The world’s largest and leading expedition cruise line has onboarded expedition expert Alex McNeil to develop Hurtigruten Expeditions’ next generation of expedition cruises – with even more depth and destination partnerships at the core of the experience.
A pioneer in the expedition industry since 2007, McNeil (CAN) has completed over 100 expeditions, including reaching the Geographic North Pole on 14 separate occasions. He will assume the role as SVP Expeditions Product and Guest Experience this February.
“Alex will play a significant role in developing the future of our expeditions as we continue to create new and exciting adventures for our guests. His extensive field experience combined with understanding of how to offer the most sustainable and inspiring expedition cruises, makes me confident that he will help us re-design the future of adventure travel,” said Hurtigruten Expeditions CEO Asta Lassesen.
New generation of exploration
In his more than 15-year expedition career, McNeil has sailed on more than a dozen different expedition vessels and completed trips by land and aircraft. His creative and collaborative approach to product development has led to the creation of industry-first itineraries, immersive shore excursion experiences, and the first expedition cruise products developed in full partnership with indigenous communities.
“I am excited to be a part of the Hurtigruten Expeditions team as we identify global opportunities to develop an entirely new range of sustainable, guest experiences,” said McNeil.
His expertise in sustainable adventure travel will help advance Hurtigruten Expeditions’ ambitions to balance tourism growth with the environmental changes. This responsibility is central to the Hurtigruten Expeditions’ ambition to be the world’s most sustainable travel company including achieving net zero emissions by 2040.
McNeil believes viewing the expeditions and the destinations as an integrated unit is an important measure for success.
“We will explore nature and culture together with our guests and alongside those who live in the regions we visit. It will be important, for example, to integrate even more local expertise, local food and other local products and services than today,” said McNeil.
