An expedition cruise can sometimes be a daunting proposition for most travellers looking to plan a holiday, but those who take the plunge are given an extraordinary adventure that promises to imprint lasting memories. Nature-focused, activity-based, and deeply experiential, expedition cruises offer eager travellers the chance to explore untouched paradises bursting with exotic wildlife and dazzling flora. What’s more, luxury cruise lines recognise the allure of the unknown and have carefully created innovative small ships that specialise in expedition voyages. Bolstered by amazing itineraries that reach these off-the-beaten-path locales across the globe, expeditions are an absolute must for voyagers with a deepened love for adventure.

Still wondering if an expedition cruise is right for you? Have no fear, Discerning Traveller has created a couple of reasons that illustrate the unique benefits of hopping aboard such an exhilarating trip. Scroll down to learn more now.

Easily the biggest reason to go on any expedition cruise are the stunning destinations during your journey. Whether you are keenly interested in the bustling wildlife on the Galapagos Islands, chasing the awe-inspiring northern lights, or seeing the unexplored continent of Antarctica, destinations on expedition cruises are nothing short of exceptional. What’s more, most of these locations simply cannot be reached by the larger ocean cruise ships, highlighting the rarity of these journeys.

Guests can sometimes be concerned by the weather and reachability of locales that can occasionally be inhibited by stronger ocean tides, dangerous wildlife, or encroaching ice conditions. Rather than cancelling a destination, expedition cruises are typically designed to have flexible itineraries. This means that the experienced tour guides on an expedition ship can look ahead at the tides and various other conditions to make calculated decisions that can dramatically enhance a voyage. From staying out at sea for an extra hour to allow guests to see a pod of dolphins to stopping at a different but rarely accessible tropical island, flexible itineraries promise to keep guests ready to experience everything.

From the astonishing tide drops opening up to an array of exotic wildlife at Montgomery Reef in the Kimberley, the inquisitive polar bears looking at a safe distance from your small ship in the Arctic, to experiencing whales splashing around within shouting distance as you sail through the sub-Antarctic Islands, these little moments often create the memories you tell your friends and family back at home. Combined with the aforementioned flexible itineraries, every voyage is meticulously designed to produce these rare moments, chance encounters, and special stories. You often share these sublime occasions with like-minded explorers, whether they be fellow passengers or experienced tour guides, who similarly keep an eye out for these uncanny events.

As previously highlighted, expedition ships are generally smaller-sized ships purpose-built to sail through tougher waters whilst keeping passengers as comfortable as possible. Due to their size, small-ships have additional benefits that larger ocean cruises might not possess. With a smaller number of passengers aboard allowing for a more connected community, elevated personalised service by a professional crew, or the more intimate onshore excursions, small-ship expedition cruises offer up an immersive and intimate experience

Looking to start organising an expedition cruise with your close friends or family? Enquire with Discerning Traveller for any possible question you might have when booking and planning your next dream adventure. We boast an experienced team of Australian-based cruise consultants who dedicate themselves in making sure that any booking process with us is as seamless as possible. Get started on your next voyage and contact Discerning Traveller today!