Despite increased oil prices and inflation concerns, the outlook for U.S. domestic travel this summer looks positive according to travel experts. Travel industry forecasters are saying that domestic tourism will continue to be a key influencer for the U.S. travel economy. They are also signaling that these consumers are particularly focused on experience-related activities, leisure travel, and regional getaways.
Recent research indicates that approximately two-thirds of U.S. travelers are planning to take domestic trips instead of more costly international travel. Forecasts from the U.S. Travel Association suggest that higher travel costs are likely to also encourage shorter vacations, and trips to nearby destinations with outdoor activities continue to be a major tourism driver.
As mentioned, another emerging trend appears to be the growing importance of travel which emphasizes experiences. Along these lines, travel experts are saying that sporting events, concerts, and festivals are expected to influence travel decisions throughout the summer.
Overall, summer 2026 is expected to produce solid demand for domestic travel experiences. At the same time travelers will be looking for affordable budget-conscious activities. Despite economic uncertainty, Americans are still expected to include leisure travel and vacations in the coming months.
Join A Pva Committee—We Need You
PVA has historically looked to member volunteers as it developed programs for member use. Crew training tools, manuals, and videos along with a variety of other significant PVA offerings are a direct result of volunteers who have contributed essential time and expertise. Volunteering is not a one-way street; it provides value and satisfaction for volunteers. There is a personal satisfaction that is derived from volunteering and professional gratification in giving back to the organization and profession.
Over the years, PVA volunteers have helped the association meet ever-changing member needs. Volunteers have also assisted by contributing new ideas for programs and member services. Serving on committees, working groups, or participating in advocacy efforts allows volunteers to collaborate with industry peers, build relationships, and further the goals of the association at the same time.
PVA has benefited greatly from the knowledge, expertise, and enthusiasm that volunteers have contributed. These individuals and their efforts have helped PVA provide greater value to members while maintaining the ongoing strength of the association.
I encourage you to contribute to the evolution of PVA and the passenger vessel industry by volunteering today. Volunteering for a PVA committee is a great way to start and I urge you to consider joining one of the following committees to begin you volunteer journey:
Pva Legislative Committee
The PVA Legislative Committee guides the development of PVA’s federal legislative policy as it relates to the passenger vessel industry. Contact PVA’s Richard Patch at rpatch@passengervessel.com.
Pva Regulatory Committee
PVA’s Regulatory Committee monitors and comments on federal regulations relating to the passenger vessel industry. Contact PVA’s Lee Boone at lboone@passengervessel.com.
Pva Safety And Security Committee
The PVA Safety and Security Committee develops and produces training products, guidelines, and tools for PVA member use. Contact PVA’s Eric Christensen, echristiensen@passengervessel.com.
Pva Marketing And Membership Committee
This important committee considers and develops programs intended to add value for PVA members. It focuses on identifying ways to increase new member services and benefits. Contact PVA’s Sarah Ferretti at sarah@passengervessel.com.
Pva Emerging Leaders Committee
This committee seeks to involve PVA members who are new to the industry or are climbing the ladders of their companies. The group works to provide networking and learning opportunities for committee members. Contact Morgan Mooney at morgan@fireislandferries.com or Zack Reed at zack@ballyhooboats.com.
New Pva Safety Video Project Launched
The extensive library of PVA safety videos is being updated for PVA members to use in their safety programs. This exciting new project, which is being managed by a working group from the PVA Safety and Security Committee and PVA associate member Moxie Media, will completely re-script, re-shoot, and professionally produce 17 new PVA safety videos.
Video crews from Moxie Media will visit PVA member vessels in three cities to shoot footage for the new safety videos. The PVA working group will involve a variety of PVA member vessels in each city to accurately reflect the diversity of the PVA fleet.
PVA safety videos are an important member benefit that are widely used in PVA member crew and employee training programs. The PVA working group plans to showcase the new safety videos during the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2026 in Tampa, Fla.
Pva Approves Qmii As A Recognized Flagship Organization
Work continues in broadening the reach and impact of the PVA Flagship Safety Management System (SMS) for PVA members. In an important step forward, PVA has officially designated PVA member Quality Management International, Inc. (QMII) as a Recognized Flagship Organization (RFO). This designation authorizes QMII to conduct audits and issue reports for participants that have implemented the PVA Flagship Safety Management System (SMS).
The PVA Flagship SMS is a structured, documented system developed by PVA to enable members to manage safety through continual improvement. Flagship is a comprehensive, voluntary SMS tailored specifically for the U.S. passenger vessel operators that meets the requirements of 33 CFR Part 96.
The Flagship SMS represents years of collaboration between PVA and the Coast Guard and ensures that participating members maintain comprehensive national safety objectives. QMII was approved following a comprehensive evaluation of the company’s organizational structure, internal quality systems, and the maritime expertise of its auditing team.
As you can tell, there is a great deal of work being done to enhance and expand services, products and benefits for PVA members. I urge you to take advantage of these important tools.
In the meantime, please 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.