The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) is a newly established B2B membership organisation focusing on enhancing collaboration among cruise lines and agents. This initiative aims to represent and promote the rapidly growing expedition cruise sector which has doubled in size over recent years. Key objectives include sustainable practices and creating educational tools for members.
- The ECN aims to enhance the underrepresented expedition cruise sector by fostering collaboration among operators.
- A major focus is on sustainability, aligning with global environmental targets in the ever-growing cruise industry.
- The Network will offer educational resources, keeping sustainability as a core theme for its members.
- Insights reports will be generated annually to support informed decision-making in the market.
The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) emerges as a pivotal platform aiming to connect cruise lines and agents in a collaborative effort to bolster the expedition cruise sector. Conceived by Martin Johnson and Akvile Marozaite, the organisation seeks to address the underrepresentation of this burgeoning sector within the broader travel industry. The cruise industry, particularly its expedition subset, has experienced significant growth, yet it lacks a cohesive voice. Hence, the ECN endeavours to fulfil this gap by promoting expedition cruising as an exciting choice for travellers globally.
Recognising the swift expansion of the expedition cruise industry, which has doubled in size over recent years, the ECN aims to establish itself as a key entity in the sector. With an advisory panel comprising 12 leading expedition cruise members, the ECN is poised to deliver substantial value to its members. One of its prime objectives is to assemble a comprehensive database of travel trade professionals, enriching them with connections, destination insights, and learning opportunities. This initiative underscores the ECN’s commitment to empowering agents and other stakeholders involved in selling expedition cruises, ensuring that their offerings are marketed effectively.
The organisation has identified sustainability as a paramount concern, especially given the fragile environments typically explored by expedition cruises. The ECN underscores its intent to integrate sustainable practices into its core activities, aligning with the United Nations targets for zero emissions by 2050. This strategic alignment not only reinforces the organisation’s forward-thinking approach but also positions it as a leader in sustainable cruising practices. Furthermore, the ECN plans to support its members by providing access to educational tools, thereby reinforcing sustainability as a central theme in the operation of expedition cruises.
To facilitate informed decisions within the market, the ECN will publish annual insights reports derived from feedback collected from its travel trade members. These reports will offer valuable data on various elements of the expedition cruise sector, equipping stakeholders with the knowledge required to navigate the evolving landscape efficiently. By continuously addressing key challenges, such as climate change and market dynamics, the ECN aims to ensure that the expedition cruise sector not only grows but thrives in a responsible and sustainable manner.
The Expedition Cruise Network aspires to be a transformative force, uniting industry players to drive sustainable growth and innovation in the sector.
