Independent EXPEDITION CRUISE SPECIALISTS

Expedition Cruises: Expertly Planned Journeys to the World's Most Extraordinary Destinations

Discover Antarctica, the Arctic, Galapagos and beyond with independent expedition cruise specialists. We help travellers choose the right expedition ship, itinerary and destination to create unforgettable journeys to Antarctica, the Arctic, the Galapagos and beyond.

Expedition cruises are voyages of discovery, not your average cruise holiday. Unlike traditional cruises, these small-ship adventures focus on exploration, wildlife, education and meaningful connections with some of the world's most extraordinary environments.  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.

Plan Your Expedition Cruise.

Why book your expedition cruise with Mapping Your Travel?

Choosing an expedition cruise can feel overwhelming. With so many ships, destinations and operators available, finding the right experience matters.

• Independent specialist advice

• First-hand destination knowledge

• CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) members

• Access to leading expedition operators

• Personalised itinerary planning

• ABTA and ATOL protection

• Rated 5★ by more than 40 travellers across Google & Facebook reviews.

What Is an Expedition Cruise?

Unlike traditional cruises, expedition cruises focus on exploration, education, and connection with nature, rather than simply reaching a destination.

Smaller ships, expert guides and flexible itineraries allow travellers to experience some of the world's most remarkable places-from the polar regions to the Galapagos and beyond.

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!

Are expedition cruises suitable for you?

Expedition cruising is for curious travellers who want to experience the world differently.

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.

Most expedition cruises involve boarding Zodiacs (small inflatable boats) for shore landings, so a reasonable level of mobility is required. However, many expedition ships offer accessible cabins and support options. We can help you find a voyage that matches your needs.

Here we are on a zodiac in The Arctic.

Start your expedition cruise holiday from UK today:

Where Can You Go?

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 Cruises, or an Antarctic expedition trip-the choice is yours!

How much does an Antarctica expedition cruise cost?

Expedition cruise prices vary depending on destination, ship, cabin category and length of voyage. Antarctica expeditions typically range from £5500 per person for a leading grade expedition ship (flights from the UK are additonal) to luxury voyages costing significantly more. We'll help you compare expedition ships, itineraries and departure dates to find the voyage that's right for you.

Our Top 5 Expedition Cruise Destinations:

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 HX Expeditions or Polar Latitudes). There's a polar expedition ship that's the perfect fit for you!

• Antarctica cruises usually start from 10 days, plus flight time from the UK. Cruises include full board meals, lectures, zodiac landings and a expedition team on hand.

• Best suited for: Wildlife lovers, photographers, adventure seekers and travellers experiencing Antarctica for the first time.

ANTARCTICA DESTINATION GUIDE

ANTARCTICA EXPEDITION CRUISES

ANTARCTICA WHAT TO PACK?

2.  The Galapagos Islands - Darwin’s Living Laboratory

Galapagos expedition cruises are ideal for travellers who want incredible wildlife experiences in a warmer environment. Giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions and blue-footed boobies make this one of the world's greatest wildlife destinations.

• 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?

GALAPAGOS DESTINATION GUIDE

Explore our Galapagos Expedition Cruise Guide.

3. The Arctic - Land of the Midnight Sun

The Arctic offers a completely different expedition experience to Antarctica. Instead of vast ice shelves and penguin colonies, you'll discover dramatic fjords, colourful tundra, glaciers and the chance to spot polar bears, walrus, whales and Arctic foxes.  Popular Arctic expedition cruise destinations include Svalbard, Greenland, Iceland and Arctic Canada, each offering unique wildlife and landscapes.

• 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. Tropical Expedition Cruises

    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.  British Isles & Scottish Expedition Cruises - 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

Expedition Cruise FAQs

What is an expedition cruise?

Expedition cruises are small-ship voyages focused on exploration, wildlife, education and immersive experiences rather than traditional cruising.

Are expedition cruises suitable for older travellers?

There's no age limit to expedition cruising. Most expedition cruises involve boarding Zodiacs (small inflatable boats) for shore landings, so a reasonable level of mobility is required. However, many expedition ships offer accessible cabins and support options. We can help you find a voyage that matches your needs.

Are expedition cruises luxury?

Expedition cruises range from comfortable expedition vessels to ultra-luxury ships with butler service, fine dining and spacious suites. We help you compare the different styles so you choose the ship that best matches your travel style and budget. There are also options catered to the adventurous, with more landings and kayaking adventures. Or, more value options with basic cabins. 

How much does an expedition cruise cost?

For an Antarctica expedition cruise, from around £5,500 per person plus international flights from the UK for a leading grade option to upwards of £100,000 for an owner's suite on a luxury vessel. There are options out there for different budgets. 

What is the best expedition cruise destination?

This is a hard question to answer. Antarctica is a bucket-list destination, where few ever travel. The Arctic offers stunning scenery and is much closer to the UK. The Galapagos is a must for wildlife lovers.

What should I pack for an expedition cruise?

For Polar Regions: Conditions vary quickly. It's best to pack layers, base, mid & outer layers.  For base layers, look for merino wool or high quality synthetic tops and leggings. For your mid-layer, you'll need a fleece or lightweight insulated jacket.

For the outer layer, many operators provide a waterproof expedition parka.

See our What To Pack For A Polar Expedition Guide

Are expedition cruises safe?

Expedition cruises are extremely well organised, with experienced expedition leaders, ship crews and medical facilities onboard. Safety is always the highest priority, especially when travelling in remote environments such as Antarctica and the Arctic. 

Which expedition cruise operator is best?

The best expedition operator depends on your travel style. Some focus on luxury, others on wildlife, photography or adventure activities. We help you compare operators including HX Expeditions, Ponant, Quark Expeditions and others to find the right fit.

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!

How we help you choose your expedition cruise

1. Understand your travel dreams

2. Recommend destinations and ships

3. Compare itineraries

4. Arrange flights, hotels and extensions

5. Support you before, during and after travel

Why choosing the right expedition ship matters

Expedition ships vary enormously. Some focus on luxury and comfort, while others prioritise adventure, wildlife landings and active experiences. Choosing the right vessel can completely change your journey.

• Luxury expedition ships
• Adventure-focused vessels
• Family-friendly options
• Photography-focused expeditions
• Small intimate ships

Ready to Start Planning Your Expedition Cruise?

Every expedition is different. We'll help you compare ships, itineraries and destinations to create the journey that's right for you.  We've visited expedition ships, explored expedition destinations ourselves and work with the world's leading expedition cruise operators to help you book with confidence.

We'll help you plan the expedition cruise that's perfect for you.
📞 Call us on (01726) 219558 or click below to schedule your free consultation.

Antarctica

The Galapagos

When To Visit Antarctica

Arctic Ship Visits

Galapagos Cruises-what to expect

What To Pack For Antarctica Cruise Trips