Everything You Need to Know About Expedition Cruises
From Pacific getaways to Arctic explorations and South American adventures, expedition cruises offer unforgettable experiences.
Expedition cruises have become a favored mode of travel, and as more people are prioritizing experiential travel, it’s easy to see why. These voyages go beyond conventional travel, providing opportunities for global exploration in comfort and luxury. Perfect for adventurous families, couples, friends, or solo travelers alike, expedition cruises deliver world-class, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, bringing guests to some of the most impressive and remote corners of the world.
Read on to learn more about expedition cruises, our partners, and why they might be the perfect choice for your next adventure.
What is Expedition Cruising?
Expedition cruising is an immersive experience that extends beyond the typical vacation. Luxury vessels navigate open oceans, remote coastlines, and winding rivers with ease, taking guests to some of the most beautiful and intrepid destinations. These cruises span the globe blending comfort and adventure, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a unique, memorable, and lavish travel experience.
Our partners at Lindblad Expeditions, for example, have been leaders in exhibition cruising for decades. While they offer itineraries worldwide, their polar exhibitions are true stand outs. They navigate the Arctic seas in ships designed for both luxury and purpose, providing elaborate adventures for guests from all around the world. From kayaking through Norwegian fjords to backcountry hiking in Greenland, their Arctic itineraries deliver unforgettable experiences for all types of travelers.
Whether you're exploring the icy wilderness of the Arctic, swimming around the vibrant coral reefs of the South Pacific, or taking in the cultural sites and excitement of Southeast Asia, expedition cruising promises an impressive and memorable travel experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.
Why Expedition Cruising?
Unmatched Access to Remote Destinations
Expedition cruises allow for much easier access to some of the world's most remote and untouched places, allowing travelers to dive deeper into the heart of each destination. Michelle Bemis, McCabe World Travel Senior Luxury Travel Advisor, emphasizes the unique opportunities expedition cruising provides:
“Exploration is done in small groups with experts, allowing guests to explore areas that large groups normally can’t access. For example, in Glacier Bay, expedition cruisers can get up to the glacier on a zodiac, experiencing its grandeur in ways large ships cannot offer.” - Michelle Bemis
With a variety of available adventures, these cruises sail guests through icy Arctic landscapes, venturing through waters of lesser-known archipelagos, and offer close up encounters with wildlife and scenery. Then, at the end of each day, guests can return to the comfort of their oceanview bedroom aboard a world-class cruise ship.
If the Arctic isn’t your thing, you might consider expeditions in a warmer environment, like Seabourn Expeditions’ journey to The Kimberley. Glide through Western Australia’s Montgomery Reef, search for pearls at a local pearl farm, enjoy views of King George Falls, and soar above it all in an amphibious Mallard aircraft.
Silversea also offers exciting sunny, small ship adventures. Their sailings throughout Asia allow you to taste and experience the balance of yin and yang of Asia’s vibrant, colorful and distinctive cuisine as you explore the likes of Papua New Guinea and Palawan. Beyond an exploration of stunning landscapes and natural wonders, these trips also offer opportunities to connect with indigenous communities and explore their traditions and customs.
Luxury Redefined
We work with the best of the best in expedition cruising, and each of our valued partners is constantly redefining luxury at sea.
Take Seabourn, for example, who will transport you by rubber zodiac to get up-close and personal with penguins and humpback whales, then follow it up with a visit from their champagne zodiac to celebrate your adventure!
Silversea’s expedition journeys deliver an elevated all-inclusive experience. Guests enjoy personalized and sophisticated service from the moment they depart until they return back home, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the adventure.
No matter the expedition partner, each ship in their fleets is a destination in its own right with their own collection of thoughtfully curated amenities and cultural experiences. Enjoy delicious on board meals, performances from local musicians, and relaxing spa treatments from the comfort of the ship. Each expedition cruise line we partner with is committed to providing exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and curated itineraries that showcase the best of each destination.
Expert-Led Exploration
More than just sightseeing; expedition cruises deliver in-depth knowledge and expertise, adding an extra layer of discovery to your journey.
Imagine exploring the Galápagos Islands with Lindblad’s team of trained naturalists or tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations with renowned historians. Picture yourself snorkeling in turquoise waters, hiking across black sand beaches, and waving hello to giant tortoises as you sail among Darwin’s archipelago islands.
With seasoned experts leading the way, guests receive the ultimate experience, gaining invaluable insights and building a deeper connection with the world around them.
Ease of Travel
Expedition cruising eliminates the hassle of constant packing and unpacking so that you can effortlessly explore multiple destinations in one seamless voyage. With all logistics taken care of, from guided shore excursions to onboard entertainment and dining, you’ll have more time to explore stunning landscapes and immerse yourself in different cultures.
This makes multi destination trips easier than ever. With Lindblad Expeditions, you could visit Greece, Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia or voyage throughout New Zealand and the subantarctic islands without ever having to repack your suitcase or worry about making it to the airport in time.
Whether you're drawn to the wilderness of the polar regions or the unique biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands, we’re positive your dream expedition cruise is out there and we can’t wait to help you find it. Contact us today to start planning your next adventure!
