Expedition cruises to the far corners
Antarctica, the Galápagos, Greenland and Iceland: places few people ever see, explored by Zodiac with naturalists at your side.
Adventure, without giving up comfort
Expedition ships are small and nimble, often carrying fewer than 200 guests, so they can reach remote bays and landing sites the big ships never will. Each day is shaped by the weather and the wildlife, and an expert team of naturalists, historians and photographers leads every landing.
Today's expedition ships are surprisingly elegant, with balcony suites, fine dining and spas. The adventure is out the window; the comfort is all around you. My own travels to Greenland and Iceland, and a client's trip to Antarctica, have made these some of my favorite journeys to plan.
Perfect for you if…
- You've "been everywhere" and want something truly different
- Wildlife and wild places matter more to you than shopping and shows
- You're comfortable stepping in and out of a Zodiac (with help)
- You love learning from experts in the field
Where expedition cruises shine
Antarctica
Penguins, whales and towering icebergs, usually sailing from Ushuaia, Argentina, across the Drake Passage.
The Galápagos
Darwin's islands, where sea lions, giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies show no fear of people.
Greenland
Ice fjords, Inuit villages and the vast Ilulissat Icefjord.
Iceland
Waterfalls, geysers, puffins and black-sand beaches, circumnavigated by sea.
Svalbard & the Arctic
Polar bears, walrus and the midnight sun far above the Arctic Circle.
The Kimberley & the Amazon
Remote coasts and rivers that can only be reached by expedition ship.
Galápagos
Galápagos
Iceland
Galápagos
Best times of year
Expedition cruising follows nature's calendar, so each region has a short, precious season.
Penguin chicks hatch around December and January; whales peak late in the season.
Warm and green from December to May; cooler, livelier seas from June to November.
Midnight sun in early summer, with northern lights possible by September.
The best chance to see polar bears on the pack ice.
The right ship makes the trip
Expedition lines vary in comfort, group size and how much time you spend ashore. I'll explain the trade-offs so you can choose with confidence.
Your fare usually covers
- Daily Zodiac landings and cruising, weather permitting
- Lectures and guiding by an expert expedition team
- All meals onboard, often with drinks
- Use of expedition gear such as boots, and often a parka to keep
- Pre-cruise hotel and charter flights on many Antarctica voyages
Inclusions vary by line and fare. I'll spell out exactly what's covered, and what isn't, before you book.
Ask about my group space & current offers
Polar voyages often sell out a year or more ahead, so dream early. Cruise fares change daily, and the rates I can hold for my clients are often better than what's advertised online.
Find your perfect voyage
Ocean Cruises
Wake up in a new port nearly every day, from the Mediterranean to the fjords of Norway.
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River Cruises
Small ships, docked in the heart of town, with guided walks and fine wine included.
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Luxury Cruises
All-suite ships, butler service and fares that include the excursions, the drinks and the gratuities.
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Family Cruises
Water parks for the kids, quiet decks for the grandparents, and connecting cabins for everyone.
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