It's a moment of immense pride and joy for us at Expedition Trips as we announce a significant milestone: our 25th anniversary! This landmark celebration symbolizes a quarter-century of pioneering and leading in the specialized field of expedition cruising, where we have consistently offered tailor-made and deeply personalized travel experiences.
The Visionary Behind the Scene
Back in 1999, Ashton Palmer, a visionary leader in the expedition world, founded Expedition Trips. With a rich background of guiding expeditions and exploring globally in the 1990s, Palmer was driven by his passion for sharing his extensive travel knowledge. This passion was the catalyst for establishing our boutique travel agency in the Pacific Northwest, which stood out for its focus on small-scale, exploration-centric cruise travel – a refreshing alternative to the conventional cruise ship experience.
Reflecting on the journey, Palmer says, “There’s an unending joy in sharing my experiences and helping plan extraordinary trips for those who cherish travel. Even after 25 years in expedition planning, the excitement of guiding both first-time cruisers and seasoned small-ship enthusiasts never fades.”
The Evolution of Expedition Travel
The last 25 years have witnessed a profound evolution in expedition travel. Initially, our passengers embarked on research vessels, which, though older and rugged, offered a unique charm and intimacy. Today, the industry has transformed dramatically with the advent of ships purpose-built for specific expeditions, such as polar journeys and Amazon River cruises. These modern marvels, offering the luxury akin to private yachts, have enabled travelers to access some of the most remote and awe-inspiring locations on the planet.
Palmer has noticed a significant transformation in travelers' perspectives post-journey – a deepened respect for the natural world and a shift in how they view our planet. This newfound appreciation has led to a greater emphasis on sustainability and a stronger connection with nature, often because of these life-changing expeditions.
“Our journey began with a love for discovery and sharing Earth’s marvels. We believe travel turns us into ambassadors for the places we visit, creating a positive impact on both the traveler and the destination,” Palmer remarks.
A Team of Passionate Experts
Our team at Expedition Trips is comprised of passionate travel experts who understand that each trip is more than a journey – it's an experience of a lifetime. Their firsthand knowledge of destinations ensures tailored advice and enriched adventures. Adapting to the new normal post-pandemic, we have embraced a fully remote work environment, attracting a nationwide team of adventurous talents who travel to the regions we promote, gaining first-hand knowledge to present the best trips for our clients' needs accurately.
Recognition and Insights from a Leader
As a recognized figure in the expedition cruise industry, Palmer has earned accolades from numerous prestigious organizations, including being named a Top Travel Specialist by Conde Nast Traveler, an A-List Travel Expert by Travel + Leisure, and a Trusted Travel Expert in Expedition Cruising on Wendy Perrin's WOW List. His valuable insights serve on the advisory boards of leading cruise lines like Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic, Seabourn Expeditions, and Silversea. His leadership continues to propel Expedition Trips forward, and he remains a sought-after source for industry trends and insights, welcoming media engagement for robust counsel within the expedition cruise market.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Valued Travelers As we celebrate this milestone, we extend our heartfelt thanks to you, our valued travelers, for your unwavering passion for travel and exploration. Your trust in Expedition Trips to plan your adventures has been the cornerstone of our success. We are profoundly grateful for your continued support and enthusiasm, which inspire us every day. Looking forward to the future, we are excited to continue being your trusted partner in planning all your upcoming adventures, ensuring each journey with us remains a memorable and enriching experience. Here's to many more years of exploring the wonders of our planet together!
