From 27–30 May 2025 in Kraków took place 59th General Meeting of the European Maritime Pilots’ Association (EMPA) – one of the most important European gatherings of the maritime pilot community. The event was hosted by Polish Association of Maritime Pilots (PSPM), and the conference was organised by COTI Conference Time.
Under the slogan “Maritime Pilotage: The Key Link in the Maritime Industry” The meeting brought together representatives from the maritime pilot community, industry organisations, experts and partners in the maritime sector. The programme focused on the key challenges facing modern shipping, covering, amongst other things,. artificial intelligence, autonomous vessels, safety and training in maritime operations, innovative technologies, GPS signal jamming and its impact on navigation safety.
The main part of the conference took place in AC Hotel by Marriott, Kraków. The event programme combined in-depth specialist sessions and meetings with EMPA representatives with an extensive networking and social programme, including, amongst other things, a Welcome Reception, a Polish Dinner, a tour of Kraków and a gala Gala Dinner at the Royal Castle in Niepołomice.
The 59th EMPA General Meeting also provided a forum for discussion on the future of maritime safety. One of the outcomes of the meeting was an EMPA resolution highlighting the growing threat posed by disruptions to navigation systems, including GNSS, AIS and radar, and emphasising the crucial role of human knowledge and experience in ensuring the safety of maritime operations.
The organisation of this event for an international audience was yet another project by COTI Conference Time, bringing together comprehensive conference organisation, participant support, programme coordination, collaboration with partners and sponsors, and the organisation of accompanying events.