The 68th MedCruise General Assembly has come to a close in Palermo. 

Starting on June 9 and ending on June 12, this year’s edition of the event hosted by the Port System Authority of the Sea of Western Sicily drew more than 240 participants. 

As shared in a press release, 27 cruise lines were in attendance, and more than 700 B2B meetings were held, a record for a MedCruise General Assembly. 

“The 68th General Assembly in Palermo has been a historic moment for MedCruise. Celebrating 30 years of cooperation while achieving record participation from members, cruise lines, industry stakeholders and 15 new memberships demonstrates the strength of our Association,” said Theodora Riga, president of MedCruise.  

“Palermo was the ideal setting to honor our achievements and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges shaping sustainable, resilient cruising in the Mediterranean, as it was one of the founding members of MedCruise.” 

In celebration of MedCruise’s 30 years, a special anniversary panel examined the cruise sector’s evolution over the past 30 years, highlighting innovation, sustainability, partnership and resilience. 

Furthermore, Professor Thanos Pallis presented the latest MedCruise State of the Industry Report, providing insights into operational trends, market developments and the outlook for cruising across the Mediterranean and adjoining seas. 

Attendees also explored Palermo and Sicily through cultural visits, tours and networking events. 

The social program also included a gala dinner at Villa Boscogrande and a farewell dinner at Villa Tasca, which also served as the official celebration of MedCruise’s anniversary. 

The Association said it remains committed to cooperation, innovation and sustainable growth, further strengthening the Mediterranean’s position as a leading global cruise destination, as it enters its fourth decade.