Apply by March 14 to pitch for 'So you want to start a cruise line?'

In a Shark Tank-like session on March 28, entrepreneurs will pitch their idea for on-the-spot analysis and judging. Those chosen to present will be selected in a call for entries, with applications due March 14.

Test your idea before an experienced panel

'Test your idea before a panel of experienced industry personalities who have been involved in successful start-ups and seen some that never got off the ground,' said Peter Shaerf, managing director, AMA Capital Partners, a member of the expert panel.

'Your concept may be a new theme, a special itinerary, a unique concept,' Shaerf continued. 'You may have preliminary investors and want to know how to broaden your outreach, or you may just want to test your idea. In all cases, this is a great chance to see what can be achieved and get that venture off and running.'

Apply by March 14

Briefly outline your concept in no more than 500 words via this form. Submissions close at 11:59 p.m. EST March 14. The finalists chosen to present at Seatrade Cruise Global will be notified by March 17 and will receive a free full conference pass.

On March 28, the finalists will give their best elevator pitch in public, field questions and get feedback/analysis from a panel that will also talk about the current climate for start-ups.

The experts

Besides Shaerf, the panel consists of Hugo Moddermann, managing director, Dolfinance, specialized in financing small to medium size cruise ships and megayachts; Alex Sharpe, president/CEO, Signature Travel Network, one of the leading retail distribution groups; Ted Sykes, Certares Homecoming, who's served in senior operating and financial capacities including CEO, managing director and CFO at four cruise lines; and Terry Thornton, newly appointed SVP commercial development and integration, Princess Cruises, and former longtime Carnival Cruise Line senior executive who earlier was on the founding teams for two start-ups, Sea Goddess Cruises and Windstar Cruises. Seatrade Cruise News Editor Anne Kalosh is the moderator.

Present March 28 at Seatrade Cruise Global

'So you want to start a cruise line?' is scheduled for 2:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. March 28 at Seatrade Cruise Global. The full conference program is here.

Call for entries: Make your pitch to present now by filing out this simple form. Deadline: March 14 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Finalists will be notified by March 17.

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