Expedition Cruise Network outlines plans for second annual conference and agent awards

30 Jan 2025by Emma Dooney

The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) will host its second annual conference and agent awards in the autumn following the group’s inaugural event last October.

Emma Dooney

Luxury Travel Reporter

Emma Dooney

Luxury Travel Reporter

The ECN will host its second annual conference in the autumn

The two-day event will be held at London’s Glaziers Hall – a riverside conference centre situated near London Bridge.

Day one (30 September) will be targeted at travel trade professionals with experience of the expedition cruise market, while day two (1 October) will be aimed at those who are new to expedition cruise, or who have only intermediate knowledge of the industry.

The ECN said the event, which hosted 162 delegates last year, is an opportunity for agents to connect with suppliers and learn about their expedition cruise offerings.

Both days will feature conference sessions in the morning, with time set aside for up to 30 face-to-face meetings in the afternoon.

"The Expedition Cruise Network conference will provide retailers and product developers with a significant advantage when it comes to improving knowledge and expertise of this dynamic and lucrative sector,” said Martin Johnson, ECN co-founder.

The first evening will also host the 2025 ECN Awards onboard The Dixie Queen, a Thames paddle steamer that also happens to be London’s largest luxury river boat.

Guests will be treated to a drinks reception and three-course meal. The awards ceremony will once again include a variety of categories, highlighting the achievements of both suppliers and agents from across the industry.

The ECN hosted 162 delegates at its 2024 conference

The conference resumes the following morning, kicking off with expert-led panel discussions and brand exhibitions.

The event will end with networking drinks and nibbles at London Bridge Arches, where guests will receive preview of the media soiree for ECN members on Tuesday 10 June.

All agents will receive a pre-arranged meeting schedule, as well as a complimentary lunch on both days.