‘We were impressed with the rapid growth of the Expedition Cruise Network and recognised its pivotal role in bridging the gap and showcasing the distinctive value of expedition cruises,’ explained James Rodriguez, president and CEO of US-based Atlas Ocean Voyages. ‘This network has effectively addressed the need for comprehensive insights into what sets expedition cruises apart from traditional cruise experiences.’
Rodriguez said that joining the organisation aligns seamlessly with Atlas’ commitment to the ‘burgeoning expedition cruise sector,’ adding, ‘we are enthusiastic about becoming a part of this network, guided by the expertise of the talented team at ECN.’
Atlas Ocean Voyages ships carry fewer than 200 passengers. It has products across the globe, offering expeditions through Antarctica, the Arctic, Norwegian Fjords, Iceland and Greenland. It offers voyages focusing on the gastronomy of the Mediterranean, the British Isles, and Europe, as well as cultural expeditions through Latin America.
Cutting through the clutter
Angelica Vorea, CEO of Poseidon Expeditions, said that as a well-established, albeit smaller, polar expedition ship operator, Poseidon needs to ‘marshal its resources' in ways that show the travel trade its scope of small ship cruising in the polar regions.
‘The ECN allows us to cut through the media clutter and focus our message to travel professionals who really want to understand what this type of cruising is all about, so they can assist their clients to make the best decision possible while choosing their once in a lifetime voyage,’ she added.
Vorea also asserted that the ECN platform provides ‘valuable information and an educational forum that simply doesn’t exist elsewhere. This provides us with great visibility on par with others who have larger fleets, ships and budgets. On top of this, the team at ECN is great to work with.’
Based in the UK, Poseidon Expeditions travels to the Arctic, Antarctica, Greenland, Svalbard, the British Isles and Iceland. It also advocates the small ship concept.
Welcome additions
ECN CEO Akvile Marozaite said of the new members, ‘We are delighted to have two such excellent small ship expedition cruise operators joining the Expedition Cruise Network, as their product is exactly what expedition cruising is about. They both offer small ship cruising to diverse, niche destinations and offer a unique and luxurious way of exploring the world.’
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