Expedition cruising – the new buzz in cruising! However, there are still some misconceptions about what it is. Some might think it is only for hard-core explorers and that you’ll be in bare cabins, foraging for food on land or fighting your way through jungle undergrowth. It’s only for scientists and older people. Sleep in converted research ships. These statements couldn’t be further from the truth!
In reality, you’ll be sleeping in a comfortable, air-conditioned cabin with all the facilities you’d expect from a top cruise ship. Your food will be prepared by top chefs with menus that reflect the geographic area you’re sailing through. You definitely won’t find any waterslides on expedition ships. You won’t be fighting through jungle undergrowth – you might be walking on an ice-flow or exploring one of the Galapagos Islands.
Some example itineraries that you might like:
Seabourn have a cruise that leaves from Reykjavik in September 2028. You then explore the islands of Heimaey off Iceland. Here, activities might include zodiac cruises, nature walks or cultural experiences. Then moving towards Greenland, you’ll transit Prins Christian Sund, which is a 60-mile sound that cuts between the mainland and an archipelago of islands from east to west, under the southern edge of the massive Greenland Ice Sheet. Moving further along the coast, take a 12 mile zodiac trip to the most prominent Norse archaeological site in Greenland. Then cruise through the fjords in Eastern Canada, with zodiac cruises and nature walks included. More archaeological visits here to Norse settlements. Finish your cruise in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Alternatively, HX Expeditions can take you from Lisbon, to explore Porto. Then onwards to Ferrol which is one of Spain’s best preserved 18th century ports. Gijon and San Sebastian are charming cities waiting for you to explore. Bordeaux, the city of wine is the next stop. Île-d’Yeu in western France was a farming community 5000 years ago – explore on foot or by bike. Finisterre and Saint-Malo are the next areas to discover. Then sail through the English Channel to Heligoland, once a base for pirates and the strategic prize for a string of warring nations. Now home to stunning nature and birdlife. Finish your cruise in Hamburg.
Many more cruises available. Just tell me where you dream of exploring!
Who would like these cruises? Anyone who loves history, nature and exploring. You don’t have to be fit (although a certain level of mobility is needed to get in and out of zodiac boats). Anyone who likes to get off the beaten track. Anyone who prefers birdwatching to cabaret shows. Is this you? Then get in touch to chat about your next adventure. Don’t forget I can add pre and post cruise stays for most cruises to make this a holiday that is perfect for you.
This article shows more cruises, but remember to come to me to book!!!
Thanks to Seabourn, HX Expeditions and Cruise Trade News for the photos.