7 MARCH 2026 T he PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2026 was an energizing experience for PVA members from far and wide who gathered in Covington, Ky., for this eagerly awaited annual industry event. Those attending MariTrends 2026 met a future‑focused gather- ing that blended industry innovation, meaningful collabo- ration, and genuine community spirit into one unforgetta- ble experience. With packed sessions, a busy exhibit hall, and a beautiful Ken- tucky riverfront backdrop, MariTrends 2026 delivered exactly what passenger ves- sel professionals hoped for: insight, inspiration, and connections. MARITRENDS 2026 A Convention for an Evolving Industry For many, MariTrends 2026 stood out as one of the most dynamic and energetic conventions to date. Held at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center—a venue perfectly sized and situated for both learning and networking—the event brought to- gether operators, suppliers, and maritime innovators from across the country and worldwide. In fact, there were 145 first-time attendees at MariTrends 2026—an impressive number by any measure. As the face of the industry is changing, so too is the make- up of MariTrends convention attendees. Today, as you stroll through the MariTrends exhibit hall or attend the many educational sessions it is impressive to see the grow- ing representation of next generation business owners and young managers who are stepping in to take leadership roles in their companies. The numbers of woman who are also stepping up and managing complex passenger vessel operations and who are now in attendance is particularly noticeable and impressive. These new passenger vessel industry leaders are inquis- itive and have a thirst for knowledge that is evident in their steady participation in the full range of convention programming. While they want to learn, they also want to contribute to the overall convention experience which was evidenced by a variety of excellent educational sessions conducted by enthusiastic first-time presenters. Networking That Really Delivered One of the most celebrat- ed aspects of MariTrends 2026, or any PVA conven- tion for that matter, is the sense of community and, as many acknowledge, the prevailing sense of openness and sharing among those who may even be competitors. Receptions and social events created occasions for new relationships and old friendships to flourish, and the Mar- iTrends 2026 Exhibit Hall welcomed active conversations about products, services, problems, solutions, and general industry know-how. The MariTrends 2026 exhibit hall also showcased a diverse range of cutting‑edge maritime technologies and essential services. As a result, attendees left with fresh ideas and new contacts to help elevate their vessels and operations. As one MariTrends attendee commented, “This wasn’t just another conference—it felt like a reunion of people who care deeply about the passenger vessel industry.” JOHN GROUNDWATER // EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT THE HELM MariTrends 2026: Providing Insight, Inspiration, and Connections Continued on page 70 MariTrends 2026 delivered exactly what passenger vessel professionals hoped for: insight, inspiration, and connections.
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