Record-breaking British explorer Ranulph Fiennes has been confirmed as one of the keynote speakers for the 12th annual CLIA UK & Ireland Conference, taking place in Southampton from May 23rd-25th.
Fiennes will address delegates on May 25th, at the close of the conference, and is appearing courtesy of Scenic, the luxury cruising and tour specialists.
Fiennes, who served in the British Army for eight years including a period on counter-insurgency service, has undertaken numerous expeditions.
He was the first person to visit both the North and South Poles by surface means and the first to completely cross Antarctica on foot.
In May 2009, at the age of 65, he climbed to the summit of Mount Everest.
Andy Harmer, senior vice-president membership and director CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “We are thrilled that we have Ranulph confirmed to address delegates at the conference.
“He’s a truly awe-inspiring character with incredible tales to tell, and it will be a privilege to be able to hear them first-hand.”
The three-day CLIA UK & Ireland event will feature a trade fair on May 23rd, a full-day of conference and networking sessions plus gala dinner on May 24th, and the conference will close on May 25th, onboard Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess, with Fiennes’ keynote address, followed by the opportunity to look around the ship.
Colin Downing, managing director Scenic Group UK, added: “We are proud to host our greatest living explorer, Ranulph Fiennes, at the CLIA Conference.
“Scenic Eclipse I and now Scenic Eclipse II lead the new category of six-star ocean expedition discovery cruising.”