By
Elly Yates-Roberts |
Cruise Ship Interiors Expo Miami, the world’s first event dedicated exclusively to the interior design, architecture and outfitting of cruise ships, was held on 19-20 June and was hailed a great success by attendees.
The event welcomed over 2,800 visitors from marine interior companies, design studios, interior outfitters, and senior executives, lead architects and designers from Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and other cruise lines.
“This event is something that we need,” said Antonio di Nenno, lead architect at MSC Cruises. “The market is changing and for the interiors industry, there is nothing else like this.”
Highlights included the official launch party, which comprised networking opportunities, complimentary drinks and live painting by artist James Hahn, and was sponsored by Bolidt, Global Marine Travel, Janus et Cie and Somec Group.
The first day featured a conference session entitled ‘Cruise Industry Outlook: Leaders’ Debate,’ where executives from Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, and MSC Cruises discussed their views on the future of cruise ship interior design.
Day two highlights included Studio DADO’s VIP breakfast and Trimline’s exclusive party, both of which took place at the Cruise & Ferry Interiors VIP Lounge. This area turned out to be a bustling hub, including for the event’s speakers who were all briefed here, and it showcased designs by Studio DADO, flooring by Forbo Flooring Systems and greenery by Ambius.
Cruise & Ferry Interiors was an official media partner for the event and executive editor Jon Ingleton and account manager Shelly Palmer enjoyed meeting with industry leaders to discuss exciting opportunities for future partnerships. They also launched the latest issue of Cruise & Ferry Interiors at the event, showcasing its new design.
Cruise Ship Interiors Expo Miami will return to the Miami Beach Convention Center on 16-17 June next year under the name Cruise Ship Interiors Expo North America. Before that, the event will be heading to Barcelona, Spain for Cruise Ship Interiors Expo Europe on 4-5 December 2019.