Mensun Bound, the marine archaeologist known as the "Indiana Jones of the Deep" who led the team that discovered Shackleton's lost ship Endurance in 2022, will deliver the Day One keynote at the 2026 Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) Conference, aimed at advisors new to expedition cruising. Supported by the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust, which will display a 3D model of the wreck, his session explores the discovery and Antarctica's enduring appeal.

Day Two's keynote comes from Dr Antonia Ward, Chief Futurist at trends consultancy Stylus, who will address experienced sellers on how travel discovery, booking and customer expectations will evolve, offering practical insights for future-proofing businesses.

The content was curated by ECN CEO and Co-Founder Akvile Marozaite, who said the sessions reflect "what the conference is all about: celebrating what makes expedition cruising such a compelling way to explore the world while also looking ahead to the opportunities that will shape the sector's future."

Now in its third year, the ECN Conference takes place on 29-30 September at Glaziers Hall, London, and is expected to welcome more than 150 delegates and 30 exhibitors. The programme includes conference sessions, expert panels, pre-arranged deskside meetings, the invitation-only ECN Awards, and a networking drinks reception.

Sponsors include HX Expeditions, Kaptio, Wanderlust magazine and the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust, with The Polar Collective joining as new charity partner.

For more information and to register, visit www.expeditioncruiseconference.com.