New Aurora Expeditions CEO Monique Ponfoort discusses talking the helm during the pandemic and the growing demand for remote expeditions.

Taking the reins of an expedition cruise company during the pandemic is quite a unique and courageous step, but one that I have thoroughly embraced since I joined Aurora Expeditions in October.

I remain highly optimistic about the future and have already observed a strong desire from our guests who want to reconnect through small-ship expeditions on future voyages.

The world has changed and with that so has the cruise industry, however, like many others, we have embraced these changes positively.

I am fortunate to have come into a team of passionate expeditionary specialists and it is impressive to see their focus and preparation for the restart of operations once it is appropriate and responsible to move ahead.

The team is determined to emerge from the pandemic stronger than ever, so we are now taking the time to reaffirm our purpose, prioritise our trade partners and importantly our guests and their expectations. It goes without saying that our number one priority remains firmly on our safe and healthy return to service.

Listening and learning

I think the industry right now is using this time to strongly listen to their customers and understand how perceptions are continuing to evolve as we progress through the pandemic. I have been both humbled and fortunate to see an impressive level of support from our guests and trade partners.

This unprecedented halt to travel has provided expedition operators with the time to review their product offering and create and introduce even more adventurous and intrepid experiences for their guests.

There are many positives that can come from this unplanned downtime and in doing so, the industry will be in a strong and trusted position coming out of the pandemic.

For me, this time has offered a valuable opportunity to get to know Aurora Expeditions and understand more about our guests and travel partners, as well as the team of expedition leaders, crew operators and those working to support the business both in the office and at home.

Resilience is ingrained in the spirit of expedition voyaging and our guests are a true testament to that. As with any true expedition, nature will lead us to better things.

I’m confident the industry will emerge from this crisis stronger, healthier and more united than ever. We are all focused on the wellbeing of our passengers and moving forward the industry’s high standards of health and safety protocols will undoubtedly be some of the best in the world.

I can’t wait for international borders to open so that we can all recommence doing what we love, which is taking our guests to explore the most remote corners of the world with the greatest of respect.