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Top decision makers from the world’s cruise lines plan to be in Durban this May to discuss the way forward for Africa’s developing cruise market.
Claudius Docekal, Deployment & Destinations, Azamara Club Cruises; Simon Douwes, Director, Deployment & Itinerary Planning, Holland America Line; Allan Foggitt, Marketing Director, Starlight Cruises; Matthew Grimes, Planning, Ports & Logistics Director, Fred. Olsen; Bruce Krumrine, VP, Shore Operations Europe & Exotics, Princess Cruises; Darius Mehta, VP, Air & Land Programs, Silversea; Craig Milan, SVP, Land Operations, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. & President, Royal Celebrity Tours, Inc; David Vass, Director, Destination & Enrichment Programs, The World; Stefano G.V. Vigoriti, Managing Director, MSC Cruises South Africa – these cruise line decision makers and more like them will meet at the Seatrade Africa Cruise Forum for tailored conference and workshops, during which regional destinations will have a rare opportunity to talk one-to-one with these industry key players to promote their product.
Africa’s cruise map is changing as more cruise lines tap into the massive potential around the continent for new guest experiences. This in turn is resulting in many opportunities for destinations and suppliers to benefit from the considerable economic impact of increased cruise calls. Collaboratively, there is also great scope for cruise lines and regional stakeholders to work together to ensure that all cruise calls to the region are a first-class experience.
The Seatrade Africa Cruise Forum will take place from 10-12 May 2011 at the elegant Fairmont Zimbali Lodge & Resort, just north of Durban. Organised by Seatrade and held under the auspices of the Cruise Indian Ocean Association (CIOA) and the Province of KwaZulu Natal, the forum will provide participants with invaluable insight into the issues facing the region in terms of port operations, infrastructure, hospitality, shore excursions and regulatory environment as well as examine the region’s own potential as a source market for cruise passengers.
Following the conference, regional destinations will have a chance to meet one-to-one with the cruise lines at pre-scheduled workshop sessions to promote their services.
The cruise forum has been carefully planned to take place straight after INDABA, Africa’s top travel show, enabling delegates to attend both events with one trip.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
