Castle of Santa Barbara overlooking port of Alicante in SpainCruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced Alicante, Spain, as the host city for the CLIA European Summit 2027, scheduled from 8 to 11 March. The summit will gather senior cruise executives, policymakers, port leaders, and tourism authorities from across Europe and beyond to discuss the future of cruise tourism, maritime policy, and sustainable growth.
The event, organised in partnership with the Port Authority of Alicante and local tourism and business partners, will be held at the Auditorio de la Diputación de Alicante (ADDA). It aims to serve as a premier forum for dialogue on destination development, infrastructure investment, and economic growth. Bud Darr, President and CEO of CLIA, noted, "Alicante reflects the Mediterranean's tradition of connecting people, cultures, and commerce whilst embracing future opportunities."
Alicante, a key player in Mediterranean cruise tourism, has recently completed a €2 million terminal refurbishment, enhancing its role in the Spanish cruise ecosystem. The region's commitment to collaboration and investment in visitor experiences makes it an ideal setting for discussions on tourism and maritime growth.
The summit will feature keynote discussions, executive forums, and policy sessions, with additional details on speakers and registration to be announced. Luis Rodríguez González, President of the Port Authority of Alicante, expressed pride in hosting the summit, highlighting the region's maritime heritage and commitment to sustainable growth.
The announcement comes as cruise tourism continues to significantly impact Europe's economy, generating over $64 billion (€64 billion) in 2024 and supporting approximately 445,000 jobs. Spain remains a leading cruise destination, underscoring its vital role in European tourism's growth
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