185 here” than bigger ports because people are typically unfamiliar with their stories. Cruise industry expert Stewart Chiron advised ports to invest in promoting themselves rather than relying on cruise lines to do it on their behalf. “It’s imperative to reach out and make yourself known,” he said, adding that smaller ports should also join organisations like MedCruise. Another session explored whether these small and medium-sized Mediterranean ports could potentially be included in expedition itineraries, seeking perspectives from panellists Spiros Almpertis, vice president of port operations and itinerary planning at Crystal Cruises, Hugues Lamy, director port operations at Swan Hellenic, and Sacha Rougier, vice president of itinerary planning and destination experiences at Orient Express Silenseas. While all three agreed that the natural, cultural and historical attractions in Mediterranean ports make them an appealing option for expedition cruises, they warned that several factors would make this difficult. Almpertis and Lamy highlighted inconsistent regulations regarding the use of kayaks and Zodiacs for excursions as a key challenge, suggesting that a solution could be to eliminate the use of such equipment and instead focus on excursions that enable guests to meet local communities. Forming partnerships to help the industry overcome challenges and capitalise on new opportunities was a prominent theme during the event, particularly during the 648 business-to-business meetings, networking events and internal member meetings. During the latter, members voted to establish an Atlantic Isles committee, comprising ports in Lisbon, Madeira, Azores, Leixoes and Portimão in Portugal, as well as Cabo Verde in West Africa, and Cadiz, Tenerife, Huelva and the Canary Islands in Spain. Members also created a new East Med and Red Sea group, which now exists alongside the West Med and the Black Sea and Adriatic groups. “We are approaching the end of a very active and productive three-year mandate,” said Ayan, noting that one of the biggest achievements is an almost 10 per cent rise in port members and a 50 per cent in associate members over the past two years. “MedCruise and the cruise industry have been propelling us to be together more than ever and be strong reliable supports for each other.” MEDITERRANEAN: REPORT Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, the city of Tarragona boasts multiple remnants from its time as a major Roman city, including a circus, amphitheatre (pictured) and a tower. Visitors can take a walking tour to explore the city, where they will also see medieval buildings. Meanwhile, a short coach trip to the surrounding areas offers opportunities to visit Poblet, one of the world’s largest and most complete Cistercian abbeys. Cruise guests looking to explore the modernist architecture of renowned architects such as Antonio Gaudí can take a short trip to the nearby city of Reus to visit the Gaudi Centre or see examples of the buildings he has designed in the streets. Another impressive attraction is Casa Navas (pictured), the only example of a Catalan Modernisme building by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner with its original interiors. Tarragona is one of the biggest wine and vermouth regions in Catalonia, and travellers will find multiple opportunities to sample the produce for themselves with a tasting session at a locally run business, such as Vermouth Padró. A TASTE OF TARRAGONA Delegates enjoyed a gala dinner at the Moll de Costa in Tarragona
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