As an industry known for its commitment to the ocean environment, the Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation (CICF) is pleased to announce a recent grant donation to support preservation efforts in Boston Harbor.

At a special luncheon, held in partnership with the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport), Colin Veitch, President, Norwegian Cruise Line, presented a charitable donation to Thomas Powers, Executive Director, The Island Alliance, to help the organization further its mission. Other special guests attending the luncheon included Craig Coy, CEO Massport, Michael Crye, President, International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL), and other cruise line executives, top producing travel agents, and business leaders.

The Island Alliance is dedicated to generating support for preservation of the Boston Harbor Islands National Park area. This park is the first public/private model for park development and funding. The mission of Island Alliance is to encourage public/private partnerships and secure funding for the preservation of the Boston Harbor Island National Park. Island Alliance efforts are focused on ensuring a legacy of greater use, enhancement, and enjoyment of this national treasure.

"We are very pleased to have the opportunity to support this important Boston Harbor preservation initiative," said James R. Border, Chairman of the Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation. "Boston Harbor has been a home port for the cruise industry for many years. While cruise vessel arrivals have continued to grow, our industry remains committed to continuing its efforts to maintain the ocean environment on which our ships sail."

"Saving the environment and promoting other good causes are noble aims- and formidable tasks. Massport was delighted to be part of the selection of the Island Alliance as this year's grant recipient, said Craig Coy, CEO Massport. It is because of their important work that we and future generations may appreciate and enjoy the Boston Harbor Islands National Park area for many years to come."

Massachusetts ranks 9th in the nation for cruise industry expenditures; resulting in $325 million in direct spending in 2003. In addition, the cruise industry is responsible for generating over 5,559 jobs in the state.

The Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation (CICF), founded in 1998 by the members of the International Council of Cruise Lines, focuses its efforts on programs designed to strengthen and improve the quality of life in communities served by our industry.

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