The Agency seeks a vendor to provide comprehensive cruise marketing management services for Maine. The selected company will develop, promote, and lead cruise development initiatives, serving as a liaison between cruise stakeholders and government officials at the local, state, and federal levels. Key responsibilities include the creation and management of a cruise marketing plan and coordination of outreach and communications to industry stakeholders to support the long-term, sustainable development of cruise tourism.

The vendor will also manage an annual budget for marketing and outreach efforts, monitor industry trends through market research, and proactively communicate operational issues requiring agency action, such as berth closures or transportation disruptions. Strong media, public relations, and communications skills are essential, including experience preparing press materials, talking points, and supporting the agency with both proactive and responsive communications related to the cruise industry.

The contractor is expected to build and sustain coalitions, convene diverse stakeholders, facilitate consensus, and foster collaborative relations among agencies, port communities, industry partners, and federal entities. Additional responsibilities include strategy development to maximize the economic and sustainable impact of cruise tourism—such as promoting landside excursions and Maine-made products—along with producing content for the Cruise Maine website, social media, and industry platforms. The contract term is one year.