AE Expeditions has introduced a passenger limit to enhance ecological protection in polar regions.
- Passenger numbers on AE Expeditions ships will not exceed 130, to preserve the integrity of remote destinations such as Antarctica and the Arctic.
- This change coincides with the upcoming 2024-25 Antarctica season, enhancing small ship experiences with more immersive activities.
- Company CEO Michael Heath emphasises the commitment to sustainable travel with less than 150 passengers per expedition.
- New itineraries have been announced for 2025-26, with voyages departing from Australia and New Zealand to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea.
AE Expeditions, a leading cruise operator, has implemented a restriction on passenger numbers for its fleet navigating the polar regions. This strategic move is designed to protect the ecological sanctity of vulnerable destinations, ensuring ships carry no more than 130 passengers.
As the 2024-25 Antarctica cruise season approaches, this policy reinforces a commitment to offering bespoke small ship experiences. By limiting passenger numbers, AE Expeditions can provide more immersive and extensive off-ship activities, capitalising on the intimate nature of smaller cruises.
Michael Heath, the chief executive of AE Expeditions, highlights the importance of this measure. ‘With passenger landing limits in Antarctica and certain Arctic areas, we wanted to uphold our promise of delivering distinguished small ship experiences, allowing for more meaningful engagement with these pristine environments,’ he stated.
Heath further acknowledged the company’s responsibility towards the preservation of these extraordinary locales. ‘We are proud to be among a few companies operating with fewer than 150 passengers, maintaining our pledge to sustainable travel and aspiring to lead globally in responsible expedition travel,’ he remarked.
Furthering its commitment, AE Expeditions has unveiled its 2025-26 travel schedule, featuring pioneering routes to East Antarctica and the Ross Sea. Departures from Hobart, Australia and Dunedin, New Zealand signify an expansion of their polar offerings, promising unique exploration opportunities.
AE Expeditions’ proactive passenger limit policy underscores its dedication to sustainable travel in polar regions.
