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September 5, 2024

The cruise industry is gearing up for a series of major international events that will take place in some of the most important European cities in the latest months of 2024.

These events will not only explore the latest trends in design and naval architecture but also address crucial topics such as sustainability and innovation in the maritime sector.

Seatrade Cruise Med, Malaga

The first of these major events will be held in Malaga, which will host Seatrade Cruise Med from September 11 to 12, 2024, one of the most significant events dedicated to the cruise industry in the Mediterranean. This biennial fair is a meeting point for industry operators, from shipbuilders to port service providers. This year’s event will focus on how the Mediterranean can become a model of sustainability for the global cruise industry. Solutions for reducing CO2 emissions through the use of alternative fuels and new onboard wastewater treatment technologies will be explored.

Another central theme will be the management of mass tourism, with discussions on how port cities can balance the economic benefits of cruise tourism with the need to preserve cultural heritage and the natural environment. Additionally, the latest market research findings on traveler preferences will be presented, with a focus on emerging routes in the Eastern and Western Mediterranean.

Expedition Cruise Conference, London

The Expedition Cruise Conference 2024, the first global B2B event dedicated to expedition cruises, will take place on October 1st and 2nd, 2024, at the Bankside Hotel in London. This event is a significant opportunity for industry professionals and experts to discuss crucial topics, network, and explore new collaborations.
The program includes conference sessions, face-to-face meetings organized through a digital platform, and networking opportunities. Delegates will be divided into exhibitors and buyers, with exhibitors benefiting from a range of advantages,including scheduled meetings, informative sessions, and visibility through various
communication channels. The event will conclude with an awards ceremony, providing an additional opportunity for interaction and celebration.

Adriatic Sea Forum, Ravenna

On October 24 and 25, 2024, the city of Ravenna will host the seventh edition of the Adriatic Sea Forum, a traveling event that will be held in this historic Italian city for the first time. The forum will take place in two of the city’s most prestigious locations: the Teatro Dante Alighieri and the Palazzo Rasponi dalle Teste. Organized by Risposte Turismo in collaboration with the Port Authority of Ravenna, the event will bring together operators from the cruise, maritime transport, sailing, and yachting sectors to discuss key topics such as environmental sustainability, the use of alternative fuels, and the integration of ports with urban areas.

Among the scheduled discussions, there will be a focus on the importance of extending the tourist season in the Adriatic Sea and adopting small and medium-sized ships to reduce environmental impact and enhance the quality of tourist experiences. Daniele Rossi, president of the Port Authority of Ravenna, emphasized the importance of investments exceeding 100 million euros in the port, aimed at ecological transition and digitalization, with the construction of a new eco-sustainable maritime station and a large photovoltaic park.

International Cruise Summit, Madrid

Madrid will be the stage for the International Cruise Summit, which will take place on November 12 and 13, 2024. Now in its tenth edition, this event is recognized as one of the most important global meetings for the cruise industry. This year, the summit will explore the post-pandemic dynamics and consequences in the sector, with sessions dedicated to how cruise companies are rethinking their marketing strategies and what offerings they are proposing to respond to changing traveler expectations.

Special attention will be given to digital innovation, with discussions on how artificial intelligence and big data can be used to personalize the customer experience and optimize onboard operations. Additionally, the summit will provide a platform to discuss the future of work in the industry, with a focus on training, diversity, and inclusion within cruise companies.

A distinctive feature of the ICS in Madrid, organized by Cruise News Media Group, is its emphasis on showcasing new projects and initiatives in the cruise sector. It is a crucial platform for emerging companies, designers and port authorities. Gabriele Bassi, Chief Editor of Cruising Journal, will once again have the pleasure of moderating a panel. This further confirms our commitment to international collaboration and our strong connection with all editorial realities in the cruise industry.

Cruise Ship Interior Design Expo, London

From December 4 to 5, 2024, London will host Cruise Ship Interior Design Expo, a prominent event for architects, designers and naval professionals. The event will focus on how interior design on ships can evolve to enhance the onboard experience, with a particular emphasis on environmental sustainability and innovation. During the event, new solutions in terms of eco-friendly materials, LED lighting, and multifunctional furnishings will be presented, transforming cruise ship spaces into environments increasingly resembling boutique hotels. Furthermore, the integration of digital technology into design will be discussed, with examples of augmented reality and advanced home automation systems that are changing how guests interact with spaces on cruise ships.

These events represent not only an opportunity for industry stakeholders to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies but also a platform to discuss common challenges and collaborate on innovative solutions for a sustainable and prosperous future for the global cruise industry.

Cruising Journal’s participation in all scheduled events will ensure comprehensive media coverage and keep our editorial team informed and aware of industry trends and upcoming developments. This will provide our readers with in-depth information and analysis in the coming autumn months.

Don’t miss more updates, news and reviews about the world of cruises on Cruising Journal.

Adele D’Angelo

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