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Cruise Conference Planning For Your Association

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Continuing Education, Inc.
University at Sea^™
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St Petersburg, Florida 33703

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Emergency and Acute Care Medicine & Cardiology

7-Night USVI & Puerto Plata Cruise
Round-trip Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
April 13 - 20, 2025

This conference has already sailed, but that doesn't mean you have to miss the boat! Click here to see our complete schedule of upcoming programs.

<em>Celebrity Ascent</em> — *Celebrity Ascent*

COURSE CREDITS & HOURS

16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™
16 ACPE Credits
16.0 Contact Hours

COURSE FEES

$995.00 for Physicians, Psychiatrists, Pharmacists, & Attorneys

$795.00 for Physician Assistants & Nurse Practitioners

$595.00 for Nurses, Students & Others

TARGET AUDIENCE

Physicians, Physician Assistants, Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Pharmacists

PROGRAM PURPOSE

Weâve Got Your Back: a common sense approach to acute back pain
- List examples of the many medical causes of back pain
- Identify 'red flags' for those etiologies of back pain that need urgent versus emergent evaluation
- Describe acute treatment options for common causes of back pain
Updates in DVT & PEâICU or home?
- Describe the use of validated criteria to measure risk of early mortality in venous Thromboembolism
- Classify parameters that make a patient with thromboembolism low or high risk
- Differentiate and manage the life threatening PEs vs appropriate discharge strategies.
What's Sex and Gender Medicine and why you should care!
- Differentiate between the terms biological sex and gender
- Describe how sex and gender can impact acute patient care
In Case You Missed It: Review of recent clinically impactful journal articles
- Discuss and review current literature
- Identify research/treatment that could be applied to clinical practice
- Explain research trends occurring in medicine
Teamwork at the BedsideâHow it Impacts Rapid Responses and Patient Safety
- Identify and describe hazards and imperfect processes at the point of care
- Define communications vulnerabilities that affect safety in healthcare
- Illustrate tools that can enhance team functioning
The Opioid Epidemic: Best practice tools for Substance Use Disorder
- Describe the Magnitude of the Opioid Epidemic
- Explain Screening and Staging Techniques
- Summarize Brief (SBIRT) Effective Counseling
Beyond "Clumsy": Recognizing and assisting victims of Intimate Partner Violence
- Describe the magnitude of intimate partner violence
- Explain how to perform consistent and effective screening for domestic violence (DV) in acute care settings
- Recognize history and physical exam findings that are consistent with patterns of abuse in clinical scenarios
- List opportunities and successful methods for intervention and prevention
Survivor: How to last in a demanding Profession
- Discuss risks of our profession to well-being
- Review recommendations to improve personal health
- Describe tools/ resources to help combat these risks

Additional Topics and Objectives under development

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment to take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

BIAS FREE CME - No Commercial Support was provided for this CME activity.

Faculty

Nihar R. Desai, MD, MPH

Associate Professor of Medicine
Yale School of Medicine
Associate Chief
Section of Cardiovascular Medicine
Investigator
Center for Outcomes Research and Investigation
New Haven, CT

Nihar R. Desai, MD, MPH is an Associate Professor of Medicine and Associate Chief of the Section of Cardiovascular Medicine at Yale University School of Medicine, an Investigator at the Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, and Medical Director for Value Innovation at the Yale New Haven Health System Heart and Vascular Center. His interests focus on cardiovascular health services and comparative effectiveness research, examining patterns of care, identifying opportunities to improve clinical outcomes, and evaluating the impact of novel care delivery systems on cost and quality. In addition, he serves as a clinical consultant on the CMS acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, and coronary artery bypass graft surgery readmission and mortality measures. He graduated with highest honors from Lehigh University before completing an internship in the Clinton White House. He then attended the University of Connecticut School of Medicine where he received his Doctorate in Medicine and the Harvard School of Public Health where he received his Master’s in Public Health. Dr. Desai completed his residency training in Internal Medicine as well as his clinical fellowship in Cardiovascular Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School. He then completed a research fellowship at the TIMI Study Group with Dr. Eugene Braunwald. His scholarly work has been published in New England Journal of Medicine, Journal of the American Medical Association, Circulation, and the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Marna Rayl Greenberg, DO, MPH, FACEP

Course Director, SELECT MD Program
Professor, Morsani College of Medicine
University of South Florida (USF)

Immediate Past Vice-Chair, Department of Emergency and Hospital Medicine
Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN)
Allentown, PA & Tampa, FL

Marna Rayl Greenberg, DO, MPH, is the Immediate Past Vice-Chair of Research for the Department of Emergency and Hospital Medicine at Lehigh Valley Health Network and a Professor at the USF Morsani College of Medicine. She is the SELECT IV Course Director and serves as a USF SELECT general and EM specialty career advisor.

Dr. Greenberg completed her medical training at Oklahoma State University, followed by an internship and residency in Emergency Medicine. She maintains board certification in both Emergency Medicine and Family Medicine. She later earned her Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins and was certified in medical management.

She has extensive research experience related to gender differences in acute care, has received funding for projects designed to improve patient care, and has over 100 peer-reviewed publications. She serves as a journal editor for JACEP Open, for which she has received "Top Reviewer” and “Outstanding Editorial Service” awards.

Dr. Greenberg is the recipient of numerous awards, including the SELECT EM MS Teacher of the Year award (Class of 2025), the SELECT Career Advisor Award (2023, 2024), the outstanding SELECT Faculty award (2022), and the Leonard Tao Humanism Award (2021). An internationally recognized expert on sex and gender in acute care, she is the first woman and osteopathic physician to have chaired the national ACEP research committee's annual forum.

Accreditation

	In support of improving patient care, Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
	Credit Designation for Physicians: Continuing Education, Inc. designates this live activity for 16 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
	Osteopathic Physicians: This program is eligible for Category 2 credit with the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). US or Canadian Family Physicians: Please let us know if you require AAFP Prescribed Credits.
	Credit Designation for Nurses: Continuiung Education, Inc. designates this continuing nursing education activity for 16 contact hours. Accredited status does not imply endorsement by Continuing Education, Inc./University at Sea® or ANCC of any commercial products displayed or used with an activity. Nurse Practitioners: Can claim either ANCC Contact Hours or AMA PRA Category 1 Credits ^TM as needed. Pharmacology credits are identified on individual activities.
	Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada: Through an agreement between the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, medical practitioners participating in the Royal College MOC Program may record completion of accredited activities registered under the ACCME’s “CME in Support of MOC” program in Section 3 of the Royal College’s MOC Program.
	College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) The College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) has a reciprocal credit reporting agreement with the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). Prescribed credits can be claimed as the equivalent number of certified credits, and Elective credits can be claimed as the equivalent number of non-certified credits. Members of the CFPC may claim up to 50 credits per five-year cycle from Physician's Recognition Award (PRA) Category 1 credits. Any additional credits are eligible as non-certified credits.
	Credit Designation for Pharmacists: This knowledge-based activity is approved for 16 hours of pharmacy continuing education credit.

ITINERARY

DATE	PORT OF CALL	ARRIVE	DEPART
Sun Apr 13	Ft. Lauderdale, Florida	-	3:30 pm
Mon Apr 14	At Sea - Cruising Lectures 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM*	-	-
Tue Apr 15	Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic	7:00 am	3:00 pm
Wed Apr 16	Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.	11:30 am	7:00 pm
Thu Apr 17	Philipsburg, St. Maarten	8:00 am	6:00 pm
Fri Apr 18	At Sea - Cruising Lectures 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM*	-	-
Sat Apr 19	At Sea - Cruising Lectures 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM*	-	-
Sun Apr 20	Ft. Lauderdale, Florida	7:00 am	-
*Tentative course schedule, actual class times may differ.

PORTS OF CALL

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

As your travel advocates, we view the start of your vacation not as a logistical hurdle, but as the first chapter of your experience. For cruises departing from Fort Lauderdale, we strongly encourage you to treat the city as more than just a transit point. Arriving a day or two early transforms a potentially stressful travel day into a seamless, relaxing prelude to your voyage, and Fort Lauderdale is perfectly suited for this purpose.

Think of it as easing into vacation mode. Flying in the day of your cruise introduces unnecessary risk—a single flight delay or misplaced bag can jeopardize your entire trip. By arriving early, you trade that anxiety for the sophisticated, laid-back ambiance of the “Venice of America.” The city’s primary airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), is exceptionally convenient, located just a few miles from both the cruise terminals at Port Everglades and the city's best hotels. A short taxi or rideshare trip will have you checked in and ready to explore in no time.

**Your Pre-Cruise Itinerary Suggestion:**

**Day 1: Canals, Culture, and Cuisine**

After settling into your hotel, your first experience should be the one that defines the city: its waterways. Forget the rental car and embrace the Water Taxi. It’s not just transportation; it’s a brilliant sightseeing tour. As you cruise the 165 miles of inland canals, you’ll glide past stunning waterfront mansions, mega-yachts, and lush tropical gardens. It’s a relaxing and genuinely unique way to get your bearings and appreciate the city’s distinctive character.

Disembark at the stop for Las Olas Boulevard. This is the city’s heart—a beautifully landscaped, pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare lined with independent boutiques, captivating art galleries, and a superb collection of restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon stroll, perhaps stopping for a coffee or a cocktail at a sidewalk cafe. For dinner, Las Olas offers a range of options to suit any palate, from the classic Italian fare at Louie Bossi's Ristorante Bar Pizzeria to the upscale American cuisine at Lobster Bar Sea Grille. A celebratory pre-cruise dinner here sets a wonderful tone for the week ahead.

**Day 2: Beachfront Bliss and Natural Wonders**

Dedicate your morning to the iconic Fort Lauderdale Beach. This isn’t a rustic, deserted island; it’s a world-class urban beach, known for its wide, clean stretch of sand and the beautifully designed beachfront promenade. Rent a lounge chair and simply relax, or take a long walk along the signature “wave wall.” The atmosphere is vibrant yet far more relaxed than its southern neighbor, Miami Beach.

For the afternoon, you have two excellent, contrasting options:

1. **Cultural Immersion:** Visit the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. This historic 1920s estate is a true gem, offering a glimpse into Old Florida’s artistic and whimsical past. The house itself is filled with original art and furnishings, but the real star is the surrounding 35 acres of pristine barrier island habitat, complete with tropical gardens, a hibiscus garden, and even a resident population of monkeys. It’s an accessible, enriching cultural experience that feels a world away from the city bustle.

2. **Wilderness Adventure:** Experience the Florida Everglades. Several reputable operators offer half-day tours that include transportation and an unforgettable airboat ride. Skimming across the “River of Grass” is a thrilling experience, providing a profound sense of this unique ecosystem’s vastness. You’re almost guaranteed to see alligators in their natural habitat, along with a variety of wading birds. It’s a fantastic adventure that provides a dramatic counterpoint to the coastal elegance of the city.

By the time you wake up on embarkation day, you’ll be refreshed, acclimated, and already in a vacation mindset. The short, stress-free transfer to Port Everglades will feel like a simple next step, not a frantic race. Starting your journey this way ensures you board your ship ready to enjoy every moment, and that, in our view, is the foundation of a truly great vacation.

At Sea - Cruising

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata, nestled on the Dominican Republic’s lush Amber Coast, is a destination best suited for active travelers and nature enthusiasts. Its undeniable main event is the 27 Waterfalls of Damajagua, an exhilarating natural water park where you can hike, slide, and leap through a series of stunning cascades. It’s a genuinely memorable adventure, but be prepared for a physical challenge.

For an equally impressive but less strenuous experience, take the Teleférico—the only cable car in the Caribbean—to the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres. The panoramic views of the coastline are spectacular, and you can wander through the botanical gardens surrounding the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.

Back in town, the 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe offers a solid dose of colonial history right at the harbor’s edge. The city center itself has some charming Victorian architecture worth a brief stroll. For a true taste of the region, consider a tour and tasting at one of the local rum distilleries. While Puerto Plata isn't a sprawling metropolis, it offers a fantastic day of adventure and scenery for those ready to explore beyond the port.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.

Charlotte Amalie is one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic and bustling ports, a place where vibrant commerce and stunning natural beauty exist side-by-side. While its reputation as a duty-free shopping mecca is well-earned, the true charm lies in knowing how to navigate its offerings.

The historic downtown is a compact grid of Danish colonial architecture, where 18th-century stone warehouses now house an extensive array of jewelry, liquor, and electronic stores. For a genuine sense of the old city, step away from the main thoroughfares and explore the quiet stone-paved alleys. A worthwhile challenge is the climb up the historic “99 Steps” (actually 103) for rewarding views over the harbor.

For many, the highlight of St. Thomas is escaping the city bustle. The Skyride to Paradise Point offers the definitive panoramic photograph of your ship in the turquoise harbor—it’s a tourist staple for good reason. Of course, the beaches are a primary draw. Magens Bay is the island’s most famous stretch of sand; it’s undeniably beautiful, but expect crowds and an entrance fee. For a different experience, consider Sapphire Beach for its excellent snorkeling right offshore or the more tranquil Lindquist Beach, a protected part of a nature park.

Practical Tip: Getting around is typically done via open-air “safari” taxis. These are multi-passenger trucks that operate on set routes with fixed, per-person fares. Confirm the price to your destination with the driver before you depart to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day exploring the island.

Philipsburg, St. Maarten

St. Maarten offers one of the most distinct experiences in the Caribbean: the chance to visit two countries in a single day. Your ship docks in Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side (Sint Maarten), a bustling hub of activity. The town itself is built along a beautiful arc of sand, Great Bay Beach, with a lively boardwalk perfect for a stroll. This is the commercial heart of the island, known for its extensive duty-free shopping, particularly for jewelry, electronics, and local spirits like the iconic Guavaberry Liqueur.

For a complete change of pace, a short taxi ride transports you to the French side (Saint-Martin). Here, the atmosphere shifts to something more akin to the French Riviera. The capital, Marigot, offers a more relaxed vibe with chic boutiques, open-air markets, and charming bistros serving fresh croissants and coffee. For the food-focused traveler, a visit to Grand Case is essential; it’s widely regarded as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, with an impressive collection of world-class restaurants.

Of course, the beaches are a primary draw. While there are dozens to choose from, Maho Beach is a spectacle you won’t forget. It’s not a place for quiet relaxation, but for the unique thrill of watching massive jets land just feet above your head. For a more classic Caribbean beach day, Orient Bay on the French side offers a wide expanse of white sand and turquoise water. St. Maarten’s appeal lies in this choice—you can curate your day to be as high-energy or as relaxed as you wish.

Celebrity Ascent

PLEASE NOTE: To attend the conference, participants must book their cruise accommodations through Continuing Education, Inc. This ensures we can provide full conference services and complimentary social amenities to meeting participants and guests. Participants' family and friends are welcome to book within our group allotment and take advantage of our typically excellent rates. Thanks for your cooperation. We look forward to welcoming you aboard!

Request a Quote online or by voice at 800-422-0711 (US/Can) or direct/int'l tel: +1-727-526-1571.

COMPETITIVE PRICING PROMISE: We Will Match or Beat the Cruise Line’s Fares and Promotional Offers. * Prices displayed below cover the entire cruise and include meals,
nightly entertainment, resort features and all taxes.

Balcony

Concierge Class Stateroom (C2)
Enjoy benefits such as priority check-in, a welcome lunch, and dedicated service throughout your journey. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

Call: 800-422-0711
and we'll find the best value for you.

Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda (E2)
An innovative design that merges inside and outside space, Infinite Verandas allow you to enjoy open-air access to the sea. Bring the outside inside with the touch of a button. Two double beds convertible to King. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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and we'll find the best value for you.

AquaClass Stateroom (A2)
A fully immersive, next-level wellness experience. Dine at your exclusive restaurant, Blu. Plus, you’ll enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite, a spa concierge, fitness amenities, and more. 243 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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and we'll find the best value for you.

Balcony Prime AquaClass Stateroom (A1)
A fully immersive, next-level wellness experience, located on the most desirable locations on the ship. Dine at your exclusive restaurant, Blu. Plus, you’ll enjoy access to the SEA Thermal Suite, a spa concierge, fitness amenities, and more. Sleeps 2. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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for Pricing

Balcony Prime Concierge Class (C1)
Meticulously thought-out, these staterooms feature services, amenities, and exclusive events. Prime Concierge Class Staterooms are well-appointed, personal retreats located in the most desirable locations on the ship. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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Balcony Prime Edge Stateroom with Infinite Veranda (E1)
An innovative design that merges inside and outside space, Infinite Verandas allow you to enjoy open-air access to the sea. Bring the outside inside with the touch of a button. Two double beds convertible to King. 201 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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800-422-0711
for Pricing

Balcony Edge Single Stateroom w/ Infinite Veranda (ES)
Sized for solo travelers, but with a full-size veranda. 142 sq. ft. with 42 sq. ft. veranda.

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Balcony Deluxe Porthole View w/ Veranda (P1)
Centrally-located stateroom with floor-to-ceiling porthole view and private veranda. 201 sq. ft. with 40 sq. ft. veranda.

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Balcony Deluxe Porthole View w/ Veranda (P2)
Centrally-located stateroom with floor-to-ceiling porthole view and private veranda. 201 sq. ft. with 40 sq. ft. veranda.

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Balcony Sunset Veranda (SV)
The most spacious of all Edge verandas, the Sunset Veranda class is located at the aft of the ship, allowing for stunning sunset views. Two double beds convertible to King. 228 sq. ft. with 89 sq. ft. veranda.

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Outside

Ocean View Stateroom (O2)
Take in the stunning views while you relax in your luxurious stateroom. Two double beds, convertible to King. 200 sq. ft.

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Outside Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom (DO)
With ample living space, bigger bathrooms, and more drawer space, Deluxe Ocean View Staterooms will become your home away from home while on board. 238 sq. ft.

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Outside Prime Ocean View Stateroom (O1)
Staterooms with a large window and sitting area where you can kick back and relax. Prime Ocean View Staterooms are located in the most-desirable locations on the ship. 200 sq. ft.

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Outside Panoramic Oceanview Stateroom (PO)
Enjoy ever-changing vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows, plus more space than a standard Ocean View Stateroom. Located forward and mid-ship. 212 sq. ft.

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Inside

Inside Stateroom (I2)
Two double beds convertible to King, with plentiful storage space in your bathroom and wardrobe. 181 sq. ft.

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and we'll find the best value for you.

Inside Deluxe Inside Stateroom (DI)
With ample living space, bigger bathrooms, and more drawer space, Deluxe Inside Staterooms will become your home away from home while on board. 202 sq. ft.

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Suite/Deluxe Aqua Sky Suite (AS)
The Aqua Sky Suite offers a blend of wellness, expansive views, and intimate luxury. These large suites feature a king-size bed and a spacious private veranda. The split bathroom features a large spa tub with shower. Aqua Sky Suites offer numerous benefits, including exclusive access to The Retreat, unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, in-suite fitness amenities, and more.