As the CEO and co-founder of the Expedition Cruise Network, I am deeply passionate about showcasing the diversity and uniqueness of expedition cruising to the travel industry. Our 28 member operators represent an extraordinary range of experiences, offering journeys aboard vessels that accommodate as few as 8 passengers, up to HX Hurtigruten Expeditions’ 500-passenger ships. Together, they navigate all seven continents, exploring rivers, lakes, and oceans, guided by passionate expedition teams dedicated to sharing adventures, educating, engaging, and creating authentic connections while respecting the communities, wildlife, and environments encountered along the way.
When asked for their top trip recommendations for 2025, our members delivered an inspiring collection of voyages. This curated list features unexpected ways to experience iconic expedition cruising destinations, ground-breaking industry firsts, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and opportunities for meaningful cultural exchanges.
As for me, I am especially looking forward to my own 2025 adventure: The Artisans of Bengal aboard Antara Cruises. Until then, I invite you to dive into this wanderlust-worthy selection and share the magic of exploration and discovery with your clients.
Happy Reading!
Best wishes, Akvile
Cold Water Expeditions
Antarpply Expeditions recommends:
Name: CLASSIC SOUTH GEORGIA on board the USHUAIA
Dates: 13 OCT 2025 – 03 NOV 2025
Ship: M/V Ushuaia
Cost from: US$9,990 per person
The Falkland Islands (Malvinas) and South Georgia are home to hundreds of thousands of albatrosses and penguins, including the King Penguin, as well as seals and whales. Along with spectacular scenery and the fascinating history of the early explorers make for a truly memorable trip.
We endeavour to visit iconic sites such as Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, and Gold Harbour, and witness phenomenal wildlife against dramatic mountain backdrops. Discover the island’s fascinating history, with stops at Grytviken, the final resting place of explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, and abandoned whaling stations that tell of its industrial past.
Access to secluded coves and intimate wildlife encounters via Zodiac cruises and landings. With expert guides leading every step, a South Georgia voyage is an unparalleled adventure for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
AE Expeditions recommends:
Name: Antarctica Active (All Inclusive Activities)
Dates: 20 NOV 2025 – 04 DEC 2025
Ship: Greg Mortimer
Cost from: £11,556.00pp/$14,870.00pp
Experience the Antarctic Peninsula from a different perspective and view. AE Expeditions are renowned for the variety and volume of activities offered to expeditioners on our voyages. On our Antarctica Active itineraries, you will experience the wonders of Antarctica on a deeper level. Not only will you enjoy Zodiac excursions and guided walks offered on all our voyages, you will also paddle in among icebergs in protected bays and perhaps glimpse wildlife close up. Step into your own snowshoes for a gentle hike, where breath-taking views await. Swim amongst the penguins and icebergs whilst snorkelling in the Great Southern Ocean. And for the ultimate overnight adventure in Antarctica, pack a sleeping bag for a sleepover on the ice. You can't guarantee a sound slumber, but you can guarantee an unforgettable night on the ice.
Quark Expeditions recommends:
Name: Antarctica By Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands
Dates: 27 NOV 2025 – 08 DEC 2025
Ship: Ultramarine
Cost from: $17,290.00pp
Voyage Link: https://www.quarkexpeditions.com/expeditions/antarctica-helicopter-icebergs-mountains-and-remote-lands#departures
Quark Expeditions invites adventurers to experience Antarctica like never before with the launch of “Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains, and Remote Lands.” This ground breaking, all-inclusive itinerary harnesses the advanced capabilities of the Ultramarine and its twin-engine helicopters to unlock access to the rarely visited regions of the Antarctic Peninsula, including Antarctic Sound, Erebus and Terror Gulf, and the Weddell Sea.
Over the course of 12 days, guests will enjoy exceptional aerial views of the continent through a minimum of two helicopter flightseeing excursions and one helicopter landing, all included in the cost of the expedition. The adventure doesn’t stop there; in true expedition spirit, guests will continue to explore the continent through zodiac rides and land excursions. Onboard, they will attend briefings and lectures led by leading experts in glaciology, penguinology, marine biology, and more, all while enjoying complimentary Wi-Fi and bar service.
The serene icy atmosphere and the vast wilderness of the east coast of the Antarctic Peninsula merge to create an experience that is both breath-taking and deeply humbling from above. Steve Fisher, one of Quark Expeditions’ seasoned helicopter pilots, shares: “The scale and beauty of the Antarctic landscape from 5000 feet is unparalleled. Our guests often feel a profound sense of tranquillity as they view this rare and remote land from the sky and witness something very few in the world will ever see. It has been my privilege to take guests in safety to the far reaches of the world and I look forward to this next chapter of exploration.”
Oceanwide Expeditions recommends:
Name: Antarctica – Beyond the Polar Circle – Wilkins Ice Shelf – Aurora Australis
Dates: 21 MAR 2025 – 05 APR 2025
Ship: M/V Ortelius
Cost from: Shared berths start from €9,700/ $10,500
Embark on a one-off trip of a lifetime, heading further south and closer to the heart of nature than you ever believed possible! Above, you’ll experience the majesty of the southern skies and the spectacle of the rarely seen southern lights.
On this unique voyage, journey through ice-laden channels, spotting whales, seals, birds, and Antarctica's pioneering past. Crossing the Antarctic Circle and venturing into spectacular surroundings by Zodiac, you'll soon find yourself awed by the vastness of the ice shelves and rugged islands that surround you.
Accompanying this expedition are Dr. Tyler Nordgren, professor of astronomy and physics at the University of Redlands, and Dr. Julie Rathbun, senior scientist with the Planetary Science Institute and part of NASA's Europa Clipper Spacecraft Mission. Spring 2025 marks the best chance to view the rare Aurora Australis for 11 years, making this an unmissable trip for experts and budding enthusiasts alike!
Quixote Expeditions recommends:
Name: Hans Hansson Fly In – Fly Out
Dates: 11 FEB 2025 – 24 FEB 2025
Ship: Hans Hansson
Cost from: $19,450 USD - $24,950 / £15400 – £19,750
This February micro-cruise fly-in fly-out trip, complete with 14 days in Antarctica is the best way to immerse yourself in the penguin chicks of the later Antarctic Season. Join the Hans Hansson with only 12 passengers to explore Antarctica more in-depth than nearly any other operator. This trip is a fantastic match for nature lovers and photographers. With maximum 12 passengers, there is no waiting for zodiacs and the crew are always ready to take advantage of whatever wonders Antarctica brings that day – a pod of Orcas, a calving iceberg, incredible evening light. Time on shore is not rushed.
Kayaking is included and with 14 days in Antarctica we are sure to find a few fantastic days to get everyone out exploring from a different perspective. Later in the season we also get some of the best light of the season, with excellent polar sunsets and light reflections on icebergs.
Silversea Expeditions recommends:
Name: Puerto Williams to Buenos Aires
Dates: 10 MAR 2025- 31 MAR 2025
Ship: Silver Endeavour
Cost from: £18,700pp
Take the next three weeks to discover Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. These are some of the remotest destinations on the planet, and home to much wildlife. From beaches covered in penguins to seas filled with marine life, the sheer abundance is jaw-dropping! Additionally, the region is coloured with centuries of intrepid explorer history, much of which you’ll discover on out shore excursions with our expert guides. Explore the rugged beauty of these pristine landscapes, bathe in history past and present and enjoy one of the inspiring trips you will ever experience. End with an overnight in Buenos Aires.
BARK Europa recommends:
Name: Cape to Cape - 57-Day Expedition
Dates: February 24, 2025 – April 21, 2025
Ship: Bark Europa
Cost From: €18,730 (£16,200 / $20,000)
Highlights: This extensive journey combines a true ocean crossing with visits to Antarctica, South Georgia, and Tristan da Cunha. Guests will sail from polar ice to subtropical shores, experiencing diverse ecosystems along the way. An ideal voyage for those seeking variety, adventure, and remote landscapes.
Heritage Expeditions recommends:
Name: Birding Down Under
Dates: 6 DEC 2025 – 22 DEC 2025
Ship: Heritage Adventurer
Cost from: £11,695.00pp
Voyage Link: https://www.heritage-expeditions.com/destinations/subantarctic-islands-travel/birding-down-under-cruise/
Join New Zealand’s family-owned and -operated Heritage Expeditions on the ultimate Subantarctic adventure visiting all of New Zealand and Australia's Subantarctic Islands, the Chatham Islands and their remote outlying islands! Featured in travel bible Conde Nast Traveler’s The 25 Best Places to Go in 2025, Heritage Expeditions signature voyage sees guests discovering the 'Albatross Latitudes' and exploring the world’s most remote Subantarctic islands including Snares, Bounty, Antipodes, Auckland, Campbell, Macquarie and Chatham Islands. Encounter raucous penguin breeding grounds, wade waist deep through fields of flowering mega herbs, observe duelling sea lions, elephant seals and their pups and discover the conservation history of these incredible, wild and remote wildlife havens benefiting from Heritage Expeditions more than 35 years exploring the Southern Ocean. Guests also have the opportunity to see 4 species of penguin not seen anywhere else in the world (HoiHo/Yellow-eyed Penguin, Snares Crested Penguin, Royal Penguin and Erect-crested Penguin) in addition to Little Blue, King, Gentoo and Rockhopper and one of the world’s rarest seabirds – the Chatham Island Taiko/Magenta Petrel. Directly support the Chatham Island Taiko Trust with a visit to the Taiko Camp (limited to just 54 guests each year) and learn first-hand of the plight of the Antipodean Albatross (featured on Sir David Attenborough’s Frozen Planet II) which only breeds on Antipodes and Adams Islands and the 30-plus year work of Drs Kath Walker and Graeme Elliot (recently appointed Officers of the New Zealand Order of Merit).
Atlas Ocean Voyages recommends:
Name: Drake Fly & Sail / Ushuaia to King George Island
Dates: 25 NOV 2025 – 2 DEC 2025
Ship: World Voyager
Cost from: $8,999 / £6,599 per person
Voyage Link: https://atlasoceanvoyages.com/destination/7-night-ushuaia-to-king-george-island-11-25-25
Navigate the Drake Passage at the beginning of your Antarctic journey and lay claim to the feat while still enjoying maximum time exploring the Seventh Continent. These remote reaches evoke a feeling of a dream, but every moment aboard our intimate yachts amid these far-away waters is real. Find tranquillity as you glide between ice floes on a possible sea kayaking excursion guided by an expert expedition team. Watch for whales sitting just 30 feet above the sea line at Water's Edge, or from 3 feet onboard one of our zodiacs. Look out also for curious and friendly Gentoo penguins that hop out of the water near the vessel, welcoming you into their world. At the end of your voyage, fly over the Drake Passage from King George Island back to mainland Chile.
Secret Atlas recommends:
Name: Frozen Svalbard Photography Expedition with Virgil Reglioni
Dates: APR– MAY 2025
Ship: MV Vikingfjord
Cost from: €11,550 / £10,550
Our Frozen Svalbard Tours are a must for landscape photographers, as the early spring season reveals the archipelago at its wildest. During this magical time of year, we are often the first to set eyes on pristine landscapes, witnessing the breath-taking scenes as dawn breaks over the Arctic. The light is soft, almost studio-like, casting a serene glow over the snow-covered wilderness. Photographing Arctic wildlife in their natural, snowy habitats requires patience, but the rewards are immeasurable. Take your time, and you’ll capture some of the most stunning wildlife shots of your life.
“We all have an impact on the environment, but as guides, we try to sensitize people to the importance of minimizing disruption to wildlife. That’s why I love working on small ships with limited group sizes.” - Virgil Reglioni
Poseidon Expeditions recommends:
Name: In-Depth Exploration in the Land of the Polar Bear
Dates: 5 JUL– 18 JUL 2025
Ship: MV Sea Spirit
Cost from: From 10,495 USD / 8,795 pounds
Svalbard, a breath-taking polar archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, offers a truly unique opportunity to immerse yourself in pristine wilderness and witness extraordinary wildlife. This exceptional 14-day cruise invites guests to embark on an unforgettable journey to explore Svalbard’s remote landscapes, culminating in an attempt to circumnavigate the archipelago and reach the secluded island of Kvitøya. This extended voyage maximizes the chances of encountering Svalbard’s iconic wildlife, including reindeer, Arctic foxes, walruses, seals, Arctic birds, and the majestic king of the Arctic—the polar bear. Our knowledgeable polar experts will enrich guests’ experiences with engaging lectures and insights, bringing the region’s fascinating ecology, history, and geography to life. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, an adventurer at heart, or simply seeking the tranquillity of untouched nature, this expedition offers a rare glimpse into one of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.
Albatros Expeditions recommends:
Name: In the Wake of Eric The Red (Greenland)
Dates: 29 JUL 2025– 9 AUG 2025
Ship: Ocean Albatros
Cost from: $9,945 per person based on triple share Cat F Voyage Link: https://albatros-expeditions.com/expeditions/arctic/wake-eric-red-iceland-greenland-2025
Join us on a thrilling expedition cruise from Reykjavík, following the same maritime course set by Norse settlers over a thousand years ago. Our first destination is the rugged shores of East Greenland, an ancient land steeped in mythology and ancient Inuit tradition. The lush green fields and rolling hills of South Greenland make it easy to see why the Norse gave the island the name it bears to this day - and why the Norse chose to settle in this green paradise. Following the magnificent coastline of Earth's largest island, we will visit Nuuk, one of the smallest (but no less perfect) world capitals. From Nuuk, we will pass by the village of Kangaamiut, a town steeped in Greenlandic culture and tradition which sits on the edge of the amaze of fjords, islands, mountains and glaciers. In the afternoon, we will venture into the nearby Eternity Fjord to experience this astounding natural beauty.
Scenic Eclipse recommends:
Name: Circumnavigating Iceland & Crossing the Arctic Circle
Dates: 5 JUL 2025– 15 JUL 2025
Ship: Scenic Eclipse
Cost from: £8,986 per person
See Iceland from every angle on an 11-day circumnavigation of this remarkable island. There is no better way to explore Iceland’s majestic coastlines than in zodiacs, by kayak, helicopter^ or in our custom-built submarine^ . Join the Discovery Team and local experts on all-inclusive excursions to see thundering waterfalls, seabird colonies and ancient Viking settlements. The Westman Islands are one of the best places in Iceland to see orcas and beluga whales. Look for them on a Zodiac tour or spot them through one of the Swarovski telescopes on the Observation Deck and Lounge. In Akureyri, guests can go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in one of the longest fjords in Iceland. Prepare to be spellbound by glaciers and volcanoes, black sand beaches and soaring cliff faces as you cruise in 6-star ultra-luxury under the midnight sun.
PONANT recommends:
Name: Transarctic, the Quest for the Two North Poles
Dates: 5 SEPT 2025– 25 SEPT 2025
Ship: Le Commandant Charcot
Cost from: £40,870pp
The ship, shaped for polar exploration, is preparing to sail, transpolar maritime route, that is inaccessible to traditional ships. From the legendary Bering Strait, a link between the East and the West, to the ice-covered land of Svalbard, Le Commandant Charcot will carve out a path through the ice floes, exploring the ice of the Beaufort Sea, and use open water leads to attempt to reach the elusive Magnetic and Geographic North Poles.
During your exploration, you will discover the research projects that are part of the scientific mission taking place on board. This is a unique opportunity to clarify your knowledge alongside a multi-disciplinary team of around twenty researchers on board, to understand their investigations and closely follow their work. Also accompanied by our expert naturalists, you will discover unique ecosystems while sharpening your perception of the polar world and comprehending the stakes of their transformation. The rare occasion to take part in an adventure that is making a contribution to scientific research.
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