Industry Leaders to Know: Robert "Bob" Halfpenny

We caught up with Robert “Bob” Halfpenny — a travel industry veteran with over 25 years of experience and a passion for raw, purpose-driven exploration. From boardrooms to the most remote corners of the world, Bob’s journey is one of leadership, adventure, and a deep love for expedition cruising.

Robert has spent more than two decades in travel, and for the past ten years, his focus has been on expedition cruising — a part of the industry that he says “feels like home.” He’s held leadership roles at companies like Aurora Expeditions and Quark Expeditions, and in January 2024, he stepped into his current role as Head of Sales at Heritage Expeditions.

“It’s been a real privilege,” he says. “I’ve built my career around experiences that go far beyond the ordinary, and Heritage is the perfect fit — a family-owned company with over 40 years of heritage, exploring some of the wildest, most breathtaking places on Earth.”

Robert Halfpenny, Head of Sales – Heritage Expeditions

At Heritage Expeditions, Bob leads sales efforts across voyages that span the Ross Sea in Antarctica, the Subantarctic Islands, Japan, the Pacific Islands, and more. “We’re not ticking boxes. We’re offering deep, meaningful journeys into places few people ever get to see — all with a conservation-first mindset.”

His own travels have taken him from kayaking alongside whales in Antarctica to soaking in steaming hot springs in Iceland. One highlight? “Swimming with whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay, Indonesia, then witnessing the mating dance of the Bird of Paradise in Papua New Guinea aboard the Heritage Adventurer. Moments like that stay with you forever.”

What excites Bob most is helping travel partners and advisors share these experiences with their clients. “Expedition travel is more than just a niche, it’s a chance to reconnect with nature, culture, and a sense of wonder. I love working with people who want to offer their clients something truly extraordinary.”

As he prepares for TADA25, Bob is looking forward to meaningful conversations. “This event brings together people who care about travel in a deeper way. I can’t wait to connect, collaborate, and inspire.”

Heritage Adventurer at Fiordland