What to Know Before an Expedition Cruise

Expedition cruises journey the world’s most remote oceans, seas, and tundras. These boutique adventure cruises typically sail to polar regions, rainforests, and far-flung archipelagos. Expeditions are staffed by experts with a deep understanding of the culture, history, and biodiversity unique to the region. 

This is everything you need to know before signing up for an expedition cruise. 

Expedition cruises are the final frontier

As the vessels used are significantly smaller – usually carrying around 200 passengers – expedition cruises take you to places out of reach of traditional cruise liners. 

Classic destinations include the polar regions of Antarctica and the Arctic Circle. However, this type of cruise also extends to the Galápagos, the Amazon, and Patagonia.

Understand the best time to travel 

The window for polar expedition cruises is short and based on the climate in the destination. In summary, these are the best times to plan a trip:

• The best time for an expedition cruise to Antarctica is during summer in the Southern Hemisphere (November to March).
• Expedition cruises to the Arctic Circle function during summer in the Northern Hemisphere with June through September being the best months to travel. 
• Expedition cruises to the Galápagos operate all year but the warmer months of December through May bring the calmest seas.
• The best time to cruise the Amazon is during the dry season of June to November when wildlife sightings are more probable. 

As expedition vessels are small, it’s important to book ahead of time – ideally one year ahead of departure. 

Compare different operators

Lindblad Expeditions, Hurtigruten, Atlas Ocean Voyages, and Quark Expeditions are just some of the operators offering luxury adventure cruises.

It’s important to compare different itineraries and study the mission statement of the operator. Some providers have more transparency around sustainability, others focus on wildlife and photography, some offer a richer onboard experience combining educational activities and gastronomy. 

Activities are varied 

Expedition cruise itineraries allow opportunities to disembark and get closer to the scenery. 

Zodiac boats are standard but some vessels are equipped with helicopters and submersibles. Kayaking excursions are available when traveling through fjords and riverways. Land activities may include heli-skiing, walking alongside penguins, and even camping on Antarctica. Some activities are included as part of the expedition package while others are supplementary. 

Back on board, vessels are usually equipped with wellness facilities, movie theaters, restaurants, and wraparound decks. 

Pack with care

Packing for a vacation is the eternal conundrum but packing for an expedition cruise is a whole other story. The first step is to check what is provided; expedition cruises to Antarctica and the Arctic Circle generally include some expedition gear for shore landings. In other cases, parkas and boots may be available for rent on board. 

However, you are responsible for packing appropriate layers and accessories which may involve thermal apparel, sunscreen, swimwear for the sauna, bug repellent, sea sickness remedies, non-slip footwear, and appropriate headwear. 

Summer expedition cruises to Greenland and Canada bring warmer daytime temperatures than you might expect. Furthermore, climate-controlled cabins ensure you fall asleep in toasty conditions. 

Know that the itinerary may change 

Polar destinations are nothing if not unpredictable. Cruise itineraries are subject to change based on the conditions on the day. Allow flexibility and be mindful that schedules are not set in stone. However, cruise operators will always endeavor to ensure all included and supplementary activities are met.  

Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations to explore your options for expedition cruises to Antarctica, Greenland, Alaska, and beyond.