The Expedition Cruise Network reveals ‘most ambitious’ conference to date

The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) has revealed the programme for its two-day conference in September, which it has promised will be its “most ambitious to date”.

The event will take place at Glaziers Hall in London on September 29 and 30 with the first day designed for new to intermediate expedition cruise sellers, and the second targeted at experienced expedition specialists.

Throughout both days there will be panel sessions, workshops and networking, with speakers including Oceanwide chief executive officer Rémi Bouysset who will share the lessons learned from the company’s ship MV Hondius’ Hantavirus outbreak.

Keynote speakers will be marine archaeologist Mensun Bound and trends analyst Dr Antonia Ward.

Other speakers will include industry veteran Peter Shanks, Ponant UK and Ireland general manager Anthony Daniels, HX Expeditions chief executive Gebhard Rainer, Swan Hellenic chief commercial officer Mario Bounas, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions head of UK sales Danielle Bates, among others.

ECN chief executive and co-founder Akvile Marozaite said: “Today’s travel professionals need much more than product knowledge. They need confidence, expertise and a deep understanding of the experiences, destinations and trends shaping our sector.

“This is where I believe the value of ECN Conference really comes into its own. It’s not just a travel trade event, it’s a professional and industry development platform designed to inspire new ideas, encourage collaboration and give delegates highly relevant and practical knowledge they can take straight back into their businesses.

“Whether someone is new to expedition cruising or one of the industry’s most experienced specialists, the programme offers opportunities to learn, share best practice and develop professionally.”

She added: “We’re also incredibly excited about several important announcements we have planned during the conference, making this our most significant event to date.”