AI and Experience Economy Take Center Stage at International Cruise Summit
Industry leaders gathered in Madrid, Spain, for the 15th International Cruise Summit to discuss operational challenges and the rising importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in the cruise sector. The two-day event launched with support from government tourism and port authorities and attracted executives from over 25 cruise lines and associated industries.
Key discussions focused on the economic significance of cruising, which brought in 35 million passengers globally in 2024 and contributed approximately $198 billion to the worldwide economy. Participants emphasized the need to convey this economic impact and the industry’s commitment to sustainability more effectively to government entities, especially in light of certain counterproductive tourist tax policies.
AI’s role was a main theme, highlighted for its integration into sales platforms, itinerary planning, and efforts to mitigate environmental impacts. While human oversight remains essential in some areas, AI is increasingly being harnessed to streamline various operational processes.
The luxury cruise segment was noted to be expanding at three times the rate of the overall industry. Jonathan L. Wilson, CEO of Aman at Sea, presented insights about the upcoming yacht, Amangati, designed to emphasize exclusive experiences and a high crew-to-guest ratio. This strategy represents an industry-wide shift toward creating memorable and unique journeys for passengers, combining exclusive shore excursions with enhanced onboard offerings suitable for social media engagement.
The summit also tackled pressing operational issues linked to climate change, particularly regarding the implications of extreme summer temperatures on traditional daytime excursions. Participants deliberated on possible solutions, including contingency plans and the viability of shifting port calls to the evening. The dates for the next summit in 2026 have been set for November.
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Editorial Team
At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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