Faculty & Conference Details
Dr. Roman Jovey
Specialty:
Chronic Pain Management / Coroner
About The Speaker
Dr. Jovey is a family physician who has been treating chronic non-cancer pain in an outpatient setting for over 30 years. He has presented numerous educational workshops on chronic pain management in Canada and internationally. He was the Medical Director of NeuPath Centres for Pain and Spine (previously CPM Centres for Pain Management), from 2005-2024. NeuPath is the largest, outpatient chronic pain management organization in Canada. He was a Past-President of the Canadian Pain Society and was a staff physician at the Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic at Hamilton Health Sciences Centre from 2017-2021. He is a provincial pain consultant for the Ontario eConsult Program and a medico-legal expert for the Canadian Medical Protective Association. He has been a provincial Coroner in Ontario since 2017 and became a MAID Assessor and Provider in 2024.
Dr. Nicola Macpherson
Specialty:
Palliative Care
About The Speaker
Nicola Macpherson of Maple Ridge, BC has been teaching for Sea Courses since 2008.
She graduated from Ottawa in 1985, interned at the Royal Columbian Hospital, spent three years at the National Defense Medical Centre (two as a surgical resident and one as a medical resident), and eventually completed anaesthesia training at UBC in 1992. She worked in Prince George, then Maple Ridge, BC, with locum stints in Whitehorse YT, and Mount Isa, QLD, Australia. In 2004-05, she completed a PGY6 year at UBC. Since then, she has worked in Fraser Health BC, Regina SK, Calgary AB, and Whitehorse.
She helped develop and present three 2-day palliative courses in Ghana (West Africa) in 2013 and 2015, and still does online teaching to the family practice residents for the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons.
In November 2019, she passed the first ever Royal College subspecialty exams in Palliative Medicine, 27 years after her first Fellowship. The best studying was done during a Sea Courses cruise, sipping tropical “umbrella drinks” from coconuts on a beach in the South Pacific.
Since retiring from clinical work, she continues to teach and do projects with several local, provincial, and national organizations. Each July, she releases an update of “Dr. Nicola Macpherson’s Little Black eBook of Palliative Pearls”. In her spare time, she is a volunteer sewist with Days for Girls Canada, sewing reusable menstrual health kits so that girls in underprivileged areas can stay in school, complete their education and hope for a better future. In November 2022, she joined a team of Canadian women who provided menstrual health education and distributed 1000 kits in Peru.
She is also on the award-winning set-building team for Theatre in the Country (Langley), and in 2023 was promoted to locum props manager.
CME Topics
MANAGEMENT OF PAIN AND SUFFERNING IN CANCER AND NON-CANCER PATIENTS
CME AWAY® by Sea Courses is pleased to invite you to a 12-night CME program on a cruise to the Canaries, Spain, and Morocco. Dr. Nicola Macpherson and Dr. Roman Jovey have developed an educational program that will be of interest to family physicians, specialists, and allied health professionals. Their programs are evidence based with interactivity and attendee participation strongly encouraged.
Dr. Roman Jovey is a family physician who has been treating chronic non-cancer pain in an outpatient practice setting for over 30 years. He has presented educational workshops on chronic pain management in Canada and internationally. He is the Medical Director of NeuPath Centres for Pain and Spine, the largest, outpatient chronic pain management organization in Canada. Dr. Jovey was a Past-President of the Canadian Pain Society and was a staff physician at the Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic at Hamilton Health Sciences Centre from 2017-2021. He has been a provincial Coroner in Ontario since 2017. Dr. Jovey’s topics will include non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment of non-malignant pain, the role of cannabis, current views on opioid prescribing and novel approaches to managing chronic pain.
Dr. Nicola Macpherson of Maple Ridge, BC has been teaching for Sea Courses since 2008. In 2004-05, she completed a PGY6 year at UBC. Since then, she has worked in Fraser Health BC, Regina SK, Calgary AB, and Whitehorse. Dr. Macpherson helped develop and present three 2-day palliative care courses in Ghana (West Africa) in 2013 and 2015, and still does online teaching to the family practice residents for the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Macpherson’s presentations will include Spotting Palliative Care patients, Orphan Syndrome in Palliative Care, Opioid Prescribing for Cancer Pain, and Dying Well at Home and in Hospital.
Dr. Jovey and Dr. Macpherson look forward to welcoming you on this Cruise.
Dr. Jovey-
- Practical Pain Assessment
- Screening for Psychosocial Risk Factors in Patients with Pain
- A Biopsychosocial Approach to Pain Management
- Optimizing Non-Opioid Pharmacotherapy for Pain
- Controversies over Cannabinoids in Pain Treatment
- The Opioid Crisis—Safe Opioid Prescribing
- An Exit Strategy for Opioids—When, Why, How
- Navigating MAiD in Canada
Dr. Macpherson-
- Spotting Palliative Patients in the Wild
- Nausea, Vomiting and Constipation, the Triple Threat to QOL at EOL
- “Orphan Symptoms: in Palliative Medicine
- The Jedi Approach to Opioid Prescribing for Cancer Pain
- The Opioids Strike Back
- Opiophobia to Overprescribing and back—A Series of Unfortunate Events
- Final Weeks, Days and Hours—Dying Well at Home and in Hospital
- When is Enough Enough? Responding to Requests for Hastened Death
Venue Information
Set sail on a vacation aboard Celebrity Infinity® and discover an unforgettable journey to the most exciting destinations in the world. Relax and feel at home in luxurious accommodations that include Concierge Class and our spa-inspired AquaClass® with exclusive clean cuisine dining at Blu. And, guests of The Retreat® experience the ultimate in luxury, which includes exclusive private restaurant dining and 24/7 lounge. Wine and dine in restaurants and lounges like Tuscan Grill, as well as the main dining room, Oceanview Café and Rendezvous Lounge. Plus, there’s Le Petit Chef™ for a one-of-a-kind entertainment and dining experience. Invigorate your senses in The Spa which features incredible treatments and therapies. Enjoy shopping at fantastic retail boutiques. Unwind and recharge aboard Celebrity Infinity and we’ll take care of every detail, so all you have to do is enjoy your vacation.
Itinerary & Schedule
Day |
Date |
Port / Location |
Arrival Time |
Departure Time |
Conference |
Day 1 |
November 15th |
Barcelona, Spain |
|
5:00pm |
|
Day 2 |
November 16th |
At Sea |
|
|
|
Day 3 |
November 17th |
Gibraltar, United Kingdom |
8:00am |
6:00pm |
|
Day 4 |
November 18th |
At Sea |
|
|
|
Day 5 |
November 19th |
Lanzarote, Canary Islands |
8:00am |
6:00pm |
|
Day 6 |
November 20th |
Tenerife, Canary Islands |
8:00am |
6:00pm |
|
Day 7 |
November 21st |
Gran Canaria, Canary Islands |
8:00am |
6:00pm |
|
Day 8 |
November 22nd |
At Sea |
|
|
|
Day 9 |
November 23rd |
Casablanca, Morocco |
8:00am |
5:00pm |
|
Day 10 |
November 24th |
Tangier, Morocco |
8:00am |
5:00pm |
|
Day 11 |
November 25th |
Malaga, Spain |
8:00am |
6:00pm |
|
Day 12 |
November 26th |
At Sea |
|
|
|
Day 13 |
November 27th |
Barcelona, Spain |
5:00am |
|
|
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 | November 15, 2025 | Barcelona, Spain
Formerly a sleepy Spanish city, Barcelona has recently been reborn as an eclectic fusion of the modern and medieval. This coastal city exudes European charm and welcomes multitudes of travelers every year. It’s a major destination with must-see architectural gems that date back some 2,000 years. You’ll encounter fascinating examples from the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, the Modern masters like Gaudî, and many Cataluñian greats. Outstanding art museums can be found throughout the city, proudly displaying the works of world-renowned artists and countrymen, including Goya, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalî, and Joan Miró. For a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city center, venture to the awaiting Mediterranean Sea and all the seaside has to offer. Maybe a brisk hike in the nearby forest covered Collserola Hills or the hilltop in Montjuïc with its botanical gardens is the perfect recharge for a rollicking evening in one of the premier party capitals of the world. Round out your cruise to Barcelona dining at a tapas bar and savor a variety of delicious small dishes to share—from traditional Spanish to the more innovative.
Day 2 | November 16, 2025 | At Sea
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 3 | November 17, 2025 | Gibraltar, United Kingdom
The great Rock of Gibraltar is a sight to behold. Made of limestone, it towers 1,400 feet above the mouth of the majestic Mediterranean Sea and is surrounded by beautiful countryside and a nature reserve.
Day 4 | November 18, 2025 | At Sea
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 5 | November 19, 2025 | Lanzarote, Canary Islands
With beachy landscapes and more than 300 volcanoes, plus perfect weather all year round, you'll quickly see why Lanzarote is an award-winning destination. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, its stark lava fields were born from violent eruptions as recent as the 19th century. The island's dedication to the environment and tourism has even resulted in recognition from the World Tourism Organization as a universal model of sustainable development. In addition, the island has gone to considerable lengths to preserve its own history, culture and heritage. Lanzarote is known as a haven for modern art. Many of the island’s natural wonders have been preserved through the work of local artist and environmental hero, César Manrique who so still credited for saving his home from overdevelopment. The island has grown into a thriving culinary destination. From fine restaurants to charming seaside bistros, there are a wealth of dining options to explore on your Lanzarote cruise. Traditional Spanish fare is quite popular with lots of fresh seafood and the Canary wines are a must try. Check out the local markets for handcrafted souvenirs and keepsakes. Whether exploring the world’s longest volcanic tunnel; sipping cocktails by a volcanic lake; touring an art museum; or lounging by the sea in the middle of a lunar landscape, it’s an eye-opening adventure.
Day 6 | November 20, 2025 | Tenerife, Canary Islands
Beyond its steep and rugged coastline, Tenerife is a cultural and natural wonder waiting to be explored. Discover mysterious step pyramids at Güímar, meet the world’s largest collection of parrots at Loro Park, or take in a show at the ultra-modern Tenerife Auditorium. Foodies will have fun sampling the fresh fish, famous cheeses and sumptuous wines of the island.Of the 7 islands that comprise the Canary Island archipelago, Tenerife stands out as the largest. Depending on your mood and what you are looking to get out of your Tenerife cruise, there are things to consider. For one, the island offers a vastly different terrain depending on where you go. The northern part of the island is quite verdant, so expect the climate to include more rain. In the south, you’ll find it much more arid and dry emulating more of a desert climate. If you like the idea of mingling within crowds and are drawn to where the action is, make plans to visit Los Cristianos, Playa de la Americas, and Costa Adeje in the southwest and Puerto de la Cruz in the north. While in Los Cristianos and you’re looking for some thrills, visit Siam Park, a giant theme park with plenty of rides to choose from. Also in Los Cristianos is Jungle Park, the island’s zoo with over 500 animals in a wonderfully rendered wild setting with lagoons, walkways and sub-tropical foliage.
Day 7 | November 21, 2025 | Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
The extreme and varied micro-climates and vegetation you experience are what have earned this lovely island the nickname, “The Small Continent.” From the rugged coastline to the stretches of lovely sand beach, a variety of natural wonders impossibly fit onto this single island. Eco-enthusiasts are drawn to Gran Canaria for its hiking, horseback riding, and watersports. Spend a day in the Agaete valley where you can visit a local farm for a taste of the island wines, cheese, and cakes. On your cruise to Gran Canaria you’ll also find the capital city of Las Palmas to be a cosmopolitan and cultural center of the Canaries. Stroll down the bustling shopping streets, tour a museum or two; sip a cocktail at a trendy nightclub while exploring this sultry city. The local cuisine is an eclectic combination of Spanish, African, and South American influences and fresh seafood is always on the menu.Soak up the sun and the views of the tropical landscape. The rich, rich green forests of the Canary Islands sweep across from north to south and the rolling dunes of the island desert stretch to the horizon.
Day 8 | November 22, 2025 | At Sea
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 9 | November 23, 2025 | Casablanca, Morocco
Casablanca cruises are full of adventure, cultural discoveries, and luxury when you set sail with Celebrity. Much like the famous Bogart and Bergman film of nearly a century ago, this Moroccan city evokes a certain romanticism of an exotic coast and culture that few other places do. Casablanca is a vibrant coastal city set along the Atlantic seashore of North Africa. It is Morocco’s commercial hub and considered a holy city to many, thanks to its abundance of historic mosques and carefully preserved Moorish Islamic architecture.
Day 10| November 24, 2025 | Tangier, Morocco
From tea and spice markets to Moroccan haute cuisine, caves, museums, and preserved fortresses from centuries past, Tangiers has a great deal to offer. A cruise to Tangier is a great way to discover a cultural history unique to Morocco and much of the region. It’s a place where 20th-century artists once flocked to in droves to create some of their most iconic works. This majestic city is known as “The Door of Africa”, and the beating heart connecting two worlds. This is a can’t-miss destination, and one that will show you its bustling, cultural, and cosmopolitan sides all in one stop.
Day 11 | November 25, 2025 | Malaga, Spain
Malaga is the gateway to the Andalusian countryside and the Costa del Sol, some of the region's most impressive beaches. It also is home to a number of magnificent palaces, including the Moorish Alcabaza and Gibralfaro.
Day 12 | November 26, 2025 | At Sea
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until we arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 13 | November 27, 2025 | Barcelona, Spain
Today we disembark Celebrity Infinity and begin the journey home bringing with us memories of the beautiful Canary Islands, European charm of Spain and the culture of Morocco.
Pre-And-Post Conference Information
There are no Pre or Post Cruise tours created for this itinerary. To build your own, or simply add hotel nights, please speak with your Advisor.