Cruise Europe regional council meets in Liverpool

Liverpool played host to Cruise Europe's first regional meeting in a number of years. CE UK & Ireland chair and general manager Liverpool Cruise Port, John Mawer, led the event with new CE chair Simone Maraschi and CE managing director Jens Skrede in attendance, alongside 27 port and associate members.

Topics ranged from the EU entry/exit system to environment and sustainability initiatives. Adam Newman from Cruise Lines International shared his thoughts on industry issues, while associate members, Excursions Limited (Jane Yates) and SMS (Chris Blanchard), were given a chance to explain not only what these companies provide but to add some insight into the current challenges and opportunities.

The historical Municipal Hotel & Spa was the setting for the meetings before we adjourned to the Gino D'acampo Sky Lounge, with stunning views across the cruise terminal and the Mersey, to continue discussions and networking.

There are three further regional committees: Atlantic Europe, The Baltic and Norway, Iceland & Faroes headed up by Helena Gomes Fernandes (Port of Leixoes), Sirle Arro (Port of Tallinn), and Grethe Parker (Port of Narvik) respectively. Each will be hosting similar events in 2025 and thereafter on a regular basis.