AE Expeditions – part of Aurora Expeditions – is targeting growth across markets in Europe, Africa and the Middle East during 2024.

The small-ship expedition operator said this broader focus follows “significant growth” in the UK and Ireland markets in 2023, where it saw 53% growth in trade sales last year. It said the “large majority” of its bookings come from the trade.

It said in a statement: “Building on this success and the clear potential of the expedition travel sector, AE Expeditions is now extending its focus into Europe, Africa and the Middle East, assigning Andy Tait to spearhead this growth.

“In line with this extended focus, Andy’s title will change to senior business development manager, EMEA. This follows on from colleague Katie Harber’s recent promotion to UK & Ireland senior business development manager.”

Tait joined the cruise line when he was appointed as senior business development manager for the UK and Europe in April 2023, after roles with Inside Travel Group and Travelwise.

David Tanguay, head of global sales, said: “Our UK-based team has been an instrumental part of our success in the market by actively nurturing partnerships and building new relationships with the trade to increase AE Expeditions’ sales distribution.

“We look forward to continuing to support our UK and Ireland trade partners in 2024, with some exciting announcements in the pipeline.

“We also know there is an increasing demand for immersive, nature-focused travel globally, and we are confident in our team’s abilities to continue to broaden the company’s horizons, increase our market share and the trade industry’s awareness of the life-changing experiences we offer.”

AE Expeditions is currently offering discounts of up to 20% and air credits on selected cruises for bookings made before March 31, 2024.