Aurora Expeditions’ chief executive Monique Ponfoort is to leave the cruise line for a “new challenge”.

She joined the Australian-owned expedition cruise line in October 2020 at the height of the global pandemic, moving from her role as president and general manager for Asia Pacific for Ponant and Paul Gauguin.

Ponfoort said: “Given our strong position, the talented teams driving our plans forward, and our successful return to operations, I feel that now is the best time to announce my plans to step away to pursue a new challenge.”

During her time with Aurora, she launched the company’s ‘Sustainability In Action’ initiative and developed global industry partnerships with Virtuoso and Qantas.

Aurora’s operations in Antarctica resumed in January 2022 and the cruise line is now sailing its fifth voyage of the season.

Ponfoort added: “I have achieved the goals I had set out for Aurora Expeditions when I joined the business in 2020, and I am confident that the company is well positioned to continue its growth.

“Personally, I am excited and ready for a new challenge.”

Chairman Neville Buch added: “We wish to personally thank Monique for her valued contribution and leadership of Aurora Expeditions during this difficult time and getting us back to what we do best – extraordinary expeditions – as well as helping us prepare for the imminent launch of our second expedition ship, the Sylvia Earle.”

Monique will be staying with the business to help through a transitional period.