49 MARCH 2026 Educational sessions throughout the week were equally valuable. A partic- ularly impactful panel examined the Capital Construction Fund (CCF), highlighting its value both to vessel owners seeking disciplined, tax-effi- cient capital formation and to ship- builders who benefit from long-term fleet modernization planning. The session reinforced why expanding CCF eligibility to passenger vessels was such an important legislative achievement for PVA. Another important session focused on combating the scourge of illegal charters. Members heard firsthand accounts of enforcement trends, regulatory challenges, and the im- portance of continued coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard and policymakers. PVA members also received an update on the much-an- ticipated Government Accountabili- ty Office study examining the issue. The discussion made clear that pro- tecting legitimate operators remains a top industry priority. One of the most memorable sessions of the convention was a charming and insightful retrospective on the history of PVA and its predecessor organiza- tions. Three giants of the industry— Gary Frommelt, Terry Wirginis, and Mike Borgstrom—shared stories, les- sons, and reflections from decades of leadership, reminding us that today’s successes are built on sustained advo- cacy and a culture of collaboration. The week concluded on a high note with a cruise down the Ohio River aboard BB Riverboats’ Belle of Cin- cinnati. The PVA President’s Dinner, graciously hosted by the Bernstein family, was a fitting capstone to the convention, complete with excellent food, fellowship, and fireworks over the river. It was a celebratory end to a productive and energizing week. MariTrends 2026 demonstrated once again that PVA is at its best when we combine serious policy engagement, practical business education, and gen- uine camaraderie. The momentum from the convention will carry direct- ly into our legislative work this spring. Join us for PVA’s annual Congressio- nal Fly-In on April 21, 2026. Clockwise from top left: Representative Massie spoke with members of the PVA Board of Directors before addressing MariTrends 2026 attendees; fireworks during the PVA President’s Dinner celebrated the successful event; John Lake (right) moderated a panel with, from left, Terry Wirginis, Mike Borgstrom, and Gary Frommelt.
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