Seatrade Cruise Global marks 40th year in Miami
The event marked a significant milestone for the global cruise community
Seatrade Cruise Global marked the conclusion of its 40th-anniversary edition at the Miami Beach Convention Center from 7th to 10th April.
The event marked a significant milestone for the global cruise community as it welcomed over 11,500 attendees from 128 countries, including more than 75 global cruise lines.
This run of Seatrade Cruise Global also commemorated 40 years of innovation, collaboration and growth within the cruise industry.
The world comes to Miami
The event attracted more than 11,500 attendees from over 128 countries around the world converging in Miami, the home of the global cruise sector.
Industry leaders, cruise executives, and more than 600 innovative exhibitors came together to explore the future of cruising, making this year’s Seatrade Cruise Global one of the most well-attended editions to date.
Global brand director Chiara Giorgi remarked: “This year’s Seatrade Cruise Global has been a remarkable celebration of our industry’s journey over the past 40 years and was our most inspiring edition yet. The enthusiasm and engagement of our attendees have been truly inspiring. We have seen incredible participation from industry leaders and innovators who are passionate about shaping the future of cruise travel. The inspiring discussions and innovative exhibitors at this year’s event have highlighted the innovation, resilience and creativity that define our industry.”
Highlights from a successful show
Seatrade Cruise Global 2025 offered a rich array of highlights, including a highly anticipated conference programme.
This year’s theme, “Milestones,” encouraged the cruise community to reflect on the evolution of the industry while looking ahead to future advancements.
The event featured 87 conference sessions, where 290 expert speakers explored new trends, and delved into key opportunities and challenges shaping the next era of cruise travel.
Attendees had the chance to engage in dynamic discussions on topics ranging from evolving guest expectations to groundbreaking innovations and sustainability efforts.
The State of the Global Cruise Industry keynote session, sponsored by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and held on 8th April, brought together over 2,500 delegates.
Industry leaders shared their insights and expertise on the current landscape and future projections for cruise travel, chaired by Anne Kalosh, Editor at Seatrade Cruise News.
The panel discussed the cruise industry’s biggest opportunities and challenges in 2025 and beyond; from supply and demand shifts to unlocking new markets.
They touched on the record-breaking orderbook, innovation driven by AI, and the push toward future fuels.
The conversation also covered destination management, infrastructure investment, Europe’s influence on policy, and Asia’s growth potential.
A new generation rises with Tomorrow’s Talent Today
This dedicated initiative for cruise HR, training, and recruitment professionals, as well as educators and students from cruise-related academic institutions, took place on 7th April.
The programme was developed to cultivate the next generation of cruise industry talent and delivered a wide range of opportunities for those new to the industry to learn, explore opportunities and connect with those in the industry to help develop their careers.
Continuing the celebration of young talent, this year’s revitalised 20 Under 40 Programme showcased exceptional young talent within the global cruise industry.
This initiative recognises individuals under the age of 40 who have demonstrated significant impact, leadership, and dedication in their respective sectors, as nominated by themselves or peers.
