Expedition Ship Guide

Small expedition ships have over 36 passenger berths but no more than 100. This can be seen as an optimum size for polar expedition cruises due to the restrictions on passenger numbers in landings onshore by IAATO. They will have fewer facilities than larger ships, and cabins tend to be smaller and have fewer balconies. 

We class large expeditions as ships with over 200 passenger berths. Although these ships will still benefit from sustainable features and engineering, they will also have more facilities and space. Typically, these ships will have multiple dining options and increased deck space for wildlife viewing and photography, and cabins are more likely to have balconies. They usually feature well-equipped science centres for citizen science and onboard research and may even have submarines, helicopters and further enrichment options for deeper exploration. 

Luxury expedition yachts are specialised ships for long-range voyages to remote or less accessible areas. These ships combine the ruggedness and autonomy required for exploration with the comfort and luxury found in modern and private yachts. These ships have high guest-to-crew ratios and often feature all-suite accommodations, balconies, and a full range of adventure activities, with bespoke equipment to enhance them, such as submersibles and helicopters. 

River expedition cruising offers a unique blend of adventure, wildlife and cultural immersion. These purpose-built ships allow travellers to access remote and less-visited areas while enjoying the comfort of an equipped and often quite luxurious ship. They feature open-air decks for unobstructed views of the surroundings and wildlife spotting. They may have Zodiacs, kayaks, and other equipment for shore excursions and water-based activities. These ships will typically carry up to 60 passengers. 

Hybrid expedition ships combine traditional marine propulsion systems with eco-friendly technologies to minimize their environmental impact and reduce emissions while maximizing efficiency and passenger comfort. Many hybrid ships use a combination of diesel engines and electric propulsion. This allows for efficient fuel use and reduces emissions. Some ships now incorporate large battery packs that can power the vessel for short periods, enabling silent and emission-free cruising, particularly useful in sensitive environments like polar regions. More hybrid ships will be launched in the coming polar seasons. 

B Corp ships are operated by companies accredited as B Corp. B Corp is a certification that reflects a dedication to meeting high standards of transparency, accountability, and sustainability in business practices. B Corp is a global community of businesses that uses its influence to drive positive change and balance business commerce with purpose. 

A shore power ship is an expedition ship that can connect to shore power when docked at a port. Shore power, also known as "cold ironing" or "alternative maritime power (AMP)," allows ships to turn off their diesel engines and connect to the local electrical grid to power the ship's systems when berthed. This practice can significantly reduce emissions and noise pollution while the vessel is docked.

On larger expedition ships, science centres are important because they support direct scientific research, enhance educational experiences, contribute to conservation efforts, promote citizen science, and facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration. Their presence can transform a typical expedition into a dynamic and interactive learning journey for passengers. Many ships offer research tools and lectures onboard, but newer and larger ships may now have dedicated research centres. 

While the overall environmental impact depends on the specific ship design, fuel type, and operational practices, micro expedition ships are popular for eco-conscious travellers who want to explore remote destinations with minimal environmental disturbance. Due to their smaller size (typically less than 36 passenger berths), they consume less fuel and generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions than larger ships. Smaller ships produce less wake, noise, and water displacement, reducing their impact on marine life and coastal ecosystems. Fewer Passengers will always mean less impact, and the strain on sensitive environments is lower. Many micro expedition operators also focus on very sustainable tourism practices. They often have homeports within the regions they concentrate on, with strong local connections with preservation organisations and charities. Therefore, they have a strong ethic for minimizing local wildlife disturbance, waste management, and ensuring non-invasive activities during landings.

1A Super: Ships with this rating can operate in very thick ice conditions, typically up to about 1 meter (3 feet) of first-year ice.

1A, 1B, 1C: These ratings indicate progressively lower levels of ice strength, with 1A being stronger than 1B and 1C. These ships are suited for lighter ice conditions, often first-year ice, which is thinner and easier to break.