New Explora Journeys boss aims to 'unlock' trade bookings 

Explora Journeys new UK and Ireland executive director believes his non‑cruise background will help his team unlock bookings from travel agents who have not sold cruise before.

Tate Husband joined the line three months ago, having spent 25 years in luxury hospitality, most recently for the Langham Hospitality Group, but also for the Edition brand, Kimpton and Fairmont.

 

His appointment comes ahead of the introduction of the line’s third ship this summer.

 

Explora lll’s Mediterranean prelude cruise will take place on July 24-28, as the luxury line reaches the half-way point in its creation of a six-ship fleet.

 

Following its naming, the ship will embark on its maiden journey to Lisbon on August 3 before sailings in Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland later this year.

 

At 19.2 metres (63 ft) in length, Explora lll is longer than its sister ships, but will carry the same number of passengers.

 

Husband had never cruised before joining Explora Journeys, but having set sail within his first week he said he was now mindful of elements of the experience that would be “completely new and perhaps unexpected for non‑cruisers”, citing the use of lifeboats as tenders as an example. 

“I believe being new to the sector and coming at it with fresh eyes is a positive,” he said. “There are some elements of cruise that are unique and, being from outside the cruise world, means I’ve been able to highlight things that might not be obvious to those who have worked in the cruise industry for decades. 

 

“For agents who don’t understand the product and haven’t booked it before, I can help them see it from a non-cruiser’s perspective and that will help us unlock their business.

“I’m also able to challenge the norm a little and question why we do things a certain way – just because it’s the way it’s always been doesn’t mean there isn’t a better way for us, the agent and the guest.”

Husband said he believed it was important for his team to “boil [information] down to basics” for new clients and not assume they know what happens on board a ship. 

He said his message to agents considering selling cruise but who had reservations or were hesitant was to “simply give [Explora Journeys] a try”.

He added that his “big ambition” for the year ahead – which will see the luxury line launch its third ship this summer – was to “energise [his] amazing team further”.

“I want to give them as much support as I can,” he added. “I want to ensure they’re as energised as possible and always remember just how incredible this brand is – having that focus is really important.”

 

Company president Anna Nash said: “Explora III represents a natural yet powerful evolution of our vision for ocean travel. 

 

“She has been conceived as a destination in her own right – a luxury floating hotel that offers even greater space, comfort and choice of amenities, while welcoming the same carefully balanced number of guests as Explora I and Explora II. 

 

“This deliberate continuity allows for a more generous experience throughout the ship, where new residences and thoughtfully designed suites, alongside expansive public areas, foster a genuine feeling of being at home at sea.

 

“As the third ship in our fleet, Explora III also marks an important milestone in our journey, bringing us halfway through our six-ship vision and reinforcing our long-term commitment to shaping a more refined future for ocean travel. 

 

“Explora III embodies our belief that true luxury lies in space, intention and the privilege of exploring the world at a more considered pace.”