First, a dialogue series with local partners took place on AIDAnova in the Canary Islands and Madeira in November when government, port and tourism officials were invited aboard to hear about AIDA's goals and engage in discussion.
More than 500 guests have been welcomed by AIDA crew in recent months including students in the Caribbean, Africa and Malta, rescue organizations in the Netherlands, fire brigades in the Orient and ministers and mayors worldwide. Programs tailored to each group introduced them to AIDA Cruises.
Ships welcomed visitors in their winter destinations to provide information about the product offered, sustainability initiatives and the AIDA family, according to Steffi Heinicke, SVP guest experience, AIDA Cruises.
Giving back
'It was particularly important for us to get to know the country and the people we visit even better,' she said, while promoting understanding of AIDA and giving something back in exchange for the hospitality extended by the destinations.
Ships' crews have gotten involved in various local projects. AIDAsol crew joined a primary school class in Madeira to plant native trees. AIDAluna crew donated towels to the Red Cross in Tortola via the charity Hope Floats Foundation.
During their call at Southampton, AIDAprima crew surprised Associated British Ports staff with lunch i in the terminal. This included security and mooring workers.
In the coming summer season, the outreach campaign will continue with activities planned in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. And, thanks to the positive response to shipboard visits in the Caribbean, events are also planned there in the 2023/24 winter season.
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