One of my specialties is luxury cruises, and I can tell you expedition cruises are much different from other ocean cruises. They cater to very different types of travelers and vacation styles than traditional cruises. For example, one of my favorite experiences on an expedition cruise was a hike through a remote national park in Honduras where our guide pointed out howler monkeys in the trees above us.
In this article I'll explain what an expedition cruise is and who it is likely to appeal to. I will also dive into the similarities and differences between expedition cruises and regular ocean cruises as well as the pros and cons of each.
Expedition Cruise Basics
Expedition cruises go to places you can’t otherwise access on any other type of vacation. They often dock in remote locations where there is no infrastructure—no port, roads, shops, hotels, nothing—only nature and wildlife. One of the things I loved about the last expedition cruise I took was that there were no large ports featuring souvenir shops at all. Instead, we took zodiacs to deserted beaches, small villages, and through unspoiled mangroves.
The fact that you are on a cruise enables you to delve into these remote locations because everything you need for a comfortable stay is on the ship (accommodations, food, entertainment, etc.).
Guests are often taken ashore in zodiacs or travel in kayaks, so you should be comfortable negotiating in and out of these types watercraft if you choose to take an expedition cruise.
Unlike other ocean cruises, expedition cruises often follow a loose schedule that is dependant on weather, sea conditions, and spontaneous wildlife viewing. For example, an expedition cruise may plan to dock in a general location on the morning of a certain day, but an exact time won't be given until the day of. Or, the captain may choose to spontaneously veer off course to offer guests a whale watching opportunity. You should be comfortable with a flexible schedule.
Who is a Good Fit for an Expedition Cruise?
1. Adventure Seekers: If you are interested in adrenaline-pumping experiences across the world, including activities like hiking glaciers, kayaking or scuba diving, an expedition cruise will appeal to you. Expedition cruises often appeal to people bored by routine travel options. An expedition cruise is at once thrilling and humbling.
Well-known itineraries for expedition cruises are the Galapagos and Antarctica, but there are expedition cruises all over the world.
2. Wildlife Enthusiasts: Nature-lovers can experience the world's most compelling wildlife experiences in the most secluded regions on an expedition cruise. Most expedition cruises encounter lots of wildlife, and you will be accompanied on board by professional naturalists. One of my favorite experiences on an expedition cruise was a gorgeous zodiac ride through mangroves in El Porvenir Honduras, where we got to see an anteater, lots of interesting birds and howler monkeys.
3. Off-the-Beaten Path Explorers: Expedition cruises appeal to those not wanting to hit major ports with lots of other travelers. You can travel to remote destinations with fewer crowds and will have a deeper opportunity for immersion. Instead of Dubrovnik or Cancun, the ports will more likely have names you've never heard of, which is one of the things I love about them.
4. Highly Experienced Travelers: For those who have already traveled the globe, an expedition cruise may be the next step in your travel adventures.
5. Non-Tourist Luxury Traveler: If you are seeking to avoid tourist traps and instead seek a more authentic experience involving ports with no infrastructure, expedition cruising may appeal to you.
Similarities & Differences Between Typical Ocean Cruises and Expedition Cruises
Similarities shared by regular ocean cruises and expeditions cruises:
Onboard amenities: Both provide accommodations, dining options, and various facilities for guests.
Multiple destinations: Both allow travelers to visit several locations without constantly repacking.
On the other hand, there are many differences:
Ship Size and Capacity: Typical ocean cruises can be on very large ships accommodating thousands of passengers (up to 6,000). Expedition cruises, on the other hand, typically only host 50 to 200 guests. When I took an expedition cruise departing from Belize the ship was quite intimate with only 184 passengers on board. It was easy to make friends, and the staff got to know us.
Destinations: Ocean cruises usually hit popular ports and tourist destinations whereas expedition cruises travel to more remote, less-traveled locations like Antarctica, the Galapagos, or the Arctic. Expedition cruises often include visits to uncharted territories, national parks, and nature reserves. The smaller, more maneuverable ships are designed for navigating shallow waters and rugged coastlines.
Onboard Experience: Since traditional ocean cruises take place aboard large ships,
they often have numerous entertainment options, multiple restaurants, a variety of shops, and large-scale entertainment productions. They emphasize relaxation, sometimes luxury or partying, and boast a variety of onboard amenities.
Expedition cruises, on the other hand, focus on education, with lectures, workshops, and intimate discussions with experts. I took an expedition cruise that offered a lecture every day about the flora and fauna we were going to see the next day. Although entertainment, dining, and shopping is offered, there is not as much variety as on large ocean ships.
Shore Excursions: Typical ocean cruises offer optional tours at ports they visit. Although a very small number of luxury ocean ships include the cost of these excursions in the cruise fare, most don't. However, expedition cruise fares typically include tours or expeditions led by naturalists and experts.
Luxury Level: Traditional ocean cruises vary from budget to ultra-luxury. Expedition cruises are typically mid- to high-end luxury vacations, which I love because I am very picky about amenities and food and want only the best.
Pros & Cons of Typical Ocean Cruises
Pros:
Wide range of activities and entertainment
More budget-friendly options available
Suitable for large groups and families
Predictable itineraries
Cons:
Can feel crowded onboard (unless you sail on a luxury line)
Can stop in crowded ports of call
Less personal attention from staff (with the exception of luxury lines)
Limited time in each port
Environmental impact concerns due to size
Pros & Cons of Expedition Cruises
Pros:
Unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations
Intimate, personalized experience
Educational focus with expert guides
Close encounters with nature and wildlife
Extraordinary experiences that are otherwise inaccessible
Higher-end amenities and food on board than many typical ocean ships
Cons:
Higher price point
Fewer onboard amenities
Potentially rougher seas in remote areas
May not suit travelers seeking relaxation-only vacations
Can be challenging for people with mobility impairments
Choosing the Right Cruise for You
Choosing between an expedition cruise and a typical ocean cruise depends on your travel style, preferences and the experience you are seeking for a given vacation. There are a lot of different ocean and expedition cruise lines to choose from, catering to a variety of tastes.
Even if you have been on a bunch of cruises, booking with me is better than reserving on your own because I specialize in luxury cruises, so I can guide you to the right cruise for you. I’m an expert with deep knowledge of all of the finest cruise lines. I provide a stress-free planning process and I save you time. I give you personal advice. I get you a better value, including perks. I have clout and connections. I customize your trip, and I’m a real human who delivers exceptional service and takes care of you before, during, and after your journey.
My travel agency offers a custom cruise experience that includes port guides, flights, seating on flights, transportation on the ground, pre- and post-accommodations, tours and activities, restaurant recommendations, and more!
Contact me to book your next luxury cruise and find out how much better it is to have your own personal travel advisor who will provide you with white-glove service every step of the way.
You can reach me at daria@journeysofalifetime.biz or 415-939-5773.
—Daria Dimitroff, January 2025
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