Expedition cruise operator Albatros Expeditions has joined Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) as a Regional Cruise Line member in Australasia, strengthening its presence in Australia and New Zealand.
The partnership connects Albatros Expeditions to CLIA’s expansive cruise community, which includes cruise lines, travel agents, ports, destinations, and industry suppliers across the region.
Highlighting the growth of expedition cruising
Joel Katz, CLIA Managing Director in Australasia, welcomed Albatros Expeditions, emphasising the growing importance of expedition cruising in the tourism sector.
“Albatros Expeditions is part of an innovative class of expedition cruise lines catering to travellers who want close-up encounters with rich cultures, pristine landscapes, and extraordinary wildlife,” Mr Katz said. “Expedition cruising is one of the most dynamic and exciting areas of cruising, and we’re delighted to have Albatros Expeditions join our community at such a time of innovation and development in this sector.”
Strengthening trade relationships
Craig Upshall, Albatros Expeditions Sales Director for EMEA, Australia, and New Zealand, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, recognising the value of trade engagement in shaping the cruise industry.
“Albatros Expeditions is excited to join CLIA, recognising the crucial role that trade engagement and travel agents play in shaping the future of the cruise industry,” Mr Upshall said. “We look forward to collaborating and contributing to its growth and innovation.”
He highlighted the Australian and New Zealand travel community’s significant role in delivering guests onboard Albatros Expeditions’ purpose-built X-Bow vessels, designed for Polar exploration. He also noted plans to enhance collaboration with the development of an online booking tool in 2025, aimed at streamlining the booking process for travel partners.
A legacy of sustainable exploration
Part of the family-owned Albatros Travel Group, established in 1986 by Søren Rasmussen, Albatros Expeditions operates globally, offering small-ship expeditions to destinations ranging from Greenland to Africa and the Polar regions. Committed to sustainability, its state-of-the-art eco-conscious vessels provide travellers with intimate experiences in remote locations while minimising environmental impact.
