The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) has welcomed two new members.
Antara Luxury River Cruises and Maple Leaf Adventures are the latest lines to join the trade body, both offering “unique itineraries”, according to ECN chief executive Akvile Marozaite.
Antara Luxury River Cruises was founded in 2003 and operates a fleet of nine ships sailing in South Asia.
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Chief executive and founder Raj Singh said: “River cruising in India is an untapped, unexplored market with immense possibilities.
“At Antara, we are continuously exploring opportunities to bring these experiences to the world sustainably in ships that are designed with thought, luxury and care. The ECN is the perfect partner for this.”
Founded in 1986, Maple Leaf Adventures operates cruises on three ships in Canada and Alaska.
Co-owner and chief revenue officer Maureen Gordon said it has always been the line’s mission to “create great experiences while also giving back”, and it has recently introduced new itineraries with optional eco-action programmes where passengers can help remove marine debris from beaches.
“We were thrilled to discover the ECN specifically educates about and supports this amazing way of travel,” she said. “We look forward to sharing the trips and the everlasting impact they have on our guests.”
The ECN’s membership total now stands at 24 following a non-renewal from Seabourn.
Marozaite added: “We are delighted to welcome Antara and Maple Leaf Adventures to the ECN.
“They both bring unique itineraries and new geographical diversity to broaden the experience and expertise within the membership ensuring travellers discover remarkable hidden cultural and natural gems.”