Reliving the best ECN Conference 2025 moments
- Akvile Marozaite
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
On 30 September and 1 October, the Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) hosted its second annual conference at London’s Glaziers Hall – once again bringing together the global expedition cruise community for two days of connection, collaboration, and celebration.
More than 200 delegates from across the world joined ECN Conference 2025, the only event dedicated exclusively to expedition cruising, taking part in insightful discussions, one-to-one meetings, and a glittering Awards Ceremony aboard the Dixie Queen, complete with the unforgettable moment when Tower Bridge lifted just for the ECN.
Here are some of the standout ECN Conference 2025 highlights:
1. Over 800 One-to-One Meetings
Across the two days, 33 leading suppliers held more than 800 pre-scheduled meetings with senior travel sellers. These sessions sparked new partnerships, strengthened existing relationships, and generated meaningful commercial conversations that will shape the year ahead for the expedition cruise sector.
2. Expert Panels and Future-Focused Discussions
The conference delivered a packed programme of panel sessions and insights from expedition cruise leaders, exploring emerging trends, traveller expectations, and future opportunities. From the “Innovators” session, which spotlighted pioneering developments across the industry, to the “Pioneering Places” destination showcase, delegates were taken on a journey to some of the world’s most remarkable expedition cruise destinations—presented by the people who live and breathe them.
3. Launch of ECN Corporate Membership
A major milestone for the ECN, the conference also marked the launch of Corporate Membership, opening the door for travel agencies and tour operators to officially join the network. This exciting development strengthens ECN’s commitment to fostering closer collaboration between the trade and expedition cruise operators. If interested, please drop us a line at info@expeditioncruisenetwork.com
4. Inspirational Keynotes That Moved and Challenged
The two keynote sessions left lasting impressions. On Day 1, Richard Vevers reminded everyone of the profound connection between our oceans and our industry, inspiring attendees to see the marine world through a more personal and purposeful lens.On Day 2, Avivah Wittenberg-Cox delivered an equally thought-provoking session on longevity and ageing, exploring what adventure means at every stage of life. Her talk resonated strongly after Wanderlust Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, George Kipouros, shared valuable insights into consumer motivations and behaviours shaping the future of travel.
5. The Tower Bridge Moment
For many, the highlight of the ECN Awards evening was watching Tower Bridge lift, marking a symbolic and spectacular celebration of the industry’s achievements. It was a moment that captured the spirit of the event—bold, ambitious, and united in purpose.
6. Industry Insights by Wanderlust Magazine
Delegates were among the first to hear exclusive consumer insights presented by Wanderlust Magazine, shedding light on traveller demographics, motivations, and the continued evolution of the expedition cruise audience.
7. Welcoming ECN’s New Chairman, Anthony Daniels
The conference also marked a new chapter for ECN with the official announcement of Anthony Daniels as Non-Executive Chairman. With decades of experience in the luxury and expedition cruise sectors, Anthony’s appointment signals an exciting period of growth and global ambition for the network.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us, from our speakers and sponsors to our operator members, travel trade partners, and destinations who helped make the #ECNConference2025 such an inspiring success.
To be the first to hear about future ECN events and announcements, join our newsletter or visit www.expeditioncruisenetwork.com.
Check out more photos from the conference (photography by Gregg Brown):
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