Expedition Cruises

Exploration and adventure in off-the beaten-path destinations is the trademark of an expedition cruise.

Ships

Expedition ships/yachts are small (200 passengers) and able to anchor in smaller ports, often those less-visited and out-of-the-way ports or scenic wonders.

PONANT – Antarctica

Destinations

Remote and bucket-list-worthy destinations such as the Arctic, Antarctic, Kimberley Coast of Australia, Pacific Islands, Amazon, and Galápagos Islands; however, more traditional ocean cruise destinations such as Alaska can also bring you closer to the wildlife and wilderness.

Celebrity Cruises – Galapagos Islands

Experiences

Typically led by an expedition team, you will likely have opportunities to attend presentations on the politics, culture, history, geology, geography, or anthropology of the destinations. Daily programs tend to be more flexible permitting course changes to take advantage of weather, wildlife sightings, and other unplanned occurrences. Zodiac inflatable crafts transfer guests to and from the ship to a beach or rocky shoreline. Excursion groups are often smaller in size and based on interest – hiking, kayaking, nature walks, and more.