Schedule of Events

Kick off Cruise Caucus with an evening reception on the Roof Terrace at CLIA’s offices. This reception is a widely attended event bringing together cruise industry leaders and invited congressional guests to connect and exchange perspectives ahead of the following day’s policy discussions. Light refreshments will be served. 

Begin the day with breakfast at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. This informal gathering provides time to network with fellow attendees and prepare for the day’s programming. Participants will receive any final updates and logistical reminders. Breakfast will be available beginning at 8:00am. 

The morning program will focus on key legislative and regulatory priorities impacting the cruise industry, along with updates from Capitol Hill. 

The program is subject to change.

• CLIA Welcome Remarks
  Bud Darr, President & CEO, CLIA, Mike McGarry, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, CLIA
  
  
• State of Travel in the United States
  Robert O'Leary, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism, United States Department of Commerce
  
  
• Cruise Economics by the Numbers
  Chris Mastrippolito, Director, Global Research, CLIA
  
  
• Congressional Policy Perspective
  

  Rep. Kathy Castor (D-FL) (Confirmed)

  Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) (Confirmed)
  

• Midterm Election Outlook
  Tim Monahan, Vice President and Managing Director of Government Affairs, US Chamber 
  
  
• Administration Economic Priorities
  Administration official to be confirmed 

Prior to departing for Capitol Hill, attendees will gather for a working lunch to prepare for congressional meetings. This session will review talking points, meeting assignments, and priority issues. Participants will have the opportunity to ask final questions and coordinate with their meeting teams. Lunch will be provided. 

Attendees will depart for Capitol Hill via organized transportation. Participants are encouraged to travel with their assigned groups to ensure smooth coordination. Transportation details will be shared in advance. 

Attendees will meet with Members of Congress and congressional offices to discuss federal policies impacting the cruise industry. These meetings provide an opportunity to strengthen relationships and reinforce the industry’s economic and community impact. Participants will outline advocacy priorities, share industry perspectives, and respond to questions from lawmakers and staff. This engagement is a cornerstone of the Cruise Caucus program. 

Following the conclusion of meetings, attendees will gather for a group photo on the East side of Capitol Hill. The photo will commemorate the day’s advocacy efforts and participation in the Cruise Caucus program. All participants are encouraged to attend promptly to ensure a timely departure. The image may be used for future communications and promotional materials. 

The program will conclude with an evening cocktail reception at the CLIA office. This widely attended event will provide additional networking opportunities and allow participants to debrief on the day’s meetings and reflect on key takeaways from their advocacy efforts. Light refreshments will be served.