Stakeholder Cruises

Building Understanding and Partnerships

AECO’s Stakeholder Cruises give local stakeholders, community representatives, and decision-makers the opportunity to experience expedition cruising firsthand. This initiative offers real insight into how operations work — on board and in the Arctic communities we visit.

By engaging directly with crew, guides, and AECO members, participants gain a deeper understanding of safety standards, operational routines, environmental commitments, and the positive impact expedition cruising can have on Arctic communities. These cruises also create space for open dialogue about opportunities, challenges, and shared priorities.

The goal is simple: strengthen cooperation, build trust, and foster long-term partnerships across the Arctic. Whether joining a full voyage or visiting during a port call, stakeholders consistently highlight the value of meeting operators in their working environment and seeing AECO’s guidelines and tools in action.

Since its launch, the program has brought together hundreds of representatives from local authorities, community organizations, tourism bodies, preparedness agencies, and governments. Feedback is overwhelmingly positive — many describe the experience as an “eye-opener” and a “game-changer” for understanding expedition cruise operations.

For AECO members, contributing cabins or other resources to future Stakeholder Cruises is an investment in stronger relationships, shared knowledge, and a sustainable, community-oriented future for Arctic expedition cruising.