• 2 min de lectura
• 2 min de lectura
The Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators appointed five industry professionals as its inaugural ambassadors, establishing a formal network to advocate for responsible expedition cruise tourism in the Arctic region.
The newly appointed ambassadors have completed specialised training and assessment to represent AECO's mission, values, guidelines and operational standards across the industry.
"We are honored and proud to welcome our first group of AECO Ambassadors. Their commitment, experience, and engagement strengthen our ability to extend our voice, and to promote responsible practices across the Arctic," said Frigg Jørgensen, AECO's executive director.
The ambassador programme is designed to expand AECO's presence across Arctic regions and international markets by leveraging professionals with diverse expertise in expedition cruise operations.
The ambassadors will participate in industry forums, events and professional networks to increase understanding of AECO's work and promote standards for responsible Arctic tourism.
The first group of ambassadors represents varied expertise across expedition cruise operations and related sectors.
Andra McKenzie serves as product manager for expeditions at Seabourn, while Sebastian Charge, director of operations and government affairs at Adventure Canada, oversees expedition operations in Inuit Nunangat and the North Atlantic.
Aaron Lawton, head of expedition operations at Viking, has worked in the expedition cruise industry since 1999. His experience spans expedition leadership and operations, with active involvement in Arctic outreach and sustainable development initiatives.
Annika Rautiola holds the position of expedition compliance manager at Ponant. Her background includes providing insight into policy, sustainability and operational challenges across Arctic, Antarctic and sub-Antarctic operations.
Martin Karlsen, co-founder of AECO, brings over 140 years of family experience in Arctic vessel and land-based operations. He contributed to developing expedition cruising in the late 1980s and remains active in developing industry guidelines and community engagement initiatives.
The ambassador network aims to strengthen connections with stakeholders, partners and communities whilst promoting broader understanding of AECO's objectives and supporting long-term advocacy for responsible Arctic expedition tourism.
Ambassadors will serve as informed points of contact for enquiries about AECO's work, role and standards, supporting the association's visibility and credibility within the industry.
The programme is open to AECO members and others with strong interest and knowledge of the association who are motivated to deepen their understanding of AECO's activities and seek opportunities to represent the organisation.
Fuente: sea-trade cruise
