2013 1st qtr v6_Quarterly Magazine 3/19/13 4:48 PM Page 24
its resources and attendees, the FCCA programs a block of functions coinciding with the event. These gatherings and features ensure that Platinum Members always have a direct line to the FCCA Member Cruise Line executives and each other. The FCCA booth itself (#687) will host many of these during the 2013 event. Besides serving as a one-stop shop for all attendees to learn more about the FCCA and what it offers, the booth also acts as an event organizer. Proexport Colombia and the Port of St. Maarten have sponsored cocktail receptions at FCCA’s booth to promote their destinations and companies while bringing together the Platinum Members and cruise executives in a private atmosphere. Additionally, many of the same executives and members will cycle in and out of the booth for meetings arranged by the FCCA. Of course, there are also the annual FCCA events that have become synonymous with CSM for many cruise executives and Platinum Members. An annual pre-event takes place at FCCA President Michele Paige’s residence to offer members and cruise executives an intimate affair (along with delectable fare and libations) so they can reacquaint and prepare for the long days ahead. 24 Cruising Magazine • First Quarter 2013
The FCCA Gala Dinner and Entertainment Extravaganza offers a chance for any participant to spend the evening with a cruise executive hosting tables for an unforgettable evening and cause. In its 19th year, the 2013 FCCA Gala will be held Wednesday, March 13 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Made possible through the partnership between the FCCA and event sponsors Port Everglades and PortMiami, the Gala’s festivities include a 90-minute cocktail reception with the prestigious attendance, followed by a silent art auction composed of a magnificent collection donated by Park West Galleries. However, the main attraction of the night is the Gala dinner. This is because attendees sit at tables headed by the cruise line executive of their choice, all representing Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Member Lines and valuable networking opportunities. Tables with Member Lines’ presidents and CEOs are sponsored tables that allow personal attention from the distinguished host. Table sponsors will also enjoy special benefits and recognition during the evening. But it cannot be overlooked that the Gala benefits the FCCA Foundation, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the non-profit, charitable organization. Created in 1993, the Foundation
funds humanitarian causes in the Caribbean and Latin America. Numerous worthy projects receive funding each year through the FCCA Foundation. Most recently, the FCCA Holiday Gift Project brought smiles to the faces of nearly 7,000 underprivileged children throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. To close out CSM is the FCCA Official Cruise Shipping Miami Party. Taking place at LIV—the hottest nightclub in Miami—for a second consecutive year, this is a long-awaited reprieve after a week of meetings, receptions and business dinners. It is a chance for the tired, sore and overworked attendees to loosen their ties, let down their hair and put on their dancing shoes for a fun night with some of the cruise industry’s most important decision makers. Indeed, 2013 Cruise Shipping Miami has much in store for its participants with its success-proven formula combined with many new features by UBM, along with good news about the growth and future of the cruise industry. But it is the FCCA that offers backstage passes so you can talk to the real rock stars, and you can pick up your ticket for the Gala event by simply stopping by booth—#687—to learn more about the FCCA and how it can benefit you.