







Expedition cruises are voyages of discovery-not your average cruise holiday. They take you far from the typical tourist path to some of the most remote, wild, and awe-inspiring destinations on Earth. Whether you're navigating through glacial fjords, spotting rare wildlife, or visiting untouched island communities, expedition cruises combine immersive travel experiences with comfort and expert-led exploration.
Unlike traditional cruises, expedition cruises focus on exploration, education, and connection with nature. These small-ship journeys offer:
Expert guides & naturalists onboard
Smaller groups for intimate access to remote areas
Flexible itineraries that adapt to weather and wildlife sightings
Zodiac excursions, kayaking, hiking, and wildlife photography
A chance to learn about geology, climate, local cultures, and conservation
Start your small ship expedition cruise today!
Everyone.
There’s no age limit to adventure. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple seeking off-the-grid adventure, or a family eager to learn together (most are age 8 and over), expedition cruising welcomes all who have a spirit of curiosity.
You need to be able to put one step in front of the other to get on and off a zodiac (RIB boat). Enjoy a zodiac expedition to witness incredible sights! Some expedition cruise cabins are designed for assessibility.
Start your expedition cruise holiday from UK today:
Expedition cruises span both polar extremes and warm, biodiverse paradises. Whether it’s icebergs and penguins or coral reefs and volcanic islands, you’ll journey to the frontiers of our planet. Perhaps you'll decide on a northern lights and fjords expedition, or an Antarctic expedition trip-the choice is yours!
1. ❄️ Antarctica – The Last Continent
Witness towering icebergs, penguin colonies, and breaching whales
Step foot on the world’s most remote landmass
Best time: November to March
Opt for a luxury icebreaker cruise ship (e.g. with Ponant Polar Cruises) or a comfortable expedition ship (e.g. with Hurtigruten Expedition Cruises (HX Expeditions). There's a polar expedition ship that's the perfect fit for you!
2. 🦎 The Galápagos Islands - Darwin’s Living Laboratory
Snorkel with sea lions and marine iguanas
Observe wildlife that exists nowhere else on Earth
Learn about evolution, geology, and conservation from naturalists
Best time: Year-round, with different highlights in each season
Ready to learn more about expedition cruises to The Galapagos?
3. 🐋 The Arctic – Land of the Midnight Sun
Spot polar bears, narwhals, and massive walrus herds
Cruise past glaciers and through ice-choked fjords
Explore the unique cultures of Inuit communities
Best time: June to September
Read about our ship visits in SVALBARD here
4. 🐠 The Seychelles – Tropical Eden of the Indian Ocean
Island-hop among lush, granite isles and coral atolls
Dive into vibrant marine ecosystems
Discover rare birds, giant tortoises, and secluded beaches
Best time: April to October
5. 🏴 The Scottish Islands – Mystical Isles and Rugged Coastlines
Uncover ancient castles, Celtic history, and dramatic cliffs
Watch puffins, dolphins, and whales from your ship
Visit whisky distilleries and remote fishing villages
Best time: May to September
Let Mapping Your Travel help you find your perfect expedition cruise. We work with top-tier expedition operators and tailor every trip to your interests, comfort, and adventure level. From ultra luxury expedition voyages to leading grade expedition cruises-we've got an expedition cruise for you!
Talk to us today:
We will create an adventure cruise package for you.
📞 Call us on (01726) 219558 or click below to schedule your free consultation.