Corporate MICE planners are heading out to sea to find more value and variety for their events
Cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry – and growing fast. According to the Cruise Line International Association 27.2 million passengers are expected to set sail in 2018. In 2017, an estimated 25.8 million passengers cruised, an increase of 20.5 percent over five years since 2011.
One significant contributor to growth in cruising is the discovery by corporate event and meeting planners that these ships can be exciting platforms for company get-togethers. Event managers see immense value in planning meetings and events on cruise ships.
First, it helps to have the entire group in one location at all times, especially if one of the goals of corporate events is team building. Cruise ships are the ideal environment for official happenings in confined spaces that offer a host of facilities and venues. Second, it helps stick to budgets. Considering cruise packages are “all-inclusive,” this greatly reduces the possibility of additional expenditures. All accommodation, dining, entertainment and facilities are included in the price, making it simpler for managers to plan and execute the event.
But beyond the relative ease of organizing the logistics of corporate MICE events on board a vessel, there’s the value that comes from attendees finding themselves in more engaging settings, participating in unique travel experiences. Indeed the trend these days is toward travelers seeking more experiential encounters in their journeys.
From cultural immersion and voluntourism to team building and brainstorming, those returning from a cruise say they have a shift in perspective and a sense of accomplishment. Some upcoming cruise itineraries include the opportunity to indulge in local cuisine, guided tours through small villages and even visits inside private homes.
Setting Sail
Esta historia es de la edición May 2018 de Business Traveler.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición May 2018 de Business Traveler.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Train of Thought
As Amsterdam’s airport curtails flights because of environmental impact, KLM suggests that its passengers take to the rails
Entry Level
Why travelers are waiting weeks or even months to receive a new passport or renewal
Big Wheels
American Airlines offers a TSA-approved ground service between Philadelphia and surrounding airports
Le Bon Goût
Air France partners with Michelin-starred chefs for its new menus
First Glance
United unveils new high-end seats
Ring of Fire
In October and April, solar eclipses will dazzle the United States
Just Say Know
To improve mental health, learn new skills on the road—and have fun doing it
Rebalancing Act
How Finnair CEO Topi Manner led the airline through two external crises to bring it back on track
New Look
With industry innovations and a star-studded roster of clients, designer Peter Dundas is changing the shape of fashion
Food for Thought
The pioneering Spanish restaurant EI Bulli is transformed into a museum and culinary laboratory