Expedition cruise leaders weigh demand, ship limits and tourism pressures
Executives discussed changing guest expectations, regional demand and operational challenges at the Expedition Cruise Network’s third annual conference in London.
The opening panel of the Expedition Cruise Network’s third annual conference brought together leaders from Oceanwide Expeditions, Kaptio, Polar Latitudes and HX Expeditions at Glaziers Hall, London Bridge.
Polar Latitudes president John McKeon said more passengers associated with mainstream cruising were considering expedition travel. He added that travelers increasingly expected Wi-Fi access, including the ability to stream content and share photographs.
HX Expeditions chief executive Gebhard Rainer highlighted the constraints governing Antarctic operations, saying regulations restrict the number of passengers who may go ashore at one time. According to Rainer, vessels carrying more than 500 passengers are not permitted to land them. He also warned that tourism without adequate management could affect residents, housing costs and the character of local communities.
Oceanwide Expeditions chief executive Rémi Bouysset outlined the company’s geographic mix, estimating that Asia accounts for about 25% of its business and the United States for another 25%, with mainland Europe providing the remainder. Kaptio founder and chief technology officer Ragnar Fjölnisson, meanwhile, cited a benchmark study indicating that 60% of expedition bookings were modified after customers paid their initial deposits.