MSC Cruises

Strong investment interest has been officially expressed for the majority stake in Lavrio Port Authority.

Eight investment schemes had tabled a bid at the TAIPED-run tender by Thursday's deadline.

After being evaluated, some or all of them will be short-listed for the submission of binding financial offers.

The cruise industry is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact, said Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises and global chair at the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), on the opening day of the 7th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum in Thessaloniki on Tuesday, highlighting the significance of sustainability.

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Cruises, has been appointed to a two-year term as global chairman of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) to become the first European in this position.

Vago will assume the global chairmanship effective immediately, succeeding Adam Goldstein, who recently completed his second term at the helm of CLIA.

Leading cruise operator MSC Cruises announced on Wednesday in Athens a first for the Swiss-based operator: the launch of a new route across the Aegean and the East Mediterranean that will have Piraeus as its home port.

Athens-based cruise specialist Travelway will again be participating in the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum this May, looking to network with both the cruise line decision-makers attending the event as well as meet and connect with existing or potential suppliers.

Piraeus Port Authority (OLP) is not only planning to create four new mooring slots for cruise ships at the southern side of the port that will be able to receive vessels of up to 390 meters in length, but in the medium term it is also preparing the creation of a luxurious hotel and shopping center, as well as entertainment and food service spots.

A series of business meetings is under way in Athens between Greek cruise sector officials and foreign operators such as Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and Carnival Corporation, in the context of the Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum.