Monday, November 25, 2024 - 11:08 by ce-press
On the 24th October 2024, Liverpool hosted the first full Cruise Europe regional meeting, in over 14 years.
John Mawer, chair CE UK & Ireland and general manager Liverpool Cruise port, hosted the event which took place in the historic Municipal Hotel. The one-day meeting was attended by 24 regional members. “As a true testament to the value that members see in Cruise Europe, we welcomed delegates from every part of the UK and Ireland. From the Outer Hebrides, to mainland Scotland, Wales, North Ireland and Eire, plus all English coastal regions; the amassed level of knowledge and experience from such a diverse region, made for great discussion on some of the most relevant and shared issues,” comments Mawer.
After the regional chair opened the meeting, chair Simone Maraschi and managing director Jens Skrede, provided updates and insights on behalf of Cruise Europe, including a presentation of Oxford Economics data, showing the anticipated trend of regional cruise traffic and order book. There were some positive themes captured, showing growth for our region.
Susan Parker, made a presentation on how region members can utilise media outlets most effectively, to showcase innovations and successes, individually and collectively.
Jayne Yates from Excursions Ltd and Chris Blanchard from SMS International were invited to introduce their respective businesses, followed by group dialogue on how ports and suppliers can work together to maximise guest experience in port communities.
Adam Newman, senior strategic communications manager, Cruise Lines International Association, gave an update on the association’s current projects, engagements and upcoming opportunities which was followed by a member Q&A.
“After this, we entered into some spirited and interesting group debates on current industry challenges around the EU entry/exit system and sustainability,” adds Mawer. “There were some great take aways from these debates, that Cruise Europe will consider, in terms of on going support and member updates.”
“The informal format of the meeting, and being regional of nature, meant that every delegate felt comfortable in contributing and it was most pleasing to see that everybody was able to bring their experiences to the table,” adds Skrede.
Being in Liverpool, it was an ideal opportunity to sample some of the famous music and nightlife. After the meeting adjourned members headed for an evening reception, followed by dancing in the Cavern Club, famous for The Beatles.
“The regional format was enjoyed and embraced by all, as the first host of a regional meeting in quite some time, I would certainly endorse the concept to the other regions,” comments Mawer.
