The Ports of Madeira and Marella Cruises recently welcomed Tourism and Business Management students from Instituto Superior de Administração e Línguas (ISAL) onboard Marella Explorer. The visit aimed to provide the students with a practical understanding of cruise tourism and to highlight potential career paths within the industry.

During the onboard visit, approximately twenty students had the unique opportunity to tour key operational areas of Marella Explorer, interact directly with the captain, explore the ship’s engine control room, and participate in a lunch experience onboard.

The event began with remarks from Paula Cabaço, President of the Madeira Ports Administration (APRAM). Cabaço emphasized APRAM’s commitment to fostering dialogue between the local community and the cruise sector.

“Cruise ships are essentially floating cities,” Cabaço explained, "offering a diverse range of skilled professional roles, spanning from tourism management and engineering to entertainment, information technology, maritime operations, and healthcare."
Olivia Wells, Sustainability Manager at Marella Cruises, said. "We’re delighted to partner with the Ports of Madeira for this educational experience. Inviting local students aboard Marella Explorer to explore operational aspects and career opportunities in cruising is invaluable. We look forward to continuing such meaningful engagements in Madeira."

Agência Ferraz, the regional representative for Marella Cruises, provided essential support in coordinating the event. According to APRAM, there are plans to sustain and expand such initiatives.

"We are already working with Marella Cruises and other cruise lines on future community engagement projects to deepen ties between Madeira's residents and the cruise industry," Cabaço concluded.

Source: medcruise.com