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Working Group: Cruises and Port Cities

In November 2021, the International Association of Cities and Ports (AIVP) and MedCruise formalized their partnership through a memorandum of understanding, thereby launching the Cruises and Port Cities Working Group.

The Initiative

Bring together members of both organizations to promote more sustainable relationships between the cruise industry and urban port communities.

cruises-port-cities

Objectives

The Working Group is a platform for collaboration among port authorities, municipal representatives, cruise operators, and other stakeholders, aimed at addressing the challenges and opportunities of cruise tourism in port cities.

Its main objectives are:

  • Sharing Knowledge and Best Practices for a Sustainable Coexistence Between Cruise Ships and Port Cities
  • Promote dialogue and transparency between the cruise industry and local communities
  • Support policies that balance economic, social, and environmental development

Activities and Achievements

Phase 1: Creation of the Cruise Port City Compass

From 2021 to 2024, the group held 13 meetings bringing together cities, ports, public authorities, cruise lines, and international experts. These discussions led to the creation of the Cruise Port City Compass, a strategic document outlining concrete solutions, key challenges, and examples of best practices for better urban management of cruise tourism.This document was officially presented at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami and is now an essential reference for cities and ports committed to a more sustainable coexistence with the cruise industry.

Phase 2: Priorities

This new phase will focus on two main areas:

  • Governance and Civic Engagement: Exploring the Role Cruise Lines Can Play in the Social and Civic Life of Port Cities
  • Traffic Management and Mobility: Solutions for Regulating Passenger Flow and Reducing Urban Congestion

To support this work, two external experts will join the group: a representative from a cruise line and a firm specializing in mobility planning.

Format and Schedule

The Working Group will meet online twice a year (in the spring and fall) and will hold an in-person event in early 2026. A final presentation session will take place at Seatrade Cruise Global in April 2026.

Contact

José Sánchez

Director of Agenda 2030 by AIVP, Projects and Content; Member of the Executive Committee
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