Greenland, and particularly Ilulissat, is one of the most important destinations for AECO’s member cruise lines and their guests. The large icebergs, sled dogs, and colorful wooden houses are attractions that many tourists in Greenland seek out. AECO, the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators, and its members have a significant interest in ensuring strong relationships and collaboration with the local community.
This week, AECO, the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators, is in Ilulissat to meet with local stakeholders in the tourism industry and local administration. The purpose of the visit is to ensure that expedition cruise tourism continues to develop in a way that benefits both the visitors and the local communities they interact with.
“Greenland, and Ilulissat, is the heart of many of our expedition journeys. Our guests come here for authentic experiences, and we want to ensure that the local community also views these visits positively. Tourism is only sustainable if it helps create value for the communities it visits,” says Frigg Jørgensen, Executive Director of AECO.
AECO, the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators, is an international organization that works to ensure responsible and sustainable expedition cruise tourism in the Arctic. The organization represents over 40 operators from around the world.
Expedition cruise tourism differs significantly from conventional cruises. While conventional cruises often involve large ships with many passengers, where the ship’s own facilities make up a significant part of the experience, expedition cruise tourism focuses on creating experiences and learning about the places visited.
Expedition cruise tourists spend an average of DKK 3,660 per passenger per trip in local shops at their destinations. Additionally, expedition cruise operators make significant purchases of supplies and experiences, further strengthening the local economy.
AECO places great emphasis on having local partners.
“Our members use local suppliers at the destinations where it’s feasible. Outside inhabited areas, the ships arrange excursions themselves. We see our Greenlandic partners as an advantage on many levels. They give our guests an opportunity to meet the local population, which they appreciate,” explains Karin Strand from HX Hurtigruten Expeditions and Chair of AECO’s Board.
Several of AECO’s members have employees from Greenland onboard their ships. For example, Hurtigruten Expeditions has a guide from Ittoqqortoormiit, and Quark Expeditions has employed three Greenlandic chefs this season.
In addition, Seabourn has hired Greenlandic guides as part of their expedition team and collaborates with local researchers to explore research opportunities, such as using their submarines for scientific dives. Ponant has supported the communities in Tasiilaq by delivering fresh food earlier than official supply ships can and by ensuring that local schoolchildren can explore their ships while anchored.
In Ilulissat, AECO’s delegation will focus on getting better acquainted with the local community and gaining a deeper understanding of tourism development in the area and local perspectives. Invitations have been extended for a ship visit and a meeting onboard the expedition cruise ship, Sylvie Earl, operated by Aurora Expeditions. Among the invitees are representatives from the municipality, including the chairmen from the business and technical committees, as well as key figures in tourism and the UNESCO site. Meetings with various commercial actors have also been arranged.
From the left: Hans Inûsugtok, Konstitueret Teknisk Direktør Avannaata Kommunia, Bendt Kristiansen, Erhvervschef Avannaata Kommunia, Heidi Jensen, Ejer Naleraq Sea Safaris / Bestyrelsesemedlem Visit Greenland, Karin Strand, HUrtigruten Expeditions and Chair of AECO board, Niels Davidsen, Formand – Udvalget for Teknik, Gyda Gudmundsdottir, Head of Community Engagement – AECO, Frigg Jørgensen, AECO’s Executive Director, Bo Albrechtsen, UNESCO Site Manager (Photo: AECO)
