7 SEPTEMBER 2026 O ver many years, PVA member vessel operators have consistently demonstrated remarkable inno- vation, creativity, and resilience while delivering safe, reliable, and memorable experiences for their custom- ers. Operating on U.S. waterways that present constantly changing weather, environmental, regulatory, and eco- nomic challenges, PVA member vessel operators have con- tinuously adapted and evolved, all the while maintaining a solid focus on excellent customer service and on positive business returns. This innovative spirit is reflected in operators’ adoption of new technologies, including advanced reservation sys- tems, digital customer communications and programs, and environmentally responsible practices. Operators are also enhancing the passenger experience through distinc- tive sightseeing and excursion offerings, appealing food and beverage options, and services tailored to changing customer needs. Together, these efforts create memorable customer experiences. At the heart of these activities and achievements is a com- mitment to striving for excellence. PVA member vessel operators understand that success depends not only on moving passengers safely and efficiently, but also on creat- ing experiences that customers value. Their willingness to innovate, adapt, and continually improve makes the U.S. passenger vessel industry a visible example of entrepreneur- ial spirit and service excellence. THE NEW PVA INDUSTRY EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION AWARD Recognizing this important reality, the members of the PVA Marketing and Membership Committee have an- nounced the creation of the PVA Industry Excellence and Innovation Award. This exciting new PVA annual award will recognize and highlight the tremendous creativity, ingenuity, imagination, and initiative of PVA member ves- sel operators who go above and beyond the norm in their operations every day. Please help us celebrate and recognize this spirit of excel- lence by making a nomination for this new award. In do- ing so, we encourage you to tell us how the nominee has made significant improvements in operations, technology, customer experience, or another significant action that demonstrates extraordinary results. For further information about the new PVA Industry Ex- cellence and Innovation Award see the article in this issue of Foghorn. Also, visit the PVA Industry Excellence and Innovation Award webpage to review eligibility and award criteria and submit a nomination. ON THE CONGRESSIONAL FRONT As of this writing the U.S. Congress is winding down its legislative activity as lawmakers prepare to return home and campaign ahead of the November midterm elections. That means that very little will be accomplished legislative- ly until after the elections. Nonetheless, PVA continues its work on Capital Hill to ensure that our association’s opin- ions and positions are satisfactorily communicated. Most recently, the PVA Board of Directors approved a res- olution opposing a draft legislative proposal that would create an exception to the Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA). The proposed measure, if introduced and ap- proved, would establish an Alaskan port operated by the Huna Totem Corporation as a foreign port for purposes JOHN GROUNDWATER // EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT THE HELM PVA Members Mean Business Continued on page 70 AWARD WEB SITE
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