ICS 2025 - Message board

The ICS message board

For another year running, we bring you the International Cruise Summit, the unique Summit, the one in Madrid. Once again we give thanks to our sponsors and speakers for their trust and support. For this reason we are opening up this space again, the ICS Message Board, where our sponsors can take advantage of another opportunity to promote their activities and where our esteemed speakers can talk about their participation in the Summit.

IF YOU ARE A SPONSOR OR A SPEAKER, PLEASE SEND US YOUR CONTRIBUTION AND A PHOTOGRAPH
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We wish you all a fruitful ICS 2025!

Ten reasons to attend the ICS 2025

1 LEARN. Hear from experts that will cover all aspects of the cruise industry. Topics can range from challenges to port operations, supply chain topics, guest expectations, destinations, new builds, new ship orders and the latest trends in the growth of the global industry.
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2 GAIN. New perspectives and different ways to approach and analyse the industry while socialising and enjoying a professional but comfortable business to business networking environment.

3 EVOLVE. Keep apace with ALL the new trends in the cruise industry.

Consultancy beyond boundaries

By Figen Ayan, Founder Ayan Consulting

At Ayan Consulting, we are proud to support the International Cruise Summit 2025, a flagship event that continues to unite leaders shaping the future of global cruising. ICS stands as a space where meaningful dialogue, innovation, and cross-sector collaboration take root, values that deeply resonate with our own mission.

With over 30 years of experience across cruise tourism, port and destination development, and holistic sustainable growth strategies, Ayan Consulting bridges the gap between destinations and the evolving expectations of cruise lines, governments, and luxury hospitality brands.

The ocean that created these islands now unites them

Cruise Atlantic Islands (CAI)

Some journeys begin before you set sail. Look at a map of the Atlantic and you can feel it: a chain of islands that seem to float between continents, shaped by the same wind and waves yet each with its own rhythm and soul. Here, the ocean does not divide. It connects. Madeira, the Azores, Cabo Verde and the Canary Islands form a constellation of destinations that invite travelers to rediscover the meaning of cruising.

Cruise Atlantic Islands (CAI) was born from that connection. It brings together the Macaronesian islands under one voice and one shared purpose: to position the Atlantic as a space for authentic, sustainable and deeply human cruising.

Madrid, the Best Lifestyle

Visit Madrid

Madrid is not just a destination — it’s a way of life. Region of Madrid offers history, culture, nature, gastronomy and fun at every turn. It’s that place where everything fits together and makes you feel good from the very first moment.

Do you love history? Here, you live it firsthand. From the Royal Monastery of El Escorial to the University of Alcalá, passing through the Gardens of Aranjuez and the Paseo del Prado with El Retiro Park, all recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. And the best part: you can visit them aboard historic trains like the Strawberry Train, the Philip II Train, or the Cervantes Train — an experience that takes you back in time!

Tura Turizm

For over six decades, Tura Turizm has been crafting journeys that connect people, cultures, and coastlines, shaping Türkiye’s reputation as one of the world’s most inspiring cruise destinations.
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From pioneering the country’s first cruise operations in the 1960s to redefining luxury through Tura Gold, our philosophy has always been simple: to transform travel into a meaningful dialogue between guest and destination.

We are proud to support the International Cruise Summit 2025, a forum that mirrors our own values of collaboration, innovation, and purpose-driven growth.

Port of A Coruña

The Port of A Coruña, in the NW corner of the Iberian Peninsula, has developed a steady strategy for a sustainable cruise tourism. In 2024 more than 400,000 passengers in 168 cruise calls visited our city and the schedule for 2025 will bring 180 calls and around 450,000 passengers.

With two dedicated Cruise Berths in the heart of the city, our port facilities and terminal offer quality services that satisfy cruise lines’ demands, as they trust the port of A Coruña when calling in their Atlantic itineraries. By 2027 the OPS connection will be available at both cruise berths, in line with the cruise industry sustainability strategy and EU net-zero goals.

Rubine e Hijos

Port Agency Services La Coruña & Ferrol

Proudly the oldest and one of the most respected ship agencies and highly trusted P&I correspondents in Galicia, based in La Coruna since 1876 and providing attendance as well in Ferrol and Galician ports.
Over 150 years of experience endorse our high-quality service standards, committed to providing the best support to our clients and to the establishment of long-term dedicated relationships.
Cruise vessels have always been at the core of our company since the foundation and, as joint concession holders and operators of Coruña Cruise Terminal our role is, and has always been ensure cruise line operators, passengers, partners and Port Authorities satisfaction.

Scared So What

Dr. Grant Van Ulbrich - Founder & CEO, Scared So What® Ltd | Forbes, Wall Street & TEDx Speaker | Transformational Leadership & Personal Change Expert

In today’s cruise industry, change is constant - but true transformation is rare. Dr. Grant Van Ulbrich, a Forbes, Wall Street, and TEDx-featured thought leader, reveals why the key to transformation isn’t in systems or strategy, but in people.

As the Founder & CEO of Scared So What®, the world’s first Personal Change Management model and technology, and a former Royal Caribbean executive, Grant bridges deep industry insight with cutting-edge human transformation science.

MedCruise - Corsica Ports

By Anne-Marie Spinosi, Senior Vice-President of MedCruise and Cruise Manager at Corsica Ports

As Senior Vice President of MedCruise and Cruise Manager at Corsica Ports, I am pleased to share at ICS, MedCruise’s vision of transformation and cooperation, shaping the future of cruise tourism in the Mediterranean and beyond.
Representing the largest cruise ports association that connects now 160 ports and 59 associate members across 3 continents, I will bring the collective perspective of a region that is one cornerstone of international cruising, now entering a new chapter defined by sustainability, innovation and inclusivity.

MedCruise

By Theodora Riga, President of MedCruise & President of Corfu Port Authority S.A.

As MedCruise approaches its 30th anniversary in 2026, the Association continues to stand as a vital platform for cooperation, dialogue and progress among Mediterranean and adjoining seas’ cruise ports. Founded on the principle of unity in diversity, MedCruise today connects more than 160 ports and 59 associate members across 22 countries, reflecting the cultural, economic and geographical richness of the region.

Content Inc.

By Gemma Greenwood, Director Content Inc.

With more than 25 years of experience across journalism, editing, and corporate communications, I’ve had the privilege of working throughout the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia — collaborating with global brands, destinations, and thought leaders shaping the future of travel and tourism.
At this year’s International Cruise Summit (ICS), I’m delighted to be moderating the session “Cruise Destinations – The Real Economic Impact – Blue Economy” (Wednesday, November 19th, 10:15am).

Madeira committed to sustainability

The year 2025 was a busy one for the region and for the Ports of Madeira regarding Tourism. After winning the World Travel Awards prize for “Best Cruise Terminal for Sustainability in 2024”, we got down to work and charted a course.
We have moved forward with the establishment of a Consultative Forum for Sustainability and the Environment, which involves the port community and industry stakeholders, such as university and other partners working in the areas of the environment and energy, as well as CLIA itself, in a space for dialogue and cooperation that contributes to the promotion of environmentally sustainable best practices in ports and their areas of influence.

Grand Hotel Central, a Living Landmark in the Heart of Barcelona

Grand Hotel Central is much more than a place to stay — it is a living landmark in the heart of Barcelona. Perfectly situated on the iconic Via Laietana, facing the ancient Roman wall and steps from the Gothic Quarter, the hotel enjoys a privileged location close to both the sea and the port, embodying the very essence of the Mediterranean city.
Originally inaugurated in 1926 as the private residence of Francesc Cambó — visionary Catalan politician and patron of the arts — the building was the first to rise on Via Laietana, the new avenue that bridged the historic city with modern Barcelona. Designed by architect Adolf Florensa, its Noucentista architecture, inspired by the Chicago School, marked a turning point in the city’s urban evolution and reflected the innovative spirit of its era.

Royal Caribbean International

Sergio Arévalo, Head of Sales Iberia and Nordic Countries

The International Cruise Summit is a professional meeting of cruise tourism ideal to share our vision and also our enthusiasm for the future of our industry that we are so passionate about. At Royal Caribbean International we approach the future with optimism, convinced that the cruise sector is experiencing a phase of renewal, growth and responsibility that opens up enormous opportunities both internationally and here in Spain.
For us, it is important to put the current moment of cruise tourism in context: in recent years we have seen how the demand for quality, innovative and sustainable experiences has grown. Our conviction is that cruises should be established as tourist destinations designed to offer great vacation memories, moments of leisure and relaxation connected with the family and with the destinations that are visited.

Clínica IMQ Zorrotzaurre

Silbia Muñoz Fdez., International Patient Coordinator

Every year, the International Cruise Summit in Madrid brings together key players from across the global cruise industry — a unique forum where ideas, innovation, and collaboration converge. For those of us working in international medical assistance and healthcare for cruise passengers, attending ICS is not only an opportunity to stay updated, but also an inspiring experience that drives real progress in our sector.
As part of Grupo IMQ, at Clínica IMQ Zorrotzaurre — proudly accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI) — we witness first-hand how the cruise industry continues to expand and evolve. Each year, we provide medical services to an increasing number of cruise passengers and crew members arriving at the Port of Getxo, reflecting the steady growth and global reach of this vibrant sector.

Suncruise Andalucía and Alborán Sea: a port alliance driving Blue Tourism to Southern Spain

Suncruise Andalucía and Alborán Sea is the association that brings together the seven major ports of general interest in Andalusia (Algeciras, Almería, Cádiz, Huelva, Málaga, Motril, and Seville), along with the ports of Ceuta and Melilla and the Andalusian Public Ports Agency. Its mission is to promote the region as a leading destination for cruise, nautical, and coastal tourism; integrating innovation, sustainability, and territorial development.

In 2025, Suncruise strengthened its role as a public–private cooperation platform through the 4th International Congress on Cruise and Nautical Tourism (CITCA 2025), held in Motril and Granada under the theme “Where the Sea Meets Innovation.”

2025: The Year of Copenhagen Malmö Port

2025 marks a defining moment for Copenhagen Malmö Port (CMP) - a year of transformation and international recognition. As Northern Europe’s leading cruise hub, CMP is setting new standards for responsible growth, operational excellence, and regional collaboration.
This year, CMP expects to welcome over 1 million cruise passengers across 403 calls, with Copenhagen alone anticipating more than 850,000 guests and around 300 calls. In 2024, CMP received close to 1 million cruise guests across Malmö, Visby, and Copenhagen, with the Danish capital hosting 818,000 guests and 280 calls, including 106 turnarounds and a growing number of overnight stays. In 2025, 32 overnight calls are expected- a clear signal of increasing demand for immersive guest experiences in Copenhagen.

Le Havre Croisières

Le Havre, a marquee cruise port in the heart of Normandy, combines maritime innovation with rich culture and history. From its UNESCO World Heritage city center to its lively seaside atmosphere, the city offers cruise passengers an experience filled with art, heritage, and natural beauty. As the cradle of Impressionism, Le Havre is the perfect gateway to explore Normandy while enjoying seamless cruise operations. At Le Havre Croisières, we are driving a major program to enhance the passenger experience. Three new cruise terminals are scheduled for commissioning between early and mid-2026, designed to ensure smooth, comfortable operations for all types of vessels - in transit and turnaround - accommodating up to 6,000 passengers.

The Future of Boutique Cruising: Exclusivity, Sustainability, and Local Culture

Lantimar

In a world where mega-cruises continue to dominate headlines and statistics, a subtler yet increasingly influential trend is emerging: boutique cruises. These are smaller ships with tailor-made itineraries, where luxury is defined not by size but by the quality of the experience. This model caters to a new kind of traveler—more conscious, discerning, and seeking authenticity, comfort, and a genuine connection with each destination.
In this context, the Spanish Mediterranean stands out as a privileged setting. The Balearic Islands, particularly ports such as Maó, Alcúdia, and Ibiza, are becoming key calls for boutique cruises that prioritize exclusivity, local identity, and environmental respect.

Qatar Tourism

Omar Abdulrahman Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism

Qatar has firmly established itself as a key hub for cruise tourism in the region, with Doha emerging as a primary homeport for leading international cruise lines operating in the Gulf. This strategic position allows the country to welcome an increasing number of cruise visitors each year and strengthens its presence in global cruise itineraries. Over the past season, Doha Port welcomed 87 cruise ships, marking a 19% increase compared to the previous season. This included five ships making their first calls to Doha and 13 full turnaround operations, alongside 43 partial turnaround calls. More than 360,000 cruise visitors explored Qatar during this period.
Qatar has focused on providing a seamless and memorable experience for all cruise guests.

Delver Agents

Verónica Baldasso, Founder and Managing Director

At the heart of Antarctic operations, Delver Agents stands as the leading ship agency and expedition logistics provider based in Ushuaia, Argentina — the gateway to Antarctica. With a team of over 80 professionals, Delver delivers end-to-end support for expedition cruise operators, scientific missions, and crew logistics across South America and beyond — providing high-touch service in some of the most demanding environments on earth.
‍Verónica Baldasso, Founder and Managing Director of Delver Agents, brings over 15 years of leadership experience connecting global logistics with local expertise. She also serves as Group Managing Director – Strategic Growth & Brand for Horizon, Swift Marine & Delver Agents, leading commercial development, strategic partnerships, and integrated marine logistics solutions across key verticals including cruise, expedition cruising, cargo, tankers, offshore support, and bunker operations.

Cruise Saudi

Cruise Saudi – Your Gateway to Cruising Saudi

At Cruise Saudi, our work begins with a simple belief: the coastline of Saudi Arabia holds stories the world has yet to discover. Our mission is to open these shores to global travelers in a way that is welcoming, sustainable, and reflective of the Kingdom’s rich heritage. Through partnership and shared ambition, we are shaping a new chapter in global cruising, one that places the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf among the world’s most inspiring and meaningful cruise destinations.
Established in 2021 as a wholly owned Public Investment Fund company, Cruise Saudi sits at the heart of Vision 2030’s tourism transformation. Our role is to build the foundations of a complete cruise ecosystem from port infrastructure and passenger services to destination experiences that connect guests to the cultural, natural, and human warmth of Saudi Arabia. This work isn’t just about travel; it contributes directly to economic diversification and the creation of opportunities for communities, supporting an estimated 50,000 direct and indirect jobs in the years ahead.

Port of Bilbao: a growing hub for sustainable cruises and ferry travel

The Cantabrian coast, with the Basque Country at its cultural and culinary heart, has become one of northern Spain’s most appealing maritime tourism destinations. At the center of this evolution lies the Port of Bilbao, a model of innovation and sustainability in the region.
In 2025, the Port of Bilbao has exceeded 90 cruise calls, bringing in 181.017 tourists. With two passenger terminals and the capacity to receive three ships simultaneously—regardless of size or draft—it is fully equipped to handle all kinds of vessels, from state-of-the-art cruise liners to luxury ships.
Beyond cruise traffic, the port also maintains regular ferry connections to the British Isles via Brittany Ferries. The Salamanca ferry sails to Rosslare (Ireland) twice weekly, while the Galicia ferry links Bilbao to Portsmouth (UK), also with two weekly departures.