The 32nd annual Marine Hotel Association (MHA) conference and trade show is underway from Naples, Florida this week with a huge attendance base and sold out trade show floor.

Attendees and trade show stands are notably up from 2016.

The unique event champions small and large cruise vendors targeting the hotel and food and beverage side of the industry.

“The size of the trade show is monitored to keep a reasonable ratio between exhibiting companies and cruise line attendees,” commented MHA President John Peijs, who is also director of hotel services at Holland America Line.

Cruise lines in attendance ranged from Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America to Windstar, Lindblad and start-up Virgin Voyages, with many others also represented.

“We like this event, it is a nice relaxed family atmosphere and a good place to do business,” commented one supplier.

Among celebrities at the trade show today included various members of the Mondavi wine family who flew in to attend the MHA from Italy.

The modest MHA membership fee and conference registration include all entertainment events, breakfast speaker programs, and Monday night’s traditional gala dinner.