Monday, August 19, 2024 The Cruise Atlantic Islands Conference (CAI) 2024 is set to take place in Madeira from September 26th to 28th, reaffirming the island’s position as the European capital of the cruise industry. The event will be coordinated by Nikos Mertzadinis, Vice-President of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) in Europe, who oversees Ports and Destinations. This prestigious conference will gather industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders to discuss the future of the cruise market in the Macaronesian islands, including Madeira, the Canary Islands, the Azores, and Cape Verde.
Paula Cabaço, CEO of Ports of Madeira (APRAM), expressed excitement about Mertzadinis’s involvement, highlighting his extensive knowledge and influence in the cruise sector. The conference aims to explore the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the region, which currently represents a market of 3.3 million cruise tourists.
The event will feature a tribute to the visionaries who founded CAI in 1984, including key figures from Madeira, the Canary Islands, and Cape Verde. The conference will also showcase a diverse lineup of industry experts, such as Eduardo Cabrita of MSC Portugal and Fiona Noone of Marella Cruises, who will provide insights into the sector’s future. Beyond the sectoral debates, the conference will include social activities, such as a visit to the Funchal Ecological Park and a FAM Trip to northern Madeira, offering participants a deeper connection t.
