Jos Dewing named as Aurora UK managing director

Aurora Expeditions has named Jos Dewing as its first UK managing director.

Dewing, who has previously led Voyages to Antiquity, has been in the cruise industry for more than 20 years. He joins Aurora following the departure of Craig Upshall, who has since moved to Doha to join the Qatar National Tourism Council.

“I’m honoured and excited to be joining Aurora Expeditions at such a pivotal time of growth as the company moves closer to delivery of its second purpose-built expedition ship, the Sylvia Earle, in October,” he said.

“I’ve had a lifelong passion for the polar regions and responsible, small-ship expedition voyaging, and my core values align perfectly with those of Aurora Expeditions. I cannot wait to unlock new and exciting initiatives in the fast-moving UK market as well as continue to build on the exceptional service already provided to our valued expeditioners and trade partners.”

CEO Monique Ponfoort added: “Jos is a natural fit for the company and will help grow the brand and further strengthen the success of its existing UK team.

“We are excited to welcome Jos into this new role on our senior leadership team, where he will bring extensive experience and knowledge that will further strengthen Aurora’s position and relationships in the market. The British market has always been important to Aurora Expeditions, and as UK travel restrictions ease, we expect the demand for small-ship and adventure-focused expeditions to remote corners of the world to grow exponentially.”

“Brits and Aussies make great travel companions, with an abiding spirit for adventure and mate-ship, and we always look forward to warmly welcoming our UK cousins on board.”

Dewing added: “Aurora Expeditions sets the industry standard for polar expedition travel, and I look forward to working closely with our travel trade partners to develop and maximise sales opportunities for the important UK market, which has seen significant growth in recent years.”