Big news in the world of expedition cruising – Nordic Expedition Cruise and Travel (NECT) has completed its acquisition of Albatros Expeditions (AE), which now joins Chimu Adventures under the NECT umbrella.
In a statement, Chimu said the acquisition strengthens NECT’s position in the polar and Latin American travel markets, offering more seamless, door-to-door adventures for Australian travellers.
By bringing Albatros and sister NECT company Polar Latitudes (PL) together, Nordic Expedition will expand its operational reach across the Arctic and Antarctica. With a combined fleet that now includes Ocean Albatros, Ocean Victory, MS Seaventure and Ocean Nova, travellers can expect even more immersive and sustainable polar journeys.
“We’ve spent the last few years trying to develop a reduced emission pathway in Antarctic operations for Australian travellers and this transaction is exactly the gamechanger that we’ve been looking for,” Chimu Adventure’s Managing Director and NECT group partner, Chad Carey, said.
“The addition of the X bow ships to the fleet, Ocean Albatros and Ocean Victory, operated by Albatros, are not only two of the most capable expedition cruising ships on the water, but their modern and efficient design will reduce our emissions per traveller significantly, compared to our previous operations on the Ocean Endeavour.”
Sustainable cruising has long been a focus for Albatros Expeditions. Among its initiatives has been the elimination of single-use plastics and the use of biodegradable products while operating low-emission vessels.
“Our ambition is to create the most trusted and reliable brand for all of our customers and business partners by learning from, and building on, each other’s strengths,” Albatros Expeditions’ incoming CEO Patrick Shaw said.
According to Chimu Adventures, US-based Polar Latitudes, which is known for its deep Antarctic expertise and Citizen Science programs, will complement AE’s strengths, enhancing the overall expedition experience.
“Within our network, as we expand polar operations, we continue to leverage the Chimu brand as the complete package, both locally and globally,” Carey remarked.
“Chimu offers access to all the very best ships and deals in the polar regions, as well as a place to book flights and South America travel packages, all with only one phone call.
“This combination of expertise under one umbrella provides the perfect hub for travellers and agents alike to feel well taken care of, both now and in the future.”
To celebrate the news, Chimu is giving travel advisors the chance to win a 10-day famil cruise aboard Ocean Albatros in the 2025/26 season. Stay tuned for more details or email agents@chimuadventures.com for info.
Polar Latitudes announced its tie-up with Chimu Adventures and Nordic Hamburg, a shipping firm that also has investments in cruise vessels, in October last year.
