Craig Upshall and Edith Beaudoin will join the team in April 2018 to strengthen Aurora’s position in the UK, Europe and north America.

Upshall, who has been appointed sales director UK and Europe, has 20 years experience in the travel and tourism industry following roles with Rocky Mountaineer, Royal Caribbean, Island Cruises and American Airlines.

Meanwhile Beaudoin, who has been appointed sales director north America, has 10 years international travel trade experience, including sales roles in North America and a stint assisting the tourist industry in Nicaragua and Central America.

The pair will each be responsible for growing Aurora’s brands in their regions through new and existing relationships and lead partner development strategies.

Aurora says the appointments underline its commitment to global expansion after launching its new expedition ship Greg Mortimer - and to meeting global demand for its “unique” offering.

Upshall and Beaudoin will initially assume responsibility for maximising sales for its 2019/20 polar season.

Robert Halfpenny, Aurora managing director, said: “For more than 25 years, we’ve been driven by a pioneering spirit, and we’ve always chosen the best people to help us do it.

“We warmly welcome Craig and Edith to our team and look forward to setting a new standard for expedition cruising globally while continuing to provide the authentic, small group adventures that we are known for.

“I’ve had the good fortune to have worked with both Edith and Craig in the past. They both possess the Aurora pioneering spirit and will be a perfect fit for our team.”