Oceanwide Expeditions was founded in 1993 by father and son Van Gessel. Since then, Oceanwide has developed into a travel specialist for small-scale adventure expedition cruises to the polar regions. Oceanwide owns four ships and a fifth ship will be operational in September 2021. Offering thematic trips and versatile outdoor activities in combination with a focus on sustainability and preservation of the natural areas, Oceanwide has won the award for World’s Leading Polar Expedition Operator five times.
Bolster’s participation originates from Oceanwide’s wish to broaden its shareholder base, increase its financial strength and accelerate growth.
"Bolster is an investor that fits the organizational culture of Oceanwide Expeditions. Bolster acquired a minority stake for the longer term. This transaction offers Oceanwide more financial strength for the future operations and further growth of the company."Michel van Gessel - Managing Director
We approach every investment with close attention to the business and the people leading it. We identify where opportunities emerge and act when the timing is right. In this way, we work as equal partners towards sustainable growth.
Our approach
In this series, Dutch novelist Ronald Giphart tells the stories behind Bolster’s portfolio companies. About entrepreneurship, the choices that were made, and what it means to partner with an investor.
Read more
