To: All News Directors and Interested Parties Contact: Amy Powers, Director, 207-310-0998

Date: August 22, 2003

CruiseMaine and City of Bangor to host Coastal Cruising Seminar

Coastal community members who want to learn more about future cruise itineraries along the Coast of Maine are urged to attend this seminar, the first ever of it’s kind to be held in Maine.  Along with attending an informative seminar, you will also have the opportunity to market your destination to the industry leaders who are in attendance!

The ultimate goal is to provide an informative and intimate arena for both the tourism transportation providers and the local tourism and destination representatives to connect with one another and plan for the future.

Program Speakers

Mr. Ron Roy, Director, Office of Passenger Transportation, Maine Department of Transportation. Mr. Roy will speak about recent infrastructure improvements and future development plans supporting the Maine Marine Highway and the Explore Maine Initiative.

Mr. Rod McKay, Director, Office of Community and Economic Development, City of Bangor. Mr. McKay will discuss Bangor’s waterfront re-development initiative, which will create year round visitor attractions, conference facilities, residences, unique retail shops, and office spaces in their unique riverfront atmosphere.

Mr. Charles Robertson, President, American Cruise Line. American Cruise Line is home porting in Bangor this year, a first for the Penobscot River destination. The American owned cruise company will conduct several six night cruises exclusive to the coast of Maine.  Mr. Robertson will be telling us about his company’s future plans for sailing the coast of Maine.   He’ll also inform us about their marketing and advertising program, the shore excursion programs and operational considerations.

Mr. Paul Matte, President, Destination Canada/ NewEngland. Mr. Matte will explore the basics of a good shore excursion proposal and the importance of shore excursions when marketing a destination.

Wyman Briggs, Executive Officer, USCG Marine Safety Office based in Portland. Executive Officer Briggs will introduce us to the recent changes in security and the many safety considerations involving cruise ship operations post 9/11.

Program Sponsors

MaineLine Tours and Charters- A Peter Pan Bus Company, L. L. Bean, FlyBangor, Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce, Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce, Penobscot Bay and River Pilots Association, The Maine Office of Tourism, The Maine Port Authority, Penobscot Marine Museum, Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company, City of Bangor.