Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1543954
B M & T ••• March/April 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 28 As the cruise industry charts its course, meeting plan- ners and travel agents are setting sail for ships as unique event venues. And it's no wonder – cruises deliver unbeatable value, serv- ice, and stunning backdrops. Meals, entertainment, and ameni- ties are often bundled, reducing surprise expenses. Attendees can connect with colleagues and industry experts in a relaxed setting, and cruise lines can accommodate groups of all sizes and needs. Potential cons are limited to meetings being held in remote locations –requiring travel, and the ocean environment and onboard activities possibly diverting attention. Word's out: cruises are a hit, with diverse travelers flocking to the seas. While exact figures are elusive, the rising number of cruises speaks volumes. In response, the industry is evolving to meet the needs of its eclectic clientele. The Cruise Line International Association's (CLIA) 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report reveals that cruising accounts for 2.7% of the tourism sector, but has shown remark- able resilience with steady growth over 50 years. In 2024, 34.6 million ocean-going cruisers sailed, with 20.53 million from North America – up 13.4% from 2023. Cruisers love the value and multi-destination experience, according to CLIA's report. However, the report lacks data on meetings at sea and the economic impact on the Black cruiser. Industry experts stress the importance of understanding African American travelers' unique needs. "Royal Caribbean has had the pleasure to work with several events and charters that are repre- sented by the African American community," said Anthony Meloro, Royal Caribbean's Director, Business Development Support, Trade & Host Travel Partner Relations. "This has ranged from cor- porate meetings to music festivals." Meloro, 55, a 20+ year travel industry veteran, said Royal Caribbean makes an effort to con- nect with the African American market. "Royal Caribbean has a unique distinction where we have our own dedicated marketing team," Meloro said. "In addition, we continuously have a robust sales team that is work- ing with many incentive houses, travel partners, and direct cor- porations to position Royal Caribbean as the leader in the cruise segment when it comes to MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) programs." To bolster his case, Meloro said Royal Caribbean imple- ments initiatives to increase diversity and inclusion in its leader- ship teams. "We value the decision-making power that comes from teams with diverse voices and perspectives, and we're com- mitted to integrating these strengths across all areas of the com- pany," said Meloro, a Brockton, Massachusetts native. "In 2024, we participated in 23 campus engagements with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other affinity BY DARLENE DONLOE photo: credit: popmediaGroup/R.Ing