Interferry, the association representing the ferry industry worldwide, invites industry leaders and innovators to submit presentation proposals for Interferry2026, its 50th Annual Conference, which will be hosted by Chao Phraya Express Boat in Bangkok, October 31 – November 4, 2026. This golden jubilee gathering marks a half-century of industry collaboration and will take place in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant capital, directly on the waters of the Chao Phraya, the “River of Kings”.

Under the theme “Stronger Than Ever… Together”, the conference program will focus on the power of collective action and shared knowledge in navigating the evolving maritime landscape. Stakeholders and interested parties are asked to submit their proposals by May 1, 2026, with selected speakers to be notified by June 15, 2026.

Complete details for submitting proposals can be found on the Interferry2026 conference website at interferryconference.com/interferry2026-call-for-speakers/

“We are thrilled to be heading to Bangkok to celebrate five decades of Interferry at a time when our industry has proven itself to be more resilient and unified than ever,” says Interferry CEO Mike Corrigan. “This jubilee, hosted by Chao Phraya Express Boat and Interferry President Supapan Pichaironarongsongkram, a distinguished third-generation female leader who embodies Thai marine excellence like no one else, is an expression of our increasing commitment to Southeast Asia.”

In alignment with the conference theme, Interferry is seeking presentations that move beyond individual achievements to highlight regional and organizational partnerships. The association is particularly interested in “lessons learned” from the frontline of implementation, whether in electrification, AI integration, or advanced propulsion, to ensure delegates walk away with actionable insights.

The conference technical committee is welcoming submissions across a diverse range of critical sectors, including:

• Decarbonization and energy transition
• Safety leadership and operational best practices
• Digitalization and smart ferry operations (including AI and automation)
• Port and infrastructure innovation
• Passenger experience and accessibility
• Workforce development and training
• New vessel design and technology
• Resilience and emergency response

“Networking, along with promotion of safety and regulatory engagement, is one of the three pillars on which Interferry has been built for 50 years,” adds Mike Corrigan. “We anticipate between 400 and 500 ferry executives will gather to meet, forge new business partnerships, and enjoy the spectacular surroundings in Bangkok.”

Interferry is the global ferry trade association with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization and similar influenceat the European Union as well as many other maritime governance authorities. With membership exceeding 280 companies and representing plus 2,200 individuals in more than 40 countries, its primary purposes are to represent the ferry industry on regulatory and policy matters including safety and sustainability; to speak on behalf of the worldwide ferry sector which provides transport for over four billion passengers and 370 million vehicles annually; and to facilitate networking and communications among its members.