FCCA workshops hone in on tours, Mexico and more

The newly announced workshops for the Oct. 5-9 event supplement a CEO Round Table that features top leaders from an array of cruise corporations and brands.

Led by panels of cruise executives and knowledgeable industry professionals, the workshops are intended to help attendees maximize their business, learn about current events and the industry's future direction, the FCCA said.

'Shore Excursion Overview—Key to Your Success' will discuss the steps of creating and evolving a successful tour product, along with maintaining that success. Moderated by Mico Cascais, vp tour operations, Carnival Cruise Line, it will include speakers such as Christine Manjencic, vp destination services operations, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings; Albino Di Lorenzo, vp cruise operations, MSC Cruises USA; Erika Tache, director, product development, Carnival Cruise Line; and Beth Kelly Hatt, president, Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence.

Mexican government officials and cruise executives will help attendees apply the lessons, experiences and insight from Mexico’s rise, fall and resurgence as a cruise destination during 'Overcoming Challenges—Learn from Mexico.' Moderated by FCCA president Michele Paige, the panel will feature government leaders including Quintana Roo Gov. Roberto Borge, Sinaloa Gov. Mario López Valdez and Cozumel Mayor Freddy Marrufo.

'Tour Operator Insurance Program' will cover the joint program between the FCCA and AON Risk Solutions to offer tour operators insurance endorsed by the cruise industry. It also will highlight updates and provide an overview on claims and risk management procedures.

The earlier announced CEO Round Table will feature participants from the large assortment of presidents, chairmen, chief operating officers and chief executives attending the event.

Among them are FCCA chairman/Carnival Corp. & plc chairman Micky Arison; Michael Bayley, president and ceo, Royal Caribbean International; Christine Duffy, president, Carnival Cruise Line; Adam Goldstein, president and coo, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.; Karl Holz, president, Disney Cruise Line; Jason Montague; president and coo, Prestige Cruise Holdings; Frank Del Rio, president and ceo, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings; Rick Sasso, president and ceo, MSC Cruises USA; and Andy Stuart, president and coo, Norwegian Cruise Line.

The FCCA expects approximately 1,000 cruise industry stakeholders including 100 member line executives for the five-day event, which also comprises a trade show, business sessions, networking opportunities, one-on-one meetings and social functions.

Information/registration: www.regonline.com/fccacozumel.