MedCruise has announced a change at the helm of the Association, with Anne-Marie Spinosi appointed as its new President, succeeding Theodora Riga, who has stepped down for personal reasons.
The transition has taken place in accordance with the Association's governance rules. Spinosi, who previously served as Senior Vice-President, has now assumed the Presidency, while Theodora Riga has been awarded the title of Honorary President.
Reflecting on her time in office, Riga said: “MedCruise has given me many reasons to be proud and even more to be grateful. I leave the Presidency with lasting friendships and complete confidence in Anne-Marie, who will lead the next chapter of our story.”
MedCruise has expressed its appreciation to Theodora Riga for the leadership and dedication she demonstrated throughout her tenure, recognising the value of her contribution to the Association and its members.
During her presidency, Riga helped foster cooperation among member ports, raise MedCruise's international profile and champion the interests of cruise ports and destinations across the Mediterranean. Her leadership, characterised by warmth and a collaborative spirit, was greatly appreciated by the Board of Directors, the Secretariat and the wider MedCruise community.
The new President brings extensive experience in both the port and cruise sectors. Since 2009, she has held the position of Cruise Manager at the Corsica Chamber of Commerce and has been actively involved in MedCruise for many years. Throughout this time, she has contributed to the Association's work across several areas, including communications, public relations, event organisation and the development of strategic partnerships. In her previous role as Senior Vice-President, she also helped strengthen relationships among members and promote the Mediterranean and its neighbouring seas as leading cruise destinations.
ommenting on her appointment, Anne-Marie Spinosi first expressed her gratitude to Theodora Riga for her leadership, dedication and continued commitment to MedCruise, highlighting the importance of her predecessor's contribution to the Association, both professionally and personally.
The new President also underlined the sense of honour, humility and responsibility with which she is taking on the role, reaffirming her commitment to building on the work already undertaken and further strengthening MedCruise's position as an authoritative voice for cruise ports and destinations. With the support of the Board of Directors, the Secretariat and all its members, Spinosi intends to continue promoting cooperation, innovation and sustainable growth, while preserving the spirit of unity and belonging that sets the Association apart.
The handover carries particular significance in 2026, the year in which MedCruise celebrates the 30th anniversary of its foundation. The new presidency therefore begins at an important stage in the Association's development, as it seeks to consolidate the achievements made so far and continue its growth.
Its priorities include strengthening international partnerships, supporting members as they navigate the industry's evolving challenges, and promoting a sustainable model of cruise tourism. Dialogue between ports, cruise lines, destinations and local communities will also remain central to fostering balanced growth across the industry.
MedCruise thus reaffirms its commitment to pursuing its strategic objectives and representing the collective interests of its member ports and destinations throughout the Mediterranean and its neighbouring seas, building on the spirit of cooperation and the network of relationships developed over three decades of activity.
Gabriele Bassi