AAPA 2009 Cruise Seminar To Focus On Trends, Best Practices

Program Slated For Mazatlán, México, Feb. 18-20.

Western Hemisphere cruise market trends, challenges, issues, opportunities and best practices are all on tap Feb. 18-20, 2009, in Mazatlán, México, when the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) hosts its 11th annual Cruise Seminar. Industry executives from cruise lines, associations and ports, together with presenters from the federal government and private industry will help participants gain a better understanding of what is going on throughout the cruise industry, including specific markets like Mexico and Latin America, and what is being done (and still needs to be done) to help the industry grow and thrive, even in tough economic times.

Seaport security, destination management, embarkation efficiency, environmental protection and disaster recovery, along with creative uses of facilities between cruise calls are also on the agenda.

• About AAPA

Founded in 1912, AAPA today represents 160 of the leading public port authorities in the United States, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. In addition, the Association represents more than 300 sustaining and associate members, firms and individuals with an interest in the seaports of the Western Hemisphere. AAPA port members are public entities mandated by law to serve public purposes. They facilitate waterborne commerce and contribute to local, regional and national economic growth. These ports are gateways to world trade and are critical components to their nation’s economic health, national defense and growing cruise industry. In 2007, commercial seaport and marine cargo operations in the U.S. generated $3.2 trillion of total economic activity and provided jobs for 13.3 million Americans, whose earnings and consumption totaled nearly $650 billion.