The prospects of cruising in Greece were the theme of the conference organised by the Greek Cruise Union in the context of the 2nd Greek Tourism Expo 2015. MedCruise joined several stakeholders who actively participated in discussions aiming to achieve growth of cruise in Greece and beyond.
MedCruise Secretary General Thanos Pallis was among the keynote speakers presenting the perspectives of MedCruise members, as well as the broad range of activities undertaken by the Association representing cruise ports in the Med and its adjoining seas. Thanos presentation on “Prospects for cruise activities in the Med” emphasised the numerous challenges that the cruise industry in the Med face: the deployment trends around the globe, the need to accommodate larger vessels, the necessity to take advantage of EU funds for port infrastructure development, the importance of strategies to secure year-round cruising, and port-city relations.
Thanos gave emphasis on the European Cruise and Ferry Port Network and the work in progress in cooperation with the other European port associations (ESPO, Cruise Baltic, Cruise Britain, Cruise Europe and Cruise Norway), as well that with the association representing cruise lines (CLIA Europe) and policy-makers (the European Commission) in order to develop a more coordinated approach between all stakeholders, and enhance adaption to new tourism trends via exchange of best practices and experiences.
Keynote speakers of the conference also were the Honorary President of MedCruise Stavros Hatzakos (Piraeus Port Authority) and the President and CEO of the MedCruise member port Heraklion Mr Ioannis Bras.
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