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HX Expeditions announces major expansion of Americas team amid growth and global investment

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 25 April 2025 25 April 2025

HX Expeditions, the world’s largest and first expedition cruise company, has announced a major expansion of its Americas team across business development, marketing, and tour operations. The move underscores the company’s strengthened focus on travel trade partnerships and advisor support in one of its fastest growing markets and reflects a broader transformation ahead of HX’s 130th anniversary in 2026.

Backed by new investment and a sharpened growth strategy, the company has entered a new era – one focused on trade partnerships, global expansion, and a revitalized brand identity. HX is investing across every part of the business, from fleet upgrades and onboard innovation to market development. “Alongside these global investments, we’re also investing in the people who will help us deliver on our most ambitious goals,” said Steve Smotrys, MD & SVP Commercial, Americas. “This expanded team brings the energy and expertise needed to strengthen our trade relationships and accelerate growth across the region.”

HX’s presence in the Americas has grown rapidly, with total U.S. booked revenue up 115% between 2022 and 2024. As demand grows, HX is expanding its commercial footprint and advisor support to unlock even greater market share. “As we prepare to celebrate 130 years of exploration, we’re building a modern brand with deep roots,” said Matt DeWitte, Head of Marketing, Americas. “This next phase is about scaling smart – creating more value for our partners and ensuring our brand connects in meaningful, inspiring ways across the Americas.”

Expanding sales and trade support across the Americas

Under the leadership of Steve Smotrys and Carla Brake, Senior Director of Sales, Americas, HX is strengthening its advisor-first approach across key regions. “Our Business Development Managers play a pivotal role in delivering the support and partnership that travel advisors need to succeed,” said Smotrys. “With this expanded team on the ground, we’re ensuring our trade partners have the tools they need to grow alongside us.”

Ana Duarte, Senior Business Development Manager, LATAM & Tour Operators
With over 20 years of experience in the cruise industry, Ana has built a global career working across multiple countries and developing a keen ability to identify emerging trends and opportunities that drive growth and innovation. At Princess Cruises, she played a key role in deployment and itinerary planning, new market entry, and international marketing strategy. Ana now joins HX as Senior Sales Manager, where she is leading efforts to grow the brand across Latin America, strengthen partnerships with tour operators, and develop charter programs to expand HX’s presence throughout the Americas.

John Milbrath, Business Development Manager, Northwest U.S.
With more than 30 years in the tourism industry, John has held leadership roles in cruise shore operations, AAA Washington, and most recently, business development at Seabourn. He brings a deep understanding of the cruise and travel landscape and will focus on expanding HX’s reach throughout the Northwest region.

Linda Cavanah, Business Development Manager, Central U.S.
Linda brings more than 20 years of cruise industry experience, including shipboard roles as Shore Excursion Manager and Event Manager with Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line. She later served as Director of Land Operations at UnCruise Adventures, where she oversaw shore programs and logistics. Linda joined HX in 2023 as Senior Product Manager, Expedition Product and Planning, specializing in itinerary deployment and strategic forecasting. In her new role, she supports commercial leadership in shaping sales strategy, building industry partnerships, and driving growth across the Central U.S.

Barrett Caldwell, Business Development Manager, Midwest & Mid-Atlantic U.S.
Barrett brings seven years of experience in luxury travel sales, spanning global safaris, major sporting events, and destination marketing. He will lead travel industry growth across the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Known for his strong industry relationships and advisor-first approach, Barrett is focused on helping partners craft unforgettable experiences—from Antarctica to the Galápagos.

Aidan Flood, Business Development Manager, Northeast U.S.
Aidan comes to HX with a strong background in account management across multiple industries. Known for his client-first mindset and dedication to service, he will lead growth efforts in the Northeast U.S., connecting partners and travelers with the transformative world of expedition cruising.

A strategic marketing expansion for the Americas

HX is also expanding its marketing function in the Americas, bringing on new roles to drive a more focused and effective commercial strategy. “This is the most focused and deliberate marketing team we’ve ever had,” said Matt DeWitte. “We’re building new capabilities in trade marketing and digital strategy – laying the foundation to better support our partners, grow brand visibility, and engage new audiences.”

Destiny Weiss, Senior Marketing Manager, Americas
Destiny is a performance marketing expert with over eight years of experience driving brand growth across industries. At HX, she leverages her data-driven approach and strategic insight to create impactful marketing solutions that deepen engagement and support business objectives across the Americas with our current partners while seeking new commercial relationships.

Jenna Amaral, Senior Marketing Manager, Americas
Jenna brings extensive experience in digital marketing, having led strategy for brands including Hilton, The Container Store, and Hornblower Group. With a focus on SEM, paid social, and video marketing, she will play a key role in expanding HX’s market presence and optimizing digital campaigns to engage new audiences and drive revenue.

Cristina Macedo, B2B Trade Marketing Manager, Americas
Cristina is a marketing professional with more than six years of experience in brand management, B2B sales enablement, and cross-functional leadership. She has a proven track record of driving revenue growth through strategic marketing and stakeholder collaboration. At HX, Cristina supports the marketing team with content development, performance analysis, and brand consistency across global platforms.

Meyer Turku shipyard appoints board members

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 24 April 2025 24 April 2025

Earlier this spring Meyer Turku announced the appointment of Jaakko Eskola as Executive Chair of the Board and Tim Meyer's transition from the position of CEO to Vice Chair of the Board at the beginning of May. Additionally, three experienced members with diverse backgrounds have been nominated.

Kaori Uehigashi (officially starting from 02.05.2025)
M.Sc. (Tech), Industrial Engineering and Management

Serves currently as Executive Vice President, Strategy & Transformation at KONE (since 2024). Before served as Managing Director & Senior Partner of Boston Consulting Group (2007 – 2024) and Project Manager at KONE (2002 – 2007).

Martti Ala-Härkönen
Dr.Sc. (Econ.), Organisation and Management, Lic.Sc.(Tech.), Business Strategy and International Business

Serves as CFO of Tietoevry Tech Services (01.06.2025 onw.). Before served as EVP, CFO, Strategy & IT for Neste (2022 – 2024) and as EVP, CFO at Caverion (2016 – 2021), CFO at Cramo (2006 – 2016) and different roles at Novo Group/WM-data (1998 – 2006) and Postipankki (1995 – 1998).

Pekka Timonen
Doctor of Law (LL.D.)

Serves as Professor of Practice at the University of Eastern Finland. Previously served the Finnish Government as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice (2018 – 2025) and Director in the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment. Before served as Director General of the Ownership Steering Department at the Prime Minister’s Office (2007 – 2012).

"We are happy to announce the new members of the board. With this composition, we are in a strong position to support the company's management in its work to lead the world's leading shipbuilding industry towards an increasingly sustainable future," comments Jaakko Eskola, Executive Chair of the Board of Meyer Turku.

Celestyal Discovery becomes first ship in Greece to operate with marine biofuel blend

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 22 April 2025 22 April 2025

Celestyal, the boutique cruise line offering unmissable and immersive experiences on land and at sea, has announced that its Celestyal Discovery is the first vessel in Greek waters to be refuelled using a marine biofuel blend. The milestone delivery, conducted at the Port of Lavrion, was carried out by Coral Marine Products SA, part of Motor Oil Group, in partnership with Celestyal.

The locally-produced blend combines conventional marine fuel with a second-generation biofuel derived from recycled used cooking oils. The innovation, created by Motor Oil’s subsidiary Verd, is fully compliant with the new ISO 8217:2024 standards and is credited with reducing CO₂ emissions by approximately 21%.

Captain George Koumpenas, COO at Celestyal, said: “This initiative marks a meaningful shift toward sustainable cruising. We are proud that Celestyal Discovery is taking the lead in reducing the environmental footprint of the cruise sector in Greece.”

Chris Theophilides, CEO at Celestyal, said: “From refreshing our fleet to expanding our itineraries, sustainability is central to our long-term vision. This pioneering use of biofuel is a proud moment for us and demonstrates what’s possible when local expertise and global ambition come together. We’re committed to exploring further solutions that support our planet and enhance the cruising experience for future generations.”

The 1,360-guest Celestyal Discovery joined the Celestyal fleet in November 2023 and has recently undergone her second multi-million Euro refurbishment. From April to November, she will offer three- and four-night night “Iconic Greek Islands” cruises departing Athens calling at Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Rhodes and Santorini with prices starting at $389 per person.

She will then reposition to the Arabian Gulf offering her first season of three- and four-night night “Iconic Arabia” cruises departing Abu Dhabi calling at Dubai, Sir Bani Yas Island, Doha, Khasab and Ras al Khaimah. Prices start at $718 for two people on a three-night voyage, and $918 for two people on a four-night cruise.

Victory Cruise Lines' Victory I sets sail from Maine for Great Lakes

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 19 April 2025 19 April 2025

Victory Cruise Lines, committed to all-inclusive, small ship, coastal cruising on The Great Lakes and Canadian Maritimes, announces Victory I has departed Portland, Maine. Embarking on the line’s first revenue cruise, the New England & Canada 2025 Reunion Cruise is hosted by Victory Cruise Lines Chairman and Founder John Waggoner and wife Claudette. Marking the line’s first revenue voyage in preparation for the inaugural Great Lakes season, the sailing includes many past guests of the Waggoners and special entertainment they have handpicked featuring Greg and Lindy Pendzick and Michaelyn Oby.

“Today is an exciting milestone for Victory Cruise Lines as we set sail for Toronto onboard Victory I joined by family, friends and longtime guests,” said John Waggoner, founder and chairman of Victory Cruise Lines. “In less than a year, Claudette and I purchased these purpose-built ships for the Great Lakes, the team has come together, we are welcoming guests onboard and poised to embark on an incredible travel experience on all five Great Lakes.”

The New England & Canada 2025 Reunion Cruise voyage began with a pre-cruise hotel night in Portland, followed by 10-night sailing with ports of call including Halifax, Sydney, Quebec City, Montreal and concluding in Toronto. Victory I will be christened in Toronto on April 27 and her sister ship Victory II will be christened at Chicago’s Navy Pier on May 12, 2025. Victory Cruise Lines offers 33 voyages in 2025 that touch all five Great Lakes.

The 190-guest Victory I was purpose-built to cruise on all five Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the French-Canadian Maritimes. Onboard, guests will enjoy the Victory Cruise Lines’ own LakeLorian lecture program in partnership with the National Museum of the Great Lakes, which includes engaging, destination-oriented historians and naturalists who share their vast knowledge and expertise of the history, ecology, and culture of each port of call.

Victory I and Victory II feature a home-away-from-home atmosphere with gathering spots including the Compass Lounge, home to a grand piano and a favorite locale for old fashioned sing-alongs. The English-style Tavern is another favorite onboard venue to share stories and laughter with friends and fellow travelers. Guests may lounge on the aft deck on the Observation and Sun Deck with cushioned outdoor sofas, the perfect place to celebrate a successful excursion, gather for afternoon cocktails, amber sunsets, or late-night stargazing.

Victory Cruise Line chefs bring exclusive culinary delights to the table with menus of local specialties and fresh fish, when available. The wine selection reflects the routes and never fails to impress with fine wines from the various regions. The Coastal Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from the chef’s menu of regionally inspired dishes. The Grill serves buffet breakfast, lunch, and transforms to Tuscan Stone Grill for a special dining experience. Guests will also find a variety of healthy dining alternatives that meet their dining needs.

Each Victory Cruise Lines voyage includes 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay with complimentary ground transfers between the hotel and vessel; all water view accommodations, some with veranda; an included shore excursion in every port from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Detroit; acclaimed cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner served in multiple venues plus culinary events throughout each cruise; gourmet selections including freshly prepared lobster and regionally-inspired dishes; unlimited beverages including an extensive wine list, choice spirits, local craft beers and specialty coffees; open bars and lounges throughout the vessel; unlimited Wi-Fi; live, daily onboard entertainment and enrichment with our own LakeLorians; hiking sticks.

Silversea reveals more on its upcoming world's southernmost hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 15 April 2025 15 April 2025

Silversea, the leading experiential luxury and expedition travel brand, has unveiled the first spaces and name of The Cormorant at 55 South, its new 150-room hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, scheduled to open during the 2025/2026 Antarctica season. Upon completion, Silversea’s new hotel will create the most convenient, comfortable and seamless way to visit Antarctica.

“The Cormorant at 55 South is a tribute to the rich culture, breathtaking natural beauty, and storied history of Puerto Williams, immersing guests in their destination before embarking on their journey to Antarctica,” said Bert Hernandez, President, Silversea. “Every aspect of The Cormorant is thoughtfully designed with our guests in mind, ensuring a comfortable and uniquely Silversea experience. Each room offers panoramic views of Patagonia, and the hotel creates a deep connection to the local community, providing specially designed experiences that will allow our guests to begin their expeditions sooner than ever, all in uncompromised comfort.”

The Cormorant at 55 South

The Cormorant is a nod to the unique location of the property at 55° S – making it the southernmost hotel on Earth – and an acknowledgement of the location’s history. Paying homage to Lakutaia, which is the indigenous Yahgan word for cormorant, the aquatic bird is a symbol of the seafarer and intended to bestow good fortune on guests embarking on their greatest adventure.

The Cormorant will feature two distinct room views, including serene forest views and tranquil water vistas overlooking the Beagle Channel. This design brings guests closer to the breathtaking natural beauty of Patagonia, immersing them in the landscapes that define this region.

Each room is thoughtfully designed with expansive windows that frame sweeping views, filling the space with natural light and creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The interiors feature warm wood tones and earthy elements, deepening the connection to the destination while creating an authentic and calming environment. To further this connection, every room will incorporate handcrafted items created by regional artisans, adding a unique touch that celebrates local and regional culture.

Welcoming guests from the moment they arrive will be The Cormorant’s own dedicated staff – all trained in The Silversea Way to provide the high level of service that is synonymous with Silversea.

The hotel will facilitate a uniquely frictionless journey to Antarctica, allowing guests to enjoy Silversea’s personalized service and warm hospitality throughout their entire experience. Silversea’s innovative six-day Antarctica Fly Cruise expeditions allow guests to fly over the Drake Passage, providing a shorter option without compromising on the time spent in the destination.

Having pioneered luxury expedition cruising in 2008, Silversea became the first travel brand to offer luxury Antarctica expeditions. With its experience in the region, Silversea now offers the most enriching and personalized adventures on the continent, with an industry-leading expedition team that comprises up to 28 experts in their field, knowledgeable kayak instructors, world-class onboard lectures and some of the highest Zodiac-to-guest ratios in the industry, among other enriching features.

Silversea’s expedition experts host guided walks ashore, identifying wildlife species, unique glacial and geological structures, and other fascinating features only found on an Antarctic expedition. Back on board, the team’s insightful lectures provide an overview of the day’s sightings and experiences.