In a world where uncertainty has become the new normal, is predicting the future really the best strategy, or is the ability to adapt the greater competitive advantage?

This thought-provoking question set the tone for the Cyprus Marine Club’s October Get-Together, held on Thursday, 22 October 2026, at Gazebo Mare in Limassol, bringing together more than 100 members, distinguished guests and professionals from the maritime, energy and wider business communities.

A Growing and Vibrant Maritime Community

Opening the evening, Capt. Eberhard Koch, President of the Cyprus Marine Club, warmly welcomed the guests and expressed his appreciation for the continued enthusiasm and support of the Club’s members.

A particular highlight of his address was the official welcome extended to three new Corporate Members, PwC, Orbyt Global Group and SOPIVERI Consulting Ltd  together with two new Individual Members, further strengthening the Club’s professional network.

With these latest additions, the Cyprus Marine Club now counts close to 200  members, including 114 corporate entities, in addition to Individual Members,  reflecting its continued growth and increasing importance as a meeting point for Cyprus’s maritime and wider business community.

Capt. Koch also presented the Club’s programme of forthcoming events through July 2027, featuring professional presentations, networking opportunities and social activities. Among the highlights are the CMC Countryside Escape -The Farmakas Experience on 14 November 2026, the Christmas Networking Evening on 3 December, and the much-anticipated New Year’s Gala on 23 January 2027 at Parklane, Limassol.

The Energy Trilemma: Balancing Ambition with Reality 

The highlight of the evening was the presentation by Ms. Natasa Pilides, a prominent figure in Cyprus’s maritime, energy and business sectors.

Ms. Pilides made history as the first Shipping Deputy Minister of the Republic of Cyprus and subsequently served as Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, playing an important role in shaping the country’s maritime and energy policies. Her extensive professional background also includes senior positions at Invest Cyprus, Baker Tilly and PwC. She currently serves as General Manager of eWise – ESSO.

In her insightful presentation, “The Energy Trilemma: Trade-Offs Shaping the European Landscape,” Ms. Pilides addressed the complex challenges facing Europe’s energy sector, highlighting the delicate balance between energy security, affordability, sustainability and competitiveness.

She emphasised that the transition towards cleaner energy requires much more than expanding renewable generation capacity, a reality which was largely ignored in shaping European policy and developing the appropriate infrastructure. Renewable energy increases have thus failed to lead to the expected reduction of volatility, uncertainty and, crucially, energy bills. A shift in strategy is needed both at European and at regional level in order to course correct and boost competitiveness.

Her presentation offered valuable food for thought, particularly for industries such as shipping and energy, where long-term investments must be structured in a way that ensures flexibility, rather than locking stakeholders in the rigidity of old or obsolete decisions.

Connecting People, Ideas and Opportunities

The evening concluded with lively networking, offering participants another opportunity to exchange views, strengthen professional relationships and enjoy the fellowship that has become a hallmark of the Cyprus Marine Club’s gatherings.

With its growing membership and ambitious programme of activities, the Cyprus Marine Club continues to reinforce its role as a platform for professional dialogue, meaningful connections and the exchange of ideas within Cyprus’s maritime community.

Become Part of the Cyprus Marine Club

The Cyprus Marine Club welcomes individuals and companies wishing to join its growing professional community.

For membership enquiries and applications, please contact:

Tel: +357 25 662 555
Apply online: www.cyprusmarineclub.org.cy