IDEAS

Cruise tourism generates significant economic benefits for coastal destinations, but the growing number of passengers places increasing pressure on port infrastructure, transportation networks, and local services. Managing passenger flows during cruise ship arrivals and departures remains a major operational challenge, particularly when accurate data on passenger movements and potential congestion are unavailable. These limitations affect port efficiency, resource allocation, and the overall visitor experience. The main objective of the IDEAS (Innovative Digital Solutions for Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability in Cruise Tourism Operations) project is to design, develop, and evaluate an integrated digital platform that supports efficient passenger flow management and sustainable cruise tourism operations. The proposed solution combines Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, data analytics, and Digital Twin technologies to improve operational planning and decision-making. The platform will provide intelligent services for monitoring and predicting passenger movements during embarkation and disembarkation, identifying potential congestion, and supporting the allocation of port resources. Digital Twin models will enable the simulation of passenger flows and operational scenarios, allowing port authorities and cruise operators to assess different management strategies and anticipate potential disruptions. In addition, IDEAS will develop personalized digital tourism services to enhance the visitor experience. These services will provide recommendations for attractions, activities, and transportation options based on passenger preferences and available visiting time, while supporting a more balanced distribution of visitors across local destinations. The project includes requirements analysis, the development of AI-based algorithms and digital services, their integration into a unified software platform, and validation through pilot applications. The expected outcomes include improved port operational efficiency, more effective passenger flow management, reduced congestion, and enhanced sustainability of cruise tourism destinations. IDEAS is implemented through the collaboration of SAMMY IKE and the University of Patras, combining industrial expertise and academic research to develop and evaluate digital solutions for the cruise tourism sector.