Australian
Expedition
Summit
Expedition Redefined: Exploring the World, Protecting the Destination
Reclaiming the Boutique Expedition Concept
The Australian Expedition Summit is a curated gathering of innovators and experts in the expedition cruise sector, designed to spark meaningful dialogue and strategic growth in the region. Set against the backdrop of Australia’s evolving travel landscape, this summit will bring together key players to explore trends, tackle industry challenges, and uncover new opportunities in small-ship cruising. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, education, and market development, the event offers a dynamic environment for forging partnerships, discovering cutting-edge product offerings, and equipping travel professionals with the tools to meet the demands of tomorrow’s conscious traveller.
The Australian Market
Discussion Themes & Curated Speaker Dialogues
Theme 1
What Is an Expedition in 2025?
Theme 2
The Marketing Disconnect – Luxury vs. Expedition
Theme 3
Experience First – Activities, Guides & Guest Engagement
Theme 4
Ship vs. Shore – Balancing Comfort with Purpose
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About Us
Keynote Speakers
03
Industry Leaders
01
Global Director of Sales Aqua Expeditions
Milly Alva Haimberger
Global Director of Sales - Aqua Expeditions
Ask Milly about the Peruvian Amazon, the Nazca Lines, Colca Canyon, or the Sacred Valley, and you’ll see her eyes light up. With over two decades of experience in South America's luxury travel industry, Milly is a seasoned expert in travel to Peru and the Galapagos Islands. Since the launch of Aqua Mekong in 2014 and Aqua Blu in 2019, she has also expanded her expertise to include Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and East Africa. Her passion for Asia began with her first trip to the region in 1997.
As Global Director of Sales at Aqua Expeditions, Milly oversees all aspects of trade relations and sales strategy for the world’s leading small luxury expedition and yacht operator. A bilingual native of Lima, she brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at two of South America’s most respected destination management companies: South American Tours and Condor Travel. She has also served as Director of APOTUR (Peruvian Association of Receptive and Domestic Tourism Operators) and CANATUR (National Chamber of Tourism), and is currently a member of the LATA Committee in the UK.
When she’s not traveling the world as one of the industry’s most respected advisors, Milly enjoys time with her young family. She is passionate about reading and has a deep interest in history, geography, and global politics.
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Julie Rogers
Director of Sales, Asia Pacific
Jules Rogers serves as Director of Sales, Asia Pacific at PONANT where she leads the region’s robust commercial operations from Australia to emerging Asian markets.
A long term alumni of the Travel Industry her experience have ignited a passion for exploring the globe. With a healthy respect for learning new cultures and seeking adventures, Julie Was quoted as saying, ‘I have enjoyed my fair share of camping in extremely remote locations in my youth, today I prefer to blend authentic exploration with luxury.
Small Ship Luxury Expedition Cruising delivers this perfectly’. Julie has extensively explored Africa, The Kimberley, Greenland and has ventured to Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic regions many times.
Next year, Julie will be making the pilgrimage to the Geographic North Pole onboard Luxury Ice-breaker, Le Commandant Charcot.
02
Director of Sales Asia Pacific. Ponant.
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03
Director Marine Operations - Captain at Ponant
David Marionneau-Châtel
Director Marine Operations - Captain at Ponant
Master Mariner with 14 years of experience in luxury cruises and expeditions worldwide.
Director Marine Operations since 2021
Over the past 20 years working in the cruise industry, I became very familiar with ships operations in most of the destinations throughout the world, maintaining excellent relations with agencies and local authorities.
This worldwide experience allowed me to acquire a comprehensive knowledge in local health, safety and environmental regulations. My shipboard extensive experience lead me to the position of Director Marine Operation of a fleet of thirteen ships operating cruises and expeditions worldwide.
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Benjamin Garcia - MC
Nomade Unique Experiences
Benjamin Garcia is the Managing Director of Nomade Unique Experiences, where he leads the development of high-end, boutique travel projects and expeditions across South America and beyond. With extensive experience in luxury tourism and expedition cruising, Benjamin has been instrumental in positioning Nomade as a leading curator of unique journeys that connect travellers with remote destinations, expert knowledge, and meaningful cultural encounters.
His career spans leadership roles in expedition cruising, luxury lodges, and destination management, always with a focus on crafting immersive and sustainable experiences. At Nomade Unique Experiences, Benjamin spearheads collaborations with global partners to design expeditions that highlight the richness of South America while integrating innovation, education, and conservation.
As part of his vision, Benjamin is committed to redefining the expedition segment—placing emphasis on small-scale, intimate journeys that foster deeper connections between travellers, destinations, and local communities.
04
Managing Director Nomade & Aqua Expeditions Sales Rep AU/NZ
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The Venue
Doltone House Jones Bay Wharf, Suite 87/32 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont NSW 2009
Tribute Museum
Adorned with photographic memorabilia from Pyrmont’s past, Tribute pays homage to the maritime trade origins of Jones Bay Wharf. The room is rich in original details, from the vertical wool bale chute to the timber staircase and sliding cargo door. The hanging vintage wine decanter light and black mesh ceiling installation elevates the space with a stylish urban twist. An atmospheric space for private lunches and dinners, Tribute interconnects with Harbour and is ideal as a breakout meeting space.
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60
DAY
SPEAKERS
PARTICIPANTS
Our Sponsors
Cruise Line Partners
