CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) has reaffirmed its commitment to humanitarian efforts through a renewed partnership with Mercy Ships, a nonprofit organization that provides free medical care aboard hospital ships.
This collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Mercy Ships and the CLIA, ensuring continued support for global medical missions.
For nearly five decades, Mercy Ships has delivered essential surgical and medical services to communities lacking adequate healthcare. The organization operates the world’s largest civilian hospital vessels, Africa Mercy and Global Mercy, crewed by volunteers from over 60 nations.
The cruise industry has contributed to these efforts in several ways, including encouraging its employees to volunteer aboard Mercy Ships, providing financial assistance for medical missions, and donating resources and equipment to support vessel operations.
Gert van de Weerdhof (CEO of Mercy Ships) noted the value of the organization’s long-standing partnership with CLIA, emphasizing that the agreement reinforces a shared commitment to leveraging maritime resources for global healthcare initiatives.
The collaboration reflects the cruise industry’s broader engagement in community support beyond tourism. Bud Darr (CLIA's President and CEO) acknowledged Mercy Ships’ impact, highlighting the nonprofit’s dedication and the industry’s ongoing commitment to facilitating its humanitarian work.
Beyond surgical interventions, Mercy Ships also focuses on training local medical professionals and strengthening healthcare systems, ensuring a lasting impact in the regions it serves. Through this partnership, the cruise sector continues to play a key role in expanding access to medical care in underserved communities worldwide.