Focus on Safety, Digitalization, and Sustainability
With rapid technological advancement, one of the key themes was cyber security — from protecting onboard systems to security protocols in “smart ports.” Participants also discussed the challenges of digitalization and how to use artificial intelligence to enhance passenger experience and fleet management.
A strong emphasis was placed on sustainable development, including innovative environmental monitoring technologies, emission-reduction strategies, and new models of responsible engagement with maritime destinations. It was highlighted that modern travelers are increasingly aware of the environmental footprint of their journeys, and the industry must respond by developing cleaner, more energy-efficient solutions.
Growth of Luxury Cruising
One of the most striking topics was the expansion of the luxury cruising segment. Particular attention was drawn to the presentation of the exclusive “Aman at Sea” project, which sets new standards in premium experiences at sea. Experts predict that demand for personalized, high-quality travel experiences will continue to grow in the coming years.
The Aman at Sea luxury project was presented by Johnathan Wilson, President and CEO AMAN AT SEA, who, in conversation with Virginia Lopez Valiente, CEO CRUISES NEWS MEDIA GROUP delivered a hospitality masterclass to all attendees — from vision and strategy to a product that will revolutionize the cruising experience.
The Importance of Destinations: From Ports to Local Communities
The second day of the summit focused on destination development and their integration into wider tourism offerings. Discussions covered the economic benefits cruising brings to cities and regions, as well as the challenges destinations face, such as traffic regulation, cultural heritage protection, and ensuring sustainable local development.
Panels on itinerary planning in geopolitically sensitive regions drew particular interest, an increasingly important topic for global operators seeking to balance safety with attractive routes.
F, Rebuffo, CARIBBEAN GROUP ,M. Bosco, PRINCESS CRUISES, V. Alves, AROYA CRUISES
S. Almpertis, THE RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION, source: Cruiseclipping.com / author: Zagorka Stančić
At the conference, Croatian scientist and expert Dr. Mario Špadina, CEO and co-founder of SeaCras presented his work. The award-winning company SeaCras specializes in the development and implementation of systems for monitoring sea conditions and detecting pollution incidents in marine, inland, and territorial waters, with a particular focus on urbanized areas. At the summit, the team presented tools and technologies for monitoring and assessing pollution, with special emphasis on how to integrate them into sustainability policies in tourism and the cruise industry.
Their product, the SeaCras App, is a free, publicly accessible online tool that allows anyone to check real-time sea quality at specific locations — a unique project that sets new standards for the future of regenerative tourism.
A Place for Networking and Partnerships
The International Cruise Summit traditionally serves as a platform for business networking. Numerous meetings, business lunches, and evening events gave industry representatives opportunities to establish new partnerships and exchange ideas on the sector’s future development. This year’s sponsors come from various parts of the industry, with strong promotion of regions aiming to strengthen their position as cruising destinations.
A Step Towards a Transformed Industry
ICS 2025 continues its mission of bringing together experts who collectively shape the future of cruising. In a time of rapid change and growing environmental challenges, the summit highlights the need for innovation, sustainable practices, and strong collaboration among all stakeholders.
One of the summit’s key messages is that the cruising industry must move toward transformation: environmental practices, innovation, and digital solutions are no longer optional — they are essential.
Thus, in November 2025, Madrid reaffirms its status as one of the key points on the global cruising industry map — a place where ideas are born that will shape the future of cruising in line with global challenges.
