If you’re ready for an unforgettable vacation that is not only thrilling but also enriching, you might want to consider an expedition cruise. An expedition cruise is not your typical cruise. Even if you’ve been on a cruise or two, you may not be familiar with expedition cruises, which take you to some of the world’s most remote destinations to explore the natural world.
Is an expedition cruise the right match for you? Here are four ways to know if you’re ready for this type of voyage:
1. You’re enthusiastic about exploring remote places
Antarctica, the Galápagos, Greenland, and Iceland – you want to experience them all. Rather than revisiting familiar cities and well-traveled ports, you’re eager to experience rugged and pristine environments firsthand.
2. Education and enrichment are your idea of entertainment
On an expedition cruise, you’ll spend time learning from experts and seeing all kinds of wildlife responsibly in their natural habitat. Science, education, and exploration are the focus instead of black-tie dinners and casinos. Marine and wildlife biologists, oceanographers, and glaciologists will share their knowledge about the habitats you’ll explore.
For example, in the Galápagos Islands, you might snorkel among sea turtles, tour wildlife-rich waters by glass-bottom boat, or visit rare birds like flamingos and Blue-footed Boobies. In Greenland’s rugged Vaigat Sound, you might spot orcas, bowhead whales, and various Arctic seabirds. Nature is brought right into the heart of the ship too, where passengers can become Citizen Scientists, working alongside onboard scientists to contribute to crucial research on climate change and endangered species.
3. You enjoy interacting with local cultures
Another hallmark of an expedition cruise is the opportunity to enjoy authentic experiences with the help of local guides. You could take part in a traditional Kaffemik in Greenland, a social and festive gathering where you’ll meet locals and experience Greenlandic culinary treats. Practice fishing techniques with a local fisher in the waters around Lødingen, Norway. Meet with Inuit communities along the legendary Arctic sea route from Alaska to Greenland. Or learn about the Galápagos from local Ecuadorian guides who bring a deep understanding of the islands’ dramatic history.
4. You like to be active and have a sense of adventure
If you prefer to skip soaking in the sun’s rays on a lounge chair and pursue thrills instead, an expedition cruise might be just your speed. Whether you’re traversing Iceland’s fjords or hiking through the glacial terrain of the Arctic, all equipment is provided – from wet suits to dry suits, boots, poles, and more. For a polar plunge into the icy-cold Antarctic waters, all you’ll need is courage!
Expedition cruises offer unique, unexpected, and life-changing opportunities from the comfort of small, classy ships designed for the expedition experience. They travel to more than 30 countries and 250 destinations, including Antarctica, Alaska, the Northwest Passage, Greenland, the Galápagos Islands, Iceland, the British Isles, South America, the Caribbean, and more.
As a passenger, you’ll also enjoy knowing you’re supporting sustainability. Many expedition cruise lines use hybrid electric-powered ships, and they focus on reducing waste and protecting our oceans. Meals are regionally inspired, locally sourced, and cooked by master chefs. Moreover, through various foundations, these cruises support projects that preserve endangered wildlife, battle plastic waste and marine litter, and boost local communities in the areas they visit.
