Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1543954
B M & T ••• March/April 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 30 can do their own thing and still be together. The only drawback I see is if people aren't comfortable with water." Richard Burney, Meetings & Events at Sea, applauds meetings at sea. "The clients and meeting planners tell me it's a meet-and-greet experience," he said. "Using the cruise line resources, you can plan meetings, meals, and activities for sig- nificant others and children. The bottom line is that it's cheap- er. Food and the activities make it cheaper." If you're considering hosting a meetup on a ship, Burney, 66, who has also been a consultant with Metro Laundry Services for 9 years and obtained the coveted contract at MGM National Harbor, advises inspecting the vessel first and 'plan, plan, and plan.' Metro Laundry Services serves only lux- ury hotels and their food and beverage operations, as well as rooms, spas, and more. "When I'm working with a client, I ask to see their plan for the two previous conferences," said Burney, a Chicago native. "I will help them find a fit. We will handle everything from A to Z. I'll help them find a fit that works best for them. One size never fits all. You can't get a perfect fit, but you can get an excellent fit." When it comes to meeting space on ships, Meloro said Royal Caribbean's 30 revolutionary ships offer unique backdrops and experiences across hundreds of destinations. "Choose from short or long cruises and treat your atten- dees to dazzling venues, show-stopping entertainment, and unforgettable team-building experiences," he said. "Every one of our ships is home to a huge assortment of customiz- able venues to suit every group size and meeting objective. Our theaters, lounges, and outdoor spaces accommodate groups as small as 25 and as large as 1,394 and are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and complimentary AV services." In the current trend, the cruise industry is booming, driven by demand for luxury and eco-friendly experiences. The lux- ury segment is expected to hit $31.27 billion by 2033, fueled by travelers seeking high-end adventures and sustainable options. "The current trends are all about value," said Sheppard. "That, and the one-price movement. Guests want to pay one price and have everything included. The nickel and dime con- cept is a 'has-been.' As a meeting planner, you don't want to offer your guests a price, and then they have to pay additional fees." "There is a continuous trend to reach new and exotic des- tinations," Meloro said. "Offering cruising for a meeting and incentive event offers numerous benefits, including unprece- dented camaraderie, an incredible value proposition, security, and confidentiality. Many programs that translate from hotels to cruising have an appetite for longer programs because of the added value." Cruise lines are working to boost diversity and inclusion by increasing diverse leadership, partnering with diverse organizations, training employees on diversity and inclusion, and creating inclusive marketing efforts. A great example is Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady, featuring the artwork of Hillary D. Wilson, a Black artist known for merging classical art and medical drawing. Wilson's design showcases a realistic Black woman with natural curly hair, symbolizing strength, vulnerability, and confident female power. "The art I do varies by project," Wilson said. "I blend reality with gratitude, capturing beauty in the world around me." She infused the artwork with strength and resilience, reflecting the mermaid's con- fident movement forward. The mermaid is part of Virgin Voyages' "Mermaids" collection, celebrating diverse back- grounds and stories, and empowering women to chase their dreams. Main Theater, Royal Caribbean