At the inaugural conference of the Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) in London, CEO Akvile Marozaite highlighted the critical role of trade engagement in the sector.
- Expedition cruising, the fastest-growing segment in the cruise industry, has doubled in size in the last five years, reaching a plateau due to fewer new ships.
- Marozaite notes a diversification trend, with increased interest in warm-weather destinations beyond the well-known polar regions.
- Trade remains the primary channel for bookings, emphasising the importance of agents’ understanding of destinations and operators.
- The ECN continues to support agents through educational webinars and bootcamps to enhance their knowledge and capabilities.
During the inaugural conference of the Expedition Cruise Network held in London, CEO Akvile Marozaite discussed the indispensable role of trade engagement within the expedition cruise sector. She underscored that as a relatively new B2B travel entity, ECN aims to provide a dedicated platform where expedition cruising is the focal point, having achieved significant success over the past eighteen months.
Marozaite elaborated on the rapid expansion of expedition cruising, identifying it as the fastest-growing sector within the cruise industry, having doubled in scope over the preceding five years. While growth has temporarily stabilised due to fewer newly built vessels, the sector continues to broaden, particularly through heightened interest in warm-weather expeditions outside traditional polar locales.
The CEO further outlined that the allure of destinations such as polar regions and the Galapagos Islands remains strong, yet there is a growing curiosity to experience similar explorations in varied regions globally. With an expanding array of travel options available compared to a decade ago, the industry is responding to these evolving preferences.
Akvile Marozaite emphasised the critical nature of trade channels in facilitating expedition cruise bookings. The majority of operators are heavily reliant on these channels, investing significantly in educational endeavours and familiarisation trips to better inform agents.
She advised agents keen on marketing expedition cruises to prioritise an in-depth understanding of the destinations themselves, alongside discerning the distinctions between various cruise operators. This knowledge assists in effectively matching clients with the type of cruise best suited to their interests, from luxury to adventure-style voyages.
Expedition cruising specifically attracts travellers desiring active holidays, often appealing to those intrigued by unique and engaging destinations. This form of travel is particularly well-suited for solo travellers, given its social nature and the fostering of camaraderie in a secure environment.
To support agents in navigating this sector, the ECN offers monthly webinars featuring insights from expedition cruise experts covering topics ranging from specific destinations to cruise styles. Having launched successful bootcamps that led to new bookings, ECN confirms the value of these educational initiatives as it looks to establish its conference as an annual tradition.
Expedition cruising continues to thrive with trade engagement playing a pivotal role in its sustained growth and evolution.
