Uncover The World's Wildest Places

Welcome to the world of expedition cruising! Start your journey of discovery, where you’ll learn what makes this style of travel so unique—who it’s for, the amazing wildlife you might see, and the unforgettable places you can explore. You’ll also find original stories from expert travel writers to inspire your next adventure.

What is expedition cruising?

Expedition cruising is a style of travel that takes you to remote, often untouched destinations aboard smaller ships designed for exploration and adventure. Learn more in our Expedition Cruise Guide.

Jamie Lafferty

Minke Whale Antarctica Jamie Lafferty 404

Lazy Bear Lodge, Churchill

Polar bear posing for a photographer
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Mark Stratton

South Georgia Salisbury Plain Penguin Watching Copy 684

Who is it for?

Photographing Ice

Photographers

Capture breathtaking moments in the world’s most remote, photogenic places—guided by experts, without the crowds. Expedition cruising puts you front and centre.

Bird watching on the ships' deck.

Birders

From the Galápagos to the Arctic, expedition cruises offer rare birdwatching moments—guided, up-close, and unhurried in pristine, remote habitats.

Hiking In Maxwell Bay

Hikers

Expedition cruises offer guided hikes in remote, wild landscapes—from glacier treks to tundra trails—perfect for curious, active travellers.

Photographing Ice

Photographers

Capture breathtaking moments in the world’s most remote, photogenic places—guided by experts, without the crowds. Expedition cruising puts you front and centre.

Bird watching on the ships' deck.

Birders

From the Galápagos to the Arctic, expedition cruises offer rare birdwatching moments—guided, up-close, and unhurried in pristine, remote habitats.

Hiking In Maxwell Bay

Hikers

Expedition cruises offer guided hikes in remote, wild landscapes—from glacier treks to tundra trails—perfect for curious, active travellers.

Citizen Science by Mark Stratton

Citizen Scientists

Expedition cruises blend adventure with purpose, offering chances to join real research—from wildlife tracking to climate studies—alongside expert scientists.

Polar sea kayaking

Kayakers

Expedition cruises blend adventure with purpose, offering chances to join real research—from wildlife tracking to climate studies—alongside expert scientists.

©Mikelouagie MLX 1609 Greenland PONANT Polar Bear

Wildlife Enthusiasts

Get up close with wildlife like whales, penguins, and polar bears on expedition cruises—small groups, expert guides, and respectful, unforgettable encounters.

Citizen Science by Mark Stratton

Citizen Scientists

Expedition cruises blend adventure with purpose, offering chances to join real research—from wildlife tracking to climate studies—alongside expert scientists.

Polar sea kayaking

Kayakers

Expedition cruises blend adventure with purpose, offering chances to join real research—from wildlife tracking to climate studies—alongside expert scientists.

©Mikelouagie MLX 1609 Greenland PONANT Polar Bear

Wildlife Enthusiasts

Get up close with wildlife like whales, penguins, and polar bears on expedition cruises—small groups, expert guides, and respectful, unforgettable encounters.

What wildlife can I encounter?

Where in the world can I go?

Original Stories & Expert Guides

Glacier In Svalbard

My first Polar Expedition Cruise

In "My First Polar Expedition Cruise," ExplorEarth writer Natalya Getman shares her firsthand experience of navigating icy waters, encountering wildlife, and discovering the transformative power of polar exploration.

Jamie In Galapagos 2

Expedition Guide: Photography

Ready to capture the magic of your expedition cruise? Our Photography Guide is packed with expert tips and insights to help you photograph stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable moments.

King Penguin Displaying 3

Expedition Guide: Birding

Discover the thrill of birdwatching in some of the world’s most remote and wildlife-rich regions. Our Birding Guide offers expert advice on what to look for, where to go, and how to make the most of your expedition birding experience.

Glacier In Svalbard

My first Polar Expedition Cruise

In "My First Polar Expedition Cruise," ExplorEarth writer Natalya Getman shares her firsthand experience of navigating icy waters, encountering wildlife, and discovering the transformative power of polar exploration.

Jamie In Galapagos 2

Expedition Guide: Photography

Ready to capture the magic of your expedition cruise? Our Photography Guide is packed with expert tips and insights to help you photograph stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and unforgettable moments.

King Penguin Displaying 3

Expedition Guide: Birding

Discover the thrill of birdwatching in some of the world’s most remote and wildlife-rich regions. Our Birding Guide offers expert advice on what to look for, where to go, and how to make the most of your expedition birding experience.

Ready To Start Exploring?

Become a member of ExplorEarth to unlock exclusive offers, expert-written guides, tailored cruise recommendations, and access to our full voyage database. Enjoy 1:1 advice from impartial experts and join members-only webinars to help plan your perfect expedition cruise.