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MedCruise participated at AIVP World Conference discussions reaffirming its dedication to sustainable flows between ports and port cities

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 06 December 2024 06 December 2024

A strong MedCruise membership participation, including MedCruise President, Theodora Riga and MedCruise Vice-Presidents, Anne-Marie Spinosi and Laura Cimaglia, joined more than 4oo experts representing ports, port-cities leaders, private operators and academics from 45 countries, confirming the importance of ports and port-cities collaboration in global sustainability and discussing to harmonize the coexistence of port activities with local communities and to embrace growth and change in the future.

During the special sessions devoted to cruise and mobility, MedCruise active representatives had the opportunity to discuss related initiatives, including technologies, innovation, and policies, that foster the collaboration of cruise ports and local and broader communities. MedCruise Senior Vice-President Anne-Marie Spinosi presented the work of the Association in promoting sustainable cruise growth, confirming how necessary it is for ports and port cities to create collaboration formats.

MedCruise and AIVP established in 2021 the Cruises & Port Cities Working Group dedicated to enhancing port & city relations and connectivity. The collaborative efforts of the Working Group have already contributed to the cruise world with Cruise Port City Compass, a publication featuring ports, cities, and cruise lines perspectives and experience in addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from the relationship between ports and port cities. (Link to Cruise Port City Compass)

MedCruise reaffirms its dedication to continue, via this Working Group and other initiatives, to promote, by all available means, the exchange of best practices, the advancement and sharing of knowledge and cooperation at a local and regional level between ports, cruise lines, destinations, and all cruise stakeholders.

“MedCruise intends to continue working with fellow associations representing cruise lines, ports, and destinations, as well as policy-makers, to lead initiatives in the sustainable growth of cruise activities in the Mediterranean and adjoining seas” – Theodora Riga, MedCruise President

Prince Rupert Cruise Port celebrates a successful season

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 23 November 2024 23 November 2024

Prince Rupert Cruise Port (PRCP), operated by Global Ports Holding – the world’s largest cruise port operator – successfully wrapped up its 2024 season, welcoming over 59,000 passengers across 43 ship calls. This year, PRCP achieved significant milestones by introducing 12 new excursions and 2 new immersive experiences, enhancing the total shore offerings to 14.

Prince Rupert Cruise Port stood out this season with curated experiences that blend the area’s rich history and cultural heritage. A standout is the Museum of Northern BC, where cruise guests delve into local history and culture. As part of their journey, guests are invited to the Tsimshian Longhouse for an immersive drumming ceremony, greeted in the time-honored tradition of the Northwest Coast. Here, the Gwis'amiilgigohl Dancers, dressed in full ceremonial regalia, bring ancient stories to life through mesmerizing performances of songs, mask dances, and storytelling led by the chief.

Through sustainable cruise tourism and a diverse array of shore excursions, Prince Rupert Cruise Port disperses guests across the region, showcasing the town’s attractions for both independent sightseeing and guided experiences. In collaboration with Indigenous groups and local stakeholders, PRCP launched the Kitsumkalum Glacial Heritage and Gastronomy Trail, offering an immersive journey through the Great Bear Rainforest. Another standout excursion, the "Great Bear Rainforest by Rail & Road" tour, captivated cruise guests and sold out for the entire season.

The "Explore Prince Rupert by Vintage Trolley" excursion, which is also accessible, continues to remain a favorite among cruise guests, providing an engaging introduction to the destination hosted by a local guide. The vintage trolley also serves as a unique local fixture, doubling as special transportation for community events and weddings.

Prince Rupert Cruise Port’s 2024 season success has been recognized by leading cruise brands, with excitement building as PRCP anticipates the arrival of Royal Caribbean in 2025 and Virgin Voyages in 2026.

Kevin D’Costa, General Manager of Prince Rupert Cruise Port, stated, “These experiences of Prince Rupert beautifully combine scenic beauty, cultural depth, and the natural wonders, creating memories that our guests will forever treasure. With 26 excursions available this season, we will continue to showcase the unique offerings of Prince Rupert and look forward to strengthening and expanding our shore excursion capabilities while supporting local entrepreneurs.”

“We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the cruise lines that visited us in 2024. Their key role in our successful season and valuable contributions to our community are greatly appreciated. We look forward to welcoming them back in 2025, including the much-anticipated arrival of Royal Caribbean next year, and Virgin Voyages in 2026, as we continue to build strong and exciting partnerships.” Continued D’Costa.

Nestled along the rugged northern coast of British Columbia, Prince Rupert is a gateway to Canada’s wild beauty, rich indigenous heritage, and captivating maritime landscapes. Prince Rupert offers visitors an authentic blend of untouched wilderness, vibrant arts, and cultural experiences that reflect the spirit of the Pacific Northwest. From whale watching to exploring ancient rainforests and immersing yourself in local Tsimshian culture, Prince Rupert promises an adventure that’s both breathtaking and deeply enriching.

SSA Marine expands South Florida cruise operations with Royal Caribbean contract and new General Manager

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 21 November 2024 21 November 2024

SSA Marine, one of the world’s leading independent marine terminal operators, announced that it has been appointed as stevedore for Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) at the PortMiami and Port Everglades, deepening the company’s partnership with RCG and SSA Marine’s presence in South Florida.

This agreement coincides with the appointment of Robert Moroney as General Manager for SSA Marine’s cruise operations in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Moroney brings a wealth of knowledge in port operations to SSA Marine, and previously served as assistant director of operations for the cruise division of Port Everglades, as well as the head of port operations for the Americas for Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services, and director of shore services for Metro Cruise Services’ East Coast and Gulf regions. He also held the position of director of cruise services at Ceres after spending 11 years with Royal Caribbean.

“I am delighted to have Robert join SSA Marine as we continue to invest in and grow our Florida cruise operations, most recently with Royal Caribbean,” said Stefano Borzone, President of SSA Marine’s cruise division. “Robert’s deep leadership and experience in safety and operational excellence, reinforces SSA Marine’s core values. He will be a valuable resource for our customers, partners, and employees, in our growing cruise division.”

“After a thorough review of our stevedoring operations through South Florida, we are reaffirming our commitment to enhancing efficiency, safety, and service quality,” said Bryan Attree, director, worldwide port operations, Royal Caribbean Group. “SSA Marine’s dedication to safety and service excellence for our vessels and guests sets them apart, and we are excited about the growth of our partnership.”

Cruise Gate Hamburg provides positive outlook

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Ports & Destinations Ports & Destinations

Published: 21 November 2024 21 November 2024

In the upcoming year 2025, another increase in cruise ship calls is expected in Hamburg. Throughout the year, the municipal Cruise Gate Hamburg (CGH) anticipates 294 calls (compared to 268 calls in 2024) from 45 different ships and 21 cruise lines. Passenger shipping will thus continue to play an increasingly important role in the Port of Hamburg in the coming season.

A special highlight for cruise enthusiasts will be three inaugural calls: the Star Pride from Windstar Cruises, the Emerald Princess from Princess Cruises, and the Pacific World from Japan Grace. In addition to ocean-going cruise ships, 39 calls from river cruise ships are also planned.

Simone Maraschi, Managing Director of CGH, “We are very pleased with the renewed increase in calls. The commitment of the cruise lines to continue offering year-round voyages from Hamburg – with more than 30 percent of calls occurring outside the peak season – also demonstrates the passengers' undiminished desire to travel. The interest in cruises, particularly among Germans, is high and rising.”

Additionally, the cruise terminal in HafenCity is set to be completed next year. Iris Scheel, Managing Director of CGH, “We are delighted that the new terminal will add a very attractive location to our range of berths for cruise lines. The unique location in the heart of the city, in a vibrant and dynamic district, opens up promising opportunities for our existing and new customers.” Cruise passengers will benefit from the attractive surroundings in HafenCity once the terminal is operational. The future terminal will also feature its own underground connection, making travel to and from the terminal by train and public transport extremely convenient, while also providing quick access to the city centre. The new terminal will cover an area of 10,000 square meters, including two underground levels with bus and taxi terminals and two levels for passenger handling. It will offer two berths, planned to be equipped with shore power connections.

With the new terminal, the economic and tourist significance of the cruise business for Hamburg will be further strengthened. With 4,490 jobs in the service sector and a contribution to gross value added of 419.7 million euros, the cruise industry represents a significant economic factor and is an important component of Hamburg's tourism performance. As a recognized growth industry, the cruise sector will continue to offer diverse economic opportunities for Hamburg in the future.

Regular maritime events in Hamburg also contribute to value creation: In addition to the 836th Hamburg Port Anniversary, during which seven cruise ships are expected in the city from May 9 to 11, 2025, the Hamburg Cruise Days will also take place again next year. From September 12 to 14, Hamburg will celebrate its 10th edition of this event, featuring ten cruise ships, hundreds of thousands of visitors, and impressive stagings of the ship on the water, which attract worldwide attention. Prior to this, Hamburg will host the Seatrade Europe trade fair, which will also contribute to the international visibility of the destination. On an international level, CGH will promote the destination at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, USA, in April 2025, the industry's most important conference and trade fair.

The cruise schedule for 2025 is available at: www.cruisegate-hamburg.de/en/expected-vessels/

A review of the 2024 season will be published in the new year after the season will be concluded.