The Atlantic Alliance honored Michael Ungerer, president of AIDA Cruises, at the ITB today for his contribution and commitment on behalf of its 18 member ports.

For the past five years, the 18 member ports of the Atlantic Alliance, representing eight countries, have worked to raise the profile of Europe’s Atlantic coast, extending from northern Germany to southern Portugal, including Great Britain and Ireland.

“Michael Ungerer has been one of the main drivers and supporters of the Atlantic Alliance project since its inception and has continued to contribute to our success ever since,” commented Nadine Palatz, manager of the Atlantic Alliance.

She said that as early as 2011 AIDA Cruises deployed three ships in the region – the AIDAblu, AIDAcara and AIDAsol. Subsequent years have seen a continued expansion of itineraries covering Atlantic Alliance member ports.

The next step will be taken with the AIDAprima which will be sailing year-round in the region from mid-2015.

Ungerer said that the Atlantic Alliance is a perfect example of how an innovative idea can be packaged and marketed as a new product. “What could be more exciting than visiting these fantastic Western European capitals with a cruise ship?” he asked.

In 2013, Atlantic Alliance destinations attracted 2.5 million passengers.