September 23rd - 25th, 2026
On board Stena Germanica
Kiel – Gothenburg – Kiel
About the Summit
The ADAC Ferry Distribution Summit 2026 brings together senior leaders from Europe’s most influential ferry operators and distribution platforms for a closed-door exchange on the next era of ferry distribution and maritime travel.
At a time when technology, customer behaviour, and distribution models are evolving faster than ever, this summit creates a unique environment where decision-makers can openly discuss what comes next for the ferry ecosystem.
Industry-Leading Speakers
Insights from leading ferry distributors, operators, tech firms and RoPax Magazine
Strategic Insights
API connectivity, digital distribution & structural shifts in ferry retailing
Beyond Frameworks
Candid look at next-generation connectivity and industry collaboration
High-Level Networking
VENUE
Stena Germanica
Newly Renovated Vessel
DATE
September
23-25, 2026
FORMAT
Closed-Door Summit
Senior Leaders Only
Why Attend
- Access to senior decision-makers across the ferry and travel industry
- A closed-door environment designed for open discussion and meaningful business exchange
- A clear focus on distribution, commercial strategy and future market developments
- High-value networking in a curated, limited setting
- A timely forum as legacy API standards approach the end of their lifecycle and more ferry operators reach the practical limits of FerryGateway
- An opportunity to help shape the future of ferry distribution
Target Audience
- CEOs and Managing Directors
- Commercial Directors and Heads of Sales
- Senior leaders in Distribution and E-Commerce
- Senior representatives of ferry operators and travel platforms
AGENDA (Preliminary)
DAY 1: Conference Sessions I
Setting the Scene (105 min)
- 13:45–14:00 – Welcome
Opening Remarks - 14:00–14:30 – The State of Ferry Distribution in Europe 2026
Keynote by Jan Philip Eckmann, RoPax Magazin - 14:30–15:00 – The Future of Ferry Distribution
What are the industry’s biggest challenges over the next five years? - 15:00–15:30 – Executive Discussion
Five questions the industry needs to answer before tomorrow.
DAY 2: Conference Sessions II
Rethinking Distribution (120 min)
- 09:30–10:00 – The Hidden Cost of Distribution
Manual processes, reconciliation and commercial complexity. - 10:00–10:30 – Can Artificial Intelligence Transform Ferry Distribution?
Where AI already creates value today—and where the technology still falls short. - 10:30–11:00 – Building a Modern Distribution Ecosystem
Lessons from operators, OTAs and technology providers. - 11:00–11:30 – Panel Discussion
DAY 2: Conference Sessions III
From Strategy to Action (135 min)
- 11:45–12:15 – The Next Generation of Ferry Retailing
- 12:15–12:45 – Open Standards or Commercial Platforms?
A discussion on the future of industry connectivity. - 12:45–13:25 – CEO Panel
What Should Ferry Distribution Look Like in 2030? - 13:25–13:55 – Commercial Ferry Operations and Marine Biodiversity
Balancing commercial growth with the protection of marine ecosystems.
Key Topics
- The current challenges in ferry distribution and what comes next
- The end of legacy API standards and the need for future-ready connectivity
- The growing number of ferry operators reaching the limits of FerryGateway
- Direct vs indirect sales models
- API connectivity and technology integration
- Changing customer behaviour
- Pricing strategies and revenue optimisation
Experience
A unique combination of focused business exchange and a memorable event setting: onboard networking, an exclusive conference environment, a curated Gothenburg programme, and valuable opportunities for informal discussion beyond the conference room.
Logistics
Kiel – Gothenburg – Kiel
Cabins onboard, catering and land programme included
