Cruising alone is an ever-popular holiday choice; according to CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), over 21 million passengers across the globe boarded a cruise ship in 2013. With winter cruising itself contributing significantly towards this figure, the forum will have a strong focus on the increasingly in-demand destination of the Mediterranean and its adjoining seas.
As well as discussing additional deployment of cruise ships throughout the year in the Mediterranean region, discussions at the El Batel Auditorium will also be held with regards to developing winter cruising in other destinations such as Northern Europe (including Norway), the Far East and the Middle East, and increasing year round deployment of cruise ships. Further to this, the panel of Cruise Line executives and key industry experts will deliberate how ports and destinations should be preparing to deal with challenges of various factors affecting winter calls.
Additional discussions will follow on the second day, covering the evolving product development for shorex and itinerary choices, not only for the Mediterranean region, but also further afield. Following tailored conference sessions, the forum will conclude with a dedicated workshop, which will give destinations an opportunity to present their product and services to the cruise lines in one-on-one pre-scheduled meetings.
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Editor – Nina Marston at Seatrade, Tel +44 1206 545121 or email [email protected]
For more information on the event please visit: www.wintercruisingforum.com
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About Cartagena
Cartagena has been one of the most important military ports of Spain since roman times. Many civilizations have settled in Cartagena leaving behind 3,000 years of history. During the last few years, Cartagena has witnessed an increase in cruise itineraries visiting the port, with more and more frequent calls. The expansion and development of the Cruise Terminal carried out in 2012, has provided a 4,500m2 berth that is 560m long and 12m deep, allowing two vessels to berth simultaneously. Last year Cartagena registered 115 cruise calls and more than 134,000 cruise passengers making a new record in the port.
