Expedition cruises offer one of the most immersive ways to explore the world’s most remote and extraordinary destinations. From Antarctica’s vast ice landscapes to the wildlife-rich Galapagos, the Arctic and the Indian Ocean, expedition cruising combines small ships, expert-led exploration and flexible itineraries shaped by nature itself.
Unlike traditional cruises, expedition voyages are defined by exploration rather than entertainment. They reach remote coastlines, polar regions, archipelagos and wilderness areas that are inaccessible by land or by large ships, combining expert-led discovery with a high level of onboard comfort.
At Paramount Cruises, expedition cruising is a core specialism. This guide is designed to help you understand what expedition cruising truly entails, how to select the ideal destination and ship, what the costs entail, and how to book with confidence.
What Are Expedition Cruises?
An expedition cruise is a voyage where the destination takes priority over the ship. Instead of fixed itineraries and scheduled port calls, days are shaped by wildlife activity, sea conditions and weather. Plans remain flexible so the expedition team can take advantage of the best opportunities for exploration.
Guests go ashore by Zodiac landing craft rather than docking at ports, allowing access to beaches, ice shelves, fjords and riverbanks. Every voyage is supported by a specialist expedition team, typically including naturalists, marine biologists, historians and regional experts who lead excursions and provide daily briefings and lectures.
The atmosphere on board is relaxed and informal. Practical clothing replaces formal dress codes, and the focus is on learning, discovery and shared experience rather than onboard entertainment.
Who Are Expedition Cruises For?
Expedition cruises appeal to travellers who value experience over excess. Many guests are seasoned cruisers looking for something more immersive, while others are new to cruising altogether but drawn by the destinations and activities.
You do not need to be an extreme adventurer, but you should enjoy being active, curious and engaged. Zodiac landings, walking on uneven terrain and spending time outdoors are central to the experience.
Where Can You Go on Expedition Cruises?
Expedition ships operate across all seven continents, reaching some of the most remote and spectacular regions on Earth.
Antarctica
Often considered the ultimate expedition destination, Antarctica offers vast ice landscapes, towering glaciers and extraordinary wildlife. Voyages typically explore the Antarctic Peninsula, with opportunities for Zodiac cruising, shore landings and wildlife encounters.
The Antarctic season runs from November to March, with each month offering different highlights, from pristine snow and dramatic ice early in the season to penguin chicks and increased whale activity later on.
All Antarctic expedition cruises operate under strict environmental guidelines set by IAATO, ensuring wildlife protection, controlled landings and responsible visitor behaviour in one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems.
The Arctic
Arctic expedition cruises explore regions such as Svalbard, Greenland, Arctic Canada and the Northwest Passage. Expect immense fjords, glaciers, polar wildlife and a strong cultural element, particularly in Greenland and Canada.
Summer voyages benefit from extended daylight, often sailing under the midnight sun.
Reputable Arctic expedition cruises are run by operators adhering to AECO standards in the Arctic, which govern everything from wildlife interaction and waste management to community engagement and environmental protection.
The Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos is one of the most wildlife-rich destinations on the planet. Expedition cruising is the best way to explore the archipelago due to strict visitor regulations and the distance between islands.
Voyages combine guided land visits with snorkelling and Zodiac excursions, offering close encounters with species found nowhere else on Earth.
All expedition cruising in the region is regulated by the Galápagos National Park, with strict visitor controls, designated landing sites and licensed naturalist guides to preserve this extraordinary ecosystem.
The Kimberley, Australia
Australia’s Kimberley region is a vast, rugged wilderness best explored by expedition ship. Voyages reveal dramatic waterfalls, ancient rock art sites and remote river systems inaccessible by road.
The season typically runs during the Australian winter, when conditions are cooler and drier.
The Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean offers a tropical take on expedition cruising, focused on remote islands, coral reefs and culturally rich coastlines that lie far beyond mainstream cruise routes.
Expedition cruising is the ideal way to explore this vast region, allowing small ships to reach isolated archipelagos and anchor offshore where ports and infrastructure are minimal or non-existent.
Voyages combine Zodiac landings, snorkelling in warm, clear waters and guided shore visits, delivering close encounters with marine life, pristine beaches and island cultures shaped by centuries of Indian Ocean exploration and trade.
How Long Do Expedition Cruises Last?
Most expedition cruises range from 7 to 14 nights, although some destinations require more time.
Antarctica voyages typically last 10 to 14 nights, while itineraries that include South Georgia or extended Arctic routes can reach three weeks. Many destinations also benefit from pre- or post-cruise land stays, which Paramount Cruises can arrange as part of a seamless itinerary.
How Much Do Expedition Cruises Cost?
Expedition cruising is a premium form of travel due to the cost of operating in remote regions and the high staff-to-guest ratio.
As a general guide:
- Galapagos voyages typically start from around £6,000 per person
- Arctic and Kimberley expeditions usually range from £6,000 to £10,000
- Antarctica cruises commonly range from £9,000 to £15,000, with ultra-luxury options higher
Flights, insurance and optional activities may be additional, depending on the operator and destination.
What Is Usually Included?
Most expedition cruise fares include accommodation, all meals, daily excursions, Zodiac landings, expert-led lectures and use of expedition equipment. Polar voyages often include specialist boots and waterproof jackets.
Luxury expedition lines may also include drinks, gratuities and Wi-Fi, while some adventure-focused operators offer optional activities such as kayaking or camping at additional cost.
How Big Are Expedition Ships?
Expedition ships are much smaller than conventional cruise ships, typically carrying between 50 and 250 guests. Smaller vessels allow faster landings and more time ashore, while slightly larger expedition ships may offer more onboard facilities.
Choosing the right ship size depends on your priorities: maximum time off the ship, or greater onboard comfort and amenities.
How Mobile Do You Need to Be?
Most expedition cruises require a reasonable level of mobility. Guests must be able to step into a Zodiac and walk on uneven terrain. Some operators are better suited to less mobile travellers, while others focus on more active exploration.
Paramount Cruises will always advise on suitability before booking.
What Is Life Like On Board?
Life on board revolves around exploration. Days typically begin with briefings before morning excursions, followed by lunch and afternoon activities. Evenings often include recap sessions and lectures rather than formal entertainment.
Facilities vary by ship but usually include observation lounges, open decks, lecture spaces and a restaurant and bar. Higher-end vessels may also feature spas, gyms and pools.
What Should You Pack?
Expedition packing is practical rather than complicated. Layered clothing is essential, along with waterproof outerwear, sturdy walking shoes, binoculars and a camera. A detailed packing list will be provided once you book.
Celebrity-Led Inspiration: From Pole to Pole
High-profile expedition journeys have helped shine a spotlight on what modern expedition cruising can offer. Many travellers were inspired by Jane McDonald: From Pole to Pole, which followed a series of remarkable voyages spanning Antarctica, the Arctic and beyond. The series showcased how expedition cruises combine real exploration with expert insight and unexpected comfort, helping demystify what was once seen as extreme travel and making it accessible to a wider audience.
The Rise of the Discovery Yacht Experience
Expedition cruising has evolved far beyond its utilitarian roots. A new generation of ships is redefining what’s possible, blending serious expedition capability with ultra-luxury design.
One of the most significant examples is Scenic Eclipse, widely regarded as the world’s first Discovery Yacht. Purpose-built for polar exploration yet designed to six-star standards, it bridges the gap between traditional expedition ships and luxury cruising, appealing to travellers who want adventure without compromise.
Helicopters and Submarines: A New Dimension of Exploration
Some expedition ships now offer experiences that were once the preserve of scientific missions. Scenic Eclipse takes exploration further with onboard helicopters for flightseeing and a deep-sea submersible for underwater discovery.
Helicopter flights allow guests to experience polar landscapes from the air, revealing scale and perspective impossible to appreciate from sea level alone. The onboard submarine offers rare access beneath the surface, exploring marine environments few travellers ever see.
These experiences are optional, capacity-limited and weather-dependent, reinforcing the expedition ethos of seizing the moment when conditions allow.
Choosing the right expedition cruise is about more than dates and destinations. Ship design, expedition style, activity level and onboard culture all make a significant difference.
At Paramount Cruises, we work with the world’s leading expedition operators, including Silversea, Scenic, Seabourn, HX Expeditions, and Celebrity. We provide expert advice, tailor itineraries to your interests and manage every detail, from flights and transfers to pre- and post-cruise extensions.
An expedition cruise is not just a holiday. It is an investment in an experience unlike any other.
Speak to our expedition specialists today on 020 7947 0270 and let us help you choose the expedition that’s right for you.
info@paramountcruises.com
