Image courtesy of Hapag Lloyd Cruises
About Expedition Cruising
Image courtesy of AE Expeditions
The Ship
Expedition cruising ships are a fraction of the size of those used in the regular cruising world. They serve a different purpose too: an expedition ship is a platform to access remote destinations while all the exciting things happen outside. This is not to say they can’t be very comfortable or lack modern luxuries! All expedition ships used by ECN members are under 500 passengers and some of the smallest carry as few as just 12!
What is Expedition Cruising?
An expedition cruise is one of the most exciting ways to explore the world. It is all about getting you up-close to some of the world’s most remote and incredible destinations, in a sustainable and sensitive way. Here are some of the highlights you can expect:
Exploring On Land
An expedition cruise is all about exploring the destinations the ships visit in-depth. They are not limited to the places with port facilities and can reach truly remote sites. To facilitate this, most expedition ships carry a fleet of Zodiacs™ or other type of motorised boats, and all shore activities are led by the expedition guides. Think walking in amongst a huge penguin colony in Antarctica, visiting a remote tribe in Papua New Guinea or traversing rugged cliffs in Australia’s Kimberley region- it is all possible on an expedition cruise!
Image courtesy of Lindblad Expeditionc
Image courtesy of Swan Hellenic
Expedition Teams
Every expedition cruise is accompanied by a team of experts whose job is to share their knowledge and passion for destinations visited while onboard and during activities ashore or on water. They will offer unique insights on the destinations being explored and are an integral part of the expedition cruise experience.
Image courtesy of Australis Cruises