Expedition Cruising

WHY CHOOSE EXPEDITION CRUISING?

Expedition cruising is for travellers who want to go beyond the typical cruise experience and truly connect with the world around them. Unlike traditional cruises, which often focus on pre-planned ports, entertainment, and relaxation, expedition cruising prioritises exploration, learning, and immersion.

It allows you to access destinations that few people ever see, including remote polar regions, secluded tropical islands, and untouched wilderness areas, while being guided by experts who bring the natural world and local cultures to life. Each day is an opportunity to witness wildlife in its natural habitat, from penguins and polar bears to whales, tropical birds, and marine life.

Expedition cruises are not just about sightseeing; they are about experiencing a place fully. Whether hiking across glaciers, kayaking among icebergs, snorkelling over vibrant reefs, or visiting isolated communities to learn about local traditions, guests gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. The combination of adventure, education, and comfort allows travellers to feel both safe and inspired, creating moments that are unforgettable, eye-opening, and often life-changing.

WHAT AN EXPEDITION CRUISER LOOKS LIKE

Expedition ships are purpose-built for exploration, combining rugged capability with comfort and style. Unlike traditional cruise ships, which are large and often focused on entertainment, expedition cruisers are smaller, more agile, and designed to reach remote destinations that bigger vessels cannot access.

Key features include:

• Reinforced hulls for icy waters and stabilisers for rough seas

• Shallow drafts for navigating narrow channels, fjords, and coral-strewn bays

• Modern cabins and suites with large windows or private balconies to take in dramatic landscapes

• Observation decks, panoramic lounges, and open-air platforms for wildlife and scenery viewing

• Lecture rooms, libraries, and science labs to learn from onboard experts

• Zodiacs, kayaks, and small boats for stepping ashore and exploring hidden coves

Some ships even feature helicopter pads, submarines, or glass-bottom viewing areas, giving travellers unique perspectives of the natural world. Expedition cruisers are sleek, practical, and adventure-ready, balancing exploration with comfort and style.

DESTINATION AND EXPERIENCES

Expedition cruises span the extremes of the planet, offering a variety of climates and landscapes:

Polar Regions

• Arctic and Antarctica

• Icebergs, glaciers, penguins, polar bears, and whales

• Northern and Southern Lights

Tropical and Subtropical Waters

• South Pacific islands, the Caribbean, and Galápagos

• Coral reefs, lush islands, tropical wildlife, and secluded beaches

Unique Landscapes

• Fjords of Norway, volcanic islands, glaciers, rivers, and untouched wilderness

Activities

• Kayaking, hiking, snorkelling, Zodiac tours

• Wildlife observation

• Educational lectures and guided excursions

• Cultural experiences and local interactions

This guide has been created to provide a general introduction to expedition cruising and the cruise lines featured. It is designed for informational purposes only and should not be considered a complete or final source of details. Cruise lines may update their ships, itineraries, inclusions, and services at any time.