Last updated 30 May 2026
The cruise lines offering expedition cruises have taken clear steps to be more inclusive. Voyages are educational experiences, on a spectrum from “soft expedition” through to “true expedition” — so there's an expedition style to suit almost every traveller.
How intrepid are you?
Expedition cruises can quickly conjure images of precariously clambering into zodiacs (or kayaks) and very basic accommodation — in line with the often-used phrase: the focus is on the destination, not the ship. Before the expansion of “soft expedition” voyages this was often the case.
An area where we help our clients is in deciding which cruise line and voyage best fits their preferred style of travel. Through our own knowledge of the cruise lines, and working with our New Zealand-based wholesale cruise specialists, we are able to prepare and present tailored options — often taking into account aspects you may not have considered.
If you want to go kayaking in Antarctic or Alaskan waters, finding a cruise line and voyage with capacity will be important to you — and this may outweigh the fact that a line might not offer room service or onboard WiFi. On the other hand, if you're not interested in (or able to manage) riding in a zodiac, a ship with more onboard creature comforts may make your overall experience more enjoyable. Importantly, many premium and luxury cruise lines are now designing their ships to make core expedition experiences (like a zodiac ride) more accessible.
The ships are generally mid to small-sized vessels, allowing guests access to less-frequented ports that big cruise ships can't reach (and to account for limitations such as only 100 people allowed on the Antarctic ice at one time). When luxury cruise lines like Silversea, Seabourn and Ponant offer itineraries to Antarctica, you know it's not all about a “rough and ready” experience.
Still deciding whether a cruise is the right choice for your next holiday? We share some insight into how to choose a cruise that suits your style of travel.
Explore somewhere new
If you love travelling and do so regularly, an expedition cruise is an opportunity to step away from the beaten track and explore a destination you may not have considered — or that you wouldn't normally visit as an add-on to a business trip or a visit to the kids and grandkids. An expedition cruise is a perfect way to celebrate a milestone, whether an anniversary, a birthday, the sale of a business or retirement.
The polar regions are the most commonly thought-of expedition destinations, and with regions like Antarctica you need to plan ahead and consider the right seasons for travel (you can read more in our guide on when to travel to Antarctica).
Destinations such as the Galapagos, Alaska and the Australian Kimberley region are also well serviced by the leading expedition cruise lines, and are generally best experienced from the sea.
Learn from and travel with true experts
The commitment to onboard expertise can be seen through partnerships with leading experts and well-known names (such as National Geographic). Expedition cruise lines pride themselves on crew who are passionate about the destination — often extending to an Open Bridge policy that gives guests unique access to the Captain.
One of the most overused phrases in travel is the chance to mix with “like-minded people”. Expedition cruising is probably the only area where this isn't just an empty advertising claim. Sharing time with experienced travellers who might share your interest in ornithology, photography, diving, kayaking, or just travel in general, all adds to the goal of creating an enriching and memorable experience.
Planning an expedition cruise
An expedition cruise will often require more planning and research than most. Each region generally has a specific season to work to, so it's common to book a year — sometimes two — in advance (usually only a deposit is required when booking). The key steps:
Region and season first. Establish where you want to go and the right season to be there — this shapes everything else.
Then the cruise line. Choose the line that best meets your needs and style of travel. Sometimes budget decides it, but more often it comes down to the length of the itinerary, the shore excursions, and the style of ship — from luxury soft expedition through to true expedition.
Travel insurance. Generally compulsory for expedition cruising, so it's important to consider pre-existing conditions and which insurers will cover you. We can help you navigate this.
As part of our service, we can assist you with research (including sending hard-copy brochures where available) and work with the cruise line directly, or with local wholesale specialists, to find the latest availability, fares and any special offers.
Expedition Cruising with Fine Travel
Plan your expedition voyage
From the Antarctic ice to the Galapagos, tell us where you'd love to explore and we'll match you to the right cruise line, voyage and season — and arrange your connecting flights too.
Plan your expedition cruise
