All expedition cruise operators and 62 per cent of travel trade professionals saw sales rise in 2025, with Antarctica and the Arctic leading demand

Research from the Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) shows record growth in expedition cruising in 2025. Among travel trade professionals, the reported growth was nearly double the 33 per cent recorded two years ago.

ECN has also expanded rapidly. Operator membership rose from 18 to 30, while the network of travel trade professionals grew from 900 to 2,400.

The ECN 2025-2026 Insights Report draws on input from operators, advisors and more than 11,000 consumers. It shows an increasingly complex and competitive market.

Akvile Marozaite, CEO of Expedition Cruise Network, said: “I’m delighted to find that the expedition cruise sector is growing and importantly, growing through the trade in ‘The ECN’s Insights Report 2025-2026’.”

Mazozaite believes with a significant proportion of new customers in the sector, the opportunity for growth is clear. She added: “With economic uncertainty, increased scrutiny in sustainability, diversity of product and destinations, travel trade professionals need clarity in product differentiation. They need in-depth training and more support than ever before if they are to provide inspiration and reassurance to a broader range of curious travellers.”

Polar regions drive growth

Antarctica remains the most visited and fastest-growing expedition destination. The Arctic, including Greenland, Svalbard and the Canadian High Arctic, follows closely. Other regions showing strong activity include the Galápagos, Patagonia, the Amazon, Alaska, western North America, the Kimberley region, wider Australia and the South Pacific.

In top destinations, demand is outpacing available capacity. Operators are responding with shorter itineraries, expanded seasons and additional capacity where possible. Reported load factors for 2025 ranged from 87-93 per cent.

Sustainability is a priority 

Consumers are increasingly motivated by wildlife, culture and local communities, while operators are investing in lower-impact ships, conservation work, science partnerships and new technologies.  

However, travel advisors are calling for clear, standardised sustainability information to help compare operators and communicate value. The report highlights the need for greater transparency to maintain consumer trust and support long-term growth. 

The ECN 2025-2026 Insights Report draws on input from operators, advisors and more than 11,000 consumers.