Travel & Cruise - 1st Qtr 2016

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CONTENTS Inside

First Quarter 2016 www.travelandcruise.com

On the Cover

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13

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Features SPOTLIGHT 09 Carnival Corporation Cruising to the Future The industry’s rapid growth has created more room for Carnival Corporation’s growth, tells Chairman Micky Arison 13 The Evolution of the Cruise Industry Norwegian Cruise Line President and COO Andy Stuart explains how the industry’s evolution benefits—and needs—all stakeholders 16 Full Steam Ahead for the Cruise Industry MSC Cruises’ expansion and new developments just the hull of the ship for the continually-innovating industry, tells President Rick Sasso

Costa Maya, Mexico

Departments 07

Chairmen’s Letter

104 Faces in the Industry 108

LET’S GET TECHNICAL 19 With Cruising More Popular than Ever, Let’s Keep Destinations Memorable Destinations control their own destiny in attracting cruises, according to David Candib, VP of Carnival Corporation’s port and destination development, who tells what it takes 22 It Takes a Village to Raise the Cruise Industry Synergy between cruise lines and destinations leads to success for all, tells Federico Gonzalez-Denton, AVP of Royal Caribbean’s government relations 24 FCCA Sourcing Committee Wants You With redoubled efforts and the direction of Chairman and VP of Royal Caribbean’s supply chain, Michael Jones, the FCCA Sourcing Committee is open for business

Member Highlights

Travel & Cruise Magazine © 2016.

All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, in any form, electronic or otherwise, without written permission of the FCCA is prohibited.

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The information in this publication is provided "as is." FCCA, CLIA and its Member Lines disclaim all representations and warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to any information, services, products and materials contained herein. FCCA, CLIA and its Member Lines will in no event be liable for any damage or losses as a result of your use of this publication.

MEETINGS AND EVENTS 26 Key Cruise Line Executives and FCCA Platinum Members Gather for Meetings, Business Opportunities and Family Fun Another private FCCA membership event brings cruise executives and stakeholders closer together to help close deals 29 Maximizing Seatrade Cruise Global: Easy as FCCA A horde of events and cruise executives await Seatrade attendees looking to improve their business RESEARCH AND FINDINGS 30 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook: Continued Evolution of Cruise Travel Drives Industry Growth Record passengers and continued capacity growth forecast in CLIA’s annual study 32 Cruise Tourism Generates Record $3.16 Billion for 35 FCCA Partner Destinations, Leaves Room for More Increased cruise passenger spending spurs economic growth in Caribbean and Latin American cruise destinations, finds BREA’s triennial study ENVIRONMENTAL AND REGULATORY PRACTICES 34 Cruise Industry Taking Steps Towards Smaller Environmental Footprint 36 More Bubbles Mean Better Mileage, Royal Caribbean’s Sustainability Report Shows Innovation Driving Environmental Gains 38 Carnival Corporation’s New Sustainability Report Highlights Key Environmental and Social Initiatives 40 Liquefied Natural Gas Powering AIDA Cruises to Positive Sustainability 41 Cruise Industry Honored with Maritime Award of the Americas for Its Environmental Innovation NEWBUILDS AND REVITES 42 Carnival Corporation to Launch Four New Ships in 2016 and 17 through 2020 New state-of-the-art ships and refurbishments aim to elevate the experience and efficiency, says CEO Arnold Donald 43 Holland America Line Plans $300 Million Fleet Overhaul 43 MSC Cruises Confirms Two Additional Next-Generation Ships 44 Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils The Norwegian Edge, a $400 Million Fleet Refurbishment 45 Azamara Journey Emerges from Dry Dock

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 3

THERE ARE PORTS OF CALL, AND THOSE THAT BECKON. Sail to a cruise destination that’s as pleasurable for you as it is your passengers. The four ports of the U.S. Virgin Islands feature seven berths with fully established accommodations designed to attend to all of your vessel’s needs. While ashore, your passengers will be overcome with our alabaster beaches, great shopping, and unique cultural and culinary attractions. For more information on the ports of the U.S. Virgin Islands, visit www.viport.com and www.wico-vi.com.

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©2016 U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism

CONTENTS Features

Executive Committee Micky Arison FCCA Chairman, Chairman Carnival Corporation Michael Bayley President & CEO Royal Caribbean International Adam Goldstein President & COO Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Karl L. Holz President Disney Cruise Line Richard E. Sasso President MSC Cruises (USA) Inc. Andrew Stuart President & COO Norwegian Cruise Line

FCCA Staff Michele M. Paige President Omari Breakenridge Director, Communications & Design Terri Cannici Vice President, Operations Adam Ceserano Senior Vice President Jessica Lalama Executive Assistant Raquel Nales Administrative Assistant Justin Paige Manager, Communications, Research & Marketing Carlos Santamarina Director, Membership Events & Programs

SHIPBOARD AND LAND-BASED EXPERIENCES 48 Disney Cruise Line Delivers New Vacation Experiences at Sea President Karl Holz shares how Disney uses “the force” and more to Imagineer unique experiences 51 Making a Difference by Training Tour Guides and Operators From tour guides and operators to full destinations, Aquila’s Center for Cruise Excellence has a training program that improves guest satisfaction, tells President Beth Kelly Hatt 52 Harmony of the Seas Amps Up Fun for the Entire Family 52 Princess Cruises’ $450 Million Multi-Year Product Innovation, Cruise Ship Renovation and Guest Experience Enhancement Campaign DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA 57 Cruise Operator CEOs Tell Destinations to Renew and Innovate to Tap the Industry’s Current and Future Growth From CCL to RCCL, the industry’s elite delivered a consistent and resounding message during the 2015 FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show 61 The Caribbean Staying Afloat Against Global Competition FCCA President Michele Paige shares that the Caribbean has retained its heavyweight title, but must continue fighting 65 Caribbean Tourism Reports Tourism Record for 2015 67 See You in Puerto Rico at the 2016 FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show Puerto Rico’s improved infrastructure and offerings await attendees in September 68 Costa Maya Continues to Innovate and Drive Cruise Tourism From undeveloped coastline to portside park with zip lines, Costa Maya’s progression shows significance of communicating with cruise lines and understanding cruise passengers 72 Colombia’s Evolution from Cruise Destination into a Procurement Supplier 74 Peru: Land of Hidden Treasures 78 Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: NORTH AMERICA 82 Port of New Orleans to Showcase Its Offerings and Growth to Cruise Executives and Stakeholders Hosting the 2016 FCCA PAMAC gives the opportunity to display New Orleans’ tours, culture, museums and increased cruise capacity 84 Complete Cruise Terminal Renovations – Port Everglades Style 86 Cruising from Port Miami Is Only Getting Better – Offering Travelers Vacations for Every Taste, Budget and Style DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA 89 Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Ground-Breaking European Summer 2017 Itineraries 89 AIDAaura Offers “Best of Northern Europe” Fincantieri Forming Agreements in Iran From shipyards to marine propulsion, Fincantieri has formed agreements in a country CEO Giuseppe Bono says has “the highest development potential in the world.”

91 Princess Cruises’ 2017 European Sailings Include Majestic Princess Inaugural With the newest and largest ships in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, Princess President Jan Swartz knows guests will be inspired DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: AUSTRALASIA 93 Cruise Lines Testing the Chinese Waters The water is just fine in China, but cruise line leaders remind that there are plenty of ships in the sea 94 Norwegian Cruise Line Looking to Breakaway in China President and CEO Frank Del Rio tells NCLH’s purpose-built ship and personalized service will give an edge in the highest-yielding market to introduce a new ship 94 AIDA Cruises to Become First German Cruise Brand in China and Strengthen Carnival Corporation’s Chinese Presence AIDAbella will become the first German cruise ship homeporting in China and sailing year-round when it docks in Shanghai in spring 2017 96 Singapore Moves Toward LNG Bunkering After awarding supplier licenses, Singapore’s port authority CEO explains the drive to provide LNG bunkers by 2017 96 P&O Cruises to Build New Ship for Australia Australia’s burgeoning cruise market beckons firstever newbuild tailored to the market, explains Ann Sherry, Carnival Australia’s executive chairman MEMBERS AND TRAVEL AGENTS 98 How to Work with the Cruise Industry: The ABCs of the FCCA From dinners and trips to meetings and site visits, the FCCA connects cruise tourism stakeholders to the industry’s key decision makers 100 Travel Agent Cruise Industry Outlook New CLIA quarterly report finds that the overwhelming majority of travel agents forecast cruise bookings growth, especially in North American markets 103 Cruise Lines International Association’s 2016 Travel Agency and Individual Agent Member Programs and Benefits

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 5

CHAIRMEN’S LETTER

One Industry – One Voice “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” -Henry Ford We often start a new year by thinking how to renew or change ourselves. The fresh calendar’s blank slate sometimes forces us to focus on past faults and errors as we consider resolutions, or perhaps ripping up old calendars and only looking forward. But we must use our past as a foundation and build onto it.

Surely, preparation for the future is important, but even this requires at least a glance at the past. We look to our experience and knowledge when progressing or expanding, and we use our current relationships and contacts to form new ones or assist with future ventures.

This first issue of the rebranded and global Travel and Cruise shows that the FCCA and CLIA embrace this philosophy.

The recent initiative for the associations to partner in order to expand the FCCA’s successful quarterly magazine and project the industry’s one voice displays one of the many ways that the associations continue to develop their sturdy foundations. And articles in this issue highlight how the associations work with their partners and the cruise industry to form relationships and aid growth.

The PAMAC Cruise Summit article recaps one of the FCCA’s private annual events that gather Platinum Members with cruise executives; a spotlight on the FCCA’s affiliation with UBM Live and offerings at Seatrade Cruise Global showcases opportunities available to anyone on the trade show floor; and other articles explain how the FCCA and CLIA can positively impact your cruise industry business by putting you on a direct line with key players in the cruise industry.

And some of those players use this magazine as a vehicle to talk directly to cruise tourism stakeholders. David Candib, vice president of development and operations for Carnival Corporation, educates how the cruise industry assesses guest satisfaction and how destinations can master that formula to increase business, and Federico Gonzalez-Denton, associate vice president for government relations for Royal Caribbean, shares another way destinations can use the industry’s equations to improve competitiveness on a global playing field.

Plus, cruise line presidents, chairmen, CEOs and COOs—including one of yours truly, Micky Arison of Carnival Corporation, as well as Karl Holz of Disney Cruise Line, Richard Sasso of MSC Cruises, and Andy Stuart of Norwegian Cruise Line—take the opportunity to share their insight and latest and future developments in this exponentially growing industry.

Hopefully you will find inspiration for your own future, and we urge you to explore ways to drive forward without forgetting to set the rear-view mirror. Of course, the FCCA and CLIA offer vehicles for this progression, and you can see them in motion and learn how we can travel together into a bright future.

Micky Arison FCCA Chairman; Chairman, Carnival Corporation

Adam Goldstein CLIA Global Chairman; President and COO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 7

By land or by sea.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC HAS IT ALL

SPOTLIGHT

Carnival Corporation Cruising to the Future

By Micky Arison, Chairman, Carnival Corporation & plc

C

ruising has never been more popular around the world with exciting new ships, popular and exotic new destinations, expanding cruise markets and terrific new guest features, food and entertainment options on board. In fact, more than 23 million guests cruised in 2015, and that number is expected to grow to more than 24 million in 2016.

The Growth of Cruising In the past 10 years alone, cruising has increased remarkably— more than 68 percent. During the same timeframe, Australian cruise passengers have grown six-fold to sail more than 1 million cruise passengers annually.

Cruising in China, a country expected to some day be the world’s largest cruise market, also continues to reach new heights. Carnival Corporation alone has six ships home-based in China, with two more ships arriving in 2016 and the industry’s first purpose-built ship for China from our Princess Cruises brand arriving in 2017.

And we are just beginning to see the opportunity for cruise travel to Cuba open up to the industry, a market bursting with pentup demand since it has been closed to U.S. Cruise passengers for more than 50 years.

More importantly, cruising continues to be the greatest vacation option available and the absolute best value for the money.

In a recent study the World Tourism Organization measuring travel from 2004 to 2014, global cruise vacations are growing faster in popularity than global land-based vacations by a 23 percent margin.

Amazing Destinations Looking ahead, cruise deployments will continue to be led by the incredible beauty and allure of the Caribbean, the world’s most popular cruise region, with more than 33 percent of the industry’s capacity traveling there, followed by the Mediterranean with more than 18 percent.

This past year, Carnival Corporation, for instance, just opened Amber Cove, a beautiful new port in Puerto Plata on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. The port welcomes regular cruise ships to the region for the first time in 30 years, adding a new and exotic destination to the Caribbean.

Set in a cove amongst a mountainous and lush tropical landscape, the region is known for the friendliness of its people, its history and culture, and the beauty of its beaches, mountains, forests, waterfalls and rivers.

It is clear that cruising, unlike any other form of vacation travel, offers guests an extremely comfortable and convenient way to see unique destinations like Amber Cove, but also amazing destinations, such as Alaska or Antarctica, that are best seen by cruise ship.

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 9

SPOTLIGHT New Ships in 2016 In 2016, nine new cruise ships from throughout the cruise industry are entering the market, four of them from Carnival Corporation brands.

These new vessels offer guests new shipboard features such as thrilling sky rides and zip lining, IMAX theaters and sea walks that will simply take your breath away, as well giant water slides, micro-breweries and other new options that make cruising even more exciting for guests.

These new ships also provide each of the cruise lines the ability to provide guests with more balcony options, while also delivering the latest in innovation ranging from high-tech WiFi services to new entertainment features.

There are even new expanded options for guests to sail with their pets on our iconic Queen Mary 2, due to popular demand for the world’s only remaining trans-Atlantic ocean liner.

In addition, new ships provide cruise lines with a new platform to make ships even more sustainable. The newest ship being introduced this year from AIDA Cruises, the AIDAprima, will provide new “green” cruising features such as a unique environmental friendly hull design and the use of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG), the world’s cleanest burning fossil fuel, in ports.

Later in 2019 and 2020, Carnival Corporation brands will be introducing the first ships to use LNG to power the ships as sea, another important milestone for the cruise industry.

New Operational Capabilities In 2016, Carnival Corporation will operate three Fleet Operation Centers that provide real-time support to its 99 ships. The new Fleet Operations Centers utilize a state-of-the-art tracking and data-analysis platform that enables real-time information sharing between each of Carnival Corporation’s 99 ships and specialized onshore teams designed to support fleet operations. The proprietary system significantly improves communication from ship to shore, providing new capabilities for enhancing the safe passage of ships at sea while improving operational efficiencies and supporting overall environmental initiatives.

Celebrity Chefs The meals being offered on ships continue to get better and better through partnerships with top national and international chefs. Whether it is Celebrity chef Guy Fieri or Chef and restaurateur Thomas Keller, there is a special meal for every guest.

There is the new Salt Grill by Luke Mangan, author of the bestselling cookbook and popular autobiography of the Making of a Chef.

There are new exotic chocolate offerings created by the famous Norman Love.

10 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

Of course, there also are the creations of Chef Curtis Stone, best-selling author and television personality, and there are new wine venues such as Blend in coordination with Chateau Ste. Michele, Washington’s State’s oldest and most acclaimed winery, where guests can blend their own wine.

Cruising for a Cause Also in 2016, there is the introduction of Fathom, which combines people’s love of travel with the desire to make a difference.

Fathom, being launched to the Dominican Republic in April, will provide travelers with the ability to work on community projects alongside local citizens.

Today, the cruise industry already provides more than $119 billion in total economic value to the markets served, but the industry also creates nearly one million jobs around the world.

Fathom simply adds to this tradition in the cruise industry of giving back.

A Cruise for Everyone With dozens of cruise lines and hundreds of cruise ships throughout the industry, there is the right cruise for every guest.

We see the desire for luxury cruising on the rise with cruise lines such as Seabourn, the ultra-luxury cruise brand, or Holland America Line or Princess Cruises, both of which are popular premium cruise lines, but there also is a trend to bring specific cultural experiences to guests who want to have a taste of Italy by sailing on Costa Cruises or the authentic German cruise experience with AIDA Cruises or a uniquely British experience on P&O Cruises, especially on its newest ship, Britannia.

Of course, if it is a social experience cruise guests are wanting, there is nothing better than Carnival Cruise Line’s 24 fun ships, the most popular cruise line in the world with 4.5 million annual guests.

Looking Ahead Today, every guest who experiences a wonderful time on a cruise ship not only returns for additional cruises, but they often bring other family members and share their positive experience with so many others.

Cruising has never been more popular. It is the result of the hard work and dedications of our cruise line employees around the world, as well as the dedication of thousands of travel agents around the world who spend countless hours educating consumers about the value and sheer fun of cruising.

The same is true with our suppliers and partners in each of the ports we serve. Without their support and efforts, we would not be successful. Together, we are able to provide an unrivaled vacation for our guests around the world – and provide millions of people with memories that last a lifetime!

HEAD FOR THE STINGRAYS OF CAYMAN. ( THEY’LL FORM A WELCOMING COMMITTEE . )

Stingray City, Grand Cayman

As your guests disembark in the Cayman Islands, they will be greeted by unique encounters as far as the eye can see.

From the renowned tastes that earned us the title of Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, to the rare level of service that comes naturally here, your passengers will find their Caymankind.

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SPOTLIGHT

THE EVOLUTION OF THE CRUISE INDUSTRY Evolve Together, and We Will Win

By Andy Stuart, President and Chief Operating Officer, Norwegian Cruise Line

I

t’s an exciting time to be in the cruise industry. Cruise travel is on the rise and getting more impressive every day. Because of extraordinary ships, beautiful destinations and dedicated travel agents, 24 million people are expected to cruise this year worldwide, more than ever before, according to CLIA’s State of the Cruise Industry Outlook. The Outlook also showed that cruise travel outpaced general leisure travel in the US by 22 percent between 2008 and 2014. To keep this upward trajectory, we have to be active in growing the industry. We must evolve to recruit new guests and keep current guests coming back. This evolution is not exclusive to cruise lines – it has to happen across the board.

Staying Relevant One of the greatest examples of evolving to stay relevant comes from our own industry: our travel partners. Not only has the cruising landscape transformed over the years, but the travel agency model has changed drastically as well.

Customers buy where they are comfortable, which used to be exclusively with storefront travel agencies. But as technology grew, the distribution channel expanded as well. People can now book online, through hosts, home base offices, consortia, wholesale clubs and tour operators. The distribution channel evolving as customers’ needs evolved is a prime example of adapting to stay relevant. If we don’t make adjustments as we go, having continued success will be nearly impossible.

The significance of the distribution channel cannot be stressed enough. The cruise line and travel agent relationship is stronger than ever, and the commitment

to the partnership is evident from the investment in dedicated programs that support the travel agent community.

Programs like Norwegian’s Partners First, Royal Caribbean’s Loyal To You Always and Celebrity’s The Celebrity Commitment were built out of need.

These programs are customized to support our partners and equip them with everything they need to make a sale. And as the market changes and new needs arise, these programs are able to adjust.

They were built on a flexible foundation in order to adapt to new landscapes quickly and seamlessly.

How Norwegian Is Evolving: The Norwegian Edge Norwegian is embracing the evolution of the industry. So much so that we’ve created The Norwegian Edge™, an innovative program that will introduce a new standard of excellence to the brand. It encompasses the entire guest experience, from ship hardware to culinary enhancements to exclusive private destination developments.

The Norwegian Edge reflects a significant two-year $400 million investment and demonstrates our commitment to exceptional quality and extraordinary experiences. The centerpiece is an extensive ship refurbishment initiative. We are completely transforming spaces onboard nine of our ships to reflect the premium look and feel of our newest and most spectacular ships. This extensive enhancement will offer much more than updated décor. When completed, our ships will look even better than when they first left the shipyard.

The Norwegian Edge takes this new standard all the way to the galleys. We know that dining is central to guests’ vacation experience, so we are continuing to invest in the onboard culinary program. This goes beyond the quality of the food on the plates. It’s everything from where we source ingredients to certifications for our chefs to ongoing training for our superb service staff.

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 13

SPOTLIGHT Listening to guests is key when evolving the industry, especially in the culinary space. When we saw a positive reaction to the new dining menus that debuted on Norwegian Escape, we took action. In January, we began rolling out new enhanced menus to all of our main dining rooms and specialty restaurants fleet-wide.

When it comes to destinations, we’re starting to see trends that show a shift in what travelers value. They are starting to gravitate towards experiential travel over sightseeing-based travel. To deliver on their need for unique experiences, we expanded plans for our privately-owned destinations. This included development of our premier resort-style experience at Harvest Caye, Belize and brand new features on our private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay. Harvest Caye is at the center of the richest ecosystem in the region. We’re balancing its natural beauty with elements our guests have told us they value, which include an expansive pool, exclusive beach, shallow lagoon for watersports and private luxury cabanas. Great Stirrup Cay’s upgrades will enhance the island experience with features that mirror the amenities on the ships: new private spaces, luxury relaxation areas, multiple food and beverage outlets and a variety of family activities.

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Going Global Adapting to growing markets is more than building new ships and opening new ports. It’s making sure that we do both of these with purpose. In 2017, Norwegian will introduce the first purpose-built ship customized for the China market. The ship is designed specifically with accommodations, cuisine and onboard experiences that cater to the unique vacation preferences of Chinese guests.

This ship will be tailored to accommodate what modern Chinese travelers value from a premium cruise experience, and the customization will go far beyond the physical design of the ship. We are working closely with partners in China and local experts on the subtleties of Chinese culture to ensure a VIP level of service, cuisine, entertainment and overall experience that is simply not available in China today. As new markets emerge and new needs surface, we can expect to see more and more of this type of purpose-built customization.

Our Tried and True Destination As the industry expands to new and exciting territories, we must not neglect our first destination—the Caribbean. It’s still the industry leader, accounting for more than 33 percent of cruise line deployment, more than Northern Europe and the Mediterranean combined, according to CLIA’s Outlook.

We must constantly invest our time and energy into the Caribbean to make sure it remains a leading cruise destination and doesn’t lose capacity to other regions.

There are small steps we can take to make a big impact, like adding new itineraries and rotating ships. Just this year, we moved Norwegian Getaway from the Western Caribbean to the Eastern Caribbean. This gives guests the opportunity to diversify their vacation experience, even if they’ve been to the Caribbean before. It is vital that destinations in the Caribbean listen and respond to guest feedback to make sure the experience guests have in the islands exceed expectations and bring them back time and time again.

Evolving Together The biggest takeaway here should be that evolving is not optional. Together as an industry we have to continually adapt to the ever-changing market conditions, more demanding consumers and a landscape of continued capacity growth in order to stay relevant. We must continually invest in the guest experience and be the vehicle that shows them the world, one port at a time. The future success of our industry is a team effort: from travel partners to suppliers to ports and destinations. Together we can make sure that anyone that goes on a cruise vacation experiences the best vacation ever.

“If you ar e looking for som ething fresh, authentic, an d uniqu e in the Caribbean, you will fin d it all - Coralie in Martinique!�

This year, immerse yourself in Martinican culture in our Cruise Village, experience our exciting excursions, and take in our spectacular natural landscapes. www.martiniquepro.org/cruise

SPOTLIGHT

Full Steam Ahead for the Cruise Industry

By Rick Sasso, President, MSC Cruises

A

s a 43-year cruise industry veteran, I’ve been fortunate enough to witness first-hand the cruise industry’s incredible success over the past few decades. In addition to the remarkable growth in the number of guests alone—24 million passengers are expected to cruise in 2016, compared to only 1.4 million in 1980—the evolution of ships’ design, onboard services and experiences, and destinations visited around the world is beyond impressive.

The cruise industry as a whole continues to constantly innovate and push boundaries in order to better serve guests and deliver the best vacation experience possible; thus, it’s no surprise that what’s to come in the future could be more impressive that anything we’ve seen yet.

Personally, never in my career have I been as excited as I am today about the cruise industry in general and, more specifically, what my company, Swiss-based MSC Cruises, has in store.

16 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

To date, the accomplishments of MSC Cruises, the world’s largest privately owned global cruise line, have been remarkable. The company has set records growing 800 percent between 20042014—making MSC Cruises the fastestgrowing brand in industry history. Our current fleet of 12 ships is the youngest fleet in the world, which means MSC Cruises has some of the most contemporary and beautiful vessels afloat. Onboard we’ve introduced innovative amenities, including the MSC Yacht Club—an exclusive private enclave of 69 butler-serviced suites—along with unique activities like aqua cycling and wine blending and world-class partnerships with brands such as Cirque du Soleil, LEGO, Chicco, Eataly, Segafredo, and Venchi.

What excites me the most though is that the cruise line has no plans for slowing down any time soon. MSC Cruises has kicked off an ambitious $5.5 billion investment plan that includes orders for

seven new ships in two state-of-the-art prototypes. The new builds—along with the recent completion of MSC’s ‘Renaissance Program’ that involved lengthening and renewing four ships in the existing fleet—will allow MSC Cruises to double its capacity and go from carrying 1.7 million passengers today to 3.3 million passengers by 2021.

Currently recognized as the number one cruise line by capacity in Europe, South America and South Africa, MSC Cruises’ growth plan also means that the company is now able to position itself as a major player in North America. The massive expansion of the brand in North America has already begun with MSC Divina, one of the line’s youngest and most ultramodern ships, sailing year-round from Miami to the Caribbean.

MSC Divina will then be joined by our next-generation cruise ship, MSC Seaside—known as the ‘ship that follows the sun’—when it debuts in December

2017. Both MSC Seaside and MSC Divina will sail to the Caribbean from a newly renovated and expanded dedicated berth and terminal at PortMiami.

Furthering our commitment to North America, the company also recently announced that MSC Divina and MSC Seaside, as well as other MSC Cruises’ ships in the Caribbean area, will visit an exciting, new private destination called Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, located just 60 miles from Miami.

As we break ground on the development of the Ocean Cay project in the coming months, MSC Cruises will work hand-inhand with the Bahamian Government and ecologists to develop a thriving marine reserve that will harmoniously coexist with the local ecosystem. The end result will be an authentic and quality marine reserve island experience that will include more than 11,000 feet of pristine beach— meaning more beach space per guest.

Of course, in addition to our physical product and offerings, a key element of ensuring MSC Cruises’ future success is prioritizing our travel agent partners and making it as easy as possible for both travel agents and consumers to work with us. To help with this, last year we launched MSC Book, a completely new

booking engine for travel agents that has been a game changer in terms of making the booking process quick and simple. In addition, we implemented a new Contact Center platform with an improved customer relationship management (CRM) technology that allows our cruise line representatives to more efficiently assist guests and travel agents with their bookings.

Another critical component of the cruise line’s strategy for growing in North America is building brand awareness and ensuring consumers are familiar with MSC Cruises. This past year we started major national TV advertising and have even developed a campaign where a few lucky chosen travel agents are able to win the opportunity to appear in a national TV commercial. Over the next year, we’ll be launching even more creative efforts to educate the market on the MSC Cruises’ brand and offerings.

MSC Cruises’ plans for the future are what keep me motivated and excited to come to work every day, but I also know that we can expect to see great things from the industry at large.

Cruise lines will continue to invest in new ships. As we expand our capacity, we’ll also enter new regions, similar to how

MSC Cruises is now able to sail to places such as Cuba and China, providing travel agents with increased opportunities to send their clients to unique destinations.

In addition, we’ll see an expansion in seasonality of deployment, as ships will stay longer in destinations that traditionally only offered sailings for a portion of the year.

In the next 10 years, emerging markets will become more mature, and ongoing innovation will add value to the cruising experience and ensure high guest satisfaction. But the continued success of the industry will also be based on how we embrace the importance of safety and environmental stewardship. Cruise ships today are already among the safest vacation options available, thanks in large part to the industry working closely together to implement strict regulations and protocols. The industry will need to continue to collaborate as we make even further advancements to ensure the safety of our guests and make sure we are doing our part to protect the environment, including designing new builds to be as environmentally friendly as possible.

The cruise industry has come a long way and has a lot to be proud of, but the future looks even brighter, and I know I can’t wait to see what’s next!

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 17

LET'S GET TECHNICAL

With Cruising More Popular than Ever, Let’s Keep Destinations Memorable

By David Candib, Vice President, Development & Operations, Carnival Corporation’s Global Port & Destination Development Group

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ruising has several major advantages that make it an enticing vacation choice for consumers looking for a great holiday. Guests enjoy being able to experience multiple destinations from their cruise ship with the convenience of only having to unpack once. They also appreciate the great value that cruising provides as compared to similar land-based vacations. And of course, cruise lines constantly roll out innovative new features, amenities and entertainment onboard.

These are just a few of the reasons why the cruise industry enjoys consistently high guest satisfaction ratings. It is also why we as an industry are in excellent position to capitalize on the growing popularity of cruising as a great vacation at an exceptional value. In fact, global cruise vacations have grown faster in popularity than global land-based vacations by a 23 percent margin between 2004 and 2014.

While this is exciting news for our industry, we all know this is no time to rest on our laurels. To remain competitive, it is

important for us to look beyond the onboard experience and be sure we are giving passengers the best experience possible in port and at each destination. A key part of this includes working with local governments to continue to raise the bar in providing memorable experiences at our destinations.

When it comes to designing the best itinerary options, some of the criteria considered include the safety of the guests and crew, maritime infrastructure, the variety of shore excursion offerings, port usage fees, location relative to other destinations and various other factors.

For most of these elements, a destination has the power to control its own attractiveness and to work alongside industry experts on initiatives to stay atop the lists of the best ports of call.

Some factors, such as location, may limit a destination’s attractiveness for key seven-day United States homeport itinerary options. However, the combination of many European brands homeporting seasonally in the Caribbean and

some brands success with longer cruise itineraries (take for example the very successful Carnival Journeys 9+ day sailings), there still is a need for attractive destinations in the Southern and far-eastern Caribbean. It’s all just another important element of the ultimate goal—satisfied guests who can’t wait for their next wonderful cruise experience.

How do we, as a company and an industry, assess guest satisfaction?

As a company, we begin with a deep commitment to exceeding the expectations of people who trust us with their decision to have a great vacation. That is a special trust, as people have limited vacation time and budgets. As an industry, we want everyone who sails on a cruise ship to come away feeling that they had an excellent time, and that they cannot wait to take another cruise. As guests share their positive experiences by social media and in conversation with friends, family and associates, this increases the likelihood of attracting new cruisers—an important component of growth for the industry.

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 19

LET'S GET TECHNICAL With our company operating 10 different and distinct brands around the globe, our teams at each brand fully understand that the experience must align to how guests identify with what a specific brand promises, even though we find guests who sail on multiple brands throughout the years (these sailings tend to be for special occasions such as a multigenerational family vacation).

To that end, we mainly rely on our travel agent partners to guide guests to the ideal brand and the right ship matching a customer’s personal interests. We also position our brands and their offerings using the latest psychographics to build upon the available demographic information, such as age, education and occupation.

We use these findings to add visibility and assist in adding another level of depth to the analysis of vacationers, what their hobbies are or what interests compel them, which helps to create a more complete profile. Josh Leibowitz leads our Global Strategy team and cross-brand collaboration effort to capture and use this data.

Our industry attracts a wide range of guests who choose cruising as a vacation.

This makes it easy to underestimate the challenges represented by having a variety of destinations. For example, if you look at a development like our newest port, the exciting Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic, you will find that during the course of this year we expect to welcome eight of our 10 cruise lines and 23 different ships These numbers are more often seen in the more mature destinations as well, such as St. Maarten, Grand Turk, Cozumel or Jamaica.

Over a year, a destination such as this one will welcome guests from such diverse nationalities, backgrounds and demographics that it may be hard to identify what experiences or offerings would be “best.”

I believe this is a difference between a landside vacation and a cruise. A hotel can attract guests based upon many factors, such as location, price or rating, and the experience would generally remain consistent since they are not leaving the property for multiple destinations.

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Carnival Corporation's new three-berth pier at the company's Puerto Maya port in Cozumel, Mexico By contrast, take Puerta Maya, our port in Cozumel that can now accommodate three ships simultaneously and frequently receives ships are from three different brands. Puerta Maya serves as the gateway to three unique destinations: Cozumel, Playa del Carmen and Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula, where guests can visit Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This presents guests with the opportunity to select from approximately 120 different tours, each of which can cater to each brand’s guests.

For example, the AIDA guests sailing in the Caribbean tend to be very active, and you will see many disembark with bicycles in hand, ready for a ride and tour around the island. Princess passengers may be more intrigued by cultural and authentic culinary experiences, while guests on a Carnival Cruise Line sailing may gravitate towards a beach, adventure experiences and family outings.

As we also operate four ports in the Caribbean region, we see that the behavior and spending at the shops varies by brand and even by deployment within the same brand. Our food and beverage operators at the ports have even perfected the type of music to play depending upon the ship in port.

A destination must find a balance of offerings, accomplished via a variety of shops, food and beverage choices and shore excursions that achieve a combination of key elements. This is how to ensure a guest enjoys his or her stay while in a particular port and ultimately influences the overall cruise vacation to have been a wonderful (and repeatable!) experience.

Our shore excursion teams are dedicated to developing offerings with local operators to cater to a variety of guests, which can be as simple as a minor tweak to an existing operation to launching entirely new experiences.

It is challenging to develop and operate destinations that offer broad appeal, but working alongside local governments, as well as teaming with our brands, makes the entire experience exciting and worthwhile, while ultimately providing local business opportunities.

Whether it’s partnering with operators and businesses in creating something new to see in St. Maarten or designing a new destination from the ground up, like Amber Cove, the future success of the industry must count upon both cruise operators and destinations to continually innovate, keep experiences fresh and memorable, and always strive to exceed our guests’ expectations.

LET'S GET TECHNICAL

IT TAKES A VILLAGE TO RAISE THE CRUISE INDUSTRY

By Federico Gonzalez-Denton, Associate Vice President, Government Relations, Latin America and the Caribbean, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., and Vice Chairman, FCCA Operations Committee

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t’s always a challenge to explain the role of government relations to people. When asked what I do, more often than not, people expect me to say that I work for a foreign government (which I don’t), that I’m some sort of diplomat (my wife’s wish) or that I’m a spy or agent (my wish). When my answer involves none of the above, I almost immediately feel a sense of disappointment and disenchantment. But after given the opportunity to explain that government relations is basically an educational process, I feel a slight degree of interest coming back my way. And that’s what government relations is, an educational process driven by advocacy, and it’s an essential component for any business or initiative subject to any sort of government regulation.

When I refer to government relations as educational, I apply this principle to both internal and external operations. Laws and regulations impact business, and my internal role is to explain the political environment giving rise to a particular government’s actions, along with how that impacts our business. Externally, that means educating government representatives about how our business works and the effects of any proposed legislation or government’s decision.

As many likely know, this educational process takes place through different paths. Directly representing a company or business is one, and the other is through an association representing an industry. The latter is the part that I will discuss in this article on behalf of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA). Let me begin my discussion by first not22 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

“Synergy - the bonus that is achieved when things work together harmoniously.” -Mark Twain ing the significance of the work the FCCA and its Member Lines do by representing the cruise industry in the Caribbean, Latin American and Floridian cruise destinations.

The linkage, or synergy, between the FCCA and cruise destinations has been a key factor in the continuous development of the industry in the individual destinations and entire region, as well as the wellbeing of the communities served. However, despite the Caribbean’s long-standing position as the preferred cruise region in the world, other regions are aggressively promoting their virtues and, little by little, capturing market share.

This is why the relationship between the FCCA and destinations has become even more vital to keep the region competitive. After all, keeping destinations appealing to both the cruise lines and passengers is important to the FCCA and all of the Member Line representatives who serve on its Operations Committee and other committees.

This is what we try to communicate each time the Operations Committee has the opportunity to meet with representatives from a particular destination, either from the public or the private sector. And the message is a simple one—we try to educate and explain the possible business consequences of a determined

LET'S GET TECHNICAL

decision or regulation. This doesn’t mean we would always have to agree and take the same path, but without a doubt, all recommendations made by the Operations Committee are based on and guided by the fundamental principle of keeping the destinations and region as competitive as possible to face the challenges of a truly global market.

Therefore, it shouldn’t be a surprise to know that we always monitor any public or private initiative that could impact the cruise industry’s operational costs or revenue generation because those initiatives always have the potential of making a product less competitive for cruise guests looking for a compelling and unique value proposition. (Though it might be surprising to learn that the decision from a single destination’s private or public sector not only can affect the entire destination’s competitiveness, but also the whole region if it limits itinerary options.)

However, the synergy between destinations and the cruise industry certainly is not limited solely to the discussion of operational costs. Our exchanges usually focus on how to improve the destination products, including port infrastructure, attractions, shore excursions, land and water transportation, security, etc. And the FCCA Operations Committee prides itself on bringing these issues to the forefront in a direct, effective and transparent way to lead to mutually beneficial results for all parties involved—and even those not at the table, from local taxi drivers and tour guides to the entire region benefitting from having more options, improved products and increased demand.

As I mentioned before, the region faces plentiful challenges and exponentially-increasing competition. Those of you who have attended past Seatrade events have probably noticed the surge of destinations from around the globe aggressively and efficiently promoting their competitive advantages and the uniqueness of their products. In some instances, sub-regions have been formed to strengthen their product offering, such as the South Pacific Cruise Alliance and Cruise Baltic, just to mention a few. These alliances present a united front to explore business opportunities for all their members. In fact, I have seen these global destinations, year after year, becoming more passionate about the industry and their desire to enter into the cruise action.

That’s the reason why I strongly believe in the need to continue our efforts of mutually educating ourselves. We must not lose sight of the fact that the cruise industry represents more than $3 billion in direct expenditures and the creation of approximately 75,000 jobs and more than $950 million is employee wages for the Caribbean and Latin American destinations participating in a 2015 study from Business Research & Economic Advisors.

It’s the mission of the FCCA and all of the members of its Operations Committee to ensure that we continue bringing economic development to the region while empowering destinations to not only help themselves understand and improve their cruise tourism business, but also to improve business overall and increase their competitiveness for stay-over tourism.

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LET'S GET TECHNICAL costs down, ensure consistent supply and maintain uniformity throughout a fleet.

The cruise business is also market-driven, with its success directly linked with its ability to provide the goods and services that the market demands. Cruise lines discovered this successful formula long ago, and companies seeking business in this arena must learn to position their products to meet the market needs and cruise line requirements.

If you believe your company and products meet these criteria, you might be one step closer to doing business with the cruise industry. Of course you probably also want to know what products cruise lines need.

FCCA Sourcing Committee Wants You

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id you know the FCCA recently redoubled its efforts to enhance cruise lines’ purchasing from local suppliers in the Caribbean and Latin America? Under the direction of Michael Jones, vice president of supply chain for Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited and chairman of the FCCA Sourcing Committee, the FCCA and its Member Lines have further opened the lines of communications to achieve long-term partnership with local suppliers.

Building strong partnerships with the supplier base is important to the cruise industry, as their success depends on this. Of course, strong partnerships require time, patience, understanding and trust to develop; this takes a longterm commitment to service, along 24 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

with hard work, dedication, perseverance and a strong desire to do business in this sector.

While many more items are sourced from the Caribbean and Latin America, the below items are the most requested and needed by a cruise vessel in its ports of call.

Food Products Produce; fruit; herbs and spices; groceries (sugar, salt, flour, oil); dairy products (fresh milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, ice cream); seafood/shellfish; bakery items; and sandwich bread, rolls, etc.

Beverages Fruit juices, water and soda

These are the qualities and partnership instilled by the FCCA Sourcing Program. Obviously it informs the cruise lines about the program participants and their products, but it also helps these participants understand the unique facets of the cruise industry and how they relate to supply chain.

Bar Liquor, beer and wine

Cruise lines operate year-round, so suppliers may be required to deliver products on the weekends and public holidays, and perishable items must last cruises’ duration. Additionally, there are occasionally last-minute add-on orders by the vessel, and lines generally purchase directly for volume to keep

So if you think you can take the next step to source business with the cruise industry, the FCCA Sourcing Committee wants you. To learn more about the program, contact Adam Ceserano, senior vice president of the FCCA, via e-mail (Adam@F-CCA.com) or phone (1-954-441-8881).

Plus, food and beverage departments are making great efforts to develop new menus and sample different products, and options reflecting local cuisine have proven popular.

Speak with a drinks & beverage fashion consultant at (800) 851-9273 or Order Direct at Restaurantware.com

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Key Cruise Line Executives and FCCA Platinum Members Gather for Meetings, Business Opportunities and Family Fun

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cluster of star-powered cruise executives and FCCA Platinum Members and their families gathered onboard Celebrity Constellation on January 14. The group of nearly 500 embarked for a three-day schedule that moved relationship and business building into high gear on the high seas.

As usual, the annual FCCA PAMAC Cruise Summit’s agenda ranging from one-on-one meetings to tours offered a healthy balance of business sessions, networking opportunities and family fun.

After all, linking some of the premier players of the destinations’ private and public sectors with the high-level cruise executives not only offers valuable collaboration and promotion, but also makes them comfortable together to form invaluable partnerships.

“FCCA membership events like the PAMAC Cruise Summit are essential to both the members and cruise line representatives,” said Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation & plc and the FCCA. “They join some of the industry’s most influential decision makers with significant stakeholders from the Caribbean and Latin America, which leads to positive developments for all parties.”

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Activities began almost as soon as Celebrity Constellation sailed from Port Everglades, when the crowd congregated for the Business Card Exchange and Reception. Here, members and executives exchanged cards and words, discussing recent trends and developments—from a new tour product to a new child.

Dinner followed, where members and executives joined to continue their discussions or start a new one by sitting with someone different. Tables set aside for the group provided a selection of conversation partners, from family and other Platinum Members or a choice of cruise executives that decide where ships call, what sells onboard and how to invest in products, infrastructure and technology.

The next day started with a two-hour session of one-on-one meetings, where members privately met with pre-selected executives. Often these executives filled a required need for discussing and presenting new business, as they decide where ships call, what tours and products sell onboard, and how to invest in infrastructure. Additionally, they have the knowledge to offer their input and cruise line’s perspective to make a more viable

“This is an important tool for both the members and the cruise industry…we frequently learn about new developments and products, and we are able to help fine-tune them to best fit the cruise lines.” - Federico Gonzalez-Denton, Associate Vice President, Government Relations, Caribbean & Latin America, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. business model and tailor offerings for the line and industry.

“The one-on-one meetings allow for us to address the specific concerns or learn about new products from Platinum Members,” shared Federico GonzalezDenton, associate vice president, government relations, Caribbean & Latin America, Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited. “This is an important tool for both the members and the cruise industry. For us, we frequently learn about new developments and products, and we are able to help fine-tune them to best fit the cruise lines. For the members, it gives them a real vantage point in knowing what the lines are looking for and how to appeal to them.”

A free day in Key West followed the meetings, with Old Town Trolley Tour shuttling the group to the notable sites around the city and putting the shoe on the other foot, allowing the group to see what they want to experience and how they want to be treated, along with getting a different perspective of crowd control, passenger flow, transportation from and to the cruise ship and tour guide interaction.

Alarm clocks announced the following day, with the group again rising early for one of the Summit’s most important proceedings, the PAMAC Meeting. A fixture of PAMAC events, the Meeting allowed members to present and discuss their latest developments and issues with an expert panel of executives.

“[The PAMAC Meeting] is an important feature for relaying all of the latest information to the members while also giving a chance to know how to best learn from it and implement what they need to fully take advantage of this knowledge—from an individual operational level to steps they must take to improve their regions,” told Matthew Sams, vice president of Caribbean relations, Holland America Line.

Many jumped the alarm for the next and final day. Blue Lagoon Island rolled out the red carpet for the group. From water activities to close encounters with dolphins, the tours brought the participants closer.

After a site visit at Pirate Republic Brewing company, the group boarded and gathered for the last night featuring an

opportunity to invite a cruise executive to dinner at a restaurant of choice. This ensured that members had the opportunity to talk with whomever they needed and left no ends untied. The sense of urgency encouraged them to wrap up (or begin) ongoing discussions or business proposals, but this did not stop many from simply enjoying their company and meal.

In all, the FCCA PAMAC Cruise Summit provided another successful example of what FCCA’s Platinum Member events seek for its members and executives: to provide the knowledge and opportunities to develop products and destinations for— as well as appeal and promote them to— cruise lines, all while having some laid-back fun in comfortable settings that lead to real connections and relationship building.

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 27

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

Maximizing Seatrade Cruise Global: Easy as FCCA

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eatrade Cruise Global is an exciting time for the FloridaCaribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), synonymous with renewing and creating business partnerships, discussing ideas and tackling industry issues with the attending cruise line representatives and global stakeholders. Of course, these opportunities are vast during the event’s standard programming, but the FCCA maximizes these chances for its Platinum Members.

After all, UBM Live—the organizers of Seatrade—and the FCCA have developed a strong, synergistic relationship, working together for nearly a quarter-century. The collaboration began back in the early 1990s, with the FCCA actively participating in the planning and organization of Seatrade and UBM supporting the FCCA’s Caribbean-based annual conference, fundraising events and charitable activities.

As UBM grew its global portfolio of events—including Seatrade Cruise Asia, Med, Europe and Middle East, plus an array of digital products like webinars and virtual shows—the FCCA continued to be a supporter wherever the collaboration took it.

That collaboration currently benefits FCCA members participating in Seatrade Cruise Global. As with everything in which the FCCA participates, one of its main goals is to positively impact the working relationship between its members and 19 Member Cruise Lines.

It does this by providing multiple events and opportunities to put members on a first-name basis with FCCA Member Line executives, presidents and CEOs—interactions that spawn relationships and put a foot in the door. This is a key component of the FCCA Platinum Membership program and a vital resource for any entity doing or desiring business with the cruise industry.

“FCCA events always give me an opportunity to meet valuable industry stakeholders,” said Adam Goldstein, president and COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “These are the people who have ideas and projects I want, and need, to know about.”

To foster these engagements during CSM and actualize its resources and attendees, the FCCA programmed a block of functions coinciding with the event to ensure that Platinum Members have a direct line to the FCCA Member Line executives.

The FCCA booth itself (#115) will serve as the site for many of these. Besides being a one-stop shop for all attendees to learn more about the FCCA and what it offers, the booth will also host cocktail receptions to promote destinations and companies while bringing together Platinum Members and cruise executives in a private atmosphere. Plus, many of the same executives and members cycle in and out of the booth for meetings arranged by the FCCA.

“The FCCA opens the door to the cruise industry and puts you in the middle of the action.” - Micky Arison, Chairman, Carnival Corporation & plc and the FCCA Of course, there are also the annual FCCA events that have become a traditional part of Seatrade for many cruise executives and Platinum Members. An annual pre-event welcoming party will offer members and cruise executives an intimate affair so they can reacquaint and prepare for the long days ahead.

The FCCA’s Masquerade at Sea will take place on the evening of Tuesday, March 15. Following a long day of meetings and workshops, sore and tired Platinum Members will loosen their ties for a fun night with some of the cruise industry’s most important decision makers.

On the following evening, the FCCA Gala Dinner will provide a unique opportunity for any participant to have a private dinner with a cruise line executive or even a CEO, such as Micky Arison, chairman, Carnival Corporation & plc; Adam Goldstein, president & COO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd; Karl Holz, president, Disney Cruise Line; Richard Sasso, president & CEO, MSC Cruises (USA) Inc.; and Andy Stuart, president & COO, Norwegian Cruise Line.

They will be on-hand with all attendees for a 90-minute networking reception and silent art auction sponsored by Park West Gallery before sitting down to host a private dinner with a side of relationship and business development. Individual tickets were also available with executives ranging from managers to senior vice presidents.

More than just admission, these tickets included full access— from the networking reception to a sit-down dinner with a preselected executive—and benefited a good cause, with all proceeds benefiting the FCCA Foundation, the non-profit, charitable organization that funds humanitarian causes in the Caribbean and Latin America. Most recently, more than 8,000 underprivileged children had something to celebrate because one of the Foundation’s annual events, the Holiday Gift Project, delivered gifts, festivities and smiles.

Indeed, 2016 Seatrade Cruise Global will benefit participants with its success-proven formula combined with many new features by UBM, but the FCCA offers backstage passes to visit the real rock stars—key decision makers from FCCA Member Lines.

Or, as Arison, said, “The FCCA opens the door to the cruise industry and puts you in the middle of the action.”

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 29

RESEARCH AND FINDINGS

State of the Cruise Industry Outlook: Continued Evolution of Cruise Travel Drives Industry Growth Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) released the 2016 State of the Cruise Industry Outlook, revealing global cruise travel is continuing to grow and evolve at a record pace.

The industry shows no signs of slowing down, with 24 million passengers expected to sail in 2016, a dramatic increase from 15 million just 10 years prior (2006), or even 1.4 million when CLIA began tracking passengers in 1980.

CLIA also revealed that member cruise lines are scheduled to debut 27 new ocean, river and specialty ships in 2016 for a total investment of more than $6.5 billion in new ocean vessels alone.

Travel agents are also experiencing a higher demand for cruise travel. Eight out of ten CLIA member travel agents stated they

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are expecting an increase in sales in 2016 over last year.

“In an effort to make cruising the best overall vacation experience available, the industry is continuing to evolve to ensure there truly is a cruise for every travel style and budget,” said Cindy D’Aoust, CLIA acting CEO. “By creating unique ships, new experiences and access to destinations around the world, the evolution, appeal and value of cruise travel continues to drive the overall growth of the industry.”

Cruising also generates a substantial positive economic impact globally. Cruise industry expenditures generated $119.9 billion in total output worldwide, supporting 939,232 full-time equivalent employees who earned $39.3 billion in income in 2014.

Following are the Lucky 13 Cruise Industry Trends showcasing how the cruise industry has transformed to meet today’s travelers’ styles and preferences: 1.

Rise of the River Cruise – River cruises are growing in popularity, introducing the value and unique travel experience to new cruise travelers. CLIA Cruise Line Members currently deploy 170 river cruise ships with 18 new river cruise ships on order for 2016, an increase of more than 10 percent.

2.

More Ships, More Options – In 2015, there were a total of 471 cruise ships with an additional 27 new ocean, river and specialty ships scheduled to debut in 2016.

3.

On the Map – Five years ago, cruise travel was almost unheard of in Asia. Today, the region is the fastest growing in the cruise industry. Between 2012 and 2014, passenger volume grew from 775,000 to nearly 1.4 million passengers, a 34 percent compound annual growth rate.

4.

G’Day for a Cruise – While Asia continues to grow rapidly, Australia also continues to experience record growth. In fact, Australia’s cruise industry surpassed a major milestone in 2014, exceeding more than one million passengers in a calendar year. In ten years, Australia’s cruise passengers have grown more than six-fold, from a base of 158,000 in 2004.

5.

Cruise Specialists – The cruise industry continues to leverage the expertise of cruise specialists to help guide travel decisions. Today, there are more than 30,000 CLIA-Member Travel Agents globally compared to 12,000 travel agents in 2010.

6.

Connectivity and Cruising – The cruise industry has made consumers’ desire to stay connected while traveling a priority. Most of today’s cruises offer a myriad of Wi-Fi, onboard texting and data options.

7.

A Love for Luxe – The desire for luxury travel continues to rise. Specialty cruise lines are responding with yachting experiences, concierge services, exclusive tours, gourmet dining and personal butler service.

8.

Brands at Sea – Cruise lines are leveraging the cross-promotional appeal of brands to appeal to new cruise travelers. From family-friendly household names like LEGO and Dr. Seuss, to upscale luxury brands like Hermes and Veuve Clicquot Champagne, and even dining options like Johnny Rockets and Margaritaville, brands are setting sail on cruise lines.

9.

Ships Are the Destination – While cruise ships were once considered a mode of transportation to get to a desired destination, today, for many, a cruise ship offers the experience of a destination. Today’s latest ships offer unprecedented onboard experiences and amenities for travelers, from Broadway productions and designer shops to zip lining and bumper cars.

10. Stay the Night – Many cruise lines are offering overnight stays at designated ports of call to give cruisers an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the experiences available at the destination.

11. Grand(parent) Travel Experiences – Intergenerational cruising has become a popular selection for family reunions or the family vacation of a lifetime. With cruise amenities designed to satisfy every age from toddler to seniors, cruises provide the togetherness (and the independence) that makes intergenerational family travel a success.

12. Cruise Voluntourism – More “voluntourism” cruises are available in 2016 with several ships including excursions to help areas of need around the world. These service-oriented cruises offer a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the communities cruise ships visit and a rare experience to embrace and impact local culture.

13. Culturally Customized – Cruise lines are continuing to customize cruise ships based upon passenger cultures. From shopping and dining preferences, vessels are being outfitted to serve guests as well as pay homage to their ports of call.

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 31

RESEARCH AND FINDINGS

Cruise Tourism Generates Record $3.16 Billion for 35 FCCA Partner Destinations, Leaves Room for More

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very three years, the FCCA and its partner destinations engage an independent study by Business Research & Economic Advisors (BREA) to analyze spending related to cruise tourism and its impact on the destinations’ economies. A record 35 destinations throughout the Caribbean, Mexico and Central and South America participated in the latest study, which found that cruise tourism—and the 23.6 million passengers and 4.5 million crewmembers disembarking and visiting the destinations— generated $3.16 billion in direct expenditures, along with 75,050 jobs and $976.5 million in employee wages among participating destinations during the 2014/2015 cruise year.

Though the record amount of participants clouded some comparisons to the 2012 study, the 20 common destinations experienced a 15-percent growth of total direct cruise tourism expenditures, from $1.99 billion to $2.29 billion—a result of a 7.2-percent increase in passenger onshore visits and a 7.6-percent growth in average total spending per passengers.

Average spending per passenger also increased in the overall study, climbing to 32 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

$103.83, 8.25 percent higher than the 2011/2012 cruise year, and accounting for a total of $2.45 billion. Driving this increase were passengers spending 30 percent more on shore excursions, 20 percent more for local crafts and souvenirs and two percent more for food and beverages, along with a higher percentage of passengers making purchases in each of these categories. In fact, 65 percent made at least onshore purchase, excluding shore excursions, and more than half of all transit passengers that went ashore purchased a shore excursion and food and beverages.

Just over 75 percent of passenger expenditures were made in four categories: watches and jewelry ($877 million), shore excursions ($551 million), clothing ($238 million), and food and beverages ($189 million). Shore excursions was the most popular category, with over half (53 percent) of all passengers purchasing this and local tour operators receiving an average of $43.99 per passenger directly from cruise passengers and cruise lines.

Beyond spending, the study delved into other metrics that divulged some insight into passengers’ onshore actions and

experiences. It showed destinations usually have an opportunity to make a grand first impression, with 63 percent of passengers making their first visit at the destination and 93.7 percent going ashore for an average of 4.38 hours.

Plus, visit satisfactions surveys indicated that cruise passengers were very satisfied with their overall destination visit; shore excursions received the highest score of all visit attributes; and passenger interactions with residents and store employees were very positive.

Passengers did not get all the attention, however. The estimated 4.5 million crewmembers disembarking and visiting the destinations spent approximately $302.2 million for goods and services, with an average per crew expenditure of $67.10, primarily on food and beverages, jewelry, and electronics.

Cruise lines also directly contributed their share. Through payments to local tour operators, payments to ports for passenger taxes and port services, payments to local businesses for supplies and services, cruise lines accounted for $400.8 million.

Based on these average numbers, a single call from a mid-sized ship (130,000 GRT, carrying 3,000 passengers and 1,250 crewmembers) generated approximately $291,900 in passenger spending, $62,910 in crew spending and $110,000 in cruise line expenditures: a total of $505,365, not including employee wages and indirect contributions, including goods such as gas and vehicles purchased by tour operators.

Though these average numbers impress on their own, the study shows the significant impact of maximizing passenger and crew spending. For instance, applying those highest figures—$191.26 in St. Maarten and $149.44 in Puerto Rico, respectively—moves those numbers up to $558,290 in passenger spending and $140,100 in crew spending, a total of $808,390 for that same ship.

Conversely, the lowest averages, $42.58 in passenger spending and $21.50 in crew spending, would bring $119,690 and $20,155, respectively—a total of $249,845.

The top destinations in the study further proved this point. Despite ranking third in passenger and crew visits, St. Maarten

led all destinations in economic impact.

Its nearly $423 million in cruise tourism expenditures was driven by the highest average total expenditure per visit—a whopping $189. The expenditures also generated an estimated 9,259 jobs paying $189 million in wage income—the highest income impact and second-highest employment impact.

Also proving the importance of optimizing passenger and crew spending was the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its 2.19 million passenger and crew visits trailed The Bahamas by 1.84 million and Cozumel, Mexico by more than 940,000, but by punching above its weight with average passenger and crew spending, the destination came in a close fourth place in total expenditures with $344.3 million.

Of course, volume has its advantages.

The Bahamas showed that by garnering the second-highest in direct expenditures, $373 million, through the highest volume of passenger and crew visits, 3.93 million, spending an average of $95. The Bahamas also benefited from the generation of 7,954 jobs paying wage income of $138 million, the third-highest totals in both categories.

Cozumel—the site of the study’s release as the host destination of the 22nd annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show—ranked third in overall expenditures, $366 million, through the second-highest volume of onshore passenger and crew visits, 3.07 million, with an average total expenditure of $119 per passenger and crew visit.

Cruise tourism in Cozumel also generated an estimated 9,727 jobs, the study’s highest level, paying $61 million in wage income.

The FCCA partners with participating destinations in this study as one of many ways it works with destinations to foster understanding of cruise tourism, its benefits and how to best actualize its potential. The study’s release during the FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show further added to the event’s focus on maximizing this potential through a series of meetings, workshops and networking opportunities between destination stakeholders and cruise executives to offer insight and develop business and relationships.

This study and past versions are available for download at www.f-cca.com/research.html.

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ENVIRONMENTAL AND REGULATORY PRACTICES

Cruise Industry Taking Steps Towards Smaller Environmental Footprint

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he cruise industry recently made some large announcements benefiting the environment. A batch of Carnival Corporation’s new vessels will start using Liquefied Natural Gas—the world’s cleanest-burning fossil fuel—to sail the world’s seas and generate power in port, pioneering a new era in sustainable fuels and significantly reducing emissions.

Plus, Royal Caribbean’s recently announced five-year partnership with World Wildlife Fun (WWF) aims to cut cruise ship greenhouse gas emissions 35 percent by 2020 and improve responsible sourcing and destination sustainability.

But these announcements are just one pixel in the industry’s big picture to reduce its environmental footprint. Below are some steps the industry has taken towards a more sustainable future.

The FCCA’s, Member Lines’ and Cruise Industry’s Commitment to the Environment The cruise industry constantly demonstrates its dedication to protecting the environment, with policies and best practices that regularly exceed regulations and demonstrate social responsibilities. Here are some ways the industry and FCCA/CLIA Member Lines raise the bar on environmental stewardship: Waste Management Recognizing that waste management is fundamental to protecting the environment, FCCA/CLIA Member Lines enacted the Waste Management Policy—adopted by the CLIA Board of Directors and reviewed annually by Member Line CEOs and periodically by environmental committee meetings consisting of officers and crew to assess practices and discuss improvements—to meet or exceed legal requirements.

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All sewage must be treated to international, regional, national and local standards prior to any discharge, and the industry’s waste management policies exceed legal requirements.

FCCA/CLIA Member Lines may not discharge untreated sewage anytime or anywhere.

Member Lines have a zero discharge policy for trash, with crew following strict waste management plans and comprehensive training programs that drive the safe and hygienic collection, minimization separation, and processing of wastes onboard and offloads to approved shoreside waste vendors.

Member Lines also promote recycling and waste minimization by passengers and crew through announcements and informational videos and pamphlets, leading to 800,000 tons recycled each year by cruise lines and the average cruise passenger producing upwards of 70 percent less garbage.

Air Quality Protection Over the last decade, the cruise industry has invested significantly in new technologies that help reduce air emissions, including: • Exhaust gas scrubbers • Diesel electric engines and more efficient engines • Alternative fuel • Shore-based power to shut off engines when docked • Variable ship speeds Improving Fuel Efficiency and Lowering Energy Consumption Better fuel efficiency represents a win-win for cruise lines, with lower costs and environmental impact. Member Lines have extensively invested in developments to improve fuel efficiency, along with retiring older ships from the fleet, meaning a reduction

in air emissions. Lines have also lowered energy consumption by using heat exchangers that recycle hot water to heat passenger cabins, installing special window tinting to keep passageways cooler while using less air conditioning, and switching to lowenergy LED lights, with lighting on newer ships accounting for only about 10 percent of power consumed—an improvement of nearly 20 percent. Other initiatives include: • Ecological hull coatings, with new paints and varnishes estimated to reduce fuel consumption by as much as five percent • Propulsion and hull design optimization • Solar panels that provide emission-free energy available on some ships • Testing of other alternative/renewable forms of energy (e.g. wind) • Water used to cool engines also utilized in evaporators to distill fresh water for the air conditioning system • Water desalination plants and water use minimization (lowflow showers and faucets and vacuum toilets) • High-efficiency appliances and heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems • Automatic lighting and air conditioning control systems Cleaner Water and Planet The advanced wastewater treatment systems pioneered by cruise lines produce cleaner water than most wastewater treatment facilities in U.S. coastal cities. Many cruise lines employ practices and procedures substantially more protective of the environment than required by law.

Team Effort Recognizing that environmental stewardship’s significance also applies to passenger and crew, the cruise industry actively encourages their assistance through videos and numerous onboard resource conservation programs and recycling options.

Checks and Balances Vessels regularly independently monitor their daily water consumption and other environmental performance measures, and Member Lines have senior-level staff responsible for training crewmembers in environmental programs and implementing required environmental practices onboard.

Though Member Lines pride themselves in establishing best practices that exceed standards, they must at least comply with international standards set forth in the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), the main international convention covering prevention of pollution of the marine environment by all oceangoing ships, and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, which monitors and audits practices for environmental standards.

Member Lines also work closely with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to develop sound environmental practices; support the IMO’s Energy Efficiency Design Index, which requires a 30 percent reduction in ships’ CO2 emissions by 2025; and meet or exceed international and national standards for sulfur emissions within Emissions Control Areas (ECA) and worldwide. In U.S. Waters, the Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Coast Guard regulate and enforce rigorous requirements on air, water, power, and waste, including provisions of the U.S. Clean Water Act and North America ECA. For more information about environmental practices, policies or regulations, please visit www.cruising.org or www.cruiseforward.org, or contact Bud Darr, SVP, Technical and Regulatory Affairs, Cruise Lines International Association.

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ENVIRONMENTAL AND REGULATORY PRACTICES

More Bubbles Mean Better Mileage, Royal Caribbean’s Sustainability Report Shows Innovation Driving Environmental Gains

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he tiny bubbles effortlessly flowing into celebratory champagne flutes, first introduced by French monks, took ingenuity and years of perfecting to get just right. A new set of bubbles are now flowing into the cruise industry, creating an occasion to celebrate. Royal Caribbean’s air lubrication system, which creates a reduced friction layer of billions of microscopic air bubbles on a ship’s hull, has helped the company launch some of the lowest-emission ships in the industry.

The same commitment to innovative design that creates crowdpleasing consumer features like robotic bars and skydiving machines also leads to a dedicated search for improved environmental performance, like the air lubrication system, and Royal Caribbean’s sustainability report shows that this has led to improved efficiencies across the fleet and some of the lowest-emission ships in the industry. The Quantum-class ships, for example, emit about 20 percent less carbon dioxide than previous designs.

"At Royal Caribbean, we are working to ensure that sustainability remains at the heart of our business," said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "We bring 5,000,000 guests to nearly 500 ports around the world every year, and we understand the need to act responsibly towards the oceans that we sail and the places we visit. Our mantra is continuous improvement and we constantly strive to find new and better ways to meet those goals."

With 43 ships sailing all seven continents to provide memorable experiences for more than 5 million guests a year, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. views sustainable practice not only as a matter of self interest, but as a solemn duty.

The company’s 114 percent increase in waste recycled across the fleet, expansion of its Advanced Emissions Purification program, creation of the largest scale partnership of its kind to focus on destination sustainability in the Americas, and progress in the ongoing Save the Waves environmental initiative to help preserve the ocean are just a couple elements of the 102-page 2014 Sustainability Report—RCL’s seventh such annual analysis and the second prepared in accordance with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines.

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Reducing emissions of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants is an essential part of RCL’s environmental stewardship. Pictured above are the three main ways RCL seeks to minimize pollution on their ships.

RCL often provides disaster relief to the communities where their ships sail or where their employees live. Pictured above is Richard Fain at the opening of L’ecole Nouvelle Royal Caribbean, one of the first schools built in Haiti after the earthquake.

Highlights of what Fain calls the “never-ending journey” of improving environmental practices include: • A 21 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2005 to 2014.

• A decrease in waste sent to landfills – 1.14 pounds per available cruise passenger day in 2012 to 0.55 pounds per ACPD in 2014.

• Contributions of nearly $40 million to The Ocean Fund, 2012-2014. RCL set up the fund in 1996 to provide grants to marine conservation organizations around the world.

• Creation of the Sustainable Destinations Alliance for the Americas (SDAA) – a partnership between RCL, the Caribbean Tourism Organization, the Organization of American States, U.S. State Department and Sustainable Travel International – the beginning of the next era of RCL’s work to support sustainable tourism.

• Launching the 43rd ship in the RCL fleet, Quantum of the Seas, outfitted with “best-ever energy efficiency, state-ofthe-art waste treatment – and not a single incandescent light bulb.”

• The start of retrofitting 19 older RCL ships with advanced emission purification equipment that “scrubs” engine exhaust of up to 97 percent of sulfur dioxide before it can be released into the air.

• Continued progress toward 2015 Save the Waves goals of processing bilge water to an effluent quality three times

more stringent than international standards; having fully half of all shore excursions third-party verified to an internationally recognized sustainability standard; increasing by 125 percent the volume of waste recycled from RCL ships since 2007; and ensuring that 80 percent of guests, 100 percent of crew and key people at cruise destination are familiar with the cruise line’s environmental principles, Save the Waves and The Ocean Fund.

• Increased responsible local sourcing in Europe, Asia and Australia and New Zealand, with a 20 percent increase in Australia and New Zealand.

Additional information on those principles; RCL’s Above and Beyond Compliance (ABC) approach to existing laws and regulations; the company-wide Safety, Quality and Environmental Management system (SQM); and more can be found in the 2014 Sustainability Report, available at www.RCLCorporate.com/environment.

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ENVIRONMENTAL AND REGULATORY PRACTICES

Carnival Corporation's New Sustainability Report Highlights Key Environmental and Social Initiatives Report details company's 2020 goals, reinforcing commitment to protecting environment by increasing water efficiency and reducing waste production, greenhouse gases and other emissions

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arnival Corporation & plc released its 2014 Sustainability Report in December detailing the company's sustainability efforts across its 10 cruise line brands, including its 2020 sustainability goals.

"As the largest cruise company in the world, with healthy oceans and seas core to our operations and with most of our employees living and working at sea, the very essence of our business is built on sustainable and transparent practices," said Bill Burke, chief maritime officer for Carnival Corporation. "Our goal is to make sure our 11 million annual guests have a great vacation experience, and to maintain a positive and thriving workplace for our employees.

We maintain this commitment by keeping our guests and crew members safe, providing extraordinary customer service, protecting the environment in which we work and live, hiring great employees passionate about their work, having positive relationships with our suppliers and other stakeholders, enhancing the port communities our ships visit and the communities where we work, and maintaining our fiscal strength. These core values are among the cornerstones to our success as a business."

Sustainability Goals As highlighted in the report, Carnival Corporation has established 10 goals for reducing its environmental footprint over the next five years, while enhancing the health, safety and security of its guests and crewmembers, and ensuring sustainable business practices among its brands, business partners and suppliers. Three of the 10 goals focus on developing, deploying and operating exhaust gas cleaning systems for clean air emissions, increasing cold ironing capacity and further reducing the intensity of equivalent carbon dioxide emissions (CO2e).

Carnival Corporation announced in November 2014 that it had met its corporate goal to reduce its rate of CO2e emissions from shipboard operations by 20 percent a year ahead of its initial plan. After meeting this initial goal, Carnival Corporation has renewed its goal to continue reducing the rate of CO2e emissions, or greenhouse gas emissions, by 25 percent from its 2005 baseline.

This renewed goal for 2020 extends and reinforces the company's aggressive initiative to further reduce the intensity of greenhouse gas emissions. As part of the effort, the company and its 10 global brands have developed strategic energy reduction and conservation initiatives, many of which exceed current laws and regulations.

Sustainable Practices Highlighted in Report Recently the company announced its four next-generation cruise ships to be built for Costa Cruises and AIDA Cruises will be the first in the industry to be powered at sea by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), the world's cleanest burning fossil fuel. Pioneering a new era in the use of low carbon fuels, these new ships will use LNG to generate 100 percent of the ship's power both in port and on the 38 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

open sea – an innovation that will significantly reduce exhaust emissions to help protect the environment and support overall sustainability initiatives.

In 2014, the company released its Business Partner Code of Conduct and Ethics to help business partners within the supply chain to more fully understand and comply with Carnival Corporation's expectation for legal compliance and ethical behavior. This includes the areas of labor and human rights, environmental protection, business integrity and health, safety and security.

In June 2014, the Carnival Foundation donated $2.5 million over a five-year period to The Nature Conservancy, one of the world's leading conservation organizations, to advance the preservation of the world's oceans and seas. Carnival Corporation's support to The Nature Conservancy will significantly accelerate coral reef restoration initiatives, enhance the value of marine ecosystem services through the Mapping Ocean Wealth program and continue to advance important science that shows how natural systems can help reduce risks to coastal communities from storms and rising sea levels.

In June 2015, the company introduced Fathom, a new brand pioneering a new travel category called impact travel, which is built around mindful, purpose-driven activities and programs that enable guests to make a real sustainable impact in the communities to which the company travels. In 2016, Fathom began voyages to two vibrant Caribbean destinations, Cuba and the Dominican Republic, each with different cultures and different objectives, but both with common dreams for the well-being of their people.

Additional Sustainable Initiatives In addition to these initiatives, Carnival Corporation and its 10 brands implement extensive measures to deliver on the corporate commitment to continue to keep guests and crewmembers safe and comfortable, protect the environment, develop and provide opportunities for its workforce, strengthen its stakeholder relations and enhance the communities in which the company visits and operates.

These efforts are detailed in the 2014 sustainability report, andhighlights include: • Spotlighting Carnival Corporation & plc Board Member Debra KellyEnnis for her leadership and board membership since 2012.

• Focusing on hiring and retaining a team of diverse, highly motivated and engaged employees.

• Designing and developing an industry-first Maritime Security Training Program in the Philippines in 2013 and 2014. The program was launched in January 2015. Corporate Security standards require all new security guards to attend the certified training program prior to joining a company ship.

ENVIRONMENTAL AND REGULATORY PRACTICES

Liquefied Natural Gas Powering AIDA Cruises to Positive Sustainability AIDA Cruises continued its course toward sustainability and its commitment to reducing emissions in 2015. The year included launching in-port operations powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), ordering two new ships fully powered by LNG, installing comprehensive filters to reduce waste gas, and continuing its climate protection program to reduce CO2 emissions.

The two new ships ordered from Meyer Werft, slated for 2019 and 2020, will be the first in the world operated solely on the low-emission LNG. AIDA already has experience with the environmentally-friendly fuel. Last year AIDAsol became the first cruise ship supplied with LNG-generated power while at the Hamburg Cruise Terminal HafenCity through the LNG Hybrid Barge—a pilot project from Becker Marine 40 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

Systems and AIDA Cruises for lowemission power supply of cruise ships that was designed, constructed and commissioned in only three years.

LNG power for AIDA vessels does not stop there. AIDAprima, expected to sail in 2016, and her currently unnamed sister ship will be the first cruise ships in the world to feature dual-fuel engines, which can be operated with LNG in ports where the necessary infrastructure exists, an important step with the average cruise ship spending 40 percent of its operating time in port.

There is currently no more environmentally-friendly way to supply a cruise ship with power. Compared to conventional marine diesel with sulfur content of 0.1 percent, the use of LNG leads to a 100percent reduction in the emission of soot particles and sulfur oxides, an 80percent reduction in the emission of nitrogen oxides, and a 20-percent reduction in the emission of CO2.

Beyond LNG, AIDA also took more steps toward green cruising in 2015, including installing comprehensive filter systems to reduce waste gas on traditionally-powered vessels across the fleet.

AIDA also built onto its climate protection program launched in 2014 in partnership with the climate protection organization atmosfair, which compensates for the CO2 emission of all its employees’ business trips through climate protection projects by atmosfair.

Since March 2015, it has also offered its guests the opportunity of a voluntary CO2 compensation for their cruise. As part of a pilot project and for the supply of its cruise ships in the future, AIDA Cruises is testing the possibility of utilizing LNG that has been produced fully CO2-free through the power-to-gas method with wind or solar power.

Since October 2015, AIDA Cruises has also supported the 2° Foundation in their work of engaging in dialog with

policymakers and members of academia in order to establish an effective marketbased framework for climate protection and spur German entrepreneurs to create solutions in this area.

“To us, economic success and sustainable action are not mutually opposed, quite the opposite; this is the basis for long-term success,” said Dr. Monika Griefahn, Chief Sustainability Officer at AIDA Cruises. “AIDA is a trailblazer in terms of climate protection in the cruise industry.”

Cruise Industry Honored with Maritime Award of the Americas for Its Environmental Innovation The Secretariat of the Inter-American Committee on Ports (CIP) of the Organization of American States (OAS) announced Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) as the winner of the 2015 Maritime Award of the Americas in the Environmental Waste Management in Cruise Lines category.

The award process was highly competitive, and the winning practices “showed measurable outcome and significant sustained impact.”

“We congratulate CLIA Members on their dedicated efforts in the area of environmental protection, and we are proud of their leadership in environmental waste management,” said Bud Darr, CLIA’s SVP, Technical and Regulatory Affairs. “In many areas, CLIA Members employ practices and procedures that are substantially more protective of the environment than regulations require. The cruise industry has a great responsibility as environmental stewards, and we thank the Organization of American States for publicly recognizing the cruise industry’s collective excellence, innovation and leadership.”

For years, CLIA and its Member line ships have had policies and procedures in place to reduce the industry’s environmental footprint. For example,

cruise lines pioneered advanced wastewater treatment systems that produce cleaner water than most wastewater treatment facilities in U.S. coastal cities.

Some CLIA Member cruise lines’ ships are already repurposing 100% of the waste generated on board by reducing, reusing, donating, recycling, and converting waste into energy. Careful waste management and recycling practices ensure that unrecyclable waste on cruise ships can be as little as 1.5 pounds per person a day compared to the average of 4–5 pounds per person on land in the U.S. In an average year, the cruise industry recycles 80,000 tons of paper, plastic, glass and aluminum cans.

CDP Recognizes Carnival Corporation for Climate Change Transparency Carnival Corporation has been identified as a leader for the quality of climate change-related information that it disclosed to investors and the global marketplace through CDP, the international nonprofit organization that drives sustainable economies. Carnival Corporation has been awarded a position on the FTSE 350 and the S&P 500 Climate Disclosure Leadership Index (CDLI) because of its high quality carbon emissions and energy data, scoring 99 out of 100.

P&O Cruises and Cunard Winning the War on Waste Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and World Wildlife Fund Form Global Partnership to Support Ocean Conservation

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and World Wildlife Fund formed a five-year global partnership to help ensure the long-term health of the oceans. The partners will set measurable and achievable sustainability targets that will reduce Royal Caribbean’s environmental footprint, raise awareness about ocean conservation among the company’s more than five million guests, and support WWF’s global oceans conservation work. The announced targets focus on supply chain sustainability and emissions reductions through 2020, including cutting cruise ship greenhouse gas emissions by 35 percent and responsibly sourcing seafood. Targets are also being developed to strengthen the company’s sustainable sourcing strategy and destination stewardship and sustainability.

The two Carnival UK brands of P&O Cruises and Cunard have made major progress in reducing fuel consumption, emissions and waste. The latest annual Sustainability Report reveals that energysaving measures led to fuel consumption decreased five percent from 2013 to 2014 and 18 percent compared to 2011. This reduction was also a factor in cutting CO2 emissions by nearly five percent, helping to ensure that parent company Carnival Corporation & plc was able to reach its target of reducing its greenhouse gases by 20% since 2005 by 2014 – a year ahead of schedule. The level of food waste produced was also cut back for the second consecutive year, resulting in a level less than 75 percent of the 2012 total. Plus, Carnival UK was active in maintaining its support of the environment through alliances with UK wildlife trusts and by introducing an increasing number of “green” shore excursions and enabling passengers to check the carbon footprint of tours’ transportation before booking them.

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NEWBUILDS AND REVITES Carnival Corporation to Launch Four New Ships in 2016 and 17 through 2020 Carnival Corporation & plc will launch four new ships in 2016 across four of its global cruise brands. These additions are part of the 17 ships scheduled for delivery through 2020 for Carnival Corporation's 10 brands, creating measured capacity growth over time and enabling the company's global fleet to meet accelerating demand for cruise vacations in every region of the world.

"As we execute our fleet enhancement plan—which includes a long-term strategy for bringing highly efficient, stateof-the-art ships to market and elevating the overall cruise experience—we are excited about seeing these new ships come to life this year," said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation.

"With each new ship we introduce, we generate new levels of excitement it creates for our guests and the industry. It also supports our goal to provide the best possible vacation experience at a value that land-based vacations cannot match. In the end, with our existing and new ships, our focus is for our guests to come away from a cruise vacation having had a great time and looking forward to going on another cruise."

"We also remain focused on managing our fleet capacity in a responsible way by delivering and refurbishing ships that are innovative and efficient, while we phase out some of our existing ships— all designed to reinvigorate the options available to travelers looking to explore the more than 700 destinations we visit around the world," Donald added.

The four new ships scheduled to join Carnival Corporation's industryleading fleet of 99 ships in 2016 include: Holland America Line: ms Koningsdam (Official delivery date expected in April 2016) Currently under construction at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard in Italy, the 99,500 gross ton Koningsdam represents a new Pinnacle class of ships

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for Holland America Line, and it is being designed by famed hospitality designer Adam D. Tihany and architect and designer Bjørn Storbraaten.

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy fine dining in several alternative restaurants, including Sel de Mer, a new French seafood brasserie; a new immersive farm-to-table dinner experience in the Culinary Arts Center presented

by Food & Wine magazine; a redesigned casual Lido Market with themed serving stations; a stunning main dining room; and favorites such as Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto Italian restaurant and pan-Asian Tamarind.

The ship also will feature Holland America Line's first purpose-built staterooms for families, in addition to single staterooms that together make up spacious accommodations for the ship's 2,650 guests.

Onboard entertainment will be taken to a new level with the energetic Music Walk area featuring all genres of music showcased in venues including Lincoln Center Stage, offering chamber music nightly; Billboard Onboard, where live musicians rock the crowd with charttopping hits; and the popular B.B. King's Blues Club in the Queen's Lounge, bringing the best of Memphis music to sea. World Stage brings 270-degree LED projection to the main show lounge, enabling new concepts for show-time performances and immersing the audience in panoramic visual and sound effects.

Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Vista (Official delivery expected in April 2016) From a unique suspended cycling experience called SkyRide and the innovative Family Harbor staterooms and suites featuring a "family concierge" to cruising's first IMAX Theater and the line's first on-board brewery, Carnival Vista promises fun for guests of all ages.

The largest ship in the Carnival fleet, Carnival Vista will measure 133,500 tons, 1,055 feet long and have a guest

capacity of 3,954. Carnival Vista is scheduled to enter service on May 1, 2016, initially sailing from Europe. After repositioning to New York for a series of voyages in November 2016, Carnival Vista will reposition to Miami to launch year-round Caribbean service later that month.

AIDA Cruises: AIDAprima (Official delivery date expected in April 2016) AIDAprima will be the newest flagship for AIDA Cruises, with 1,643 cabins at 124,100 gross tons. In addition to being one of the most technologically advanced vessels in the world, it will join its fleet as the most environmentally friendly cruise ship in the world. A new air lubrication system will pump bubbles below the waterline, reducing friction and lowering fuel consumption by allowing the ship to ride on a cushion of air.

Ship features include "The Beach Club," a transparent dome providing a place for guests to hang out by the pool regardless of weather, a water slide, high ropes course and the new AIDA Mini Club, which will provide childcare for kids six months and up.

Seabourn: Seabourn Encore – (Official delivery date expected in December 2016) Seabourn Encore, fashioned by hospitality design icon Adam D. Tihany, will feature contemporary interiors and modern design elements and innovations consistent with the line's reputation for understated elegance. Seabourn Encore will expand and build on the line's award-winning and highly acclaimed Odyssey-class ships, which revolutionized ultra-luxury cruising with enhanced accommodations and innovative amenities when they were introduced between 2009 and 2011.

The 40,350-gross ton ship will be configured with one additional deck and new expanded public areas, and is expected to carry 600 guests, based on double occupancy. In addition, every suite will feature a private veranda. Seabourn Encore will maintain the line's high ratio of

space per guest, enabling highly personalized service by close to one staff member for each guest on board.

More New Ships to Join the Fleet in Coming Years In December, Carnival Corporation announced that it has signed a memo of agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A. to build four new cruise ships with final contracts expected to be executed in 2016.

Two of the four new ships will be built for Costa Asia for deployment in China, and one will be built each for P&O Cruises Australia and Princess Cruises.

Additionally, in 2015 Carnival announced the finalization of a contract with Meyer Werft to build four nextgeneration cruise ships with the largest guest capacity in the world. The ships will be manufactured for Costa Cruises and AIDA Cruises, and they will be the first in the cruise industry to be powered at sea by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)—the world's cleanest burning fossil fuel.

With these new agreements, Carnival Corporation has 17 new ships scheduled to be delivered between 2016 and 2020.

Carnival Inspiration Undergoes Multi-Million-Dollar Renovation

Carnival Inspiration underwent an extensive multi-million-dollar dry dock at the

Vigor Shipyard in Portland, Oregon. The three-week renovation added a number of dining and bar concepts, including Guy’s Burger Joint, a Mexican eatery called BlueIguana Cantina, the cocktail pharmacy-themed Alchemy Bar and two new poolside watering holes, RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar. Plus, the 2,052-passenger vessel was taken out of the water to undergo routine maintenance, including a new hull coating and the addition of shore power capabilities, before returning to its homeport of Long Beach, California for its year-round schedule of three- and fourday Baja cruises.

the main living area in each suite with a new sofa, lounge chairs and desk chair. A stylish new headboard, new carpet and wall coverings bring a contemporary feel to the suites, while new soft goods— including a privacy curtain, drapery, bed runner and bed skirt—add a touch of elegance. Plus, a new quartz stone top on the desk, dresser, nightstands and dressing table, along with new vanity lighting, enhance the transformation.

Holland America Line Plans $300 Million Fleet Overhaul

A new interactive television system is also set for installation, with complimentary movies on demand, as well as easy access to the daily program and shipboard information including restaurant overviews, spa services and guest billing.

As part of a $300 million brand development initiative, Holland America Line is planning exciting improvements to its top staterooms with new furnishings, décor, amenities and upgrades for all suites on the line’s Signature-, Vista- and R-Class ships.

The first ships to undergo the suite transformation was ms Eurodam in December 2015, which will be followed by ms Oosterdam in April and then ms Nieuw Amsterdam, ms Westerdam, ms Zuiderdam and ms Noordam.

Additionally, ms Amsterdam, ms Rotterdam, ms Volendam and ms Zaandam will receive the suite enhancements as they head into their scheduled dry docks over the next few years.

“Our suites are the epitome of luxury and pampering, and the new amenities and upgrades will ensure that our suite guests continue to enjoy the finest in cruise accommodation,” said Orlando Ashford, Holland America Line president. “We have an ongoing program in place to keep our ships looking fresh, but dry-docking gives us an opportunity to take enhancements to the next level to ensure we deliver the elements that make up the Holland America Line cruise experience.”

The refurbishments include refreshing

Electronic upgrades include a new USB outlet added to the bed’s headboard, bedside LED lights that facilitate latenight reading, upgraded electrical outlets and a lighted closet rod that makes it easy to select the day’s attire.

Suite bathrooms will also receive a makeover with a wall of designer glass tile serves as a backdrop to the new dressing area that includes new stone tops, modern taps and under-mount sinks. Other improvements include new contemporary mirrors with integrated side-by-side LED lighting, stylish floor tiles, as well as a nightlight which enables guests to easily find their way in the dark.

Starting in January 2016, all suites across the fleet also started to receive new amenities to complement the strong offering of amenities that already include priority embarkation, disembarkation and tender service; exclusive use of the Neptune Lounge for Neptune and Pinnacle suite guests; private breakfast service in the Pinnacle Grill; and complimentary laundry and dry cleaning services.

MSC Cruises Confirms Two Additional Next-Generation Ships At the coin ceremony for MSC Meraviglia held February 1, MSC Cruises confirmed the existing STX France

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NEWBUILDS AND REVITES options to build an additional two ships in the Meraviglia class. The two newlyannounced Meraviglia-Plus next-generation ships will feature increased tonnage and overall size, with a total of 2,444 cabins and a maximum LSA (passengers and crew) of 8,000, and innovations like the first and only classic and contemporary fine art museum at sea.

Following MSC Meravigila’s entering service in June 2017 and a second Meraviglia vessel slated for winter 2019, the two new Meraviglia-Plus next-generation ships will be delivered in October 2019 and September 2020, completing the order of four Meraviglia ships by STX France two years earlier than anticipated.

“The two Meraviglia-Plus vessels will be even larger and longer as well as richer in features and amenities, thus confirming MSC Cruises as the industry’s boldest innovator when it comes to ship design and experiences we create for our guests,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, MSC Cruises executive chairman.

With its elegant, cutting-edge design and exceptional features, every detail of the Meraviglia-Plus class embodies the elegant side of the Mediterranean, which lies at the heart of the MSC Cruises experience. At 331 meters long and with the addition of 200 more cabins than MSC Meraviglia, the two ships will feature a maximum capacity of nearly 6,300 guests. Plus, with the ability to dock in most ports, they will maximize guests' choice of itineraries and destinations.

The unique public spaces filled with boutiques, restaurants and tranquil spots for shopping, eating and relaxing as well as socializing have also been further improved. The interior promenade will be an impressive 111 meters long with an LED sky screen above it beaming out visual events and vistas around the clock to animate the entire promenade from above and create a unique atmospheric experience.

Another key distinguishing element of the MSC Cruises experience is its commitment providing its guests the richest

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array of entertainment possible. As with the recently announced Cirque du Soleil partnership, which will bring worldclass shows exclusively to MSC Cruises in co-designed, purpose-built dining and entertainment venues guests, Meraviglia-Plus ships will feature a unique, cultural experience for guests at sea with the first-of-its-kind classic and contemporary fine art museum. This industry-first feature will enable guests to discover world culture not only through rich and varied itineraries but also onboard by experiencing masterpieces from around the globe in collaboration with the world’s premier cultural centers, classic and modern art museums as well as public and private institutions.

Additionally, Meraviglia and MeravigliaPlus ships will look to set a new standard in smart ships with the recently announced partnership with Samsung that brings next-generation technology with everything from the latest displays and mobile solutions to medical equipment, as well as products for enhanced reality experiences.

The two new ships will be worth €1.6 billion, thus bringing MSC Cruises’ investment for the two Meraviglia plus the two Meraviglia-Plus ships to a total of €3 billion.

Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils The Norwegian Edge, a $400 Million Fleet Refurbishment Norwegian Cruise Line recently revealed The Norwegian Edge™, an innovative program that promises to introduce a new standard of excellence that encompasses the entire guest experience, from ship hardware to culinary enhancements and exclusive private destination development. The Norwegian Edge™ reflects a significant two-year $400 million investment by the company through 2017 and demonstrates the line's commitment to exceptional quality and extraordinary experiences. The centerpiece of the program is an extensive ship refurbishment initiative that

will elevate the experience on board the Norwegian fleet to this new standard.

"Norwegian has a long history of investing in its fleet to offer guests the latest and greatest innovations, but the investment to raise our ships to The Norwegian Edge™ standard of excellence takes it to new levels," said Andy Stuart, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief operating officer. "The new standards of The Norwegian Edge program will entice our guests to return again and again to ships that will look and feel as if they were just delivered, with all new menus and new dining experiences, visiting incredible exclusive destinations that reflect the quality finishes, amenities and outstanding service found across the Norwegian fleet."

The Norwegian Edge program seeks to create modern, relevant and delightful vacation experiences for guests at every turn—an approach that dovetails perfectly with the brand's unique promise of freedom and flexibility, all which is showcased through Norwegian's new marketing campaign, Feel Free.

Fleet Enhancements The extensive ship revitalization program at the heart of The Norwegian Edge will completely transform many spaces on board nine of the fleet's ships to reflect the premium look and feel of the line's newest and most spectacular ships. As the cruise line with the youngest fleet in North America, this extensive enhancement program will offer much more than the traditional soft goods décor updates and serve to make the line's ships into essentially new vessels.

The refurbishment program began in October 2015 with a full refresh of Norwegian Epic that included the debut of brand new venues like The Cavern Club; complete restaurant makeovers in La Cucina and a new look for Cagney's, Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, The Manhattan Room and the Garden Café, now with a sleek and crisp white palette; and refreshed décor, furniture and flooring in many public spaces, including The Haven Courtyard, Lounge and

Restaurant, for a more modern and clean design.

Norwegian Gem followed in November, debuting significant enhancements including a complete makeover of Bliss Lounge; extensive interior refurbishments; refreshing of décor including new furniture and new flooring in all specialty restaurants and several complimentary outlets, as well as bars and lounges, to reflect a more contemporary look; new pool deck furniture; interactive digital signage and wayfinding technology; new teak flooring throughout outdoor spaces and corridors of upper decks; and upgrades to The Haven Courtyard and Sundeck with a new look including more shaded areas, cabanas and lounge chairs.

Throughout the course of the refurbishment program, a total of seven additional ships will go into dry dock for both guest-facing and technical enhancements: Pride of America and Norwegian Sun in spring 2016; Norwegian Dawn in summer 2016; Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Pearl in winter 2017; and Norwegian Jade in spring 2017.

Culinary Program As the innovator of freedom and flexibility at sea with no set dining times and up to 28 dining options per vessel, Norwegian understands that dining is central to guests' vacation experience.

Therefore, the line is continuing to expand investment in the onboard culinary program, to create exceptional experiences, from gourmet meals to superb service.

New for 2016, all ships in Norwegian's fleet now offer upgraded complimentary dining room menus and the addition of optional à la carte priced items in the main dining rooms, such as grilled lobster tails and surf and turf entrees, providing guests additional choice and tastes to create their ultimate dining experience. The new complimentary dining menus offer an increased variety - featuring appetizers, soups and salads, featured entrees, and dessert - and have been carefully developed by

Norwegian's culinary team with a focus on balancing popular traditional dishes like prime rib, chateaubriand, rack of lamb and escargot with current dining trends and heightened guest expectations. New offerings include more seafood selections such as fresh grouper, along with contemporary dishes like shrimp ceviche, seared Atlantic scallops with fennel puree, and braised beef short ribs.

Norwegian also expanded the new specialty dining menus that debuted on Norwegian Escape across the fleet. The introduction of these new enhanced menus at the line's signature specialty restaurants—Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro and La Cucina—along with new offerings at Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki will further elevate guests dining experience by providing additional choices and new flavors.

The menus include traditional French favorites at Le Bistro such as Bouillabaisse, Pan-Seared Jumbo Bay Scallops and Veal Medallions with Sauce Morrel, and a more robust menu at La Cucina featuring antipasti, risotto and traditional secondi courses like Osso Buco alla Milanese or Pan-Seared Sea Bass Filet.

closer to each ship's dry dock date.

Destination Experiences Norwegian has further expanded plans for the line's privately-owned destinations including the development of the Caribbean's premier resort-style experience at Harvest Caye, Belize. This spectacular resort-style port of call will feature an expansive pool, exclusive beach, shallow lagoon for watersports, private luxury cabanas and many more exciting features, all in the richest ecosystems in the region with a diversity of flora and fauna that is core to the Harvest Caye experience.

Considerable new features are also in store for the line's private Bahamian island, Great Stirrup Cay. The island was recently enhanced in 2014 and will debut several new offerings and high quality amenities for guests by spring 2017. Specific details will be announced later this year, and guests should expect to find experiences on the island that complement those found on board Norwegian's ships, including private spaces, luxury relaxation areas, multiple food and beverage outlets and interactive activities.

In addition to the new menus, Norwegian is also further expanding training and certification for the fleet's culinary and dining teams. All Executive Chefs, Executive Sous Chefs and other culinary staff are certified by American Culinary Federation (ACF).

Azamara Journey Emerges from Dry Dock The First of Azamara's Revitalized Ships Completes Bow to Stern Overhaul Revealing Modern Décor, New Technologies as well as New Services and Amenities for Guests

The line is also working toward a certified service training program to include all guest-facing positions and three new training and development centers have opened across the globe to help train crew members prior to boarding ships, so they are immediately able to provide excellent service as soon as they step onboard.

Departing Freeport, Bahamas for Miami, Azamara Journey, the first of Azamara's two ships undergoing major upgrades, has been outfitted with new venues, public spaces and technologies to bring fresh services and amenities to guests.

Guests should also expect to see the expansion of popular existing partnerships with culinary experts for food and beverage outlets on board. More details and specific information will be shared

"There is no area on the ship that has not been touched," says Larry Pimentel, President and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises. "Known for our land programs to provide our guests with the most personalized Destination Immersion experiences in the industry, Azamara needed

NEWBUILDS AND REVITES to take our onboard product to the next level. Cruise ships are like fine hotels, after wear and tear, upgrades need to be made. We can't wait to have our new and loyal guests onboard to see what we have done. It's gorgeous and provides all the modern services and amenities that today's traveler needs and demands. I think we have exceeded expectations."

Azamara contracted several of the world's leading design consultants for the hospitality, leisure and entertainment industries, to help transform its ships into modern oases at sea. As Azamara Journey comes out of dry dock, all stateroom and suites have had an overhaul creating an ambiance that is comfortable as well as timeless and elegant. Authentic materials were used, with beautiful stone and porcelain throughout and custom design. Two new Spa Suites have been built adjacent to the Sanctum Spa featuring an elegant look with organic and muted colors providing exclusive access to unique spa amenities that will be included in the price of these staterooms. And, the Club World Ocean and Owner's Suites have also been fully redesigned.

Additionally, Azamara Journey's new dining and entertainment enhancements throughout the entire ship are revealed including makeovers to The Patio, Windows Café, Discoveries Restaurant and Discoveries Bar, and the Living Room: The Patio A guest favorite onboard, formerly known as the Pool Grill, The Patio was completely transformed into a sit-down al fresco dining experience. The area now features beautiful tablecloths and candles in the evening creating a fresh ambiance. New lighting, ceilings and fans added modern elements to the renovated look. The décor won't be the only refresh as The Patio also serves up a new evening menu to be enjoyed amidst some of the most stunning oceanside backdrops in locales around the world. In the evening, interested dinner guests can occasionally enjoy live music alongside their meal. After dinner and a movie, travelers looking to satisfy

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their sweet tooth can stop by the new Swirl & Top self-serve frozen yogurt station to indulge in a variety of flavors and choice of toppings.

Windows Café Dining offerings indoors are not to be left out as Windows Café has been reinvigorated with contemporary furniture and place settings. Tables for two were added, allowing more options for couples or the ability to combine tables to accommodate larger parties, or to join a group of friends for a meal. For those looking to dine while watching the sunset, Windows' outdoor dining area and Sunset Bar is right out the back door, with a rejuvenated look and the same stunning views.

Discoveries Restaurant and Discoveries Bar Discoveries Restaurant is continuing the trend of reimagining. The refreshed restaurant features a warm and inviting atmosphere with new décor, lamps, seating, and sheers. A variety of different sized tables are offered to accommodate groups of all sizes with ease.

Discoveries Bar received a modern makeover, as well, with new bar stools, sofas, chairs and tables, sheers, painting and wood trim. The bar provides a tranquil and friendly atmosphere with a rich blend of tailored and refined elements for guests.

Living Room Guests will feel right at home in the new and improved Living Room (formerly the Looking Glass Lounge). The relaxing area offers guests the comfort of a well-furnished space, featuring cozy chairs and sofas and a handcrafted wooden wine table. Passengers can sample tastes and entertainment from morning until night with the following options: Daytime Fare: From 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. enjoy a selection of fine teas and coffees along with delicious breakfast pastries, finger sandwiches, and sweets.

Afternoon Delight: From 4:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. each day guests may

choose from a variety of tasty hot and cold tapas with a mix of Spain's eclectic and sophisticated flavors. The onboard sommelier will be happy to suggest the perfect red, white, or rosé wine or champagne to pair accordingly.

In the evenings the Living Room livens up into a space for dancing, karaoke or live music from one of the ship's onboard musicians followed by a house DJ, playing music to keep the party going well into the night. On occasion, specialty performances will entertain guests while other nights the Chef may surprise Living Room dwellers with delectable featured desserts. Whether stopping by for a light bite or staying for the entire evening, The Living Room serves up entertainment and culinary offerings for guests day and night.

Casino and Spirits The Casino received new slot machines, sleek carpets, and reupholstered seating with custom-designed fabrics. And, of course, the Casino wouldn't be complete without a proper location in close proximity for a cocktail, the transformed Spirits bar will available for guests just a stone's throw away.

Azamara Quest will enter dry dock in April 2016 in Singapore.

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SHIPBOARD AND LAND-BASED EXPERIENCES

Disney Cruise Line Delivers New Vacation Experiences at Sea

By Karl L. Holz, President, Disney Cruise Line

T

o attract more cruisers and surpass their expectations every time they sail with us, the cruise line industry must continue to add fresh and innovative shipboard experiences. With the extraordinary growth of the industry in recent years, we have seen tremendous leaps in technology, entertainment and dining. Our guests not only desire but expect even more advancements and conveniences during their vacations at sea.

They also expect value and an experience that is free of hassles.

At Disney Cruise Line, we are continually looking for ways to deliver new vacation experiences to families and are committed to investing in our fleet. In recent 48 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

years, not only have we added capacity with the launch of the Disney Dream in 2011 and the Disney Fantasy in 2012, but we are continuously “reimagining” elements across our entire fleet. We work closely with our partners from across the Disney organization to leverage the stories, brands and characters that are so cherished by our guests, bringing them to life aboard Disney Cruise Line.

This October, we are embarking on our latest round of ship enhancements aboard the Disney Dream. During this dry dock, we will add two new interactive youth areas – one themed to Star Wars and another to the Disney Infinity actionadventure video game.

Children will soon be transported to a far-away galaxy via Star Wars: Millennium Falcon, a Force-filled play area inspired by the spacecraft from the legendary saga. Upon entering the spaceship, kids will join the Rebel Alliance in the epic battle of good versus evil by assisting with the navigation of this powerful space vehicle. Sitting in the cockpit, children can pilot the spaceship through hyperspace and trigger lightspeed jumps to different locations around the galaxy.

This new attraction will be located in Disney Dream’s Oceaneer Club, the same space where we will also debut the high-tech Disney Infinity interactive

attraction. In the Disney Infinity area, children can experience a whole new way of playing together with exciting virtual experiences and immersive activities. Customized, on-screen adventures will bring to life characters and stories from across The Walt Disney Company.

Another example of our commitment to Disney “synergy” is the addition of a new sweet shop for families on the Disney Dream. Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats will satisfy the sweet tooth of cruisers of all ages, and its appearance will resemble the whimsical candy land of the Sugar Rush race car game from the film “Wreck-It Ralph.” The shop will offer handmade gelato and ice cream, an assortment of candy, and delectable novelty treats for purchase. New to Deck 11, the smell of freshly baked waffle cones and candy will linger from the specialty store’s two entrances. The sweet shop’s décor will feature nods to the film, including a race track and checkerboard patterned floor, gas pump-style gumball dispensers, Vanellope’s race car and King Candy’s throne.

Our magical makeover salon – Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique – will also be added to the ship during dry dock. Coming to Deck 5 midship, this salon will bring to life the storybook fantasies of young guests with pixie-dusted and piratethemed makeovers, offering aspiring princesses and adventurers ages three to 12 the chance to transform into royalty with the help of a fairy godmother-intraining. On pirate party night this boutique becomes The Pirates League where swashbuckling pirates of all ages will have the opportunity to unleash their “Inner Buccaneer.”

Disney Cruise Line also remains focused on introducing new adult vacation experiences as well. Among the enhancements being made to the Disney Dream will be the addition of a new water feature, Satellite Falls, an adultexclusive feature on Deck 13. This circular splash pool, with benches and a

gently falling rain curtain, will provide cool comfort for guests. They’ll soak up the sun in loungers and relax in the shade under a canopy.

Top Photograph: Kids in Disney’s Oceaneer Club will be transported to a faraway galaxy at Star Wars: Millennium Falcon, a Force-filled play area inspired by the spacecraft from the legendary saga. They can express their creativity through Star Wars-themed crafts, games and activities, watch episodes from the

This wave of enhancements to the Disney Dream debuts on the Oct. 26 four-night voyage from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The Disney Dream will continue to sail three- and four-night cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas throughout 2015 and into 2016.

At Disney Cruise Line, we are always striving to bring new and exciting elements to our ships, whether it’s fresh stage shows, entertainment, dining or merchandise.

new Disney XD animated series, “Star Wars Rebels,” on a large screen or virtually join the rebellion at gaming stations featuring the series’ action-packed adventures. This new space on the Disney Dream debuts on the Oct. 26 four-night voyage from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas. (Artist Concept) Bottom Photograph: Vanellope's Sweets and Treats will satisfy the sweet tooth of cruisers of all ages, with handmade gelato and ice cream, an assortment of candy, and delectable novelty treats for purchase. Resembling the whimsical candy land of the Sugar Rush race car game in “Wreck-It Ralph,” the sweet shop’s décor features nods to the film, including a race track and checkerboard patterned floor, gas pump-style gumball dispensers, Vanellope’s race car and King Candy’s throne. This new space on the Disney Dream debuts on the Oct. 26 four-night voyage from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas. (Artist Concept)

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 49

SHIPBOARD AND LAND-BASED EXPERIENCES

Making a Difference by Training Tour Guides and Operators

By Beth Kelly Hatt, President, Aquila’s Center for Cruise Excellence It was at the encouragement of the FCCA’s 19 Member Lines—and because of Aquila’s success in tour guide training—that we became a Platinum Member over five years ago. Shortly after joining, Aquila became the FCCA’s official training partner and made a significant impact in cruising destinations throughout the Caribbean and Latin America through its partnership with the FCCA. However, our services and impact are not limited to the Caribbean. Aquila also works with operators and destinations in England, Russia, Africa and the South Pacific. After all, being a tour guide for cruise shore excursions has the same needs and challenges across the globe. (In fact, Aquila planted its roots in Canada.)

Training is an investment in a destination’s growth, with benefits that make a real difference to all involved. From increased customer service and knowledge about the destination to understanding the industry’s and cruise passenger’s wants and needs, training brings out the best and positively impacts guest satisfaction ratings.

The idea of training all started with discussions about how important the tour guide is to cruise lines and cruise lines seeing a need for training. The Aquila Tour Guide Excellence International Certification is seen as a standard to help raise the level of service in the industry.

In the first year, Aventuras 2000 in Panama enrolled their 30 tour guides in the online program, demonstrating that the level of English in the online course was not a problem for Spanish-speaking destinations. Growth continued with the online students, and then Colombia asked Aquila train 100 tour guides in Cartagena—the first of many training visits in countries through the FCCA partnership—and praised the results.

"The Aquila training has made a total difference in Cartagena regarding the confidence of the tour guides…improving the service quality, which has benefited passenger satisfaction levels," said Maria Claudia Lacouture, president of PROCOLOMBIA. At the same time, Aquila was receiving feedback from tour operators and cruise lines that there also was a need for training the tour operators. Aquila spent two years developing the ACE (Aquila Cruise Excellence) Tour Operator Designation, a one-on-one coaching and mentoring program launched in 2014. After successful completion by Discover Mexico, Tropical Tour-Guadeloupe and Aventuras 2000 Panama, we are now working with more than 20 tour operators in the Caribbean and Latin America seeking this program.

Besides improving guest satisfaction ratings, the program also increases job satisfaction and helps in employee retention.

Training can even give seasonal workers a reason to return to the job, another important benefit.

Aquila also continues to work with destinations on broader training, from working on customized service programs for greeters, ambassadors and taxi drivers to assisting destinations at bringing providers of tour experiences together to better understand the industry and how innovating shore excursions can improve destinations.

Plus, destinations are jumping onboard with comprehensive training for both their tour guides and operators. After investing in tour guide training for the past four years, Dominican Republic took a more intensive approach to prepare for the opening of Amber Cove in Puerto Plata by training 200 tour guides onsite last fall. That year also included comprehensive approaches by Belize, El Salvador and Puerto Rico, and cruise lines are taking note.

"The recent Aquila training in San Juan has had amazing results,” said Federico Gonzalez-Denton, associate vice president, government relations LAC, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “It produced immediate positive results, which will definitely result in a significant improvement in cruise guest ratings."

On a personal note, I find it incredibly heartwarming and humbling when I hear cruise executives say they love to hear that Aquila is training in a destination because they know it will help. We are looking forward to continued growth and hope you will join us in making this the year to commit to raising the level of excellence throughout the cruise industry.

Beth Kelly Hatt is the President of Aquila’s Center for Cruise Excellence, the FCCA’s official training partner. You can learn more about their coaching and training programs at www.CruiseExcellence.com First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 51

SHIPBOARD AND LAND-BASED EXPERIENCES Costa Group Trialing Humanoid Robots

largest cruise ship when she arrives in May 2016.

The Costa Group signed an exclusive agreement with the French company ALDEBARAN for the use of "Pepper" robots, the world’s first robot that reads human emotions. Pepper is ideally suited to help and delight cruise passengers, improving the guest experience and providing help and entertainment onboard AIDA and Costa ships. Pepper first demonstrated seaworthiness on AIDAstella before the first batch joined the crew of AIDAprima and Costa Diadema in spring. By summer, Pepper will be fleet-wide. "With an emotional robot onboard our cruise ships, we are once again continuing our tradition of innovation,” said Michael Thamm, CEO of the Costa Group. “For us, this is an important step towards a digital future for our brands."

DreamWorks Animation Characters Set Sail When Harmony of the Seas debuts, she will bring a familiar cast of DreamWorks Animation characters, including Po of Kung Fu Panda; Shrek, Fiona and Puss in Boots of Shrek; and from Madagascar, Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, King Julien and the Penguins. Guests will enjoy events and activities based on DreamWorks Animation's popular feature-film characters, including a DreamWorks Character breakfast in the main dining room, ‘meet and greet’ experiences throughout the day, as well as photo opportunities that can be immediately shared with family and friends back home thanks to VOOM, the fastest internet at sea.

Harmony of the Seas Amps Up Fun for the Entire Family World’s Largest Cruise Ship to Feature DreamWorks Experience, All-New Adventure Ocean Youth Programming and New Family Amenities Royal Caribbean International is taking family fun to new heights onboard its newest ship, Harmony of the Seas.

Guests setting sail aboard Harmony will be able to enjoy more family-friendly offerings than ever before, such as Royal Caribbean’s signature DreamWorks Experience, enhanced entertainment in the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, and a new collection of family amenities—two thoughtful collections of experiences that highlight what travelers tend to enjoy most on vacation: eat, play, drink—in the signature balcony staterooms boasting views of the distinct Central Park and Boardwalk neighborhoods. Combined with The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea, The Perfect Storm trio of water slides, and Splashaway Bay interactive aqua park for kids, Harmony of the Seas will bring a jolt of adventure for the entire family aboard the world’s

52 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

Royal Caribbean's younger guests can enjoy an exhilarating line-up of activities, from story time to dance parties, games and adventures rooted in the popular DreamWorks Animation films at the complimentary, award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program.

Parents and kids alike can enjoy peace of mind knowing that they have guaranteed seats on “opening weekend” of highly anticipated feature films such as "Kung Fu Panda 3,” which premieres onboard the same day it does in theaters on land.

Year-round, guests can watch the latest and long-term favorite DreamWorks Animation films in the ship’s 3D movie theater and on a dedicated DreamWorks TV channel in their stateroom.

Enhanced Adventure Ocean Programming Royal Caribbean’s complimentary, award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program will continue to offer young guests, ages three to eleven, an entertaining line-up of activities and games rooted in fun and excitement. New to be offered in Harmony’s Adventure Ocean Theater is Away We Go!, a black light puppet show created by Tony® awardnominated actors and imaginative producers John Tartaglia and Michael Shawn Lewis of Gable Grove Productions.

Additionally, programming by “Muffalo Potato,” the popular YouTube show, which teaches kids to draw anything in minutes using only letters and numbers, will round out Harmony’s lineup.

Muffalo Potato originally debuted aboard Anthem of the Seas and will expand fleet-wide just in time for summer vacations, starting with Harmony of the Seas.

New Family Amenities for Central Park and Boardwalk Staterooms Families vacationing together on Harmony of the Seas, as well as Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, will be able to take advantage of the new collection of added benefits to balcony staterooms overlooking the Central Park and Boardwalk outdoor neighborhoods.

Starting in November 2016, the signature views will be complemented and enhanced with amenities that feature the best of what each neighborhood has to offer. Guests with views of Central Park—a revolutionary design in which the center of the ship opens to the sky, and features lush, tropical grounds spanning the length of a football field—will enjoy lunch for two at Jamie’s Italian, serving rustic Italian favorites from world-renowned chef Jamie Oliver, or Harmony of the Seas or Giovanni’s Table onboard Oasis and Allure of the Seas; a complimentary bottle of red wine upon arrival; and special perks in the Casino Royale. Guests with views of Boardwalk—a neighborhood inspired by the nostalgic boardwalks of yesteryear—will receive lunch or dinner for four at Johnny Rockets, a family favorite featuring old-fashioned burgers and fries; a soda beverage package for two; and private time on the cruise line’s iconic 38-foot tall rock wall.

Princess Cruises’ $450 Million Multi-Year Product Innovation, Cruise Ship Renovation and Guest Experience Enhancement Campaign Princess Cruises announced The Come Back New Promise, a $450 million multi-year product innovation and cruise ship renovation campaign that

will continue to enhance the line’s onboard guest experience. These enhancements will result in more transformative moments, lifetime memories and meaningful stories for guests to share from their cruise vacation.

Candice Olson, star of the hit HGTV shows “Candice Tells All” and “Divine Design” -- Princess is installing more than 44,000 new beds, to every stateroom, across the fleet through 2018.

“The Come Back New Promise differentiates our approach to cruising and offers our guests enriching vacation experiences by connecting them with each other, nature and different cultures in a new way,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “Our promise is to provide guests transformative moments designed to inspire them to discover the world and themselves, ultimately allowing us to declare that a cruise isn’t good enough unless you ‘come back new.’”

• The Salty Dog Gastropub – another new dining option which highlights a variety of small bites inspired by pub favorites, adapted for an upscale culinary experience. Developed in col laboration with Ernesto Uchimura, a founding chef of the original Umami Burger, guests will also enjoy a variety of beer, whiskey and cocktail selections. Currently available on select ships.

The campaign demonstrates a commitment by Princess Cruises to exceed guest expectations while continuously improving upon and delivering a high value cruise vacation experience that inspires guests to return and introduce cruising to their family and friends.

• Style at Sea with TLC – What to pack, what to wear and how to look stylish are just a few of the many questions guests ask when preparing for a cruise vacation. With the help of TLC’s fashion expert Stacy London, Style at Sea with TLC will provide tips and tricks to help guests feel and look their best while aboard a cruise.

Recently, Princess introduced new initiatives inspired to deliver The Come Back New Promise which further elevate the line’s wellness, culinary/dining experiences and expands the partnership with Discovery Communications. They include:

Previously, Princess unveiled these initiatives which became the inspiration for The Come Back New Promise campaign, providing guests new culinary, enrichment and entertainment experiences, including:

• Chef Curtis Stone – a partnership with award-winning chef, New York Times best-selling author and restaurateur Curtis Stone brings guests fresh, new culinary creations.

All Princess ships will feature “Crafted by Curtis” menu items in the main dining room, while on select ships guests will enjoy “SHARE” a brand new specialty restaurant which will include a new Chef ’s Table experience designed by Stone.

• Chocolate Journeys - An immersive chocolate experience designed by Master Chocolatier Norman Love, exclusive to Princess, was launched offering delectable desserts, wine and chocolate pairings and specialty chocolate cocktails. New chocolate offerings allow guests to indulge in even more custom-crafted signature desserts in new venues throughout the ship, as well as chocolate pairings with tea and more.

• The Princess Luxury Bed – featuring a new specially designed bed to deliver the ultimate night of sleep at sea the Princess Luxury Bed was developed in collaboration with experts in both the science and beauty of sleep -- Dr. Michael Breus, “The Sleep Doctor,” and highly acclaimed designer,

• Discovery at Sea - A partnership with Discovery Communications, which brings new, innovative activities and shore excursions to the Princess-guest experience through hit shows like Deadliest Catch and Shark Week.

• New Original Musical Productions –

Magic to Do, the first of four musical production shows created in collaboration with Stephen Schwartz, award-winning composer and songwriter of Wicked, Godspell and Pippin, combines exhila rating magic with some of Schwartz’s most famous songs. Plus, the show features a brand new song written exclusively for Princess. Magic to Do debuted to critical acclaim and is currently running aboard Crown Princess, Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess.

• Festivals of the World - Around the world, in every season, festivals bring people together to celebrate the uniqueness of a culture and its heritage often in the most colorful ways. Princess hosts festivals onboard that originate from nearly every corner of the globe. From Mardi Gras to Rio Carnival, guests enjoy parties, enriching activities, lively musical performances, festival-related movies and specialty shopping.

• Craft Beer Series – Through partner ships with regional breweries that specialize in local flavor, Princess started the series with an awardwinning West Coast IPA from Strike Brewing Company in San Jose, Calif., followed it with a special 50th Anniversary blend and have since added the Alaska Denali Red Ale, East Coast Blonde Lager and the Australian Gold Ale. • Princess@Sea Messenger - Guests have the opportunity to be connected with their fellow cruisers using mobile messenger, an instant message feature offering an easy way to make plans, confirm a meeting location while onboard the ship. The Princess@Sea Messenger is integrated in the complimentary Princess@Sea mobile app, accessed via a smartphone or tablet browser.

More announcements about ship renovations, entertainment and accommodations, in association with The Come Back New Promise campaign, are on the horizon and sure to bring Princess Cruises offerings to new heights.

First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 53

DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA

Cruise Operator CEOs Tell Destinations to Renew and Innovate to Tap the Industry’s Current and Future Growth

E

very year the FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show gathers cruise industry stakeholders with executives and makes these decisionmakers available through a series of meetings, networking functions and workshops. One of the clearest indicators of this high-level accessibility is an annual roundtable that brings together cruise operator presidents, chairmen, COOs and CEOs to discuss issues that affect the audience.

This trend continued in its 22nd annual edition, with talks focusing on the robust growth—in both size and number—of cruise vessels, along with burgeoning and potential markets like China and Cuba and the challenges and opportunities this all presents for cruise destinations and stakeholders in the Caribbean, Mexico and Latin America.

But maybe more importantly, some of the cruise industry’s biggest players directly addressed and answered attendees’ questions. Michele Paige, moderator and president of the FCCA, opened the panel by asking for questions and highlighting that “this wealth of information is sitting before you, willing to work with you.”

The wealth of knowledge came from Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation & plc and the FCCA; Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.; Adam Goldstein, president and COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.; and Richard Sasso, president and CEO, MSC Cruises (USA) Inc. A question from an Acapulco representative opened the discussions and a tendency to not just answer the particular question, but also apply it to the general audience. After asked how to bring cruise lines back to Acapulco, Del Rio told that

the “best thing you can do is not be in the news for all the wrong reasons.”

He reminded the audience that operators always consider new destinations, but stressed the rising competition: “The world is getting smaller and smaller, and there are more ships, so it puts a squeeze on where we can go.”

Goldstein told that ports and destinations “can’t be in a vacuum.” They must offer an entire itinerary with multiple destinations adding up to something competitive, he told. “You have to think about the overall offering to draw ships opposed to somewhere else.”

A representative from Puerto Rico Tourism Company then extended the scope of how destinations can continue to be competitive in light of global and local competition, from China to Cuba.

Arison seconded Goldstein’s point and told, “It’s about opening up and having some imagination and thinking outside the box to bring new and more imaginative features to the product.”

He contrasted guests’ expectations from those decades ago satisfied by simple city tours or sitting on the beach, whereas nowadays destinations and tour operators need to “step away and say what will excite the guests and what would really make the experience special.”

“The cruise companies have gone to the forefront of inspiring Caribbean product development.” –Adam Goldstein, President & COO, RCCL But he also reminded attendees that they are in the perfect place to find inspiration and motivation for their imagination: “…there are a lot of destinations doing a lot of new things, and this is a great forum to exchange ideas with people who are doing new things and creating new shore excursions.”

Goldstein responded to the question by first praising the Caribbean’s “inherent advantages” because of its proximity to the North American markets, weather, scenery and destination products.

He then broached the Asian elephant in the room, telling the audience that the exponential growth in the Asian market did not come from Americans deciding overnight not to cruise the Caribbean, but rather from gaining cruisers from a whole new segment of the world’s population.

“The role that cruise vacations and the Caribbean in general plays for the North American population is intact,” he said.

Reiterating Arison’s point of innovation, he told, “…by staying always in the forefront of what people are looking to receive in a vacation experience, the First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 57

DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA

Caribbean and the Caribbean cruise industry will continue to command a leading role…but complacency and sitting tight and not investing and not developing and not paying attention to market trends will clearly result in fewer tourists in general and fewer cruise ships in particular.”

The talk about port infrastructure led to a question about the panelists’ new port projects in the Caribbean—including in Falmouth, Jamaica; Royal’s Norwegian’s in Harvest Caye, Belize; and Carnival’s in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic—and what they mean for the countries, citizens and passengers.

Sasso first reinforced the importance of safety and cleanliness before echoing the others’ sentiments about creating a unique experience. “What can you create in your destination that somebody would want to take a photograph of…whatever assets you have, try to put them on display.”

Arison honored Carnival Victory’s first call to Amber Cove, which happened that day, along with the potential for Dominican Republic, with 350,000400,000 passengers expected in the first year after the Puerto Plata region not having a ship for 40 years, and what developments like this mean for the region: “We need some new interesting and exciting destinations to keep the Caribbean fresh.”

The other elephant was then addressed by a question about pending Cuba plans.

Arison responded by first identifying the current limited scale with smaller ships and people-to-people experiences, but “the potential if the embargo is lifted is enormous.”

He told it would not likely happen any time soon, but that the aforementioned potential would benefit the Caribbean.

“The demand for the Caribbean will be much stronger,” with dramatic increases in overall Caribbean numbers and yields.

However, he warned these gains would not be evenly distributed throughout all destinations, and how much a particular destination benefits would be based on “the strength of the destination, the facilities in the destinations and also its proximity to Cuban ports.”

Sasso reminded that the industry has grown eight percent annually for decades without having Cuba. “So we don’t need Cuba, but I think it would have a positive impact on the region; there will be more ships and more demand for those ships.”

Cuba infrastructure will start to develop immediately because of cruise brands’ initiatives, like Fathom, along with ships for Canadian and European passengers, he informed and then indicated that puts Cuba ahead of the curve when it opens, which he projected to be in two or three years.

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Of course, the investments are not only in the form of creating new destinations, but supporting capacity of the growing vessels and passenger numbers. “When destinations can’t keep up with the needs, we’ll step in and try to do that wherever possible.”

Commemorating the pending opening of Carnival’s third Puerto Maya berth, which happened later during the Conference, he gave an example of further investing in a destination to handle three simultaneous ships after frequently hosting two vessels a day.

He then used Royal’s Falmouth as an example of creating an option to support a new class of ships. And as he later pointed out, nowadays ships that size are becoming the rule, not the exception; new vessels are “big, and they’re getting bigger.” With up to 5,000 passengers, this presents a new set of challenges for both the cruise lines and destinations.

mainland and will offer a full array of shore excursions there, giving “the best of both worlds” where the guest can experience the controlled product and experience Belize’s culture and ecotourism. “We continue to look for opportunities like that, where we have a broader control of the product delivery and, quite frankly, higher margins.”

And as Arison pointed out, some of Carnival’s most popular ports are the ones they developed. “A part of that is the amount of control we have over that product….we have an understanding of what the guests want and are able to deliver that.”

Goldstein referenced the past mindset of cruise operators towards destinations, “We felt like if they wanted our ships to be there, they should make themselves attractive to us; if not, we go somewhere else.”

“You can all see now that there’s been a total change…that underpins the success of this Conference going forward,” he said. “The cruise companies have gone to the forefront of inspiring Caribbean product development… because a number of the companies have both the ability and determination to make things happen.”

After confirming Arison’s point behind the reason for developing Falmouth, to create an environment to deliver the needs for an Oasis-sized ship, he said, “You see all these examples of cruise companies simply causing things to happen with your cooperation—unthinkable 25 or 30 years ago.”

Del Rio echoed Arison’s comments and also shared the immediate impact their development will have, with in excess of $100 million invested, at least 500,000 passengers annually and employment of almost 200.

Paige then connected the dots between new cruise vessels and new destinations by pointing out that Royal’s Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas were placed in China, when in the past cruise lines used older ships for emerging markets. She asked if that trend would continue and what it means for the Caribbean.

Though a private project, he mentioned that the island is only 1.5 miles from the

Goldstein first mentioned China’s scale, which “is fairly exceptional by emerging

“…we want to bring ships to the Caribbean, and we will.” –Frank Del Rio, President & CEO, NCLH market standards of any sort,” along with the significant population of coastal communities, sudden economic ability to cruise and a tremendous hunger to see the world.

This creates the perfect combination for a target cruiser, especially since the market has “an ability and willingness to pay rates that are commiserate with the best markets that exist in the world today.”

“There’s a second factor at work,” he continued. “That’s the role of the Internet…Everybody knows the best they can access in all industries…and there’s an instant appetite and demand for the best.”

“So what are the implications for the Caribbean? It’s what we’ve been talking about—the ability to maintain world-class competitiveness, the things that….destinations need to do to stay fresh, vibrant, safe, compelling, interesting.”

“If that happens…there are enough intrinsic advantages for the Caribbean to compete, but if none of those things happen, there will be an increasing loss of share to the rest of the world.”

Sasso pointed out the potential advantage presented by the growth of markets like China. “Eventually it does help all of us, including the Caribbean…when people become fond of cruising, they’re not always just going to cruise in China…They’re going to become Caribbean cruisers and European cruisers...so this multi-million source market will also benefit all of us down the road.”

Reinforcing this point, Arison referenced the omnipresence of Asians in Europe over the summer before telling, “They’re going to be traveling everywhere in the world. They’re going to be the largest middle-class in the world, and

plenty of them are going to be coming to the Caribbean.”

Norwegian has over 40 percent of its capacity dedicated to the Caribbean, Del Rio reminded and told, “I don’t think that’s going to change any time soon.”

“The other thing to keep in mind is that the shipyards are full of orders all the way through 2021, and not all those ships are headed for China. Many of them are heading [to the Caribbean].” One of those ships, Norwegian Escape, just recently went to PortMiami for yearround Caribbean sailings.

“You all should feel confident to continue to invest in your businesses, continue to invest in the destinations here in the Caribbean basin, and that will keep us here…we want to bring ships to the Caribbean, and we will.”

Arison seconded Del Rio and then gave some perspective by telling that only six of Carnival Corporation’s 100 ships are in China. “Obviously the number is much bigger in the Caribbean and has continued to grow through this whole cycle.”

Paige then steered the discussion back to the importance of “putting the WOW back in the product,” which has a mutual benefit: impressing passengers, who then can return for land-based vacations and refer friends and family, and maximizing revenue for cruise lines, with shore excursions being one of the largest sources, thereby incentivizing cruise calls. She asked what responsibility cruise operators place on the destination to create this win/win scenario.

“There needs to be marquee value for us to put a port on an itinerary…and if you do that job, you’ll help us,” said Sasso. He then touched on part of the cost-efficient model lines use to determine ports of call, including proximity and fuel consumption, “but the most important [factor]…an experience equal to or greater than the one we provide [passengers], which today is extraordinary.”

have to do it with quality and innovation.

FCCA has been your best friend for over 35 years, helping you see, hear, learn what that could be.”

What that could be may not always simply involve throwing money at the problem and expecting a solution. “It’s not always about investing the money; it’s about having a great idea…You have to keep inventing and reinventing.”

Arison used Dominica as an example, as it limited premier tourism sites to only ship-sold shore excursions during cruise calls. He cautioned the political difficulty of this initiative, but told, “From a cruise operator point of view, shore excursions are an important part of our revenue base, and if [destinations] can help us control the shore excursion traffic….it’s going to be more appealing for the itinerary planners.”

Putting the WOW back in the product does not require new products, reminded Goldstein. “Making what you have more available and branding it more strongly are also opportunities to create more WOWs…Thinking creatively about what you can bring to the customer means more than just building a giant waterslide.”

“There’s a lot of opportunity for the Caribbean region as the cruise business continues to evolve…It’s about being proactive and strategic and thinking about your situation and how to make the most of it. The world wants to come here and cruise….but as a matter of degrees, your success will depend on how you approach these challenges and how you master them.”

Summing up, Sasso said, “if you think about every time government, private sector and suppliers are all on the same page working together, you see enormous successes…I have always labeled FCCA as Friendship, Cooperation, Communication, which leads to Advancement…when all of us work for the same goal, that’s what you see.”

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA

The Caribbean Staying Afloat Against Global Competition

By Michele M. Paige, President, Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association

T

he Caribbean did it again. With movie-like timing, just when many started to worry about the Caribbean’s future in light of growing global competition, it reasserted its importance to the industry by buoying cruise operators’ third quarter earning reports.

Of course, other factors contributed to this outside of the Caribbean’s beauty, culture and multitude of destination products, with global economic concerns bogging down other markets. But one of the region’s assets—its proximity to North America—largely led to its impressive profitability, aided by a strong U.S. economy and dollar and North American cruisers’ strong demand at higher rates.

Now obviously these macroeconomic circumstances always change, but as all real estate agents know, location is the one thing you cannot change. And that wave of earnings reports again highlighted one of the Caribbean’s inimitable intrinsic advantages: its direct access to the world’s leading source market of cruisers.

With all the recent focus concentrating on burgeoning markets like China, it becomes easy to forget that North America retains that heavyweight title.

Lately the market’s growth potential is also often overlooked, despite its enormousness, to the tune of about 76 percent of the U.S. population that still has not cruised (or more than 242 million potential new cruisers).

And the new quarterly travel agents survey by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) revealed that destinations reached by domestic North American ports are poised for a strong 2016, with 73 percent of agents reporting increases in Alaskan cruises, 52 percent seeing growth in the Caribbean, and 42 percent expecting growth in Canada and New England—all partly due to agents citing the cost and hassle of international flying becoming a barrier for long-distance cruise destinations.

Plus, the Caribbean can eventually expect reciprocal growth from the new international source markets. Study after study has shown that first-time cruisers are likely to become repeat cruisers and begin sampling other cruise products, like First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise | 61

DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA luxury lines, and destinations. So the Caribbean should see more newly converted cruisers in Europe and Asia heading to the region, which should come as no surprise after increased presence by cruise lines like the Mediterranean MSC Cruises and German AIDA Cruises and TUI Cruises.

Other growth catalysts for the Caribbean have gotten a little more air time recently.

Most notably, or at least most talked about, is the effect of new destinations, like Cuba.

As Micky Arison, chairman of both Carnival Corporation and the FCCA, told at our recent FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show, he believes Cuba’s opening would benefit the Caribbean overall, with stronger demand and dramatic increases in numbers and yields.

However, he warned these gains would not be evenly distributed throughout all destinations, and how much a particular destination benefits would rely on its strength and facilities.

This seems to offer an analogy on the Caribbean’s overall potential and outlook. Clearly the region has ample intangibles and advantages on the world stage, but these alone will not guarantee competitiveness against the rest of the world.

During the same event, Adam Goldstein, president and COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited, told attendees that Caribbean destinations need to “stay fresh, vibrant, safe, compelling, interesting.”

“If that happens…there are enough intrinsic advantages for the Caribbean to compete, but if none of those things happen, there will be an increasing loss of share to the rest of the world.”

Yet as Goldstein reminded, cruise lines themselves are the biggest investors in product development, such as Royal’s project in Falmouth, Jamaica paving the way for Oasis-class vessels; Carnival’s project in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, which returned cruises there for the first time in decades; Norwegian

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Cruise Line Holding’s planned $100 million in Harvest Caye, Belize; and MSC Cruises’ recently announced marine reserve in the Bahamas.

So how can destinations work with cruise lines to stay fresh, ahead of the competitive curve and even get a piece of the investment pie? “[The] FCCA has been your best friend for over 35 years, helping you see, hear, learn what that could be,” told Rick Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA) Inc., at our conference. “I have always labeled FCCA as Friendship, Cooperation, Communication, which leads to Advancement…when all of us work for the same goal, that’s what you see.”

We work with destinations’ private and public sectors to give them direct access to and input from some of the cruise industry’s key players, like the ones quoted above and high-level executives throughout numerous sectors, including itinerary planning, shore excursions, port and destination development, government relations, purchasing and more.

This access and input is at the forefront of all of our functions. FCCA Platinum Membership regularly joins members and cruise executives for exclusive meetings and events to develop mutual understanding and close working relationships.

Members experience this while proposing a new business model at a one-on-one meeting or cementing a deal over dinner during a cruise.

Plus, Platinum Membership comes with a custom-tailored strategy to assist destinations’ private and public sectors. We learn about our members’ individual issues and goals and then utilize our knowledge of and contacts in the industry to formulate an action plan that optimizes their cruise tourism impact.

These plans have led to everything from some of those aforementioned destination developments to exponential cruise passenger increases, such as Martinique

and Mazatlan, Mexico growing from five-year FCCA Member Line passenger arrival lows of 23,000 and zero to more than 270,000 and 190,000, respectively, in 2015.

We also offer other ways to target the key executives and industry stakeholders. There is a clear value of capturing the attention of our network of key players and stakeholders, and we offer sponsorship and advertising opportunities that directly target them. From email campaigns and online and print publications—including this publication, the official magazine of the global cruise industry backed and distributed by us, CLIA and our Member Lines—to meetings and events, there are ways to capitalize and gain exposure from all of our functions.

And our events promote mutual understanding and forge relationships between cruise line representatives and stakeholders. These range from close-knit, members-only events to larger, open-registration events like the annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show. Taking place in San Juan, Puerto Rico from September 26-30, the 2016 edition will gather more than 1,000 attendees with over 100 cruise executives for one-on-one meetings, networking events and workshops that cater to informing attendees how to increase their share of cruise tourism.

Of course, similar to simply relying on the Caribbean’s inherent advantages, attending events or joining associations alone will not be enough to increase business and competition on the global field.

Destinations and companies must use these resources and information to constantly and proactively refresh and renew their products and image.

If that happens, well, I think Goldstein said it well: “There’s a lot of opportunity for the Caribbean region as the cruise business continues to evolve…The world wants to come here and cruise….but as a matter of degrees, your success will depend on how you approach these challenges and how you master them.”

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA Caribbean Tourism Reports Tourism Record for 2015 The Caribbean set new arrival and spend records in 2015, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO).

International tourist trips to the region grew by 7 percent to 28.7 million visits, exceeding the projected growth of 4 to 5 percent, and a record 24.4 million passengers cruised in Caribbean waters. Plus, visitors spent an estimated $30 billion, 4.2 percent more than the $28.8 billion spent in 2014.

“2015 was the second year in a row that the region has done better than the rest of the world and the sixth consecutive year of growth for the Caribbean,” said Hugh Riley, secretary general of CTO. Riley attributed the growth to improved global economic conditions in the marketplace; a boost in consumer confidence, particularly in the United States; falling oil prices; rising seat capacity and persistent marketing by CTO member countries and their partners.

The CTO reported growth in all the major markets—the United States, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean and South America—with the intra-regional market performing better than it has ever done before, accounting for 6 percent of total arrivals.

The US, the Caribbean’s primary market with about 50 percent of arrivals, grew 6.3 percent to 14.3 million visits. The Canadian market grew by 4.5 percent to 3.4 million; Europe accounted for 5.2 million visits, a 4.2 percent jump over the

previous year, with 1.1 million coming from the United Kingdom, a 10.4 percent increase; and South America continued its growth, generating 2.1 million visitors, an 18.3 percent jump over 2014.

“Needless to say, we are very pleased with the Caribbean’s performance of stayover arrivals in 2015,” said Riley. “In each quarter the region recorded at least six percent growth over the corresponding quarter for 2014; and each month in 2015 was better than the same month the previous year.”

“Still, the Caribbean cannot be complacent,” he continued. “We must continue to grow our traditional markets, strengthen emerging ones and penetrate new sources as we target the 30 million arrivals mark we set some years ago. Our efforts to improve our product quality, enhance our marketing, grow our rate base, increase our profitability, and constantly offer excellent value for money, must continue.”

MSC Cruises to Double Presence in Cuba MSC Cruises will further strengthen its presence in Cuba by homeporting a second ship in Havana in the winter 2016-17 season to continue to meet rising demand for opportunities to experience the Caribbean island’s uniquely rich culture. In a move that will quickly double the number of MSC Cruises Caribbean itineraries centered on Cuba, MSC Armonia will join MSC Opera in Havana and sail two separate, culturally diverse, eight-day itineraries.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA

See You in Puerto Rico at the 2016 FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show

A

t the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, we are excited to host the 2016 FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show.

We are incredibly proud of having the wonderful opportunity of welcoming you once again after first hosting the event in 2011. As the premier event of the cruise industry for the Caribbean and Latin American region, it represents an excellent opportunity to share the progress Puerto Rico has experienced during the past five years, our excellent new offerings, and everything the future holds in store, not only for our island, but for one of the most important regions for the cruise industry worldwide.

Historically, Puerto Rico’s strategic location benefited it politically, economically, and even militarily. Today, Puerto Rico’s positioning is advantageous for the Caribbean cruise industry.

San Juan, our capital, is the leading homeport of the Caribbean and the second-largest port for cruise ships in the western hemisphere. About 25 cruise ships call San Juan their home port, and every year new ships either originate sailings from San Juan or make San Juan a port of call.

The Puerto Rico Tourism Company, the local government and members of the tourism industry have worked together on significant developments to enhance our cruise industry. New leg66 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

islation that created incentives to promote Puerto Rico as a prime cruise ship destination has provided us with additional tools to encourage the industry’s growth. Puerto Rico has also implemented key marketing strategies to communicate the advantages of the Island’s geographical location and all the attributes it has to offer—natural beauty, modern infrastructure, unique culture and warm hospitality.

The initiatives developed and executed have already given excellent results for the local industry. Cruise ship traffic experienced a 25 percent increase during fiscal year 2014-2015, led by a record 1.5 million passengers visiting the island. Transit passengers experienced an increase of 32 percent, and homeport passengers saw a 12 percent increase.

One of the key elements that has also helped drive the local cruise industry’s growth has been the improvements to Pier 3, which was crucial for achieving our goal to welcome mega cruise ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, which will visit during the 2016 summer season. These two vessels will make 10 combined visits to Puerto Rico, bringing 60,000 additional visitors to San Juan and an estimated economic impact of $6.4 million during the first season.

Rico’s tourism a vigorous boost. As the main airport in the Caribbean, the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan is crucial for the growth and development of the cruise industry, for both the local industry of Puerto Rico, as well as for the region.

New airlines include SunCountry and Miami Air from the U.S., Volaris from Mexico, Colombia’s Avianca, AirEuropa with flights from Spain, and Norwegian Airlines with direct flights from Oslo, London, Stockholm and Copenhagen. In total, there are presently more than 20 airlines with flights to 50 destinations in the United States and nearly 750 flights to the Caribbean departing from the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport.

But not only has airport seen an extraordinary increase in flight activity, it has also undergone extensive renovations and restructuring led by a $205 million investment by operator company Aerostar Airport Holdings. The transformation and opening of new terminals, combined with the arrival of new airlines and the expansion of new routes, has been a key factor for a four-percent increase in air traffic during fiscal year 2014 -2015, when the Island welcomed 8.7 million travelers.

Puerto Rico’s tourism industry continues to evolve, strengthening its already established niches, as well as providing the necessary resources to enhance emerging ones. New and renovated attractions have helped develop strong offerings for shopping, nature and adventure and more. Last year marked the opening of the long-anticipated The Mall of San Juan, the first mall in the Island to feature world-renowned icon-stores Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue. The mall also features a series of exclusive brand stores, such as Versace, Jimmy Choo and Kate Spade.

As the leading homeport in the region, Puerto Rico’s growth is very important for the rest of the region. Each ship that sails from San Juan positively impacts other Caribbean destinations through increased tourist traffic and purchases in local businesses.

A growing and strong hotel offering has also had a significant impact in the evolution of our local cruise industry. New hotels opening in the Puerto Rico Convention District area provide cruise ship visitors with more and convenient options to extend their visit to and enjoyment of the island.

Since Puerto Rico hosted the 2011 FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show, it has seen a series of important hotel openings, including the Hyatt Place San Juan/Bayamón, Hyatt hacienda Del Mar: A Hyatt Residence Club, Dorado Beach: A RitzCarlton Reserve, Best Western Plus Condado Palm Inn & Suites, Blok Hotel in Vieques, among others. The island has also expanded its Bed & Breakfast offering with new lodgings opening in Old San Juan and Mayaguez.

The arrival of new airlines—11 in just three years—and the expansion by airlines already serving the local market has greatly benefited the local cruise industry and given Puerto

Nature lovers will find the thrill of a lifetime at Toro Verde’s Ecological Adventure Park’s The Monster, the longest zip line in the world, with a 2.5km cable route, equivalent to 28 football fields. The park features more miles of zip line cables than any other park in the world, and it has been selected by Travel & Leisure as one of the “Coolest New Attractions in the World.”

Another popular nature experience from Puerto Rico is Cueva Ventana, “Window Cave,” a large natural cave atop a limestone cliff in Arecibo, overlooking the magnificent Río Grande de Arecibo valley.

For those who love the ocean, the new Vivo Beach Club is a must. This lively oceanfront location features an outdoor beach club, unique restaurants and bars, shopping, music venues, and a brewery. And just a few miles away, visitors can enjoy a variety of watersports, including kitesurfing and paddle boarding, at the Condado area.

As you can see, Puerto Rico has a universe of possibilities for cruise passengers and a world of opportunities for cruise companies. We look forward to sharing more great news with you in San Juan at the 2016 FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA

Costa Maya Continues to Innovate and Drive Cruise Tourism

C

osta Maya’s fascinating stretch of forested coastline gave rise to a cruise port 14 years ago. Today, Puerta Costa Maya serves as a cruise ship gangway, aided by the region’s diverse tourist attractions, ranging from Mayan archaeological sites and a rainforest reserve to pristine white-sand beaches and the world’s second-largest coral reef.

joined an expedition. A new state-of-theart dolphin facility is currently underway to join the other offerings at the port terminal, or "The Fisherman´s Village," including a new (and complimentary) program of folkloric shows and entertainment featuring artists from Mexico and the Caribbean.

To support the wave of cruisers, the destination has been undergoing a major revamp—with investments not only to upgrade infrastructure, but also to create a unique passengerexperience by working with the cruise lines and the local community to differentiate Costa Maya from the rest of the Caribbean and generate a genuine appeal and interest.

Passengers can also get a taste of the destination through an authentic food and beverage offering regional specialties and grilled seafood and lobster hauled in by nearby fishermen, pan-Latin dishes from Cuba and Brazil, Mexican coffees and hot chocolates, sugar-dusted crispy churros and French pastries, and the new pale ale and lager from Costa Maya’s own microbrewery.

The cruise terminal itself has been completely restyled with rustic décor and signage that make passengers feel lile they

Located next to Costa Maya Port terminal is the new adventure park, Mayá – Lost Mayan Kingdom, and its vast variety

of attractions. Built in a 1930s marine trade post, the park is packed full of original details that tell an authentic story, including old luggage, merchandise crates, cone lamps and shipping containers renovated into bathrooms.

Stepping back in time, the passengers also experience Mayan culture. A nine-story pyramid features nine livels of activities like zip-lines and water slides, along with Mayan symbolism like totems and figures of their gods, such as “Kukulkan,” the feathered snake god.

The pyramid’s entrance displays a 32-foot high totem comprised of series of Mayan masks found throughout the region, surrounded by crates, barrels, ropes, pulleys, and other antique decorations.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA River, which circulates the entire park, including the inside of the pyramid and can be enjoyed by swimming or tubing.

At the Jaguar River tour, passengers enter into the subterranean Jaguar Temple before reaching the bubble zone, where bubbles emerge to the water’s surface and guide them to a cavern with a waterfall. Passengers then travel to a campground just visited by the jaguar guardian, and then complete the journey by encountering a Mayan stilt house village.

Mayá – Lost Mayan Kingdom also features seven towers connected with suspended bridges around the park. These are composed by two zip-lines that form two circuits. The longest is about 1,500 yards and includes an amazing water landing.

Another unique attraction is the Tree Water Spring or La Poza del Arbol, named after the grand tree that rises in a natural lagoon.There is also a botanic trail where passengers will find various medicinal plants and fruit trees from the region and a 10-foot deep Mayan cenote with three stone spring pools perfect for rest and relaxation.

In addition to the cruise-related changes, Costa Maya´s foundation is working with local families’ micro-businessesto supplement the traditional lobster fishing and become integrated in the region’s tourist-related activities.

This surge of tourism and its widespread benefits has also led to the development of the nearby fishing village, Mahahual, with boutique hotels, restaurants, beach clubs and coffee shops.

Plus, a new community center was recently built. Beginning operations in spring 2016, it will primarily focus on the children of Mahahual by enabling them not only to take part in a vast variety of activities such as music, dance, handicrafts, sports and technology, but also guide them to make their dreams come true.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA marine ecosystems: coral reefs, seagrass beds, beaches and dunes.

If you are more of an adventurous type, the country has recently started to welcome specialized nature vessels into the Colombian Pacific. Today, destinations like Bahía Solano, Utría and Gorgona have been included in itineraries of cruise lines like Silversea Cruises, National Geographic Expeditions (Lindblad Expeditions) and Swan Hellenic.

Colombia’s Evolution From Cruise Destination into a Procurement Supplier Linens, uniforms and costumes were among the most demanded products by cruise lines in 2015.

Colombia’s high quality fabrics, innovative techniques, handcrafted designs, and competitive lead times have paved Colombia’s path to become a premier supplier for the tourism industry.

The first thought that comes to mind when you think about Colombia’s Caribbean is more like a story out of a magical book with colonial cobblestone streets with more than 500 years of history, Caribbean sounds, high-spirit people welcoming cruise passengers. This is all true, but there is also a hidden story behind the tourism industry, a sector growing by leaps and bounds, in dressing and fitting the people that work in this magnificent industry.

Cartagena is one of the most important cities, where cruise ships arrive more than 90 percent of the yea. It has become a sprawling cultural hub in Latin America, expecting to welcome 380,000 tourists during its 2015-2016 season. When you arrive in this Caribbean paradise, you will feel right at home surrounded by tropical smells of exotic fruits and the warmhearted people whose main goal is not only to deliver good service, but also act as your guide in a journey back in time to a city full of charm and character.

There are many other locations throughout Colombia with diverse landscapes and abundant nature trails, which continue to captivate visitors from around the 72 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

world. Colombia welcomes cruise passengers from major cruise lines like Carnival, Celebrity, Holland America, Norwegian, Princess, Pullmantur and Royal Caribbean, just to name a few.

Most recently, travelers from Europe have started to set their eyes on Colombia. This is why the German cruise line AIDA started operating back in 2015, and it is expected to grow its calls into 2017. Plus, it will be joined by German TUI Cruises as it begins operations next season.

Santa Marta, San Andres and Providencia are the perfect example of Colombia’s natural, unspoiled settings.

Santa Marta’s distinctive landscape—its hues of greens, white sandy beaches and snow-peaked mountains—can be seen from the beach shore and make this destination a one-of-a-kind attraction.

San Andres and Providencia are junglecovered islands located in the northwestern side of the country. Their biggest sceneries can be found under the sea by diving into the third-largest barrier reef. In 2000, UNESCO declared the entire archipelago a Seaflower Biosphere Reserve, being home to three of the most important

Colombia’s strategic location, situated in a hurricane-free zone, is what attracted more than 2.2 million tourists, including 272,000 cruise passengers, in 2015. Today, the country welcomes close to 28 cruise lines with more than 40 different vessels. Colombia is rising as one of the most stable economies in Latin America as a result of its political stability, economic boom, infrastructure development, and beautiful destinations, which have been the foundation of tourism growth.

The country has managed not only to boost its economy and tourism industries, but has also strengthened other sectors like textile and apparel, manufacturing, and agribusiness. In 2012, Colombia signed a Free Trade Agreement with the United States, allowing international buyers to source duty-free from Colombia.

Therefore, the country is quickly becoming a textile and apparel supplier leveraging its more than 100 years of experience in high quality fabrics, attention to detail and personalized service.

Colombia’s trade growth can be seen in sales to corporations like Disney and Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCCL), which manufacture products such as uniforms, costumes, cloth napkins, towels, and tablecloths from Colombian companies like Lafayette, Ci Blu, Fabricato, Everfit, CI Kreate and Distrihogar.

Recently, RCCL acquired over 300 inspirational art pieces from the Colombian company Love to be to decorate nine floors of its newest vessels, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas.

Colombia’s evolution from cruise destination into a procurement supplier continues to position the country as an international ally for the industry.

DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA

Peru: Land of Hidden Treasures

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eru, a must-see destination for travel enthusiasts in North America, is legendary among world travelers for its incomparable treasures from culture, history, active/adventure opportunities and natural resources to breathtaking mountain scenery. Stunning in its abundance of both natural and man-made attractions, Peru´s tourism treasures offer opportunities for amazement, discovery, learning, exploration and spiritual enrichment. These opportunities are a perfect match for what´s most important to today´s travelers: experiential travel, the quest to find something new about themselves through new experiences.

Peru's civilization is the oldest in South America. Neighboring countries have been created from its ancient Peruvian territory and empire. Peru was the political and productive center of the region with a privileged and ideal geographical location.

Modern Peru boasts entrepreneurs who have rediscovered their capacity to create new wealth, businesses and services.

Peru is located in west-central South

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America, on the coast of the South Pacific Ocean. To the north, Peru is bordered by Ecuador and Colombia, with Chile to the south and Brazil and Bolivia to the east. Possibilities for combined itineraries abound.

The country is divided into three major regions: the Coast (12% of the territory), taking up some 1,800 miles along the western coastline of Peru; the Highlands (28% of the territory) dominated by the Andean Mountain Range and occupying the central region of Peru, and the Jungle (Amazon Rainforest - 60% of the territory) which is one of the great natural reserves on the planet.

Few destinations can fulfill the desire for experiential travel and provide so many opportunities for excursions as well as Peru. Some of its offerings include: Active/Adventure Travel: Peru offers options such as trekking to the breathtaking ¨lost city¨ of Machu Picchu and the Lares Trail, including visits with traditional Andean communities along with spectacular panoramas of peaks, water-

falls and lakes; hiking or sailing through the Amazon rainforest, while experiencing the greatest biodiversity on the planet; surfing and other water sports off the northern beaches; touring the islands of Lake Titicaca and visiting with the people, for whom life has changed little since the days of their ancestors. Peru is one of only 10 mega-diverse countries in the world, with hundreds of endemic species of flora and fauna; a paradise for bird watching and orchid spotting, or the exploration of remote and mythical natural landscapes, some still pristine virgin lands teeming with life.

Family Travel: With its diverse landscapes and limitless number of adventures, activities and learning experiences to share, Peru is the ideal family destination.

Children in particular are fascinated by Peru’s history, its ruins and the colorful stories behind them; its opportunities to experience new cultures, including interaction with its indigenous people; nature and wildlife experiences. All destinations in Peru offer the safety, infrastructure, facilities and services most important for families. What children wouldn’t love to

zip-line or see ruins often only described in fairy tales or history books?

Cultural Travel: Visitors step back in time when exploring Peru’s vast wealth of archaeological heritage, one of the richest in the world. Beyond the magical citadel of Machu Picchu, they can visit fascinating remains of the Moche culture that flourished between AD 100-750; wonder at the enormous ancient figures of the Nasca etched out in the sand; visit extraordinary churches with their extensive murals; view the incredible mixture of Colonial and ancient Incan architecture in Cusco; visit artisan workshops and markets in the picturesque villages of the Sacred Valley; experience Peru’s authentic “living cultures” (in the highlands, around Lake Titicaca or in the Amazon rainforest), and so much more.

Urban Travel: Focus on the incomparable experiences found in Lima (distinctive shopping opportunities, including Peru’s luxury fashion innovations showcased each year during Fashion Weeks around the world; world renowned cuisine and nightlife; historic center; museums and art galleries; neighborhoods; and Pacific shores) and Cusco (vast treasures focusing on history and culture; the worldliness and sophistication of its restaurants, cafes and lodging). Modern and cosmopolitan, Peru´s cities delight locals and tourists alike with a variety of entertainment, art, design, music, and one of the richest and most prestigious cuisines in

the world. Whilst they live at a modern pace, these cities proudly keep their ancient heritage alive. A cosmopolitan fusion combined with olden time traditions.

Culinary Travel: The fact that Peru has been designated the “World’s Leading Culinary Destination” for the last four consecutive years says it all. Peru has an exquisite and tremendously varied gastronomy, from its coastal cuisine highlighted by its seafood, particularly ceviche; to its Nouveau Andean Cuisine, which takes advantage of local produce such as corn, potatoes, quinoa and other high-protein grains; to the jungle fruits, fresh water fish and gamey meats of the Amazon region. Peruvian cuisine is another expression of a national identity that embraces multiple cultures co-existing in one territory; a unifying element in Peru that can be seen everywhere.

Peruvians have become experts at experimenting with new flavors, harmonizing aromas and discovering new ways of cooking. The diversity of Peru's agricultural production, microclimates, geography, multiple cultures and the genius of its chefs have enriched the culinary nature of Peru to the point where it is now recognized as one of the finest expressions of the global cuisine.

Relaxation, Spa & Wellness Travel: A beach extension to the trip is a great way for clients to unwind for a few days after

exploring and trekking in other parts of the country. With some of the best weather on the planet, Peru’s Pacific Coast areas offer a unique option for travelers looking for rejuvenation. In addition to the area’s natural beauty, sun, sand, sea and water sports, visitors can enjoy spa centers with yoga and other wellness activities. The Andes mountain areas (such as Sacred Valley) also provide excellent opportunities for spa and relaxation activities.

Excursions from Lima City of Caral, 5000 year old archeological complex that represents the cradle of the oldest civilization in the Americas.

Real Felipe Fortress, completed in 1774, it is one of the few examples of military architecture built by the Spanish in their American colonies.

Pachacamac, a mud city used by the Lima, Wari, Ychsma, and Incas, located in the Lurin River valley.

Palomino Islands, group of twelve islets off the coast of Callao and home to numerous sea lions and sea birds.

Lunahuaná, sunny valley south of Lima and the perfect spot for adventure sports, also famous for its piscos and wines.

Paso horses, visitors can ride the horses and enjoy the lovely countryside in the numerous area haciendas.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: THE CARIBBEAN AND LATIN AMERICA

Quirigua

Tikal

Deep-Sea Fishing

Antigua

Guatemala: Heart of the Mayan World

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meetings with executives, INGUAT now has a closer relationship with different cruise lines and greater number of cruise calls.

Guatemala has attended many FCCA cruise events in different countries. With the advice and efforts of the FCCA and participation in its conferences, trade shows, workshops and one-on-one

Guatemala has had the opportunity to promote itself as an attractive and interesting destination for cruise visitors searching for places with exuberant nature, Mayan living culture, and archeology.

uatemala Tourism Board, INGUAT, became an FCCA Platinum Member in 1999 to improve the quality of its services and the quantity of cruise ship visits.

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Why Guatemala?

• 70% of visitors return.

• 98% of visitors recommend this amazing destination.

• It is the Heart of the Mayan World.

• Ancient Mayan Culture is alive.

• It is the Land of Eternal Spring.

• It has amazing destinations that will exceed your expectations.

• It is a truly “green experience.”

Tikal Tikal, considered one of the largest archaeological centers of the PreColumbian Maya Civilization, stands out with its magnificent temples. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979, this Mayan city boasts a National Park is in the middle of the tropical jungle of Petén.

The Archeological Park of Tikal covers approximately 222 square miles, and over 4,000 structures can be found at the site, along with hundreds of exotic wildlife species. The more you learn about the Mayan Civilization, the longer you will you wish you could stay.

Cruise tourism transportation to Tikal is by air, and the flight takes approximately 40 minutes. It is a full-day tour.

Quirigua This archeological site is located a stone’s throw away from the Port of Santo Tomas

de Castilla Port in Izabal, and it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1981. Because of the intricate detail of its 22 stelae and zoomorphs, it is one of the most important Mayan sites in Guatemala.

In Quiriguá you can admire “Stela C,” with its glyphs that state the date in which the Mayan Civilization was created (August 13, 3114 B. C.), along with “Stelae E,” the largest quarried stone found so far in the Mayan World.

Weighing in at 65 tons and stretching 10.67 meters, it depicts K’ak Tiliw, known as the Lightning Warrior.

You can take a full- or half-day tour to the archeological site of Quirigua.

Antigua Guatemala Built in 1543, Antigua is located in a highland valley surrounded by three amazing volcanoes, the Agua, Fuego and Acatenango.

This colonial city and UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site is considered the most outstanding and well-preserved colonial city in all Latin America. Antigua is known for its colonial architecture and historical monuments.

Antigua is one of Guatemala’s most popular destinations. Visit colonial monu-

ments, churches and monasteries.

Experience a tour of working coffee and macadamia nut plantations. Stroll through art galleries, antique shops and markets. Antigua’s art galleries, handmade crafts, Spanish learning centers and excellent gastronomy are some of the best in the region.

Lake Atitlan Called “the most beautiful lake in the world” by many visitors, it is surrounded by three magnificent volcanoes, Atitlan, San Pedro, and Toliman, as well as twelve Mayan villages, where the culture and ancient Mayan traditions are still alive.

The town of Panajachel is the biggest tourist attraction on the lake’s shore, offering friendly hiking paths, horseback riding trails, a butterfly sanctuary, kayaking, boat tours and more.

Rio Dulce & Livingston Delight yourself with a combined boat and land tour where you can enjoy the tropical rain forest and exotic fauna of the river’s canyon, which connects the Caribbean Sea with Lake Izabal, Guatemala’s largest lake.

Walk through the colorful town of Livingston and enjoy the tropical archi-

tecture, handicrafts, music and dances.

Experience a variety of Caribbean culinary dishes in a town where the Garifuna, Q’eqchi and Ladino cultures merge.

At Rio Dulce you can visit Castillo de San Felipe, a fortress built in the 16th century to protect goods brought and taken to Guatemala from Europe against the pillage of pirates roaming the Caribbean Sea. Golf & Fishing Deep-sea fishing and golf have become major activities in Guatemala. Its Pacific coastline has been awarded for the last few years as the best spot in the world for catching and releasing marlin and sailfish.

Guatemala holds the world record of most sailfish caught and released in a day, and you can challenge the record during an exciting full-day tour.

Conde Nast Johansen awarded “Best Resort of Central America” to la Reunion Resort and Golf Club, which is located a stone’s throw from Puerto Quetzal. The famous designers Pete and Perry Dye built this world-class golf course, which you can play while enjoying the day at this amazing resort.

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VOTED #1 PORT IN NORTH AMERICA

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At Port Canaveral, we prefer to let our numbers speak for themselves.

$200 million in upgrades, including a new cruise terminal and complete port-wide renovations.

62 million-plus annual visitors to Orlando/Central Florida, the "theme park capital of the world" There's no better place than Port Canaveral to grow your business.

60 million would-be passengers living within the southeast drive market of Port Canaveral #1 ranking by editors of Cruise Critic on "Best Port in North America"

DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: NORTH AMERICA

Port of New Orleans to Showcase Its Offerings and Growth to Cruise Executives and Stakeholders

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ew Orleans has long been known as a destination city, and the Port of New Orleans is gearing up to showcase that to cruise industry leaders this summer during the Platinum Associate Member Advisory Council Conference (PAMAC)—an annual meeting of Platinum Members of the FloridaCaribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) and cruise executives from FCCA Member Lines. Taking place June 22-24, 2016, the PAMAC will provide an opportunity for cruise line leadership and those members working in the industry to meet and address pressing issues for the industry, as well as highlight the host city.

“We are honored to be hosting the conference again this year and see it as an opportunity to showcase the unique amenities New Orleans has to offer,” said Gary LaGrange, president and CEO of the Port of New Orleans. “Whether ves82 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

sels are homeporting here or making a call, we know New Orleans is an international destination that provides an unsurpassed cultural experience.”

The conference is structured with two days of tours and professional networking for the members, followed by a day of panels and one-on-one meetings.

“Attending members include international visitors who manage tours for cruise lines in foreign ports of call. People from the Caribbean and Latin America will be looking for ideas in New Orleans they can implement in their own ports,” said Don Allee, Port of New Orleans’ director of cruise and tourism. “They’ll see we offer land excursions, environmental tours, swamp tours and other historical tours. The foreign companies that service the cruise industry will gain ideas from their visit here. With our food, tours,

music and culture, New Orleans is a premier showcase for what passengers are looking for in a port.”

The tours offered during the conference include walking and bus tours within the city and short excursions to surrounding areas of interest. A popular conference option in the works is a combination swamp tour and plantation tour.

A variety of swamp tours that show the ecological diversity of Southeastern Louisiana are located just minutes from New Orleans. Pontoon boats and airboats give visitors the option of gliding or powering through the swamps while snapping Instas of alligators, wild hogs and over a hundred species of birds making their home in the moss-draped cypress trees.

The plantation tour will visit a historic

and western Caribbean destinations.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2,340-passenger Norwegian Dawn sails seven-day western Caribbean cruises seasonally from November to May. Plus, Norwegian signed an agreement that will keep at least one Norwegian cruise ship sailing seasonally from New Orleans until 2018, and Carnival has a similar agreement through 2019, with both agreements including options to extend.

The Port of New Orleans is also host to several unique port calls from a variety of cruise lines, such as Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises and HapagLloyd Cruises.

antebellum mansion that tells the story of sugarcane, war, slavery and historic preservation along the Mississippi River.

Another in-demand tour during the conference is just steps from the Port of New Orleans’ cruise terminals. The National WWII Museum, formerly known as the D-Day Museum, is located in the Central Business District. It is a military history museum that shares the American experience of World War II through artifacts and oral histories. Recent expansion has secured it a top spot as an attraction in New Orleans, ranking third-best museum in the country by Trip Advisor.

The two days of tours culminate in a third day of key meetings and panels. A general session for the Platinum Members will be held to address issues particular to the cruise industry, such as security, compliance, hospitality and operations. A keynote address and panels will follow.

The one-on-one meetings taking place that afternoon will be scheduled in advance and offer members a key opportunity to meet with department heads of cruise lines, providing the chance to talk about issues concerning individual ports and businesses working in partnership with the cruise lines.

To wrap up the conference, a celebration will be held at Mardi Gras World.

Highlighting the beautiful parade floats built at Mardi Gras World, the festive event will include New Orleans’ famous chargrilled oysters and music that reflects the jazz and brass band culture of the city.

The Port of New Orleans last hosted PAMAC five years ago. Since 2011, the port has experienced five straight record years of growth in the cruise industry. In 2015, the Port of New Orleans welcomed over one million annual cruise passenger movements for the second consecutive year, and port officials expect another robust cruise season in 2016.

“The 2015 numbers illustrate how popular the Port and the City of New Orleans are with cruise passengers throughout the nation,” said LaGrange. “The fact our cruise partners are investing in new and larger ships here bodes well for the industry for years to come.”

Carnival Cruise Line is increasing its capacity on its year-round four- and fiveday itineraries by 34 percent in April when Carnival Triumph replaces Carnival Elation in New Orleans, while the 3,646passenger Carnival Dream sails yearround seven-day itineraries to both eastern

Beyond the open seas, the port is fast becoming the river cruise capital of the U.S. In response to increased demand, American Cruise Lines has homeported the 185-passenger America in New Orleans. Along with the company’s Queen of the Mississippi, America will offer various eight-day itineraries on the Lower Mississippi between New Orleans and Memphis, Tennessee. The port is also the homeport to the American Queen Steamboat Company’s 436-passenger American Queen, the largest steamboat ever built.

Additionally, Viking River Cruises intends to introduce a new service with New Orleans serving as their homeport.

To meet increasing demand for cruising from the Port of New Orleans, construction has begun on a third cruise terminal at the Poland Avenue Wharf, not far from the historic French Quarter and the Port’s two existing cruise terminals.

The Port of New Orleans ranks as the sixth-largest cruise port in the United States, with direct industry expenditures in Louisiana totaling $406 million, supporting 8,120 jobs and providing $324 million in personal income, according to research conducted by Cruise Lines International Association. CLIA studies also determined 80 percent of cruise passengers are from out of state, and 60 percent spend an average of two nights in New Orleans either before or after their cruise.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: NORTH AMERICA

Complete Cruise Terminal Renovations – Port Everglades Style Customer service and efficient facilities are key components to Port Everglades’ continued success.

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n the last seven years, Broward County’s Port Everglades, one of the top three homeports in the world, has completely renovated six of its eight multi-day cruise terminals with upgrades designed to expedite guest check-in and maximize existing space for smooth, efficient operations.

Each of the remodeled terminals features spacious baggage halls, ample seating, bright lighting and improved traffic flows.

In addition, the South Florida cruise port invested nearly $200,000 to upgrade WiFi in each terminal so guests, as well as shore operations, have speedy Internet access to upload selfies as they board.

“We work closely with the cruise lines to determine what is on the horizon so that we can tailor the terminal to meet their needs, while also building in flexibility so that the facility can be used for a variety of ships from different lines,” said Port Everglades Chief Executive & Port Director Steven Cernak.

In the case of the six remodeled cruise terminals, Port Everglades started with the shell and foundation of the buildings and redesigned, or in some cases expand84 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

ed, the interiors to handle larger cruise ships with higher passenger counts and more luggage.

The ground transportation areas were redesigned to separate guests arriving in personal vehicles from taxis, shuttles and buses. Fast transportation movement is especially key on busy cruise days, such as on January 3, 2016, when Port Everglades broke its own world record with 53,485 guests moving through the port in a single day.

Safety and security are high priorities at Port Everglades and are reflected in the terminal upgrades. Inside each cruise terminal, space is allocated for 100 percent screening of all passengers, crew and luggage. The typical guest flow includes security screening upon entering the cruise terminal, rapid check-in at multiple counters, and then moving the guests to a secured, comfortable waiting area prior to boarding.

“We take a multi-layered approach to security that requires partnerships and close communications with the cruise lines, port users, and a variety of law enforcement agencies and security professionals,” said Port Everglades Deputy

Director Glenn Wiltshire. “While the safety and security of every cruise passenger are our first priorities, there is no way to overlook the practical and economic necessity of processing passengers efficiently and facilitating pre- and postcruise tourism.”

As part of its “green” initiative, Port Everglades received its first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification last fall for energy efficient upgrades to Cruise Terminal 4 after its expansion and complete renovation.

“We pride ourselves on efficiency and customer service,” said Port Everglades Director of Business Development Jim Pyburn. “In addition to state-of-the-art facilities, we have a cruise services team dedicated to working with our cruise line customers to ensure smooth sailing each turnaround.”

Port Everglades’ next project for this terminal will be to lengthen the slip adjacent to Cruise Terminal 4 by 250 feet, for a total 1,150 feet of berth length to accommodate larger cruise ships. The $18 million slip extension is slated to be completed in spring 2017.

THE POWER OF A PREMIER CRUISE PORT There are so many reasons to choose Port Everglades. Our modern, efficiently operated terminals make transit a breeze. We’re just two miles from FLL international airport, and minutes from world-famous beaches. Plus, we’re fully scalable. We can accommodate any size ship or passenger volume, moving passengers from curb to ship in just 15 minutes.

Year-round berthing available. Discover how Port Everglades propels your business forward in powerful new ways. Visit porteverglades.net or call 800-421-0188.

WELCOME TO SEATRADE CRUISE GLOBAL’S FORT LAUDERDALE DEBUT!

DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: NORTH AMERICA

Cruising from Port Miami Is Only Getting Better – Offering Travelers Vacations for Every Taste, Budget and Style

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n what other cruise port in the world can a cruise passenger experience world-renowned sandy beaches, colorful Art Deco architecture and popular attractions while sailing away for a funfilled vacation? Only at PortMiami— Cruise Capital of the World!

At PortMiami cruise passengers’ vacations start the minute they arrive. Travelers are greeted with friendly porters, gracious safety and security personnel, and enthusiastic cruise line staff ready to assist from check-in to departure.

PortMiami’s cruise facilities are the most modern in the world, providing fast and easy passenger processing and boarding.

Port administration is continuously looking at ways to enhance the customer experience by investing in innovative technology and facility improvements.

Currently on the drawing board are plans to expand the cruise footprint, including options for new cruise berths and terminals, as well as associated intermodal and parking facilities for the next generation of cruise ships.

“Our passengers are of the utmost importance,” says Port Director and CEO Juan 86 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

M. Kuryla. “PortMiami offers its cruise partners and passengers top customer service. We want every cruise passenger to begin their vacation experience the minute they arrive at our port.”

Last year PortMiami set another word record in cruise passengers, with nearly 4.9 million cruise vacationers sailing through the Port, and the Cruise Capital is poised for yet another exceptionally strong cruise season.

New for the 2015-16 season is a host of new cruise brands and new-build ships that rank among the most innovative vessels on the seas today. The cruise season kicked off with the arrival of Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Norwegian Escape.

Many current cruise partners are expanding their Miami fleets. Aida Cruises added two cruise ships to its PortMiami line-up, Aida Mar and Aida Vita; Royal Caribbean will homeport Empress of the Seas in spring 2016; and Resorts World Bimini continues to sail from PortMiami to Bimini.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Splendor recently started sailing from Miami, and

the line’s largest ship to date, Carnival Vista, is scheduled to launch starting in fall 2016. Additionally, Carnival Corporation named PortMiami as the homeport for the launch of its new social impact travel brand, Fathom, which will embark on seven-day voyages aboard MV Adonia starting spring 2016.

Miami will also be home for the first of MSC Cruises’ Seaside-class ships, MSC Seaside, with year-round sailings in winter 2017. Another exciting development is the announcement from Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Cruises, that PortMiami will be the homeport for the first of the new cruise line’s ships starting in 2020.

With 18 cruise brands berthing 42 ships, PortMiami is clearly the departure destination of choice for cruises to The Bahamas, the Caribbean, Mexico and beyond, offering travelers vacations for every budget, taste, and style—from family fun to luxury cruising.

PortMiami’s ships have onboard amenities from rock climbing walls to five-star meals. Additionally, passengers can start or end their vacations by extending their stay in Miami.

DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA Norwegian Cruise Line Expands European Presence with Summer 2017 Itineraries Europe is significant for Norwegian Cruise Line’s international business, accounting for 70 percent of it, and Norwegian Cruise Line further proved its commitment to the market with ground-breaking summer 2017 deployment for Europe that, for the first time in company history, features five ships sailing in European waters in the summer season. Highlights of the new itineraries include cruises to the Baltic Capitals on Norwegian Getaway from Copenhagen and a first-ever complete season from Hamburg on Norwegian Jade, with embarkation for those cruises also available in the UK and Amsterdam.

Norwegian will bring Norwegian Getaway, currently the second-newest ship in the fleet, back to Europe for the first time since its delivery in 2014, giving guests the opportunity to experience the ultimate in freedom and flexibility on eight- or nine-night Baltic Capitals cruises from Copenhagen.

This spectacular itinerary will allow guests to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, take in the picturesque Baltic countryside and experience the unique history, cultures and architecture of these famed European cities. The itinerary includes calls in Tallinn, Estonia; Helsinki, Finland; Stockholm, Sweden; along with an overnight in St. Petersburg, Russia.

“Bringing Norwegian Getaway to Europe next summer reflects our commitment to the growth we have had in the European market,” said Harry Sommer, executive vice president of international business for Norwegian Cruise Line. “In the last few years it has been astronomical.”

Sommer also touched on the larger,

newer ship’s importance in supporting the popularity of Baltic itineraries for American passengers. “We know the Baltic has great appeal for US passengers, so we are putting the larger ship there because we expect them to make up half the passengers with the other half coming from Europe,” he continued.

Marking the first time that Norwegian will homeport a ship in Hamburg, Germany, Norwegian Jade—one of the company’s four Jewel-Class vessels—will feature brand new cruises from Hamburg in 2017. Following an extensive dry dock in spring 2017, she will arrive essentially a new ship featuring Norwegian’s new standard of excellence the Norwegian Edge™ on May 14, 2017. Until October 9, 2017, guests can embark from Hamburg on a series of seven- and nine-day Western Europe cruises; nine- and ten-day Norwegian Fjords cruises; 12-day Norway & North Cape sailings; as well as a 14-day Norway, Iceland & UK cruise.

Norwegian will return to England for the first time since 2010 during summer 2017, as Norwegian Jade will call on Southampton during her cruises from Hamburg. From May 12 – June 20 and August 7 – October 16, 2017, guests can choose to embark from Southampton for either seven- and nine-day Western Europe cruises or nine- and ten-day Norwegian Fjords cruises. Guests can also choose to embark from Amsterdam, The Netherlands on select dates for sevenday Western Europe cruises, providing even more flexibility for guests looking to explore Europe pre- or postcruise.

The return to England is a sign of things to come for both the country and cruise line. The UK is Norwegian

Cruise Line’s largest European source market, with a 20-percent growth in bookings last year, and Norwegian plans to double that market by 2020.

Three other ships will sail European waters in 2017, including the recently refurbished Norwegian Epic with her popular seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary, where guests can choose to depart from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome) or Marseille; Norwegian Spirit sailing alternating 10and 11-night Grand Mediterranean cruises between Barcelona and Venice; and Norwegian Star, which after her return from Australia, will spend the summer cruising from Venice to the Greek Isles as well as the Adriatic, Greece & Turkey.

“With these exciting new summer European itineraries, we are offering our guests a wider variety of adventurous itineraries that span the continent, while also bringing one of our newest and most innovative ships to Europe,” said Andy Stuart, president and COO, Norwegian Cruise Line.

AIDAaura Offers Northern Europe”

“Best

of

In response to huge demand, for the summer 2016 season cruise company AIDA Cruises has added further sensational routes to its most popular destinations in Northern Europe. In summer AIDAaura will be setting sail for the most beautiful destinations in the Baltic, Norway, Iceland and Greenland. Most of these cruises will depart from Kiel. From two-day taster trip through to leisurely 21-day cruise, these choices will delight cruise newcomers and long-standing regulars alike.

The cruises start on April 30, 2016,

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA when AIDAaura sets out on a sevenday trip from Palma de Mallorca to Hamburg. For the second time, a ship of the AIDA fleet will be setting sail under the motto of “AIDA pur” with an exclusive board program, guaranteeing pure relaxation over several days at sea. Guests can look forward to the first highlight of the cruise right at the outset because when AIDAaura weighs anchor in Palma, she will be accompanied by AIDAcara and AIDAstella.

A stop in Southampton will allow guests to visit London and the south of England. On the way to Hamburg, the ship will meet up with the latest addition to the fleet, AIDAprima, of the coast of Rotterdam. Cruising alongside one another, they will enter the port of Hamburg together on May 7, 2016, ensuring a very special experience. And to crown it all, Hamburg will also be celebrating its 827th anniversary as a port.

From May 7, 2016, AIDAaura will be sailing from Hamburg and Kiel along the most popular routes in Northern Europe. The cruise will go to Norway, to St. Petersburg or Riga in the Baltic, and to Spitsbergen, Scotland and Iceland. On June 29, 2016, AIDAaura will leave Kiel for the most beautiful destinations in the Arctic Circle.

Stops on the 17-day cruise include Spitsbergen, the North Cape, Iceland and the Shetland Islands. Owing to popular demand, the 14-day cruise “Norway with Lofoten Islands and North Cape” will additionally be offered, starting on July 16, 2016.

The absolute highlight of the Northern Europe season will start on July 30, 2016, when it will be “anchors aweigh” for the guests of AIDAaura, as they head out on a new and fascinating voyage to Greenland. This will be the very first time that it is possible to visit the world’s biggest island with

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AIDA without having to take a plane.

The 21-day round trip starts in Kiel, visiting Iceland and Greenland, before returning to the home port. Apart from Reykjavik, other highlights of the cruise will include first-time stops at Sisimiut and Nuuk on the west coast of Greenland, and the spectacular passage on the way to Qaqortoq, through the over 100-kilometer-long Prince Christian Sound.

The perfect idea for anybody who wants a short ship vacation, or would like try a cruise for the first time would be one of the two or four-day cruises in May, June and September, sailing from Kiel. The two-day trips go to Copenhagen. On the four-day cruises guests will have a chance to discover Copenhagen and the Scandinavian metropolises of Gothenburg or Oslo.

Fincantieri Forming Agreements in Iran Fincantieri signed a number of framework agreements with Iranian companies, noting that "preliminary understandings are prior to the accomplishment of several contracts worth some hundred million euros and to the potential development of joint activities."

The understandings include a cooperation and development agreement with Azim Gostaresh Hormoz Shipbuilding Industry Co (AGH), a modern shipyard strategically located in the Persian Gulf within the special economic zone.

According to Fincantieri, "the agreement provides for cooperation between the two companies for the construction of new merchant vessels and offshore units both in the field of ship repairs and conversions and in

refitting activities of already operating units. Notably, the cooperation will affect the development of detailed engineering, optimization of the construction processes, technical consultancy and assistance in all production phases and personnel training both on site and in Italy. To this end, the two companies will shortly create specific working groups engaged in activities to establish a synergic cooperation and to develop a solid business partnership in the area."

Fincantieri, through its subsidiary Isotta Fraschini Motori, has also signed agreements concerning the marine propulsion sector and rail transportation. Under the first of these agreements, Isotta Fraschini Motori and trading house Arka Tejarat Qeshm (ATQ) will set up a joint proposal for the supply to the Iranian Governmental of 600 marine engines for smaller vessels.

"We have once more demonstrated the ability to attract the industrial interest of one of the countries with the highest development potential in the world,” said Giuseppe Bono, Fincantieri CEO. “The agreement which we have achieved thanks to the company's presence in all the areas of the shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing industry will surely represent an added value of outmost importance to increase the worldwide dimension and the export share of our group".

Most UK Passengers Cruise the Mediterranean or River Danube More than 80 percent of British cruise passengers head for the Mediterranean, according to CLIA's 2014 figures. And when it comes to river cruises—growing in popularity

with the arrival of larger ships offering more amenities—the Danube is Britain's most popular holiday destination, followed by the Rhine.

Growing in popularity, though, are the Russian waterways, the Mekong River in Cambodia and Vietnam and the Ganges and Brahmaputra in India.

Pullmantur Refocusing on Spain and Right-Sizing Pullmantur is refocusing on Europe, with Monarch heading to Europe to help the company concentrate on Spanish and French markets. Monarch had previously been sourcing passengers from Latin America for yearround itineraries in the Southern Caribbean. Pullmantur is also focusing on right-sizing the brand, with Empress being returned to the Royal Caribbean fleet and again sailing as Empress of the Seas after an extensive drydock.

Princess Cruises’ 2017 European Sailings Include Majestic Princess Inaugural Princess Cruises’ 2017 European cruise vacations include the inaugural sailings of the line’s newest ship, Majestic Princess. The season features six ships sailing to 119 destinations from the corners of the Mediterranean to the northernmost tip of Europe. Guests can choose from 64 unique itineraries on 153 cruise departures, visiting 27 countries.

Debuting in April 2017, Majestic Princess first sets sail on maiden European sailings with five- to 28-day Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona, Athens and Rome.

“Princess is known for offering the best cruise itineraries around the globe, and our 2017 Europe season is

sure to inspire our guests with our newest and largest ships in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe,” said Jan Swartz, Princess Cruises president. “We’re especially excited to debut Majestic Princess in the Mediterranean before she officially sails to Asia for her maiden China cruise season.”

Highlights of the Princess Cruises 2017 Europe program include: Majestic Princess The newest cruise ship to join the Princess fleet debuts in Rome (Civitavecchia) on April 4, 2017 for a five-day Maiden Adriatic Sea roundtrip voyage visiting Kotor and Corfu. The 3,560-guest Majestic Princess then sails on a series of seven-, 14-, 21- and 28day Mediterranean voyages departing Barcelona, Athens and Rome from April 9-May 14, 2017.

The Mediterranean In addition to Majestic Princess, Royal Princess features new 11-day Grand Mediterranean and 10-day Western Mediterranean combinable for a 21day Grand Mediterranean Collection, as well as seven, 14-, 21- and 28-day sailings throughout the Mediterranean Scandinavia & Russia Regal Princess returns to Northern Europe, along with Crown Princess and Pacific Princess for popular cruise vacations to Scandinavia & Russia, offering an overnight in St. Petersburg with departures from London (Southampton or Dover) or Copenhagen. A new Pacific Princess Baltic Heritage itinerary includes overnights in Stockholm and St. Petersburg, sailing from London (Dover).

British Isles Cruises The 2017 Europe season marks the line’s largest British Isles season ever with 12 departures on Caribbean

Princess and two on Pacific Princess, including last night stays in Edinburgh offering the opportunity to visit the world famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo on select sailings. All 12-day British Isles cruises include a new late evening stay in Belfast and an option of an overnight in Dublin on select departures from London (Southampton).

New Ports of Call Summer 2017 features maiden port calls to Haugesund (Norway), Oban (Scotland), Siracusa (Sicily, Italy), Ulvik (Norway), and St. Tropez (France).

Iceland & Norway Both Crown Princess and Pacific Princess will offer North Cape voyages to the Arctic Circle during the peak midnight sun period around the summer solstice. Crown Princess will also visit the spectacular Norwegian fjords, while Pacific Princess will feature a maiden call in Haugesund, Norway.

Pacific Princess will also offer 14-day Iceland & Norway itineraries visiting off-the-beaten path ports in Iceland and the Shetland Islands. She will also cross to the land of fire and ice on a Transatlantic passage featuring Iceland.

European Land & Sea Vacations Guests can enhance their European travel with five unique Land & Sea Vacation options, which combine certain sailings with a fully-escorted land tour. Choices include Paris and the French Countryside; Ireland’s Ring of Kerry; Classic Italy, visiting popular sites in Venice, Florence and Rome; Imperial Treasures of Budapest, Vienna, Prague and Berlin; and Swiss Splendors featuring the mountain beauty of Interlaken and Lucrene, as well as a scenic boat trip on Lake Como.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: AUSTRALASIA Cruise Lines Chinese Waters

Testing

the

Less than a year after launching Quantum of the Seas, Royal Caribbean replaced Johnny Rockets with a noodle restaurant and the duty-free shop with a luxury leather boutique, preparing the then world’s most hi-tech cruise ship to move from New Jersey to Shanghai.

Though novel at the time—last May— when many cruise lines were still testing the waters in China with slightly older and smaller ships, announcements of ships custom-built and retrofitted for China have become commonplace as the cruise industry continues to capitalize on booming demand from China, a market with the potential for nearly seven times as many passengers as the U.S. The U.S. is still the world's leading source of cruise passengers, with more than 12 million of 2015’s 23 million cruisers. But the Hong Kong Tourism Board estimates that China and its population of 1.4 billion has the potential to generate as many as 83 million cruise passengers a year.

As Adam Goldstein, president and COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., pointed out during the FCCA Cruise Conference, China’s scale “is fairly exceptional by emerging market standards of any sort,” and it offers significant population of coastal communities, along with the sudden economic ability to cruise and a tremendous hunger to see the world.

This creates the perfect combination for a target cruiser, especially since the Chinese market has “an ability and willingness to pay rates that are commiserate with the best markets that exist in the world today.”

To maximize this combination, cruise

lines are investing heavily and showing no signs of slowing even despite the recent signs of China’s slowing economy. Carnival Corporation will have four brands calling by 2017, with ships like Majestic Princess built specifically for the market and the 2014-retrofitted Sapphire Princess offering tea kettles and slippers in the cabins, Tai Chi martial arts classes and authentic Chinese food.

Plus, it has a partnership to develop a China-based cruise line and will operate 16 offices by the year’s end.

Though Carnival Corporation’s, through Costa Cruises, and Royal Caribbean already had the first- and second-most capacity share in the region, so these developments came as less of a surprise than MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announcing their entry to China, with Norwegian also building a ship tailored to the market.

It should also be no surprise that the Chinese cruise market grew by nearly 80% from 2012 to 2014 to nearly 700,000 passengers. Plus, the deployed capacity share in Asia rose from 3.6 percent in 2013—about 755,000 passengers—to a projected 9.2 percent and more than 2.2 million passengers in 2016.

This pace of growth has led to predictions of China becoming the world’s second-largest cruise market—supplanting the Mediterranean—by 2017, and the Chinese government is aiding the growth by funding ports’ overhaul and expansion. China already has seven international cruise ports, and three more are under construction.

The growth is coming largely from China’s expanding middle class, and as Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation & plc and the FCCA, told at the Conference, “They’re going to be the largest middle class in the world.

They’re going to be traveling everywhere in the world.”

Arison’s point has been affirmed by surging air travel from China to U.S. over the past few years. Chinese travelers have already flocked to Disneyland, San Francisco and New York, and cruising is now on track to be the next big travel trend in China.

Cruise passengers from Asia are primarily under the age of 40, and most of the cruises they take visit nearby Asian destinations, such as Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Singapore and Thailand.

However, the growth of source markets like China presents immense potential of reciprocal growth for other cruise markets.

“When people become fond of cruising, they’re not always just going to cruise in China…They’re going to become Caribbean cruisers and European cruisers...so this multi-million source market will also benefit all of us down the road,” said Richard Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises (USA) Inc. Acknowledging the concerns that cruise lines might hurt the North American and Caribbean market by deploying their newest and most modern ships to China, the cruise line leaders were quick to note that despite the rapid rise in China, it still only represents a portion of their business.

Arison pointed out that only six of Carnival Corporation’s 100 ships are in China. “Obviously the number is much bigger in the Caribbean and has continued to grow through this whole cycle.”

Norwegian has over 40 percent of its capacity dedicated to the Caribbean, told Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “I don’t think that’s going to change any time soon.”

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: AUSTRALASIA “The other thing to keep in mind is that the shipyards are full of orders all the way through 2021, and not all those ships are headed for China,” he continued. “Many of them are heading [to the Caribbean].”

One of those ships, Norwegian Escape, recently went to PortMiami for yearround Caribbean sailings.

And Royal Caribbean went full circle when replacing Quantum of the Seas in New Jersey with her classmate, Anthem of the Seas, a sister ship the same size and offering similar features.

Norwegian Cruise Line Looking to Breakaway in China Though Norwegian Cruise Line is entering the China market a bit later than others, Frank Del Rio, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Limited (NCLH), believes it will breakaway from the pack with the line’s best and newest customized ship.

Being delivered in spring 2017, the 164,400-ton Breakaway Plus newbuild will offer Mandarin, Cantonese and Szechuan restaurants, plus entertainment geared to the market. It will have expanded shopping, gaming and familyfriendly areas with never-before-seen features at sea.

"Our new purpose-built ship for China will have characteristics that are authentic to Norwegian Cruise Line and yet distinctively Chinese in all of its sensibility," said Del Rio. "With this new ship, Norwegian will unquestionably offer our Chinese guests a superior product and introduce a new standard of innovation and excellence into the marketplace, with an unrivaled level of customization for the Chinese consumer.

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It will perfectly suit what modern Chinese travelers value from an upscale cruise experience."

Beyond the ship itself, Del Rio highlighted the crew’s importance during an earnings call, which is why Norwegian's hotel operations team is partnering with Chinese hospitality experts to recruit Mandarin-speakers and craft training programs so they can provide highly personalized service.

Plus, to better support the company's expansion efforts in China, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has opened offices in Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai. These China-based offices support all three brands in the company's portfolio—Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises—that span the upper end of the contemporary, premium, and luxury cruise categories and relevant to each segment and each stage in the Chinese consumer life cycle.

"Our China offices house a dedicated leadership team uniquely focused on ensuring the success of our local travel agent partners, which is crucial to the success of our expansion in what will soon be the world's second largest cruise market," said Del Rio. "These offices will provide sales and marketing support to our travel partners whose customers not only wish to sail on our new Chinabased ship, but also on any of the incredible voyages around the world offered across our portfolio of brands."

Del Rio also highlighted the significance of China during the earnings call, with the company’s research finding that to be the highest-yielding market for the introduction of a new ship, in addition to it being the fastest-growing market.

He told China will be the second-largest cruise market in the next five years and could exceed the United States within 10 years. And though the economic

growth rate has slowed, it still clocks in at an impressive seven percent.

However, Del Rio pointed out that there will be just 14 ships sailing from China next year and 19 in 2017, with some there only seasonally. Plus, he stressed that despite the steady increase with a three-year compound annual growth rate of 30%, including Chinese traveling with Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, China still only serves as a sliver of Norwegian’s business.

Of course, Del Rio believes that sliver is a lucrative one, especially when introducing a new ship.

“Chinese consumers got money in their pockets, and they want to spend it,” said Del Rio, adding that their retail and casino onboard spending is considerably higher than the Western market.

AIDA Cruises to Become First German Cruise Brand in China and Strengthen Carnival Corporation’s Chinese Presence AIDAbella out of Shanghai all year round starting in spring 2017, making it the first German cruise ship with a homeport in China and sailing yearround. AIDA Cruises joins two other Carnival Corporation & plc brands with a strong presence in China, Costa Cruises and Princes Cruises. With AIDA joining Carnival Cruise Line in China in 2017, four Carnival Corporation brands will operate in China, capitalizing on the surging demand for cruise vacations by Chinese travelers.

"AIDA would not be so successful today if we had not constantly ventured into new territory in the 20 years since we commissioned our first new ship,"

said Felix Eichhorn, president of AIDA Cruises. "Now we are taking another important step. With AIDAbella, we are exporting our successful concept – ‘Made in Germany’ – to China, the world's strongest growing market for cruises. With our lifestyle-oriented and innovative product, we will be providing powerful momentum to the emerging Chinese vacation market and captivating completely new guest groups."

While AIDA's on-board services have been geared to German-speaking guests, with AIDAbella the company will be addressing the needs of the Chinese market.

"The essence of our product, for which AIDA stands, will still be preserved,” continued Eichhorn. “However, we have taken a very close look at what connects the Asian guest with Germany. What premium products does he or she prefer? What cultural differences, including those relating to consumption habits, do we need to keep in mind? Since we are part of Carnival Corporation's Costa Group, which includes AIDA Cruises and Costa Cruises, our colleagues at Costa Asia will be supporting us with their know-how, particularly in the area of sales and human resources."

Carnival Corporation Appoints Roger Chen as Chairman in China Roger Chen—a native of China with 25 years of experience with strong expertise in corporate and government affairs and in-depth knowledge of Chinese government’s policies and operations— was appointed as Carnival Corporation’s chairman in China on January 1, 2016. Chen will be based in Shanghai and lead all government relations and port development, while

also supporting the company's joint ventures in China. In this new role, Chen will have responsibility for repreall of Carnival senting Corporation's brands in China to continue growing the company's industryleading presence and scale in the region.

Sydney office last October, said exciting times are ahead with the introduction of Oceania’s Sirena in April, to be followed by the launch of Regent's Seven Seas Explorer.

"Roger comes to us with over 25 years of experience working for major global companies that have significant operations in China, as well as time spent working within the Chinese government, all of which will be invaluable to our growth strategy in China and Asia as a whole," said Alan Buckelew, Carnival Corporation’s COO, who relocated to Shanghai in 2014 and to whom Chen will report directly. "We look forward to Roger's leadership and deep knowledge of government affairs as he oversees Carnival Corporation's strategic initiatives across all our brands in China, where we expect continued growth and expansion as the leading cruise operator in what has quickly become one of the fastest growing markets in the world."

Made for Princess

Oceania and Regent Join Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ Asia Pacific Umbrella Following the transition of Star Cruises Australia to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ (NCLH) regional headquarters in Sydney, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises also went under the corporate umbrella.

“With a burgeoning demand for luxury cruising in the region we will be investing additional resources to ensure that we remain in the market-leading position,” said Steve Odell, NCLH SVP and MD, Asia Pacific.

Odell, who officially opened NCLH’s

China:

Majestic

Setting sail in spring 2017 from her yearround homeport in Shanghai, the 3,560passenger Majestic Princess will offer many of the same special features as Royal Princess and Regal Princess, which have been so well-received. These include a dramatic multi-story atrium serving as the social hub of the ship; an over-the-ocean SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship; the Princess Live! interactive studio; and a special Chef ’s Table Lumiere, a private dining experience that surrounds diners in a curtain of light. As the first ship built and designed specifically for the China market, Majestic Princess will also feature a number of new venues and experiences created for this market.

P&O’s Pacific Pearl Cruises Boosts Record Cruise Season in Auckland New Zealand’s burgeoning cruise industry received a huge boost with the arrival of P&O Cruises’ Pacific Pearl into Auckland for the launch of the cruise line’s biggest ever New Zealand season, lasting a record five months, featuring 20 cruises and generating up to $20 million in economic value for New Zealand.

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DESTINATIONS AND PORTS: AUSTRALASIA pared to 10 in 2015,” said Ann Sherry, CEO, Carnival Australia. “As a result, this year P&O will more than double the number of passengers we carry on cruises from New Zealand, with a 122 percent rise over our 2015 numbers, reflecting New Zealanders’ growing passion for cruising.”

P&O Cruises’ expanded cruise program will create more opportunities for New Zealand food and beverage suppliers catering for cruises departing Auckland. Every turnaround cruise ship visit is estimated to deliver close to $1 million to the local economy in passenger accommodation, dining, transport and shopping as well as crew expenditure, supplies and port charges.

Meanwhile visits to regional cities can contribute up to $500,000 in passenger and crew spending.

“Auckland is experiencing a record cruise season, which is estimated to deliver $251.7 million to the region,” said Brett O’Riley, chief executive, Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development. “It’s fantastic to see P&O [offering] a cruise to experience…everything Auckland has to offer.”

Singapore Moves Toward LNG Bunkering Singapore awarded two supplier licenses—to Pavilion Gas and a venture between Keppel Offshore & Marine and BG Group—as part of a move toward LNG bunkering. The Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said it would work with the license holders to develop the necessary infrastructure to start supplying LNG bunkers from early 2017.

“With growing international regulatory 96 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

requirements and stricter standards for emissions, LNG is likely to be part of the fuel mix for global shipping as it becomes more cost-competitive and supply chain and infrastructures are developed,” said Andrew Tan, chief executive of the MPA. MPA is also working with stakeholders to develop LNG bunkering standards and procedures at both the national and international levels.

“We will work closely with MPA and our partners to develop and test safety procedures and build relevant infrastructure to make LNG bunkering a reality in Singapore,” said Seah Moon Ming, CEO of Pavilion Energy.

“We will leverage our years of experience and expertise in providing LNG solutions including gas carrier servicing to support MPA in its goal to develop Singapore into a key LNG bunkering hub in Asia,” said YY Chow, CEO of Keppel Offshore & Marine.

P&O Cruises to Build New Cruise Ship for Australia P&O Cruises Australia kicked off the New Year with a major announcement that it will make history by becoming the first cruise line to build a new ship specifically for the Australian market.

Weighing in at 135,500 tons, the ship will be the biggest cruise ship ever to be based fulltime in Australia, carrying more than 4,200 guests—double the capacity of the biggest vessel currently homeporting in Australia.

To be launched in 2019, the new ship will be built specifically for modern Australia and offer itineraries from three to 10 days.

Based year-round in Australia, it will capture forecast further growth in the local cruise market and reaffirm P&O’s 84-year national maritime heritage.

Carnival Australia Executive Chairman Ann Sherry and P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell hailed the first ‘newbuild’ cruise ship for the Australian market as the best possible good news for one of the world’s top performing cruise markets.

"The much anticipated first newbuild cruise ship is a huge vote of confidence in the Australian cruise market with much of the 20 percent year-on-year passenger growth over the past decade driven by P&O Cruises’ dynamic industry leadership," said Sherry.

Myrmell pointed out that the new ship added to P&O Cruises’ pattern of growth, with the recent addition of Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden to its threeship fleet to be followed in 2017 with the addition of Pacific Explorer.

"P&O Cruises is the modern face of Australian cruising, and with such a proud heritage of leadership, it is a natural step to announce that the line will take delivery of its first newbuild ship," continued Myrmell.

The new ship is just one of many P&O firsts in its development as Australia’s most trusted cruise line as confirmed over three consecutive years in the Reader’s Digest annual trusted brands survey.

MEMBERS AND TRAVEL AGENTS

How to Work with the Cruise Industry: The ABCs of the FCCA

C

olumbus sailed the ocean blue, but not all by himself. He needed vendors, suppliers and crew.

The 21st-century cruise industry needs partners, too, and finds them at the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA).

“Establishing relationships among Member Lines and partner destinations’ public and private sectors was, after all, the goal behind the 1994 founding of the FCCA Conference,” says Michele Paige, president of the association.

In the dynamic cruise industry, the game’s rules constantly change, and you’re not the only one longing for a chance to get on the playing field.

Plenty providers vie for the competition to get on the roster of a winning team, and the cruise industry is the fastest growing leisure travel sector, consistently posting over 100 percent occupancy and year-over-year growth.

Its significance can also be seen in its direct economic impact on the FCCA’s partner cruise destinations. According to a study performed by Business Research & Economic Advisors (BREA), the 35 participating destinations saw cruise tourism economic contributions of $3.16 billion, as well as 75,050 jobs paying $976.5 million in wages.

Who would pass up playing time on a team with that record?

Join the Team To get in the game, you have to know the players. But how? If you were having a problem with your electric bill, you probably wouldn’t call the president of 98 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

the power company; you would likely talk to an automated machine and spend time on hold before finally reaching a customer service representative.

But what if you and the electric company president had a mutual friend who introduced the two of you at a dinner, cocktail reception or even on a Caribbean cruise?

The FCCA is your friend. The association serves as a liaison between providers and destination partners like you and the cruise industry’s movers and shakers who decide where ships go, what to sell onboard and how to invest in infrastructure.

“The most important reason to join the FCCA is the immediate and direct contact a company will have with the decision makers in the cruise industry,” informs Micky Arison, chairman of Carnival Corporation & plc and the FCCA. And those Member Line decision makers carry a lot of weight and influence throughout the industry and world. Though the FCCA focuses on the Caribbean and Latin America, its 19 Member Lines circle the globe: AIDA Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruise Lines, Croiseres de France, Cunard Line, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises (USA) Inc., Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Pullmantur Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn, TUI Cruises.

Game On You’ll find the names in the FCCA Membership Directory, Highlight Issue and this quarterly magazine. And you’ll see the faces at Platinum Member events, meetings and the annual FCCA Conference & Trade Show.

But you won’t have to worry how to catch their attention. The FCCA offers many ways to get on the minds of these decision makers and the FCCA’s numerous destination and service partners.

One is through a number of marketing options, all offering unique, tailored approaches to spotlight you in FCCA events and publications. Event sponsorships prominently display your logo, brand, message and partnership with the cruise industry where these crucial stakeholders gather.

Traditional print advertising is available in FCCA publications that are distributed to, read by and participated in by over 500 FCCA Member Line executives. And more than 19,000 travel agents and 7,500 industry partners representing all sectors of the cruise industry—such as retailers, attractions, port agents, suppliers, hoteliers, tour operators, shipbuilders, purchasing, food and beverage operations, entertainment personnel, finance and administration departments, marketing and PR representatives and international press and media correspondents— receive FCCA publications.

Other marketing opportunities include direct mailing to over 18,000 contacts, mailing inserts, advertising on the FCCA website and in FCCA staff ’s e-mail

signature, along with participating in a weekly newsletter to deliver your brand, news or PR message to over 10,000 travel professionals.

Plus, chances, prospects and advantages abound in the FCCA’s membership program. FCCA membership, like membership in most organizations, provides you with some basic benefits, such as discounts and savings on advertising and event registration fees; collateral support; and access to cruise executive meetings and the most up-todate industry research and trends.

One of these membership discounts is for the FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade show, which will gather about 100 cruise executives and 1,000 industry stakeholders in San Juan, Puerto Rico from September 26-30 for a five-day agenda of one-on-one meetings, workshops, social functions and networking opportunities.

“More can be accomplished in the four days at the FCCA Conference than during the other 361 days of the year,” tells Adam Goldstein, president & COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited. “Everybody who’s anybody in the cruise industry attends this event. Decision makers are quite open to hearing about new products, services, destinations, shore excursions and ideas.”

However, the real prize is through Platinum Membership, which gives you a direct line to these decision makers. Besides granting special privileges and complimentary registrations at FCCA events like the Conference and Gala, numerous private Platinum Member events build relationships between Platinum Members and cruise

executives, such as the Platinum Associate Member Advisory Council (PAMAC) Cruise Summit, inaugural cruises and exclusive events during Seatrade Cruise Global.

experience is delivered every year through the FCCA Foundation’s Holiday Gift Project.

Another, the PAMAC Conference, brings Platinum Members and cruise executives together in a partner destination for more of what all FCCA events seek—a healthy mix of business and pleasure. PAMAC members have seen this balance while closing deals at onboard parties or getting an inside look at industry projects and enjoying an unforgettable shore excursion.

“Working with the FCCA Foundation, the association’s charitable arm, has been one of the most enriching experiences of my life,” shares Federico Gonzalez-Denton, associate vice president of government relations in Latin America and the Caribbean for Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited. “The added benefit is that I meet great people through the Foundation, and we end up doing great things together in the cruise industry.”

“I can’t tell you how many productive people I’ve had a chance to get to know while attending the PAMAC Conference,” tells Giora Israel, senior vice president of port & destination development for Carnival Corporation.

“These are the people who have ideas and projects I want to know about— and need to know about.”

Final Score The FCCA can put you in the middle of the action, but it is much more than a door to the cruise industry. Members make business contacts, but also form significant relationships. Consider the FCCA your keystone for success—a coach that links players and motivates them to operate as a team.

Scoring Points A good coach knows that team members who work together to reach a common goal develop unbreakable bonds. FCCA members—destination ministries, port agents, tour operators, product and service providers and more—come to appreciate each other’s talents as they form teams to tackle a wide range of projects that not only boost the regional cruise industry, but also give back to the destinations that welcome FCCA Member Line cruise ships.

“Never has it been more important for cruise and travel partners to come together and share ideas,” as Paige tells.

“That’s what the FCCA is all about.”

Imagine how it feels to know you and your colleagues provided smiles, gifts and holiday festivities for needy children throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. This heartwarming

Go for the win. If you want to bring the lines to your destination; get your product onboard the ships; target the audience doing the above at FCCA events; advertise in numerous publications with the same audience, along with an extensive database; or collaborate to find a specific opportunity for you, the FCCA is your source. Become an FCCA Associate or Platinum Member, and advertise where your message will be seen by discerning eyes that can make a difference. The team wants—and needs—what you have to offer.

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MEMBERS AND TRAVEL AGENTS

Travel Agent Cruise Industry Outlook

P

erhaps no one is better attuned to trends in the travel and leisure industry than travel agents. Travel agents are working with consumers and travel providers every day, which gives them a uniquely valuable perspective on the near-term travel outlook. So it speaks volumes that travel agents are bullish about their cruise business in 2016. In a CLIA survey conducted at the end of 2015, American travel agents said they expect to see notable growth in the number of cruises people take in 2016, as well as increases in passenger spending.

“This survey affirms that the cruise industry is poised for growth among families, who are the future of cruising, and among travelers who are interested in convenience and the return on experience that cruising offers,” said Cindy D’Aoust, CLIA’s acting CEO. Sales and Spending Outlooks Travel agents overwhelmingly agree that the outlook for cruise travel in 2016 is strong, with 83 percent expecting increases in sales volume. More than two out of five travel agents expect sales volume to increase by ten percent or better, and one-fifth expect volume increases of six to 10 percent. Only four percent expect a decrease in cruise bookings in 2016.

“Families, couples and individuals who may not have considered cruising before are now taking note that it is not all about shuffleboard and old people,” said travel agent Sabrina Kraft. “They are discovering the full extent of the activities offered both onboard and in the ports. They are discovering the great value of the cruise vacation. Individuals who are now being introduced to cruising are finding that it fulfills so many of their wants and needs without breaking the bank.”

Vacation Trends Consistent with travel agents’ expectations that sales volume and spending on cruises will increase in 2016 is their perception that, among all vacation segments, cruises are experiencing the greatest increase in booking and that house rentals and resorts without packages are showing the greatest decreases.

When looking at the full landscape of vacation options, travel agents report that the two segments with the greatest increase in booking are ocean cruises (36%) and river cruises (28%).

Only all-inclusive resorts (23%) rival cruises in their increased booking.

This wave of new cruisers is also significant. As D’Aoust noted, “Travel agents have consistently told us that, when consumers take cruises for the first time, they quickly become apostles for cruising in general.”

If cruises are gaining in popularity, it might be because this is a more attractive option for families. “More families are cruising and taking younger children,” said Karen Shelton, a responding travel agent. “Families are looking for family-friendly cabin accommodations, activities that please all ages, as well as separate youth programming so the adults can have some free time.”

Similarly, travel agents are anticipating that consumers will increase their spending on cruises this year, with 73 percent believing that cruise consumers will spend more in 2016. Nearly a third expect increases in the one to five percent range, and about a quarter predicted spending increases of more than ten percent. Overall, only three percent of agents estimated that consumer spending on cruises would be down this year.

If cruises are shaping up to be the winning vacation segments in 2016, then the biggest potential losers are house rentals (with 20% of travel agents expecting declines), resorts without packages (with 18% expecting declines) and land-based escorted tours(also with18% expecting declines). Only six percent of travel agents believe that ocean or river cruises will decrease in bookings.

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Cruise Trends Although travel agents perceive that the overall outlook for cruises is strong, they do not expect to see growth across the board.

With travelers growing increasingly price-conscious, the segments that are expected to see growth are mass market cruises (62% of travel agents anticipate some growth) and premium cruises (54%).

Canada and New England, with 42 percent of travel agents expecting growth.

Travel agent Aiko Yao Lim says that the trend that is most affecting his business is the consumers’ desire for “deals and getting the lowest price possible with the best value.….We’ve also been seeing more customers wanting to embark on cruises in their own city and not want to take air to go on their cruise.”

Similarly, there is uneven growth among the types of cruises that travel agents are booking. They report that river cruises and cruises on large ships are generating the biggest growth (with 71 percent and 66 percent respectively reporting growth in those segments). While few declines are anticipated in any segment, according to travel agents, growth is lowest among expedition vehicles and boutique or yacht cruises.

Another trend that travel agents are reporting is that customers are booking their cruises further in advance. Forty-seven percent say that customers are increasingly booking nine to twelve months ahead, and 42 percent say more cruises are being booked six to nine months in advance. Not surprisingly, last-minute deciders seem to be on the wane. A third of travel agents report a decreasing number of cruises being booked in less than three months.

Agency Trends Like any modern industry the travel agency business continues to change. When asked an open-ended question about what trends are having the most impact on their businesses, the most frequently volunteered trend was an increase in groups and families (including multigenerational families) who are cruising together. This is having a positive impact on cruising as more and younger families discover cruise travel.

Travel agents are reporting that the cost and hassle of international flying is becoming a barrier to many long-distance cruise destinations. Consequently, domestic and local cruises are experiencing the most significant growth so far this year. Even though Alaskan cruises are one of the smallest segments of the industry, accounting for only four percent of total deployment, more travel agents (73%) are seeing increases in Alaskan cruises than any other region. The largest region for cruising, with a third of all cruises—the Caribbean—is poised for even more growth in 2016, with 52 percent of travel agents seeing growth there. Another local region with strong growth in 2016 is

New ships, especially larger ships that offer all-inclusive pricing, seem to be having a positive impact on the demand for cruising.

Travel agents have also noticed an increased interest in river cruising.

Summary As we begin 2016, the cruise industry is headed for growth, and travel agents are reinforcing this trend. Travel agents are anticipating increases in both the number of people who are cruising and the amount of money they spend on cruises.

Looking long-term, the future of cruising is secure. As more multigenerational families embark on cruises, the cruise habit will become ingrained in younger consumers. This is important because retention rates are extremely high among travelers after they experience their first cruise.

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MEMBERS AND TRAVEL AGENTS

Cruise Lines International Association’s 2016 Travel Agency and Individual Agent Member Programs and Benefits

B

uilding upon the success of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) North American Travel Agency and Individual Travel Agent member program in 2015, CLIA is offering a host of new benefits for its 2016 Agency and Individual Agent Membership (IAM) programs to ensure CLIA is providing members meaningful, practical and valuable resources to succeed.

CLIA surpassed its North American goals and enrolled more than 9,000 travel agencies and 18,000 individual travel agent members in 2015, reinforcing CLIA's leadership as the largest travel agent member program globally. To maximize membership value, CLIA conducted a member survey and incorporated the results into the updated 2016 member benefits.

New and Improved EMBARC ID Based on member feedback, CLIA launched the new EMBARC (Enrolled Member Benefit and Recognition Card) ID, formally known as the CLIA Card, the official credential of the cruise industry and exclusively for CLIA Individual Agent members. The new EMBARC ID has been refreshed and rebranded to guarantee that CLIA members will be recognized throughout the industry.

With more than 200 benefits associated with the EMBARC ID, CLIA members will have the most relevant and up-todate offers the cruise industry has to offer. More importantly, new benefits will be added throughout the year.

CLIA members receive priority confirmation on FAM trips, seminars at sea and ship inspections on CLIA Cruise Line Member ships with the EMBARC ID. Members also obtain commission privileges and personal travel benefits with a variety of travel suppliers, including air

consolidators, rental car companies, hotels, resorts, attractions and CLIA Global Cruise Line Members. A description of more detailed benefits can be found on cruising.org.

cruising.org. Other benefits include CLIA Cruise TV, the CLIA Agent Finder and priority access to professional development opportunities not offered anywhere else in the industry.

Different Memberships to Meet the Needs of All Travel Professionals

With a wide-range of resources, CLIA members are given the tools and resources needed to achieve their business goals. To continue offering the best access to industry data, CLIA also developed a new State of the Cruise Industry online course to help members reach the highest level of industry knowledge.

CLIA offers two types of memberships for professional travel consultants to provide the credibility and education needed to thrive in the cruise industry.

CLIA Agency Membership can rapidly raise an agency's profile and reputation within the industry and offers agencies the opportunity to enroll as Silver, Gold or a Diamond level agency.

CLIA Individual Agent Members (IAM) enjoy a wide array of benefits and resources to assist with navigating the overall cruise industry, attracting more clients, earning professional certifications and increasing overall income.

Benefits range from exclusive news and content in the monthly Travel Agent Cruise News newsletter to tools featured in the members-only myCLIA section of

Additionally, CLIA members receive a $100 discount on registration at the upcoming Cruise360 conference this June in Vancouver, British Columbia, the largest and official conference of the cruise industry.

"CLIA Agency and Individual Agent Membership provides increased credibility and is a must for travel professionals in the cruise industry," said Charles Sylvia, VP, Membership and Trade Relations. "Leveraging CLIA membership is key to setting yourself apart from the competition."

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MEMBERS AND TRAVEL AGENTS British Virgin Islands’ Tortola Pier Park Opens

Tuesday, February 16 marked a significant milestone for the British Virgin Islands, with the officially opening of the new cruise and shopping facility, Tortola Pier Park. The local community came out in droves to celebrate this great occasion, adding to the 7,000 plus cruise passengers in port that day. The BVI’s cruise and shopping facility can now berth some of the biggest ships in the world, while providing an unforgettable shopping, dining and entertainment experience for facility visitors.

Caye Caulker Gets New Beach

Berthing at Port Zante for the first time were Carnival Dream, Norwegian Getaway, Anthem of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Magellan, Oosterdam, Eurodam, Crystal Symphony, Brittania, Costa Favolosa, Costa Magica and MSC Orchestra. Also new for the season, St. Kitts has installed free Wi-Fi at Pelican Mall in Port Zante to ensure easy Internet access for today’s connected travelers.

For more: www.stkittstourism.kn.

St. Kitts Sails into 2015/2016 Cruise Season St. Kitts received a dozen inaugural port calls to start the 2015/2016 cruise season.

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Tropical Shipping

Grenada Sailing Week

As the winds in Grenada picked up at the end of January, sailors from near and far steered their keelboats into an exciting week of competition. The Grenada Sailing Week attracted 200 participants from 20 countries sailing 35 boats that were segmented into 5 classes.

The 12 racecourses were set at the South of the mainland of Grenada, where the Caribbean Sea hugs the Atlantic Ocean.

Belize’s island, Caye Caulker, is a popular destination, especially for cruise passengers, due to its proximity to the port of entrance. Visitors will now enjoy 1,883 linear feet that was reclaimed. The project was well received by the community at large and has been very popular with visitors. The reclamation works will be complimented by the establishment of an improved craft center for local artisans in Caye Caulker.

tion: the waterfalls, a project developed to improve the passenger experience at port. This area, part of the habitat of flamingoes and black swans, has become even more picturesque for visitors.

Tropical Shipping’s maiden voyage from the Port of Palm Beach arrived into Freeport in 1963. Today, Tropical offers its Freeport customers five sailings every week. Tropical’s fast and frequent sailings give the cruise industry the ability to have cargo on island when they need it so that the schedule and demands of the dry docks are reliably met. Tropical takes the time to understand customers’ businesses and offer convenient and reliable logistics solutions to meet every shipping need.

Tourism Corporation Bonaire Appoints New Director of Tourism

Port Oasis Improvements at Cartagena de Indias Cruise Ship Terminal

The best kept secret of Cartagena de Indias Cruise Ship Terminal is its oasis, an area full of nature and home to a wide variety of birds and animals. The zoo has been upgraded with a new attrac-

The Tourism Corporation Bonaire announced the appointment of their new Director of Tourism, Mr. Maurice Adriaens on February 1, 2016. Mr. Adriaens is responsible for overseeing all marketing, public relations and advertising programs for TCB’s Headquarters, and satellite offices. “I am looking forward to working with all of the TCB offices, trade partners and

Bonaire’s private sector to maintain and further expand the island’s reputation as a global destination for world-class scuba diving, eco-adventure, leisure and cruise tourism,” said Adriaens.

Costa Rica Tourism Board and the Cruise Ship Association

revealing a new logo and masthead.

Porthole’s emerging video division, PortholeTV, also debuted “Porthole Cruise Views,” a new platform to showcase entertaining cruise content.

PPIGroup.com

will aim to enhance the cruising experience with products curated to support the breadth of destinations each ship visits—from apparel and leather goods—for ms Koningsdam’s European itineraries to fine jewelry and luxury timepieces for Ovation, which will homeport in China and Australia.

Tampa Port Authority Channelside Master Plan Museo del Mar: The Maritime Museum of San Juan

The Costa Rica Tourism Board works together with the association of cruise ships to provide better services. The Cruise Ship Association represents the majority of the country’s shore excursion operators, as well as cruise ship agents dedicated. Their main focus is to work directly with government entities, local municipalities and international associations to make sure that Costa Rica is continually striving in bettering its services and provides a quality destination for passengers and ships alike.

Bermello Ajamil & Partners, Inc. (B&A) has designed a $1.7 billion, 15year master plan for Port Tampa Bay Florida to develop 45 acres in a waterfront area called the Channel District.

The master plan maximizes the potential of 45 acres of port-owned land along Channelside Drive and Ybor Channel, contributing to the area’s ongoing revitalization. Unique features of the planned development include an enlarged cruise ship terminal, a marina, park space, stores, and hotels along with two 75-story residential towers.

PPI Group Highlights Starboard Reveals New Retail Spaces on Upcoming Cruise Ships

PPI Group — the industry leader in custom publishing, video production, and port shopping programs — was selected as the official media host of Seatrade Cruise Global 2016, where its Broadcast Operations Division was on-hand to capture the show through interviews and event footage. In addition, Porthole Cruise Magazine celebrates its 20th anniversary with the March/April issue

Old San Juan, one of the most important ports in American maritime history, now has the Museo del Mar. The unique maritime museum in Puerto Rico provides a first-hand experience of navigation throughout time. The museum is located at 360 San Francisco St. in Old San Juan, just a short walk from Plaza Colón and the cruise ship pier. It is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Port of Sonora Continues Construction of Puerto Peñasco Port of Sonora will continue construction of the Puerto Peñasco Homeport under the leadership of recently appointed Minister of Tourism of Sonora, Jesus Antonio Berumen Preciado. The Homeport is located in northwestern Sonora, in the northern part of the Sea of Cortez, which was named the Aquarium of the World by Jacques Cousteau. At a short distance from Puerto Peñasco is the Pinacate Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2013.

CH2M’s Role in Dredging the Bermuda North Shipping Channel April marks the launch of two gamechanging cruise ships, Holland America's ms Koningsdam and Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas—both of which will feature incredible retail offerings from Starboard Cruise Services. The Starboard-operated shops

CH2M provided design engineering and construction oversight services for the dredging of the Bermuda North Shipping Channel, the first channel dredging project in Bermuda in over 50 years. The dredging included widening and deepening the North Channel to provide access to Royal Naval Dockyard

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MEMBERS AND TRAVEL AGENTS for Royal Caribbean International’s Anthem of the Seas. The project was a successful collaboration between Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., the Government of Bermuda, CH2M, Bermuda Environmental Consulting and Jan De Nul.

tors, as it allows services previously unavailable in the island, such as neurovascular, interventional radiology, and advanced cardiac procedures.

Furthermore, the addition confirms Amerimed’s leadership in expanding healthcare horizons in selected tourist destinations in Mexico and reaffirms Amerimed Hospital as the best option for medical care in Cozumel.

Azamara Club Cruises' “AzAmazing Evenings” Hosted by Chukka

this historic, modern, entertaining, friendly and gourmet city. The city is a must for those interested in colonial monuments, archaeology, handicrafts, bird watching, museums, beach relaxation and authentic fare.

Costamed Group: The Medical Service Leader of the Riviera Maya and the Caribbean

Baja California Sur Ready for This Year's Cruise Ships

Chukka celebrated the New Year with the launch of Azamara Club Cruises' “AzAmazing Evenings” at Good Hope Estate. More than 500 guests enjoyed a performance by the legendary Jamaican reggae band Third World, an authentic Jamaican menu and a tour of the historic Good Hope Estate. The event, developed exclusively for the cruise line, demonstrated how Chukka works collaboratively to meet the individual needs of cruise partners with diverse activities and adventures. To learn more: www.chukka.com.

The government of Baja California Sur has negotiated with the main shipping companies in the world the increase of arrivals to the ports of Cabo San Lucas, La Paz and Loreto, which together will receive 221 cruises, six percent more than last year, with 523,000 passengers, 12 percent more than 2015. The Government and service providers are ready to welcome tourists to have a pleasant visit.

Amerimed Hospital to Develops First Catheterization Lab in Cozumel

Urban Exploration in Lima, the City of the Kings

Always at the cutting edge, Costamed is a Medical Service Leader in the Riviera Maya and the Caribbean. This is due to the recent opening in Tulum, as well as the expansion and remodeling of the Playa del Carmen Hospital and the Mahahual Clinic.

Our Cozumel hospital is the only one certified by the General Health Council, and is currently in the process of Canadian Certification. With our continuous achievements and growth, we have reached medical excellence for the community and tourism sectors.

Park West Gallery

Amerimed Hospital recently announced the upcoming arrival of the first formal catheterization lab in Cozumel. This substantial investment reaffirms its commitment to offer outstanding care to Cozumel’s inhabitants and its visi-

106 | First Quarter 2016 | Travel & Cruise

For years, Lima, Peru’s capital city, has been a sort of stepping stone on the itineraries of passengers going to Cusco and Machu Picchu. Travelers now understand that any visit to Peru would be incomplete without exploration of

Few experiences can match the excitement of bidding on and collecting art, and Park West Gallery is the best source for discovering the finest the art world has to offer through its art auctions at sea. Park West works directly with artists such as Romero Britto, and the Park West Foundation is proud to work

alongside artists such as Yaacov Agam and Autumn de Forest to sponsor museum exhibits in 2016 that promote art education and awareness.

Visit www.parkwestgallery.com for the latest news.

which focuses on creating unique BVI guest experiences that are distinct from other destinations.

Martinique Is Full of Surprises for 2016 Rodman Marketing Launches New Website

Guru

The new website of Rodman Marketing Guru went live in January. The FCCA community now has access to a website where you can find over 700,000 products! The launch of the new website— offering quick and easy access to essential information on marketing, printing & branding community—is part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and availability of information to its member’s and professionals worldwide.

For more: www.Rodman.Guru

The Fondation Clément, which has hosted 160 artists, has re-opened its doors with three new spaces dedicated to Caribbean contemporary art, and the 94room Le Simon Hotel is poised to bring a new level of modern style and sophistication to downtown Fort-de-France area. Nestled on the waterfront directly in front of Pointe Simon Cruise Terminal, it will offer convenient access on foot to all of the capital city’s best shopping and prime historic sites, making it ideal for pre- and post-cruise stays.

Time to Cruise to USVI through The West Indian Company, Ltd.

CCS Tours Increases Connectivity and Security CCS Tours now has WIFI on most of its vehicles. This offers additional security and tacking as we continue to improve our services and maintain an incident and accident free operation for over 30 years.

Additionally, all over drivers and staff are connected to a special two-way network for direct connect to ship staff for communication. We are constantly improving to serve our valued clients and to assure that they are in good hands.

Puerto Rico Opens New Hyatt Hotel Close to Homeport Piers Puerto Rico recently inaugurated the Hyatt Place San Juan/City Center hotel, adding 149 rooms to the Convention Center District. Combined with the other two district hotels, the area now boasts over 650 rooms. The hotel’s facilities include meeting and event space and a large family-friendly pool, and it is located less than five minutes from the PanAmerican Pier in Isla Grande and about 10 minutes from Pier 4 in Old San Juan.

Ambassatours Constructing the First ‘Big Building’ in Canada with CarbonCure Walls

Disney Institute Assists the British Virgin Islands with Improving Guest Service

In the second half of 2015, the BVI Tourist Board partnered with the Disney Institute to create and maintain a distinctive culture of service for the tourism sector. Working with public and private stakeholders, a Service Framework for the BVI was developed,

This is the ideal time to visit or book a cruise to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Plans are underway for the centennial celebration of our transfer from Denmark to the United States. Historically renowned as a trading port, our wellmaintained shopping district represents the ideal fusion of both cultures, and successfully combines testaments to Danish architecture with luxury and brand-name retail stores.

Ambassatours is trading its bus depot home for a new, greener building being put up to house its head office and entire fleet of vehicles. The 32,000-square-foot building under construction in downtown Halifax is being built with walls by CarbonCure, which captures carbon dioxide and stores it until they introduce it into the concrete when it's poured. The concrete hardens, and the carbon is locked in permanently, making the walls stronger and greener.

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FACES IN THE INDUSTRY

Kevin George Buchanan – Bar Manager, Azamara Club Cruises My name is Kevin George Buchanan, and I am the Bar Manager onboard Azamara Club Cruises’ recently revitalized Amazara Journey. I am originally from Ocho Rios, Jamaica. After working in local hotels as a bartender, I joined the cruise industry in order to travel, learn more about cocktails, spirits and beverages, and build a solid future. I joined Azamara because it has a great reputation in the cruise industry, and it offers opportunity for every individual who joins the company.

Jamaica

My favorite part of working on a ship is learning about different cultures, different lifestyles, and literally visiting different places around the world, which makes me more open-minded. Traveling educates you about life in general; it makes you a better citizen of the world. As a matter of fact, I think if we could actually make it mandatory for everyone to work at least one year on a cruise ship, we might be able prove that we can all work and live together in peace towards a common goal and be successful.

Norway is my favorite cruise destination. It is so green and refreshing. Every time I visit Norway, it reminds me of a TV series I watched as a child growing up, with a brightly-painted house standing on its own in an open field and rivers running down mountainsides. It sometimes seems unreal and fascinating how naturally beautiful Norway is.

Amanda Velasquez – Assistant Chief Housekeeper, Celebrity Cruises My name is Amanda Velasquez, and I was born in Caracas, Venezuela. I currently work with Celebrity Cruises as an Assistant Chief Housekeeper onboard Celebrity Equinox. In this role, I supervise, assist and support the Housekeeping personnel to ensure our guest’s modern luxury vacation experience is unforgettable.

I joined Celebrity based on the recommendation of a former employee who told me the best years of his life were spent at sea while sailing with Celebrity. I wanted an opportunity to change the direction of my life, and when I envisioned my future, I saw myself living around the world and making new friends and enjoying new experiences. So I signed on with Celebrity.

Working on cruise ships has given me the opportunity to see places around the world that previously seemed out of reach to me—from Europe to Antarctica. My favorite destinations so far are Kotor in Montenegro because I love the beautiful sight of the mountains, Alaska for its breathtaking natural beauty, and St. Maarten in the Caribbean.

Venezuela

Dennis Pilgrim – Head Waiter, Royal Caribbean International My name is Dennis Pilgrim, and I am Head Waiter onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Freedom of the Seas. My current duties entail supervising, training, coaching and mentoring staff members within our dining facilities. I began my career with Royal Caribbean in 1982 and have now spent more than 30 years serving our guests on several ships.

I am originally from the island country of Grenada, and my favorite cruise destinations are throughout Europe and the Mediterranean. When asked why I love working on a cruise ship, my response is easy—the destinations, the joy, the exposure to new cultures, and the experiences.

Grenada

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FACES IN THE INDUSTRY

Flavia Fernandez – Guest Services Manager, Royal Caribbean International My name is Flavia Fernandez, and I am from Uruguay. I have been with Royal Caribbean for a dozen years, and I am currently a Guest Services Manager. I'm responsible for guest check-in and departure on the ship, plus I work with our Front Desk, Print Shop, Concierge Lounges, Crown & Anchor Program, and other areas to make sure our guests are satisfied with our service.

Before joining the cruise industry, I was studying International Relations at the University of Uruguay, using my skills in Spanish and Italian, while working at local hotels. Previously, I also worked in a restaurant and was a children’s dance teacher. I joined the crew of Empress of the Seas and thought I would be in the bar there for just one contract, but I liked it so much that after 12 years, I'm still here!

Uruguay

I love that I learn something new every day, especially in my current job, where I constantly address different situations. My job is very fast-paced with a lot of challenges that make me grow on a daily basis and help me develop my career faster than a job on land. In fact, I have encouraged many of my friends at home to experience life onboard.

You get the opportunity to work with people of different cultures and different backgrounds. On land there is nothing similar to that experience!

Fernanda Soto – Seasonal Youth Counselor, Norwegian Cruise Line Hola! My name is Fernanda Soto. I am from Queretaro, a small but beautiful place in Mexico, the country with the best food in the world! I am currently a seasonal youth counselor for Norwegian Cruise Line, where I am also known as “fluffy.” Before working on ships, I was a teacher’s assistant at Montessori School.

Mexico

I decided to join the cruise industry because I love to meet people from different cultures, see the world, and have fun, all while working. I really enjoy working with children because they are fun and open-minded, and they really look up to you. Our program at Splash Academy makes you feel like you are not working because we have so much fun while being a Hollywood star, superhero, spy, and so much more.

My favorite destination is Alaska because of its amazing beauty, nature, and its breathtaking Northern Lights. If you think you would enjoy waking up in Miami one day and a beautiful island the next, then I would truly recommend you become a crewmember.

Joaquin Colomba – Seasonal Youth Counselor, Norwegian Cruise Line Hola! My name is Joaquin Colomba. I come from Punta Alta, Argentina. At the moment I am working as a seasonal youth counselor for Norwegian Cruise Line. Before coming to ships I lived and studied in San Martin de los Andes, Patagonia, Argentina to become a tour guide.

I joined the cruise industry two years ago to learn about different cultures, languages, and to travel the world. It was the best opportunity for me to exercise what I know and acquire new knowledge in the service industry. That is how I learned and improved my five languages—Spanish, Italian, English, Portuguese, and French.

I love coming to work every day knowing that I am going to have an awesome day while having fun and role playing with the children. My favorite destination is Europe because of its beauty.

Europe has amazing architecture, history, and culture. I would absolutely recommend working on cruise ships because you are surrounded by friendly, fun, and easygoing people while traveling around the world.

Argentina

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