Global efforts in cruise sector training are broadened by Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence.
Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence Advances Sustainable Tourism
The Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence, a trusted partner to the cruise industry for over 30 years, is leading the charge in promoting sustainable cruise tourism. The organization's commitment to excellence and education is evident in its upcoming engagements and partnerships.
At the heart of Aquila's approach is the Living Lab, a hands-on model developed in Saint John, New Brunswick. This innovative approach assesses destination or company needs, creates a strategic plan, and delivers real-world-tested content grounded in daily cruise operations. This method ensures that every training program reflects proven best practices, empowering tour operators, guides, and destinations to elevate service excellence at every level.
Ambra Attus, Director of Impact at Aquila, will speak at the Dominica Cruise Stakeholders Symposium about creating memorable guest experiences. Meanwhile, Danielle Timmons, Vice President of Aquila, will participate in a roundtable discussion on cross-border collaboration, economic growth, and regional resilience.
One of Aquila's most significant upcoming engagements is the FCCA Cruise Conference and Trade Show, held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from October 21–24, 2025. This event is the Caribbean's premier platform for the cruise industry, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss innovations and sustainability in cruise tourism.
In addition to these events, Aquila is expanding its global cruise training efforts to enhance sustainable tourism practices worldwide. Melanie Colpitts, a partner at Aquila, presented on people-centered training at Caribbean Week in New York, while Beth Hatt, Founder of Aquila, stated that the organization's mission is to amplify excellence through education.
The Aquila team will lead conversations at the annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show in Puerto Rico, focusing on building cruise-ready communities, enhancing guest experiences, and strengthening partnerships. Melanie Colpitts is also scheduled to present at the 2024 FCCA Cruise Conference in St. Maarten.
Aquila's commitment to sustainable growth is also evident in its participation in the upcoming Ports Canada Conference in Halifax. The conference will discuss the growing importance of cruise to Atlantic Canada, with Robyn Stewart, Cruise Development Manager at the Port of Halifax, and Marie-Andrée Blanchet, Director of Cruise Development at the Port of Québec, also participating.
Danielle Timmons will also speak at Seatrade Cruise Global this year, further demonstrating Aquila's dedication to fostering dialogue and collaboration within the cruise industry.
While Aquila has not been previously mentioned to participate in ITB Berlin, Daytrip, International Press Trips, Venice International Film Festival, ITA Airways, Hawaiian Airlines events or partnerships, or to expand its winter schedule or join the BAGTAG platform, its focus remains on sustainable growth and elevating cruise tourism standards worldwide.
In summary, the Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence is a leading force in the cruise industry, committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices through its innovative Living Lab approach, engaging in key industry events, and fostering collaboration with stakeholders across the globe.
- The Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence, through its strategic partnerships, is focused on enhancing economic growth within the cruise industry and promoting sustainable tourism.
- Ambra Attus, Director of Impact at Aquila, will discuss creating memorable guest experiences, demonstrating the organization's commitment to improving lifestyle aspects of cruise tourism.
- Danielle Timmons, Vice President of Aquila, will participate in discussions on cross-border collaboration and regional resilience, showcasing the center's interest in business development and careers within the cruise industry.
- Education and self-development are essential to Aquila's mission, as evidenced by their involvement in online education platforms, improving the knowledge and skills of tour operators, guides, and destinations.
- To further facilitate travel and expand their global reach, Aquila is participating in various sailing conferences and events, fostering dialogue and collaboration within the cruise industry.
