Expedition Cruises
Go beyond the usual cruise routes on an expedition cruise and discover the planet’s most extraordinary places. From penguin colonies and breaching whales to pristine icebergs, rainforest coastlines and remote island cultures, these journeys are designed for close-up encounters and real exploration. Small expedition ships act as a floating base camp, using Zodiac landings and expert guidance to reach wild shores and hidden bays that larger ships simply cannot.
With flexible day-by-day planning, you can follow the weather, wildlife and local conditions to make the most of every moment. Whether you dream of Antarctica’s icy wilderness, the Arctic’s legendary fjords, or the Kimberley’s untouched beauty, expedition cruising offers a rare mix of adventure, comfort and meaningful travel, with a lighter footprint in sensitive regions.
Why Choose An Expedition Cruise?
Expedition cruises are for travellers who want to do more than just see a destination, they want to experience it. Instead of rigid sea days and set port calls, you can expect immersive landings, nature walks, Zodiac cruises and expert-led talks that bring each place to life.
With smaller ships and specialist expedition teams, you’ll access remote sites and smaller ports, spot remarkable wildlife, and connect with local cultures in a more considered way. It’s a style of cruising that rewards curiosity, with unforgettable moments that feel personal, authentic and truly off the beaten track.
Unrivalled Exploration
Expedition cruises aren't limited to standard ports, reaching remote sites for in-depth exploration. Aboard small ships, access smaller ports and start exploring as soon as you disembark. Expedition teams lead Zodiac cruises, hikes, and visits to cultural sites.
HX Expeditions MS Roald Amundsen in Antarctica
Authentic Encounters
Experience real and unfiltered encounters with nature, people, and wildlife. Engage with passionate expedition teams dedicated to sharing adventures and creating genuine connections while respecting local communities, wildlife, and environments. Onboard experts bring destinations to life through science, nature, culture, and history.
Seabourn guests viewing penguins from a zodiac in Antarctica's Weddell Sea
Sustainable Travel
Travel in a sustainable and sensitive way, getting up-close to incredible destinations. Some operators utilise clean ship-certified vessels with low emissions and support polar conservation. Environmentally conscious expeditions respect the communities, wildlife, and environments encountered.
Celebrity Flora guests up close to giant turtles in the Galapagos Islands.
Expert-Led Adventures
Benefit from passionate and seasoned expedition teams, including scientists, wildlife experts, and researchers. Expedition leaders ensure you're perfectly placed to experience amazing wildlife and stunning landscapes. Onboard botanists offer insights into ecosystems, and archaeologists uncover lost cities.
Guests onboard a Zodiac in Antarctica on a Seabourn cruise
All-Inclusive Comfort
Enjoy a blend of luxury, exploration and great comfort, even in the most remote regions. Expedition cruises offer top-quality services and discovery voyages to far-flung corners of the earth, accompanied by regional experts. With everything included, from Zodiac outings to shore visits, relax and enjoy total peace of mind.
Celebrity Flora guests relaxing in a hot tub enjoying views of the Galapagos Islands.
Discover The World on an Expedition Cruise
Indian Ocean
Escape to Indian Ocean islands for turquoise lagoons, coral gardens and tropical wildlife, well away from the crowds.
Europe
Explore Europe differently: smaller ports, richer stories and hidden coastlines from Turkey to Portugal.