impact across the Continent, supporting 315,000 European jobs.In fact, the economic impact that cruise tourism brought to this country surpassed 1 billion Euro and generated more than 15,000 jobs.In Greece today, the economic benefits from the tourists that come to these shores on cruise ships are already higher than in 2019.The cruise industry benefits local economies here and across the whole of Europe. In 2021 for example with restrictions still in place, cruising starting with the yards generated 41 billion Euro of economic impact across the Continent, supporting 315,000 European jobs.Mr Pierfrancesco Vago, CLIA ChairmanThis is in part thanks to the great work by local authorities to increase homeporting operations in Greece.Last year, 47 of the 87 CLIA cruise ships that operated in Greece homeported – a 54% year-on-year increase.Homeporting brings the strongest economic benefits for any destination.It increases the time that tourists spend ashore both before and after the cruise, including demand for accommodation.There are also the benefits of expenditures by passengers during their stay, including for services, food, entertainment, and shopping.Every cruise tourist at the port of embarkation typically spends more than 400 Euro, while the amount at the ports visited along the ship’s itinerary is estimated to be at least 100 Euro a passenger.Supplying, maintaining, and refueling our ships also adds more jobs at homeports.Many Greek ports and destinations are doing great work to become more attractive for cruise tourism.Our hosts today deserve a special mention.Thanks to their work and collaboration with cruise lines, Thessaloniki is increasingly being included in itineraries.This has the potential of bringing the broader economic and job creation benefits of cruise tourism to neighboring states.I’d like to thank Mr Liagkos, the Chairman of the Port Authority, for helping us develop our product in this region.And for hosting us today!Ladies and gentlemen, cruising is a sound and compelling investment for coastal communities.In fact, 6 out of 10 cruise travellers return to the destinations they visited on a cruise for longer stays.This generates opportunities for local businesses to develop and market their products and services to new, wider audiences.In turn stimulating the broader tourism industry for tour operators, ferry companies and other players in the sector.Today, as our industry moves into the next phase of its development, we are looking to further extend our reach across the Eastern Med.Greece has many destinations to visit, including smaller islands, and we are proud that we can discover them through segments of our cruise industry like luxury and expedition, and promote them.Greece is an important cruise hub in the Mediterranean with great potential for further growth.Having developed its homeporting capabilities, the challenge now is for ports, cruise operators, and authorities to create the right infrastructure and operating environment for the long-term. To allow smooth operation we need to invest in infrastructure.This means ensuring that the specific needs of cruise operations are considered as part of the port infrastructure development, particularly in the context of the port privatisation process taking place now in Greece.It also means delivering smooth and efficient border control facilities for cruise passengers and crew.To maintain the attractiveness of Greece as a cruise hub, we need to work together to ensure that ports have enough resources available to process passengers.Not only today, but when the new European border control rules of Entry-Exit System will be implemented and impact turnaround operationsIt is crucial we join forces here the cruise industry, ports and the next Government to ensure our guests from across the world can visit Greek destinations unimpeded and our crew can secure visas to serve them.All cruise brands here today stand ready to invest and I would also like to encourage the port privatisation process and commend the outstanding efforts of the Hellenic Republic Asset Development Fund – TA-I-PE-THE!We also encourage the next Greek Government to consider a legal framework to allow berth reservations for all maritime activities including cruise and ferry to ensure better and safer operations in light of IMO and EU regulations.We as an industry are always ready to engage over crucial issues to find solutions as we have over the misperception of overcrowding.A practical example of this dialogue in action can be seen at the Acropolis in Athens.Tour operators and cruise lines are working together to coordinate visit schedules and ensure that there is no overcrowding or parking congestion at this world-famous site.Elsewhere in Greece, CLIA is also partnering with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and city authorities on sustainable tourism assessments.We are ensuring that the value that we add to the communities is not only economic, but also environmental and social. This is paramount for us all. Here and everywhere we operate.To help the cruise industry deliver its goal of net zero cruising by 2050, we need the right onshore solutions to match the technologies deployed onboard our ships.As per the EU institutions agreement on FuelEUMaritime reached in April, we know 235 ports in the EU must be shore power ready by 2030, with the rest to follow by 2035We need ports to deploy, where feasible, shoreside electricity capability which helps to reduce air emissions to the benefit of local populations.CLIA commends the on-going efforts of Heraklion and Piraeus to deploy this capability in the short term.To help the cruise industry deliver its goal of net zero cruising by 2050, we need the right onshore solutions to match the technologies deployed onboard our ships.Mr Pierfrancesco Vago, CLIA ChairmanAs an industry, we make major investments in sustainable technologies and fuels to continuously improve our vessels’ environmental performance using European suppliers wherever possible.Earlier this year we – CLIA – with SEA Europe made an important joint declaration at our European Summit in Paris calling on European Institutions to recognize and protect our industry’s unique knowledge base.A knowledge base that can help solve the climate challenges facing not just the maritime industry but society at large.For example, the latest vessels from my own brand MSC Cruises including MSC Euribia coming later this year are 55% more efficient in terms of CO2 emissions per nautical mile than earlier vessel classes built in 2009We – the cruise industry – have made these huge technological leaps in less than 15 years and we are striving to reach our decarbonisation objectives by 2050.And we are encouraged to see that Greece is setting itself on the path to become a leader like the cruise industry in this discussion on new technologies and fuels – and we stand ready to work with your authorities and institutions!Also, and most importantly, sustainable growth lies with our people.The long-term success of any industry depends on the talent and skills of its people.There is a great opportunity for Greece, a maritime nation, to build the skills of the next generation of seafarers.CLIA is participating in the YES to SEApping Forum this week, an important initiative to inform young people about the role of shipping and sea tourism in the blue economy.As we look to the future, our optimism is buoyed by positive consumer sentiment.CLIA’s research suggests that the intention to cruise is higher than it was before the pandemic.85% of those who cruised in the past are likely to cruise again – 6% higher than in 2019.The number of people who would like to try a cruise vacation is also higher now.Crucial to the realisation of this plan is basing it on solid and robust data that we have committed to provide to the Greek authorities.So, thanks to Posidonia and our organisers for bringing us together for this special moment.I now look forward to hearing from our panellists how we can maximise this potential together.In Thessaloniki, in Greece, and across the Eastern Med.Thank you.END 26 April, 2023 -
CRUISE INDUSTRY HERALDS GREECE’S ROLE AS AN IMPORTANT CRUISE HUB AND REVEALS ACTION PLAN FOR GROWTHCRUISE INDUSTRY HERALDS GREECE’S ROLE AS AN IMPORTANT CRUISE HUB AND REVEALS ACTION PLAN FOR GROWTH
Thessaloniki, 25 April 2023Greater partnership with the cruise industry is key to further growth and economic impactAs the international cruise sector continues its positive growth trajectory during 2023, the 7th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum, which brings together industry leaders from all over the world, is an ideal platform for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice of the global cruise industry, to address the major topics, challenges and opportunities that will shape the industry’s agenda in coming years.The Forum is being held today and tomorrow in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city, at a pivotal moment for Greece, whose role in the safe resumption of cruising creates a unique opportunity for the country to optimize its position on the global cruise map.The Forum was opened by a keynote speech delivered by Mr Pierfrancesco Vago, Global Chairman of CLIA and Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises. In the keynote, Mr Vago revealed an action plan for sustainable growth that emphasized the need to invest in infrastructure to maintain smooth operations and enhance the attractiveness of Greece as a cruise hub.“Greece is an important cruise hub in the Mediterranean, with great potential for further growth. Having developed its homeporting capabilities, the priority now is for ports, cruise operators and authorities to work together to create the right infrastructure and operating environment for the long-term”, said Pierfrancesco Vago, Global Chairman of CLIA and Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, during his keynote speech that opened the Forum today.The key actions proposed are working together to:Promote new destinations,Create the right port infrastructure and operating environment,Develop sustainable tourism practices,Introduce onshore solutions to match environmental technologies deployed onboard and support development of new fuels,Build the skills of the next generation of seafarersGreece is an important cruise hub in the Mediterranean, with great potential for further growth. Having developed its homeporting capabilities, the priority now is for ports, cruise operators and authorities to work together to create the right infrastructure and operating environment for the long-termMr Pierfrancesco Vago, CLIA ChairmanMr. Vago is leading a high-level CLIA delegation at the Forum, including Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, Europe, Sascha Gill, Vice President, Sustainability, Maria Deligianni, National Director – Eastern Mediterranean, and Andy Harmer, Managing Director, UK & Ireland.The importance of the Mediterranean region in post-pandemic cruising was among the top issues discussed at the opening of the Forum.“With such vibrancy and diversity of cultures, the Mediterranean region is one of the world’s favorite places to visit. And this magnificent region still offers so many more places to discover, best to be discovered by sea. Cruise tourism is a real opportunity for new destinations like remote island and coastline areas, bringing important social and economic benefits to more communities”, said Marie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, CLIA.The CLIA team addressed all major topics and key priorities for the industry by participating in panel discussions and organizing special sessions and workshops. Sustainable cruising is on the top of these priorities, as CLIA members are committed to delivering the vision of net zero cruising by 2050 and are acting now to make this vision a reality – by equipping ships to connect to shoreside electricity, reducing emissions for the benefit of local populations, investing in the development of new sustainable marine fuels and onboard technologies.CLIA organised a session today on “Pathways to Net Zero”, moderated by Sascha Gill, Vice President, Sustainability, CLIA. The session covered topics ranging from decarbonisation, port infrastructure and safety requirements, to the Poseidon principles, exploring the pathways to achieve net zero and challenges to be overcome.Increasing awareness about careers in the cruise industry is another priority for CLIA, especially in light of 2023 being the European Year of Skills. Maria Deligianni, National Director – Eastern Mediterranean, CLIA, will be among panellists of ‘YES to SEApping Forum’ tomorrow, supporting this important initiative to inform young people about the role of shipping and sea tourism in the blue economy and promoting the opportunity for Greece to build the skills of the next generation of seafarers.The opportunity for new destinations to enrich the cruise lines’ itineraries as well as the increasing importance of lesser-known destinations are also on the agenda. CLIA, in association with the Federation of Hellenic Associations of Tourist & Travel Agencies (FedHATTA) is hosting a workshop where Andy Harmer, Managing Director, UK & Ireland, CLIA and other industry experts will discusshow Travel Agents can benefit from increased demand for cruise holidays.Cruise lines have a track record of working with destinations to introduce tourism management solutions that maintain a great visitor experience. Cruise tourism is managed tourism, which means that effective planning can be made in advance. Investment in new port destinations and facilities could play a pivotal role in unlocking future growth potential, while reducing pressure on “marquee” destinations.With anticipated passenger volumes of 27-33 million ocean-going guests globally in 2023, a buoyed consumer sentiment with intention to cruise higher than before the pandemic, and its focus on sustainable travels, the cruise industry can be rightfully optimistic for the future.Cruise tourism is a real opportunity for new destinations like remote island and coastline areas, bringing important social and economic benefits to more communitiesMarie-Caroline Laurent, Director General, CLIA 25 April, 2023