The association, which brings together 76 ports in the Mediterranean and adjacent seas, as well as 54 associate members, unites the entire port and cruise destination sector in the region.
Few Mediterranean ports interested in cruise tourism are not already associated with MedCruise, which also includes the region's main shipping agents, tour operators, and terminal operators, as well as several government tourism organizations.
Membership in the association provides invaluable support, not only in terms of knowledge but also in terms of external relations. MedCruise offers access to an extensive network of industry professionals, including ports, cruise lines, tourism authorities, and service providers. This network facilitates collaboration, strategic partnerships, and knowledge sharing, fostering growth and development within the cruise sector.
also represents the interests of its members in regional, national and international platforms or organizations, advocating for policies and regulations that support the sustainable growth of cruise tourism.
The board of directors comprises 12 members who oversee the various areas of the association's work, from professional development and port-city relations to sustainability and security. Different working groups collaborate to address each of the industry's challenges, identifying opportunities and influencing industry standards and practices. This collaboration strengthens the position of the association's member ports and destinations within the global cruise market.
Members benefit from the exchange of information, data, and best practices within the cruise industry. This includes sharing information on trends, market analysis, sustainability initiatives, and technological advancements, fostering innovation and improvements in the sector.
MedCruise organizes two General Assemblies each year, where all members meet. It also organizes the MedCruise Awards and the Professional Development Course, which covers various aspects of the cruise industry, such as environmental sustainability, passenger experience, safety standards, and customer service. This year, the course will be held aboard the MSC Fantasia from January 15 to 17.
MedCruise is actively involved in initiatives related to sustainability, environmental protection, and corporate social responsibility within the cruise industry. Members can participate in these initiatives, contributing to efforts aimed at reducing the environmental impact of cruise operations.
From a marketing and business development perspective, MedCruise is a platform for ports and destinations to showcase their infrastructure, services, and offerings to cruise lines and other industry players through its events, conferences, workshops, and forums. It also promotes joint marketing and promotional activities.
Undoubtedly, being a member of MedCruise signifies a commitment to maintaining industry standards and best practices and enhances the reputation and credibility of ports and destinations, potentially attracting more cruise and tourism business.
In summary, MedCruise membership offers ports, destinations, and other stakeholders in the cruise industry a platform to network, collaborate, access resources, and promote sustainable growth, while contributing to the advancement of the Mediterranean and adjacent regions in the cruise industry.
Summary of benefits of joining MedCruise
- Representation and discounts at major cruise events
- Constant promotion through the MedCruise website and social media
- Access to MedCruise studies (statistics, benchmarking, etc…)
- Connections with European and international associations
- B2B meetings with cruise lines
- Promotion in new markets such as Asia
- Free professional development courses for members
- Networking opportunities with other members during general assemblies, exchange of experiences, best practices, etc.
- Inclusion in key directories distributed to industry professionals worldwide (Yearbook, newsletters, catalogs…)
Figen Ayan, at the helm of a diverse and international board of directors
The director of Istanbul's Galataport, Figen Ayan, was elected president of MedCruise at the 59th General Assembly held in Barcelona in 2021. Since then, she has led a board of directors that covers all aspects of the industry and its organization.
- Francesca Antonelli – Valencia, Spain – Professional Development and Senior Vice President
- Lorenzo Vera – Motril, Spain – Destination Development and Vice President
- Aris Batsoulis – Corfu, Greece – Projects, Studies & Finances
- Silvia Coppolino – Taranto, Italy – Port&City Relationship
- Cristina De Gregori – Genoa/Savona, Italy – PR, Communication & Marketing
- Đoni Štambuk – Zadar, Croatia – Membership & Sponsorship
- Aziz Güngör – Kusadasi/Bodrum, Turkey – Health, Safety & Security
- Valeria Mangiarotti – Sardinia, Italy – Technical Environmental Solutions
- Doru Mihai – Constanta, Romania – Regional Development
- Jamil Ouazzani – Tanger, Morocco – EcoSystem and Sustainability
- Theodora Riga – Thessaloniki, Greece – European Union & Association Collaborations
- Anne-Marie Spinosi – Corsica, France – Events and #PortsTogether Activities
