30th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show Event Program
Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association 10390 USA Today Way, Miramar, Florida 33025
Phone: (954) 441-8881 • Fax: (954) 441-3171
E-mail: info@f-cca.com • Website: www.f-cca.com
Qualifications of Delegate/Attendee
FCCA, in its sole discretion, determines whether a prospective Delegate/Attendee is eligible to participate in the event. Eligibility is generally limited to persons or firms who supply products and services to the cruise industry or are in good standing with the cruise industry and the FCCA. Applicants who have not previously exhibited at/attended the event may be required to submit a description of the nature of their business.
The FCCA reserves the right to exclude or remove any person/company whose presence or behavior is undesirable and/or potentially unlawful, harmful, disrespectful and/or causing a nuisance to other Delegates/Attendees, and the FCCA may exercise such right at its absolute discretion, notwithstanding that any such person is the employee, agent, permitted contractor of or in any way associated to the Delegate/Attendee. Detailed terms and conditions are available at www.f-cca.com.
Cover photo by: Christine Garner
MESSAGE FROM THE FCCA
Michele M. Paige CEO, Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association
On behalf of Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) and our Member Lines, I welcome you to the FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show in the ‘Friendly Island’ of St. Maarten. This event is poised to be pivotal in helping attendees foster relationships and understanding to improve their cruise tourism business, and we have seen that communication and collaboration are more important than ever. By working together, we will continue to build back even better.
We probably all know that cruise tourism is sailing full steam ahead to new records. This impressive recovery was only possible because of that constant communication and collaboration between cruise lines and destinations – something that has not only continued, but also evolved in the wake of the pandemic.
This event will offer a boatload of these opportunities throughout the business sessions, including oneon-one meetings and workshops, and networking opportunities during social functions – all geared to put attendees in direct contact with cruise executives that decide where ships call, what sells on board and how to invest in destination products and infrastructure.
Better yet, these executives will be on hand specifically to help attendees do more business
with the cruise industry by addressing specific issues regarding the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Mexico; discussing facets of cruise tourism business like tours and infrastructure while forming invaluable business partnerships; and targeting other ways to foster mutual benefits between cruise lines and destinations, including employment and sourcing.
Plus, St. Maarten is ready to take the spotlight with hospitality, culture, authentic offerings taking centerstage. I am excited for all to discover what has fascinated me and so many guests in this sensational destination.
I want to give special thanks to all those throughout this dynamic destination who took the initiative to host us today and make a testament to their commitment in growing cruise tourism – along with finding ways to inject more economic benefits from every cruise call and passenger.
This is the goal for all of us here, so I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities available, as they are focused on accomplishing what we have seen is crucial – joining cruise executives, destinations and stakeholders to improve mutual understanding and success – while also mixing business with pleasure to build stronger relationships.
MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF TOURISM
Mrs. Grisha Heyliger-Marten
Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication, Government of St. Maarten.
It is for me a distinct honor and privilege to welcome all the participants in the FCCA’s 30th anniversary conference to St. Maarten, The Friendly Island.
The relationship between St. Maarten and the FCCA is like a marriage made in heaven. We have been true partners for decades in a way that has been mutually beneficial to both of us. Through thick and thin, through good times and bad times, we have both remained steadfast in our loyalty and commitment to each other’s progress.
The cruise sector is a major component of our tourism industry. It is often the first to bounce back after disasters like hurricanes or even in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Several ships of the FCCA member lines came to our rescue to evacuate people from the island in the wake of Hurricane Irma seven years ago. We are very grateful to you for that. That is what friends do. You have shown through your actions that a friend in need is a friend in deed.
You will also recall that during the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Maarten served as a key hub for the industry to transfer crew and services and offered the opportunity to berth ships at a time when several ports were closed to all maritime traffic. We were there for you
when you needed us most. That is, indeed, what friends do: they have each other’s back. It is a symbiotic relationship we are very proud of.
And speaking of friendship, it is true that friendliness is in the St. Maarten DNA. That is how we earned the title, “The Friendly Island.” Our people – the greatest asset we have – are friendly by nature because they value the humanity in others. We see our visitors as part of an extended human family and treat them as such. It is the source of our strength and of our success. I would like to believe that it is one of the reasons why you have chosen to celebrate this special occasion of your 35th anniversary conference here as you did 10 years ago.
For us, it is actually a double celebration, as our Port St. Maarten is also celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. And if what they say is true that “60 is the new 40”, I am sure we can confidently add that St. Maarten has become a mature, sustainable and resilient port of call.
While I recognize that you are here for business, I encourage you to find the time to explore all the attractions that have made St. Maarten a preferred cruise destination in the Caribbean region for such
a long time. With 1.35 million cruise passengers visiting our shores this year, with a projection to reach 1.5 million next year, it is evident that we have the winds beneath our sails, so to speak.
The breathtaking beauty of our island, its exciting nightlife, its duty-free shopping, and its world-class variety of gastronomic offerings which have made us the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, are only part of the St. Maarten story which you are also helping us to write. And as we continue on this journey – or should I say, on this cruise – together, we invite you to immerse yourselves in the unique St. Maarten experience, an island without borders, though having two different administrations; an island of peace and harmony, of a vibrant culture and multi-lingual people. We invite you to experience life the St. Maarten way and experience it more abundantly on our pristine beaches and blue, crystalline waters and in the warmth of our legendary hospitality.
I wish you a Happy Anniversary, fruitful deliberations and a very successful conference.
Welcome! Bienvenidos! Bienvenue!
Welkom! Bon bini!
Embark on a cruise, disembark into a world of experiences
A Port That Has It All
PUERTO PLATA
GOVERNMENT LEADERS
The FCCA Member Lines thank the Government Leaders of the Caribbean and Latin America for showing their support of the Cruise Industry through their attendance at this Conference.
Hon. Charles Fernandez
Minister of Tourism
Antigua and Barbuda
Hon. Ian Gooding-Edghill
Minister of Tourism and International Transport
Barbados
Hon. Anthony Mahler
Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations
Belize
Hon. Kye Rymer
Minister for Communication and Works
British Virgin Islands
Hon. Kenneth Bryan
Minister of Tourism and Transport
Cayman Islands
Hon. Charles Cooper
Minister of Infrastructure and Economic
Development
Curaçao
Federico Anliker
Minister of Ports and Special Projects
El Salvador
Hon. Marsha Henderson
Minister of Tourism
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Hon. Valérie Damaseau
Commissioner of Tourism and Culture
Saint Martin
Hon. Carlos James
Minister of Tourism
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Hon. Luc. F.E Mercelina
Prime Minister and Minister of General Affairs
Sint Maarten
Hon. Grisha Heyliger-Marten
Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication
Sint Maarten
CRUISE EXECUTIVE LISTING
AIDA Cruises
Sandra Neffgen, Director, Shore Excursions
Carnival Corporation & plc
Javonte Anyabwele, Vice President, Global Strategic Sourcing
Charlene Drakes, Manager, Stakeholder Engagements, Caribbean Region
Philcher Grant-Adderley, Director, Public and Community Affairs, Bahamas
Marie McKenzie, Sr. Vice President, Government & Destination Affairs
Karin Plettner, Associate Vice President, Port Business Development
Marc Miller, Sr. Director, Deployment & Itinerary Planning
Virgin Voyages
Richard Diaz, Destination Operations Specialist
Christina Dubenko, Shore Excursions - Product Development Lead
Lee Kayley, Manager, Shore Excursions
Tess Ristaino, Deployment Analyst
Juan Trescastro, Vice President, Global Destinations
Windstar Cruises
Kelly Hubbard, Director, Product Development
THE PERFECT CRUISE DOCKS AT OUR ISLANDS.
Stop at any of our ports to experience unique culture, turquoise waters, and picturesque towns with endless shopping and attractions. Come experience the best the Caribbean has to offer.
OCTOBER 22
BEST PRACTICES
–GETTING THE MOST FROM THE FCCA CONFERENCE
Maximize your FCCA Conference experience with this essential one-hour workshop. Learn how to effectively promote your products and services, master your “elevator pitch”, and set clear expectations for meetings and negotiations. We’ll cover everything you need to prepare, including what to bring and how to capitalize on your one-on-one meetings. Discover best practices for networking beyond the meetings and the importance of follow-up and next steps. This workshop is invaluable for all participants, especially those new to the cruise industry’s trade shows and events.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22
ROYAL PAVILION @ OCEAN POINT RESORT 3:30PM – 4:30PM
PRESIDENTIAL PANEL
Join top cruise industry leaders as they share insight into the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Mexico. This session will cover current opportunities, including more homeporting, longer stays, increased capacity, summer cruising, multi-port calls, and local employment and sourcing. The panel will also discuss long-term goals, such as achieving net-zero carbon emissions, focusing on partnership and planning for a brighter future.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23
MAHO ROOM @ OCEAN POINT RESORT 10:15AM – 11:15AM
PANELISTS:
SPEAKERS:
OCTOBER 23
Beth Hatt Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence
Melanie Colpitts Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence
MODERATOR:
Alexander Gumbs Chief Executive Officer, Port St. Maarten, FCCA Presidential Strategic Partner
Michael Bayley President & CEO, Royal Caribbean International
Christopher Ivy CEO, Margaritaville at Sea
Richard Sasso Chairman, MSC Cruises USA
John Padgett President, Princess Cruises
Harry Sommer President & CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
OCTOBER 23
THE TOTAL GUEST EXPERIENCE
Discover how enhancing the destination experience can drive increase spending. This session will explore how destinations and partners can upgrade their products and adapt to the evolving dynamics of cruise travel. Gain actionable insights on improving guest satisfaction and learn from industry experts about the latest trends and strategies in the cruise sector.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23
MAHO ROOM @ OCEAN POINT RESORT
1:30PM – 2:30PM
MODERATOR:
Adam Ceserano President, Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association
FINDING YOUR NICHE -
PANELISTS:
Hon. Kenneth Bryan Minister of Tourism & Transport, Cayman Islands, FCCA Presidential Strategic Partner
Marie McKenzie Sr. Vice President, Government & Destination Affairs, Carnival Corporation & plc.
Dan Farkas
General Counsel & Chief Development Officer, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd & FCCA Operations Committee Chairman
Melissa Morales Sr. Director, Destination Development, Royal Caribbean Group
Di Lorenzo Sr. Vice President, Port Operations & Government, MSC Cruises USA
Juan Trescastro Vice President, Global Destinations, Virgin Voyages
THE EVOLVING WORLD OF DESTINATION & PORT
In this interactive session, delve deeper into the ever-changing landscape of destinations and port operations. Explore how the latest generation of vessels and evolving expectations of operators are shaping the industry. Learn about the proactive measures being taken to ensure a positive guest experience and discover how you can find your niche in this dynamic environment.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23
ROYAL PAVILION @ OCEAN POINT RESORT 3:00PM – 4:00PM
SPEAKER:
Tom Spina Vice President, Tour Development, Cruiseport Destinations
Albino
OCTOBER 24
FINDING
YOUR NICHETHE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA
In the world of modern communications, many brands find their messaging getting lost or diluted in the vast ocean of information overload. This dynamic session, presented by Marketplace Excellence (MPE), will offer cruise professionals the insights and skills to develop and deliver hard-hitting, effective communications streams for their diverse audiences. Learn best practices for leveraging social media, traditional public relations, storytelling, and digital media to develop powerful synergies that amplify your message while maintaining a cohesive, influential presence. Marketplace Excellence is a global firm with extensive experience in strategic public relations and communications, most notably in the Caribbean tourism and hospitality industry.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24
ROYAL PAVILION @ OCEAN POINT RESORT
3:30PM – 4:30PM
CREATION OF A SUCCESSFUL TOUR PRODUCT
What does it take to build a successful tour product that meets current industry demands? This session will explore the strategies needed to cater to both new and seasoned cruisers, from popular tourism products to more exclusive boutique experiences. Learn what types of tours guests are looking for and how to provide different levels of service to meet diverse preferences. Gain valuable insights into creating tour products that resonate with a wide range of cruise passengers.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24
MAHO ROOM @ OCEAN POINT RESORT
5:00PM – 6:00PM
MODERATOR:
Lee Kayley Manager, Shore Excursions Virgin Voyages & FCCA
Shore Excursion Committee Chairman
PANELISTS:
SPEAKER:
Bevan Springer President, Marketplace Excellence
Melanie Carsjens Director, Shore Excursion Operations & Product Development, Holland America Line & Seabourn
Melissa De La Cruz
Sr. Manager, Global Tour Operations, Royal Caribbean International
Kelly Hubbard Director, Product Development, Windstar Cruises
Hein Erasmus
Sr. Manager, Port Adventures & Destination Experiences, Disney Cruise Line
Priscilla Molina Director, Product Development, Shore Excursions, Carnival Cruise Line
Stepping off a cruise in the Greater Colombian Caribbean in search of perfect sunsets, white beaches, a blue sea, that's also green, and towering palm trees that sway in the breeze. Coupled with the carefree smiles of the local islanders.
San Andrés island, an authentic paradise and one of the best places to spend a tropical vacation.
Scan the code to embark on this adventure.
San Andres, GREATER COLOMBIAN CARIBBEAN
Sailing to New Horizons & Seizing Every Opportunity
Destination St. Maarten Welcomes the 30th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Tradeshow
St. Maarten has marked many milestones over the past 60+ years as a premier vacation destination, with its port playing a pivotal role. Port St. Maarten has undergone continuous development and innovation, contributing significantly to this success.
Popular activities for visitors include Rainforest Adventures (home to the world’s steepest zipline), ATV Tours, Snorkeling, Sunset Tours (to view airplane landings), Double-Decker Bus Tours, 12 Metre Regatta, Island Hopping, Shopping Excursions, and Beer and Rum Factory Tours.
St. Maarten is also known as the Caribbean’s culinary
capital, offering innovative dishes that reflect the island’s cultural history, blending global flavors with local traditions.
Port St. Maarten is committed to providing quality services and continues to play a leading role in St. Maarten’s economic development, looking toward the future while honoring its past. Hosting the 30th Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Tradeshow is a testament to St. Maarten’s key role in cruise tourism, which is vital to the island’s economy.
At this year’s conference, discussions will focus on key challenges and opportunities, with partnerships renewed to enhance guest experiences. Port St. Maarten, under CEO Alexander Gumbs, continues to set maritime milestones, seizing opportunities as it has done for over six decades.
Welcome to St. Maarten/St. Martin
Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs, Hon. Grisha Heyliger Marten
Grisha Heyliger-Marten was born on St. Maarten to a Curaçaoan mother and an Anguillan father. After completing her education at Milton Peters College, she earned an associate degree in business administration from the University of St. Martin and later a bachelor’s degree in management and marketing from Florida Metropolitan University. Grisha went on to pursue a master’s degree in international business at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, graduating in 2002.
After working at SMITCOMS, she founded Montage N.V., a marketing and event planning company. In 2019, she entered politics, driven by a desire to improve the lives of her fellow citizens. Grisha served as a Member of Parliament (20202024) and worked on addressing injustices within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
In 2023, she ran for a second parliamentary term and has served as Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunication since May 2024. In addition to her political work, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and attending cultural events.
Tourism Infrastructure & Destination Improvements
Since taking office, Minister Heyliger-Marten has prioritized enhancing St. Maarten’s tourism product. Her beautification projects have already begun transforming the island, starting with a collaboration with Port St. Maarten Group to enhance the cruise corridor leading to the port. Phase 1 of the project is underway, creating a more visually appealing entryway for visitors. This effort aligns with the port’s strategic plan to further develop its assets.
A key milestone was reached with the September 9th groundbreaking of Soualiga Marketplace, a market that will showcase local crafts and support small businesses while promoting cultural heritage.
In addition to beautification, the minister is focusing on infrastructure improvements, including upgrading the cargo facility to streamline the handling of essential goods and boost efficiency. Plans are underway to develop a master plan for the enhancement of Phillipsburg, the island’s capital. The plan includes beautification initiatives, better visitor experiences, and supporting local businesses. The minister is considering the introduction of a city manager role to oversee these developments.
To further enhance visitor experiences, digital kiosks will be installed throughout Phillipsburg, providing information on stores, restaurants, cultural and historical sites, and other useful resources.
The minister also launched the “Soualiga Routes” initiative, identifying key locations along popular tourist routes where local art can be displayed, enriching the visitor experience while showcasing the island’s artistic talent. In addition, plans to clean and restore national monuments in a phased approach will help preserve St. Maarten’s historical heritage. These initiatives, spearheaded by Minister Heyliger-Marten, aim to make St. Maarten an even more attractive destination for both visitors and residents.
Awards/Accolades
In 2024, readers of CruiseFever voted Port St. Maarten the number one cruise port in the Caribbean. CruiseFever receives over 500,000 unique monthly visitors, with some months exceeding a million. The website has been featured in major media outlets including CNN, Fox News, and ABC News.
CEO Alexander Gumbs expressed gratitude for the recognition, crediting the people and stakeholders of St. Maarten for their dedication to service and hospitality. He noted that the accolade reflects the island’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences for cruise guests. Port St. Maarten anticipates welcoming 1.6 million cruise passengers in 2025.
CruiseFever’s recognition highlighted the port’s unique appeal, noting its dual French and Dutch influences, its rich culture, and its natural beauty, including 37 beaches. St. Maarten is a favorite cruise destination for many, thanks to its stunning scenery and warm hospitality.
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) is pleased to announce our partnership. ExcursionInsurance.com has been appointed the administrator of the FCCA Global Tour Operator Insurance Program.
As the leading tour operator insurance brokerage and risk management provider, ExcursionInsurance.com shares our vision, our values and our passion for the cruise industry. Working together, we can enhance the destination experience and broaden horizons for all of our members.
To learn more about how this partnership can benefit you, contact our experts today.
Revolutionizing Waste Management in Ports: Innovative Circular Solutions to Combat Climate Change and Marine Pollution.
PS Maritime Sustainability Solutions is committed to making a significant impact on the United Nations' 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in the area of climate action. Our innovative circular economy solutions for waste management, combined with our waste carbon impact traceability model, enable us to track the carbon impact of each waste stream's management, promoting responsible consumption and production while reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with waste disposal.
Our approach to ship generated waste management not only helps prevent marine pollution but also supports the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, helping to combat climate change. By promoting the circular economy, we aim to reduce waste generation, increase recycling rates, and prevent marine pollution, supporting the United Nations' Life Below Water goal.
At the same time, our approach also supports the Decent Work and Economic Growth goal by creating new jobs and supporting economic growth, while also contributing to the Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure goal by promoting innovative waste management practices and developing sustainable infrastructure for managing waste.
Join MPS Maritime Sustainability Solutions in the fight against climate change and marine pollution by partnering with us today. Together, we can create a more sustainable and resilient waste management system that supports economic growth while reducing environmental impacts.
Exclusive strategic partners to promote sustainability solutions within the cruise industry
Contact +52 55-8897-6969
Email info@maritimeps.com
SEQUENCE OF EVENTS
MONDAY, OCTOBER 21
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Private Platinum Member and Cruise Executive Reception (Bamboo House - Jungle Adventure Theme / Dress Code: Resort Casual)
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Private Day - Cruise Executives & St. Maarten Government
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Post Conference Tour (Spirit of St. Maarten Luxury VIP Snorkel Tour)
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Exclusive Platinum Member Tour with Lunch (St. Barth’s Getaway)
PLEASE NOTE
BADGES: All conference participants must wear their badges at all times during the FCCA Conference. Badges will be required for admission to all social functions, business sessions and to utilize complimentary transportation services.
DRESS CODE: All business functions, including the Conference Opening Ceremony, are Business Casual (Sport Jackets are optional for the opening ceremony)
Evening functions will take place outdoors. Dress is resort or elegantly casual.
TRANSPORTATION: Complimentary transportation is provided to and from the Maho Beach & Ocean Point Resorts only.
