Las Palmas de Gran Canaria will host the next edition of Seatrade Cruise Med 2026, a key forum for the cruise industry to be held at the Port of Las Palmas on September 16 and 17. The event will gather over 90 international industry leaders to analyze the main challenges and opportunities facing the sector, under the theme «Raising Expectations».
In a context of growing expectations and challenges for the sector in the Mediterranean and adjacent seas, the Seatrade Cruise Med 2026 program will focus on how the region and the industry can elevate their standards. Topics to be addressed include the growth of the luxury segment, the rise of expedition cruises, the transformation of port infrastructure, sustainable tourism management, and strengthening the relationship between ports and cities.
The event will also feature specific sessions dedicated to the Mediterranean, adjacent seas, the strategic value of the Atlantic Islands, and the opportunities in the Red Sea. Infrastructure development, cruise line deployment strategies, and the role of technology, including artificial intelligence, will be among the key discussion points.
The program will include participation from representatives of cruise lines, port authorities, tourist destinations, and promotion organizations. Confirmed speakers include Charles «Bud» Darr, president and CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), who will deliver the inaugural address; Jaco Gouws, Senior Vice President, Land Excursions for EMEA, APAC & Luxury Group at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.; Justin Poulsen, Head of Itinerary Planning, Destination Experiences and Land Operations at Explora Journeys; Sacha Rougier, Vice President of Itinerary Planning and Destination Experience at Orient Express; and Susana Gutiérrez, General Director of Canary Islands Cruise Ports and Málaga Cruise Port.
This year's edition, being held for the first time at the Port of Las Palmas managed by Global Ports Canary Islands, is expected to attract 180 exhibitors and over 2,000 industry professionals.
