Are You An Expedition Cruiser?

If you’re someone who dreams of venturing beyond the ordinary, exploring untouched landscapes, and embracing adventure, then it might be time to ask: Are you an expedition cruiser?

Personally, I’ve been known to hike glaciers, summit volcanoes, go night-time stand up paddleboarding, shark-diving for Great Whites, and much more in the pursuit of what I call a “holiday”. Now, I’m not saying that I’m Bear Grylls or even that I don’t enjoy being pampered on a relaxing cruise holiday. However, I love my downtime with a splash of adventure. I love exploring and seeing destinations from a different perspective. Give me long-tailed Macaques and Sumatran Elephants in Bali. Show me Cape Penguins in South Africa, or even the Big 5 on a safari. Show me the way to thundering waterfalls or therapeutic hot springs in Iceland or the Azores. Find me wandering off the beaten track in the mountains, or enjoying kayaking the Norwegian Fjords. I enjoy nature, and learning about what our big, beautiful, astounding world has to offer. So, that’s why, if I want to explore more unique places, I know Expedition cruising is for me.

Unlike traditional cruising, which focuses on leisure, luxury, and entertainment, expedition cruising is all about discovery, learning, and experiencing some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.

It’s in my future, but, is it the right type of travel for you?

What is Expedition Cruising?

In short, Expedition cruising is an immersive travel experience that takes you to places few have the privilege to see.
These cruises operate on smaller ships, designed for navigating remote and often challenging environments, such as the Arctic, Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, and the Amazon. Unlike large cruise liners, expedition vessels prioritise experiences over amenities, focusing on wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and exploration rather than onboard entertainment and shopping.

If that sounds like it appeals to you, let’s see if any of this resonates with you…

Who is Expedition Cruising For?

If a traditional cruise caters to travellers looking for relaxation and entertainment, then expedition cruise is ideal for those who:

• Thrive on Adventure – An Expedition cruiser will be interested in activities like hiking, kayaking, and Zodiac boat excursions. If you love the thrill of discovery, this type of travel is perfect for you.
• Have a Curious Mind – These cruises are typically accompanied by expert guides, including marine biologists, historians, penguinologists (yes, that’s a real job!) and naturalists who provide enriching lectures and insights about the destinations.
• Prefer Remote Destinations Over Touristy Spots – If you seek pristine landscapes, rare wildlife, and authentic cultural encounters, an expedition cruise offers unparalleled access to these experiences.
• Enjoy Small-Ship Intimacy – The majority of Expedition vessels have a maximum of 200 passengers onboard. So, with fewer people aboard, you’ll benefit from a more personalised experience and greater interaction with fellow travellers and expedition leaders.

Do I Need To Have Cruised Before?

It might surprise you to hear that (as of Dec 2024) over 80% of Expedition cruisers have never taken a cruise before!
If you’re looking at an Expedition cruise then it’s because you’re looking for the best way to explore a destination and its culture/wildlife/unique landscapes. In fact, the closest land-based experience to an expedition cruise would be an immersive African safari.

Expedition vs. Traditional Cruising

Still not sure if expedition cruising is for you? Here’s how it compares to traditional cruising:

Destinations That Define Expedition Cruising

Expedition cruising opens the door to some of the planet’s most extraordinary locations. The following destinations are probably the most popular, or most commonly brought to mind when thinking of an Expedition cruise:

• Antarctica – Surely the White Continent is the ultimate coolcation destination! Witness towering icebergs, vast penguin colonies, and breathtaking polar landscapes.
• The Arctic – Search for polar bears, whales, and the Northern Lights while exploring remote Norwegian fjords and Greenlandic settlements.
• The Galápagos Islands – A haven for wildlife lovers, where you can snorkel with sea lions, marvel at giant tortoises, get the perfect photo of a blue-footed Booby and see Darwin’s finches up close.
• The Amazon – Venture deep into the rainforest, encountering exotic wildlife and indigenous cultures in one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.

Key Benefits of Expedition Cruising

• Unparalleled Wildlife Encounters – Experience rare and incredible animal sightings in their natural habitats.
• Small-Group Exploration – Travel with like-minded adventurers in an intimate setting.
• Expert Knowledge & Learning – Gain insights from specialists in fields from marine biology to history, or photography to ecology.
• Exclusive Access to Remote Locations – Visit places that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships.
• Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Travel – Many expedition cruises emphasise sustainability and responsible tourism.

So, Are You An Expedition Cruiser?

To determine if an expedition cruise aligns with your travel style, ask yourself:

• Do I prefer adventure and exploration over relaxation?
• Am I excited by the idea of visiting remote destinations?
• Am I comfortable with flexible itineraries and unpredictable conditions?
• Do I value learning experiences and close encounters with nature?

If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, then it sounds like you could be an expedition cruiser, and you’ve just found your ideal (and next!) travel experience!