MedCruise, the Mediterranean Cruise Ports Association, has concluded its 68th General Assembly in Palermo, coinciding with the celebration of its 30th anniversary.
The meeting, organized by the Western Sicily Sea Port System Authority, brought together more than 240 participants, including representatives from member ports, associated partners, cruise companies, international media and other industry players.
Held between June 9 and 12, the Assembly once again highlighted MedCruise's role as a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and business development for the sector. This year's edition saw record participation, with 27 cruise lines in attendance and over 700 B2B meetings—the highest number ever achieved at a General Assembly of the association—fostering new opportunities for collaboration among the various participants.
The commemorative program for the 30th anniversary brought together current and former leaders of the organization, including honorary presidents and former secretaries general, who reviewed three decades of cooperation between ports and cruise destinations, as well as the evolution of the Mediterranean into one of the world's leading cruise regions.
During the conference, debates, working groups and round tables were held focusing on issues such as the international geopolitical situation, destination management, sustainable growth, accessibility and inclusion, digitalization, artificial intelligence, strategic communication and collaboration between shipping companies, ports and tourist destinations.
One of the highlights was a special panel dedicated to the 30th anniversary, which analyzed the evolution of the cruise sector over the last three decades, focusing on innovation, sustainability, strategic alliances and the industry's ability to adapt.
Attendees also participated in the presentation of the latest MedCruise State of the Industry, prepared by Professor Thanos Pallis, which offered an updated view on operational trends, market evolution and prospects for the cruise sector in the Mediterranean and adjacent seas.
MedCruise President Theodora Rigaemphasized that “the 68th General Assembly in Palermo marked a historic moment for MedCruise. Celebrating 30 years of cooperation while achieving record participation figures, with members, cruise lines, industry professionals, and 15 new members, demonstrates the strength of our association. Palermo provided the perfect setting to recognize our achievements and reflect on the opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of sustainable and resilient cruise tourism in the Mediterranean, especially considering that it was one of MedCruise’s founding ports.”
Beyond the professional program, participants had the opportunity to learn about the cultural and maritime heritage of Palermo and Sicily through cultural visits, technical tours, and networking activities.
Among the organized experiences, highlights included visits to monuments and historical sites recognized by UNESCO, exploration of the underground network of Qanats, technical visits to the port, maritime experiences aboard the Lisca Bianca sailboat, and excursions to emblematic places such as Monreale.
The social program included a gala dinner at Villa Boscogrande and a closing dinner at Villa Tasca, which also served as the official celebration of MedCruise's 30th anniversary.
The association has expressed its gratitude for the support of the Western Sicilian Sea Port System Authority, the City Council of Palermo, as well as all the institutions, sponsors and collaborators who contributed to the success of the event.
As it enters its fourth decade of operation, MedCruise reaffirms its commitment to cooperation, innovation and sustainable growth, with the aim of further strengthening the Mediterranean's position as one of the world's leading cruise destinations.
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