The Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) has revealed the shortlist for the 2026 ECN Awards, recognising the expedition cruise operators, travel businesses and individuals making a significant contribution to the sector.

The third annual awards will take place on 29 September 2026 at Amazing Grace in London, bringing the expedition cruise community together for an invitation-only evening of celebration and industry recognition.

This year’s operator shortlist features 41 finalists across 21 expedition cruise brands. The categories recognise excellence across polar, warm-weather, luxury, responsible, micro and specialist expedition cruising, alongside the overall Favourite Expedition Cruise Operator and Favourite Expedition Cruise Operator Sales Representative awards.

HX Expeditions appears in five operator categories, while National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions is shortlisted in four. Aqua Expeditions, Oceanwide Expeditions and Poseidon Expeditions each received three shortlisted places.

The travel trade categories recognise the agencies and individual sellers developing expedition cruise expertise, supporting clients and helping to grow awareness of the sector.

Akvile Marozaite, CEO and Co-Founder of the Expedition Cruise Network, said: “What stands out this year is the growing recognition of individual expedition cruise expertise. Entries in our established seller and travel advisor category increased by 67%, while individual categories now account for more than two-thirds of all travel trade submissions.

“We are also seeing a broader range of knowledge reflected in the entries, with 60% highlighting first-hand expedition experience and more than half referencing destinations beyond the traditional polar regions. It shows how quickly expedition cruise expertise is developing across the travel trade.

“Congratulations to every company and individual shortlisted. We look forward to announcing the winners and celebrating their achievements in September.”