49 reliable operation, while recognising that expedition cruising will always require adaptability”. That adaptability is a major advantage of the cruise line’s small expedition ships, according to Braathen, with their size “expanding both the range of destinations we can access and the type of experience we can deliver. Smaller ships can call at ports that are unsuitable for larger vessels and approach more closely without relying on conventional cruise terminals.” The logistical advantages of a small ship can also be passed on to passengers, Braathen suggests. “With fewer guests, embarkation and disembarkation can be more efficient, group sizes can remain smaller, and the transport requirement may be limited to only a few vehicles rather than a large fleet of coaches,” he says. “This can create a more personal and less congested experience for our guests, while reducing pressure on local infrastructure. It also allows smaller communities to participate in the economic benefits of cruise tourism, rather than concentrating those benefits only in major ports.” Looking ahead, Braathen sees “strong opportunities across Asia and Africa, as well as in regions such as Australia and Alaska”. For a destination to be considered, however, he says it needs to offer more than basic port availability. Atlas expects destinations to understand its guests, vessels and style of operation, and to provide clear information on port capabilities, local conditions, shore excursion potential and the practical support available to deliver a safe, highquality call. “Just as importantly, the destination should be able to explain what makes it genuinely different and why it would strengthen the overall itinerary,” he adds. “A useful way to approach this is to ask: if your closest friend were visiting your home for the first time, what would you choose to show them, and how would you create the strongest possible first impression? That sense of pride, authenticity and thoughtful curation is what we want our guests to experience.” The most compelling destinations, Braathen concludes, will combine operational readiness with “a clear story and experiences that guests could not easily have elsewhere”. “ We are looking beyond established cruise destinations to identify distinctive places” Photo: Atlas Ocean Voyages The small size of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ vessels enables them to approach destinations more closely without relying on cruise terminals PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
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