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| Seatrade
Mediterranean Cruise and Ferry Convention The second edition this September returns to Genoa and is again organised in association with Stazione Marittima Porto di Genova by Stefano Fermi (17-3-98) The first Convention  The first Seatrade Mediterranean Cruise and Ferry
Convention in September 1996 was a success. Not only did the event attract the major
cruise and ferry names but focused attention on the region as a whole: the worldıs second
largest passenger shipping market.The second Seatrade Mediterranean Cruise and Ferry Convention this September returns to Genoa and is again organised in association with Stazione Marittima Porto di Genova, the operators of the cruise and ferry facilities in Genoa. Perfect venue  In its Renaissance heyday, Genoa was a major commercial centre of Europe, the
city where in the 16th and 17th centuries the foundations of the modern banking system
were laid.That legacy is everywhere, from the rich fabric of the old town with its labyrinthine streets, called "caruggi", to the magnificent interiors of the countless churches and palazzos. And there is the port, currently enjoying a renaissance of its own as a key Mediterranean hub. This fascinating and surprising city awaits delegates, as a backdrop to the Convention and to explore for its shopping, cafes and markets. Making the connection  Networking is a major reason for attending Seatrade events, where
opportunities abound for making and developing valuable contacts.Opportunities to mix business and pleasure will be a dinner in the magnificient Palazzo Ducale, a reception at the Genoa Aquarium, a concert at Teatro Carlo Felice and a visit aboard the Grimaldi's cruise/ferry Fantastic. Outline conference programme After a banner cruise season in 1997, most commentators rate the Mediterranean as the hot destination for 1998, with yields high despite keener competition. This yearıs Seatrade Mediterranean Cruise and Ferry Convention will provide an ideal opportunity to assess the progress made and the prospects for the future. Topics to be covered in the programme will include:  - The deployment of new and larger cruise ships, notably Princess Cruisesı
Grand Princess, the expansion of cruise capacity by the CLIA member lines, the growth of
European operators, plus the entry into the market of UK tour operators and the impact of
these developments.- The market growth and the challenge of bigger ships and higher density cruise tourism for the cruise ports of the Mediterranean and the infrastructure development in place and planned. - The expiry of Cabotage restrictions and the implications of this for operators in the Mediterranean. - The expansion of the cruise season in the Med; and the debate about the ideal size and speed of ships operating in the region. - The contribution which southern Europe makes to the design, construction, refurbishment, manning and equipping of the modern cruise fleet. - On board catering and supply for the cruise industry. - The particular operational challenges of the region, including safety, the environment and security. - The continued growth of ferry activity in the Med and the scope for cruise/ferry products. - The impact of fast ferry technology on routes in the Mediterranean. - Shoreside facilities for the ferry market. For further information: |
