The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) has added Antara and Maple Leaf Adventures to its membership of global expedition cruise operators, bringing the total in the network to 24

River cruise operator Antara has a fleet of nine ships which sail in South Asia, with itineraries encompassing the Ganga, the Padma, and the Brahmaputra Rivers.

This year, Antara commenced sailing the four rivers which inundate Bhitarkanika National Park, India’s second-largest mangrove forest and have recently launched Antara Catamarans, Mahanadi and Bhitarkanika, to explore the mangrove wetlands in Odisha.

Raj Singh, CEO and founder of Antara Luxury River Cruises, said: “River cruising in India is an untapped, unexplored market with immense possibilities. It is one of the best and sustainable ways to experience slow travel.

“At Antara, we are continuously exploring opportunities to bring these experiences to the world, sustainably and with its renowned hospitality, in ships that are designed with thought, luxury, and care. The ECN is the perfect partner for this.”

Maple Leaf Adventures, meanwhile, operates expedition cruises along Canada and Alaska’s west coast. The company owns three ships: Swell, Maple Leaf and Cascadia.

New Expedition Cruise Network members bring ‘unique itineraries’

Maureen Gordon, co-owner and chief revenue officer of Maple Leaf Adventures, said: “We were thrilled to discover the Expedition Cruise Network that specifically educates about and supports this amazing way of travel. We look forward to sharing the trips and the everlasting impact they have on our guests.”

Akvile Marozaite, CEO of the ECN, said: “We are delighted to welcome Antara and Maple Leaf Adventures to the Expedition Cruise Network. They both bring unique itineraries and new geographical diversity to broaden the experience and expertise within the membership ensuring travellers discover remarkable hidden cultural and natural gems.”

Earlier this year, Scenic, Aqua Expeditions and Aranui Cruises joined the network.