The 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 gathering that blended industry innovation, meaningful collaboration, and genuine community spirit into one unforgettable experience. With packed sessions, a busy exhibit hall, and a beautiful Kentucky riverfront backdrop, MariTrends 2026 delivered exactly what passenger vessel professionals hoped for: insight, inspiration, and connections.
MariTrends 2026 delivered exactly what passenger vessel 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 together 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 growing 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 inquisitive 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 celebrated aspects of MariTrends 2026, or any PVA convention 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 MariTrends 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.”
High‑Impact Programming Offering Real Solutions
As mentioned, MariTrends 2026 attendees were treated to a rich lineup of education sessions featuring expert presenters and timely, thought-provoking topics. More than 60 in‑depth seminars, workshops, and roundtables tailored to real operational challenges. The educational program works to strike an important balance by being forward‑looking enough to inspire and grounded enough to offer ideas that can be adopted immediately.
From education sessions to the exhibit hall to social events, the evolving face of the industry is reflected in MariTrends attendees. Represented are the increased number of women and the next generation, both of whom are taking on leadership roles in companies, as well as the wider industry. In the bottom left photo, PVA members visited Washington, D.C. during the 2025 PVA Congressional Fly-In.
Purposeful Discussions And Passenger Vessel Operators Day
There has been a concerted effort to structure convention sessions to encourage active dialogue. PVA recognizes that knowledge sharing is an important part of the learning process and has taken steps to develop programming which promotes interactive discussions and exchanges. Along these lines, a shining star of recent MariTrends conventions is Passenger Vessel Operators Day. This highly popular full-day event is specifically tailored to the interests of vessel operators (but we hope associate members will attend also). Passenger Vessel Operators Day offers a captivating program planned with the understanding that PVA members learn best when they are learning from each other. Following this philosophy, Passenger Vessel Operators Day emphasizes collaboration, open discussions, roundtables, and information-sharing formats. We will continue to build on the successes of this special program feature.
A Week To Remember
MariTrends 2026 set the standard for future PVA conventions. Enthusiasm, insights, inspiration, and connections prevailed throughout the event. If you attended this year, thank you for your contribution. If you did not, please consider taking part in a PVA convention in the future.
I look forward to seeing you in Tampa for the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2027, Jan. 21-24.
Have You Completed a MariTrends 2026 Convention Survey
If you attended or exhibited at MariTrends 2026 you have by now received a convention survey seeking your opinions about the event. If you have already responded, please accept our thanks. If you have not, I encourage you to do so as your opinions are extremely important to us as we plan future conventions. Please know that all comments are taken seriously and are factored into our decision-making and future planning.
Pva Congressional Fly-In
Scheduled April 21
The annual PVA Congressional Fly-In is set for April 21, in Washington, D.C., and we hope that you will join us for this year’s event. This annual PVA Fly-In is an opportunity for PVA and its members to discuss the issues that matter most to you and the passenger vessel industry with our nation’s lawmakers. PVA staff organizes meetings with members of Congress and their staff from your states and Congressional Districts so that your message resonates directly with the lawmakers who represent you. The fly-in will be organized so that you will be a member of a team comprised of PVA members and staff who will together fan out to advocate for our industry.
Let me assure you that you will find this event to be extremely rewarding and one where you feel that your opinions and those of your colleagues make a true impact.
Watch your emails for registration, hotel, and other details. If you would like more information or to attend, please click on the following links:
Event Information Register Today
Or contact PVA Legislative Director Richard Patch, at rpatch@passengervessel.com if you have questions. I hope that you will join us in our nation’s capital for the PVA Congressional Fly-In.
In the meantime, let me know whenever we can be of assistance to you.
Sincerely,
John R. Groundwater
Executive Director
John Groundwater is the Executive Director of the Passenger Vessel Association.