“Working in the Arctic expedition cruise field is a privilege, and a responsibility that none of us can shoulder alone. Everything we have accomplished as an Arctic industry; we have accomplished together.”
At the 2026 Norwegian Cruise Conference in Ålesund, Norway, AECO’s Executive Director, delivered a presentation titled “Navigating Safety Through Collaboration.” The themes she addressed made her reflect on how Arctic safety and responsible expedition cruising rely on joint efforts:
Stronger and Better Together
“The Arctic is a region of unique natural beauty, but also of sparse human presence and inherent operational risks. In my role, I see every day how deeply interconnected our work is with the wellbeing of local communities, cultural heritage and complex ecosystems. AECO’s mission—to ensure that expedition cruise tourism adds local value while safeguarding the environment and respecting the people who call the Arctic home, only becomes real when each of us contributes. This is our collective responsibility.
At the Norwegian Cruise Conference in Ålesund, January 22, 2026, I shared how AECO’s strength lies in its membership. With operators, vessels, field staff and experts representing an international community, the breadth of knowledge and commitment within our network is extraordinary. Industry guidelines, standards, and practical tools do not emerge from one office. They are built through shared experience, consultations, working groups, and dialogue. Our members shape our priorities and help push the industry forward.
What I really wanted to underline in my presentation is, however, that no single sector can carry the responsibility of Arctic safety and sustainability activities alone. The assets within the expedition cruise industry, our vessels, our experienced staff and crew, and our operational tools, are incredibly strong. But their true value emerges only when we connect them with the strengths of others: local communities, search and rescue entities, authorities, science partners, and regional stakeholders.
Frigg Jørgensen, AECO’s Executive Director.
I take the liberty of quoting one of AECO’s valued partners, Steve Thompson from the Canadian Coast Guard: “The cruise industry is not just a risk generator. They are also a risk mitigator with their assets and resources. We are not opposing groups.”
When I speak about this work, it is not from a distance. It is deeply personal. I have seen how meaningful collaboration can be. How a conversation with a community leader, constructive dialogue with authorities, or initiative from a member operator can lead to concrete improvements. I have also seen how quickly progress can falter when we act alone.
That is why my message at the Norwegian Cruise Conference was also an invitation. We are facing a future where the Arctic will continue to change. Navigating that future responsibly requires that we listen actively, share openly, and support one another’s efforts. Industry, authorities, communities, and researchers each bring knowledge that strengthens the whole.
If there is one thing I hope attendees took with them, it is this: our work is not just professional, it is relational. The real impact comes from the connections we build and the commitment we share. I truly believe we stand stronger and better together.”
