If you've always dreamed of encountering Africa's 'big five,' Alaska's enigmatic spirit bears, or the iconic giant tortoise of the Galapagos, Brendan Sainsbury offers insights on where to find these wildlife wonders on your next cruise.
Wildlife typically thrives in places with minimal human presence, making a cruise the perfect vacation for those yearning for a personal Attenborough documentary experience. While your ship navigates the vast ocean, you're ideally positioned to spot whales, porpoises, and other marine marvels. Coastal cruises offer excellent views of seabirds, and many wildlife cruises include eco-friendly excursions via kayaks or inflatable Zodiac boats to observe land species in their natural environments.
Here’s a curated selection of wildlife-spotting cruises worldwide:
North America
Alaska, once the realm of Arctic explorers and gold prospectors, has recently become accessible to cruise travelers, revealing its rich wildlife. The most sought-after animal here is the bear, specifically the Alaskan brown or Kodiak bear—the world's largest bear, weighing up to 700kg. Katmai National Park and Preserve on the Alaskan Peninsula is a prime spot to witness these bears catching salmon at Brooks Falls.
Spirit bears, a rare white subspecies of black bears found only in British Columbia's Great Bear Rainforest, are a unique sight. With only about 400 in existence, spotting one is a rare privilege.
South America
The Galapagos Islands, located off the coast of Ecuador, are renowned for their unique species, including giant tortoises. The islands' strict visitor regulations help protect this fragile ecosystem. Santa Cruz Island is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station, which runs a breeding program for these tortoises.
In the Peruvian Amazon, smaller vessels navigate the rivers, offering sightings of endangered pink dolphins. These dolphins, distinct for their pink hue, are smaller than their saltwater counterparts and thrive in the Amazon’s freshwater.
Africa
Cruises around Africa’s southern and eastern coasts provide opportunities for safaris to see the 'big five'—buffalo, elephants, leopards, lions, and rhinos. In South Africa, excursions from Cape of Good Hope cruises can take you to game reserves like Kariega Private Game Reserve, where you can observe elephants and other wildlife.
For bird enthusiasts, the island of São Tomé offers sightings of the giant sunbird, a rare and vulnerable species.
Asia
Whales, including humpback whales, are a highlight of cruises around Japan. Zamami Island in the Kerama archipelago is an excellent location to observe humpbacks between January and April.
In Indonesia, the Komodo dragon, a large carnivorous lizard, can be seen in Komodo National Park. These impressive reptiles are a major draw for wildlife cruises in the region.
Oceania
In Oceania, birdwatching cruises offer the chance to see albatrosses in the Southern Ocean. These birds, known for their impressive wingspans, are a major attraction near New Zealand’s South Island.
Tasmanian devils, with their powerful jaws and distinctive appearance, can be observed in Tasmania. The Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary near Hobart is a good place to see these endangered animals.
A guided expedition cruise in this region will equip you with knowledge to identify many bird species and other wildlife.
For an unforgettable wildlife cruise experience, choose an itinerary that matches your interests and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of these diverse ecosystems.