Discover Antarctica, the Arctic, the Galapagos and beyond.
We help you compare ships, itineraries and destinations to find the
right expedition cruise for you.
Navigate glacial fjords and encounter incredible wildlife. Step ashore in remote communities, with expert-led exploration and the comfort of a small expedition ship.
CLIA Expedition Cruise Champion Programme, Class of 2026First-hand expedition cruise experience
Why Book Your Expedition Cruise With Mapping Your Travel?
Expedition cruises are very different from traditional cruising. Styles of expedition ship, itineraries and included experiences can vary considerably.
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Independent Agency
We are not tied to one expedition cruise company. We compare ships, itineraries and operators to help find the right voyage for you.
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Expedition Cruise Specialists
CLIA Expedition Cruise Champion Programme (Cruise Lines International Association).
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First-Hand Knowledge
Our advice is backed by first-hand expedition ship visits and destination experience, giving you practical insight when choosing your voyage.
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Your Whole Journey, Planned
From your expedition ship and itinerary to flights, hotels and pre or post-cruise stays, we can bring the whole journey together.
ABTA & ATOL protected•5-star customer reviews
Not sure which expedition cruise is right for you?
Tell us what you would love to experience and we will help you explore the options.
Expedition cruising is centred around exploration, education and nature. Expedition ships help you embrace the destination, taking you closer to remote landscapes, wildlife and communities, with an experienced expedition team helping you explore along the way.
Smaller Expedition Ships↓
Smaller ships can explore places that many larger cruise ships cannot reach. The focus is on the destination, getting you closer to the landscapes and wildlife you have travelled to see.
Expert Expedition Teams↓
Expedition teams can include naturalists, historians, scientists and destination experts who bring the places you visit to life through talks, briefings and exploration ashore.
Zodiac Landings & Experiences↓
Zodiac boats are often used to reach remote landing sites and explore coastlines more closely. Depending on the voyage, there may also be opportunities for kayaking, hiking, wildlife watching and photography.
Flexible Itineraries↓
Weather, sea conditions and wildlife can influence the day. This flexibility allows the expedition team to make the most of opportunities as they arise. Be prepared for things to change. If there's a wildlife sighting, the captain may adjust the course.
There isn't one type of expedition cruise.
Voyages range from adventurous, activity-focused expeditions to luxurious small-ship journeys. The right ship depends on where you want to go, how you want to explore and the level of comfort you are looking for.
For Curious Travellers
Are Expedition Cruises Right for You?
Expedition cruising is perfect for curious travellers who want to experience a destination rather than simply see it from the ship. Maybe you love spotting wildlife and witnessing extraordinary landscapes. Or you're excited to learn from experts in their field.
Who travels on expedition cruises?
Solo travellers, couples, friends, families and groups can all enjoy expedition cruising. The atmosphere is often relaxed, with a shared interest in the destination.
How active do I need to be?
You don't need to be an extreme adventurer, but some Zodiac embarkation and landings can require a reasonable level of mobility. Requirements vary by ship and itinerary, so we can help you compare the practical details before booking.
Do I have to take part in everything?
No. Activities and landing opportunities vary by voyage, and you can choose how much you want to participate. Some expeditions are more active than others, which is another reason choosing the right ship and itinerary matters.
Explore the World
Where Can an Expedition Cruise Take You?
From the polar landscapes of Antarctica and the Arctic to the extraordinary wildlife of the Galápagos, expedition cruising can take you to some of the world's most remarkable places. Explore some of the destinations we can help you discover.
Antarctica
Antarctica Expedition Cruises
Vast icebergs, penguin colonies, whales and some of the most remote landscapes on Earth make Antarctica one of the world's great expedition cruise destinations.
Discover glaciers, fjords and Arctic wildlife across destinations including Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland and Arctic Canada. Depending on the voyage, wildlife encounters may include polar bears, walrus, whales and Arctic foxes.
Explore granite islands, coral atolls, rich marine ecosystems, birdlife, giant tortoises and beautiful beaches on a small-ship expedition through the Seychelles.
Best time: April to October
British Isles & Scotland
Discover dramatic coastlines, remote islands, historic castles, wildlife and rich cultural heritage, with opportunities to visit places that are often difficult to reach by land.
Best time: May to September
Expedition Cruise Advice
Expedition Cruise FAQs
Planning your first expedition cruise can bring up plenty of questions. Here are some of the things we're most often asked.
From Our Own Travels
Expedition Cruising in Svalbard
During our time in Svalbard, we stepped aboard a number of expedition ships, giving us the opportunity to compare different ship styles, cabins and onboard experiences.
Expedition cruise prices vary considerably depending on the destination, ship, cabin, length of voyage and what is included. Antarctica expeditions can start from around £6,500 per person plus flights, while suites on some luxury expedition ships can exceed £100,000.
We can help you compare what is included as well as the headline price, so you can understand the differences between ships and itineraries.
Are expedition cruises suitable for older travellers?↓
Yes, many expedition cruises are enjoyed by older travellers. The important thing is choosing the right ship and itinerary for your individual needs. Some Zodiac embarkation and landings require a reasonable level of mobility, while requirements and facilities vary between ships.
We can help you look at the practical details before you choose your voyage.
Are expedition cruises luxurious?↓
They can be. Expedition ships range from adventure-focused vessels where exploration is the priority to luxurious small ships with spacious suites, fine dining and high levels of onboard comfort.
The right choice depends on how you want to explore and the level of comfort you would like when you return to the ship.
What should I pack for an expedition cruise?↓
What you need will depend on your destination and voyage, but for polar expeditions the key is usually comfortable layers and suitable outerwear. Some expedition cruise operators provide items such as parkas or boots, so it is important to check what is included before buying specialist clothing.
When is the best time to book an expedition cruise?↓
It depends on the destination, ship and cabin you are looking for. Expedition ships are generally much smaller than traditional cruise ships, so there can be fewer cabins available on a particular voyage.
If you have a specific destination, departure date or cabin type in mind, it is worth exploring your options early.
Ready to Explore?
Ready to Start Planning Your Expedition Cruise?
Whether you already have a destination in mind or are still exploring the possibilities, we can help you compare the options and find the expedition cruise that feels right for you. There is no consultation or booking fee for our holiday planning service.
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