plus HOT OR COLD: WHICH WAY DO YOU LIKE YOUR HOLIDAYS ?
Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
13 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES
SET SAIL: FEB, NOV-DEC 2025; JAN-FEB, DEC 2026; JAN-FEB 2027
From $19,195pp in Nordic Balcony
From $23,195pp in Nordic Penthouse
ANTARCTICA & SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND
Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
19 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES
SET SAIL: FEB, NOV-DEC 2025; JAN-FEB, NOV 2026; MAR 2027
From $26,195pp in Nordic Balcony
From $39,195pp in Nordic Junior Suite
COMPANION FLY FREE*
EXTEND
EXPL RER
SALE
Sailing to all seven continents, the whole world awaits
Enjoy free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.
Toronto to Nuuk or vice versa
27 DAYS | 2 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS
SET SAIL: JUL, SEP 2025; 2026; JUN, SEP 2027
From $40,195pp in Nordic Balcony
From $56,195pp in Nordic Penthouse
COMPANION FLY FREE*
New Expeditions Brochure
Introducing our new 2025 –2027 Expeditions brochure, with a brand-new ipbook design. Inside, you’ll nd everything you need to know about embarking on a journey of a lifetime with Viking.
KAYAKING IN ANTARCTICA
Go WILD!
Perhaps it’s a rebellion against our regimented, digitised lives, or maybe it’s just a form of escape, but expedition and adventure holidays are booming. And the biggest area of growth is in cruising.
According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), there has been a more than 70 per cent rise in the number of people heading o the traditional holiday grid in the past six years.
A new frontier Papua New Guinea’s vibrant cultures are drawing the next generation of expedition cruisers.
CLIA Managing Director in Australasia Joel Katz said during his association’s cruise month last year: “Travellers are hungry for unspoilt locations and cultural authenticity, and many are looking to expedition cruises as a way to discover places that might have once seemed out of reach.”
Cruise lines have invested heavily to meet this demand – and insist that these journeys are made with purpose and meet sti environmental standards.
“Conservation and sustainability lie at the heart of expedition cruising, and many travellers choose these journeys to deepen their understanding of the natural environment,” says Katz.
“Expedition cruise lines often provide expert guides on board, specialising in flora, fauna and the marine world, while their ships have advanced technology to
protect the marine environment in the destinations they visit.”
You won’t find zip lines and waterslides on the top deck of an expedition ship. But you will find science labs, expedition leaders with a wealth of knowledge, and toys like submarines and helicopters to take you to impenetrable places that will leave you awestruck.
And today, you’ll do all of this in astonishing comfort. Alongside Scenic’s luxury Discovery Yacht fleet, Ponant’s icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot (where polar bears vie with caviar on ice!) and many more, you’ll find your inner explorer with ease.
Small ships celebrate their boutique size by navigating tight waterways and accessing remote locations that other liners can’t reach, from our own Kimberley to the Polar regions. There is not just incredible wildlife but inspiring history out there.
From French Polynesia’s Marquesas to tribal Papua New Guinea you’ll find a new world of wonder and hope. Don’t wait for retirement or a financial windfall. Make an expedition trip a must, immediately – you’ll come back a bigger, better and much changed person for it.
Peter Lynch, editor-in-chief and publisher
GO with the f loe
While expedition cruising might not be new, there have been big changes in where we are going and the type of ships that o er a holiday o the beaten path.
Bernadette Chua finds out where you’re heading to next.
/ Feeling the chill
While Antarctica remains high on the list of cool destinations, places like Greenland, the wider Arctic Circle and Alaska are increasing in popularity. According to the Expedition Cruise Network, a Britishbased travel trade organisation, the rare wildlife spotting and scenery has spurred an increase in demand to visit these remote regions.
New airport openings in Greenland have improved the connectivity and accessibility of once-isolated destinations in the Arctic, meaning cruisers can sail directly from capital cities like Nuuk. Lines including Aurora Expeditions, Ponant, Quark Expeditions, Scenic and Viking have rich and robust itineraries taking guests to meet di erent Inuit communities, and even sailings as far as the North Pole.
In 2026, Viking has a unique expedition itinerary which takes guests from the Arctic to Antarctica. Starting in Nuuk, the 87-day voyage takes in the untouched ports of Greenland before sailing through the Canadian High Arctic and the scenic Canadian Maritimes. Then cruise the
Icy adventures
Clockwise, from above: A Ponant ship cruises through ice; Scientists retrieve samples on a Viking cruise.
famed St. Lawrence Seaway and visit historic cities of the East Coast of Canada and the USA. Continue south through the Caribbean, cross the Panama Canal and navigate the striking Chilean Fjords, before exploring the icy realm of Antarctica.
/ Things are heating up
Warm weather expeditions are on the rise, especially for Australians. The Galapagos has long been a favourite for nature lovers and demand for the area has made a strong comeback after a temporary dip in visitation numbers caused by Ecuador’s State of Emergency in late 2024.
Silversea and Aqua Expeditions (a boutique cruise line recently acquired by luxury line Ponant) explore the Galapagos with their purpose-built ships.
The Kimberley is thriving with locals looking for expedition voyages close to home. Scenic, Seabourn and Ponant will have vessels sailing between Darwin and Broome with special expedition guides who have strong ties to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The South Pacific, though, is the new diamond in the rough, with companies o ering more in-depth voyages away from the capital cities and tourist resorts. Its vibrant coral reefs and active volcanoes make it an adventurer’s playground.
/ Small ships are the darling
Smaller vessels are fast becoming the way to go, as travellers become more environmentally conscious. Quark Expeditions’ ships never have more than
200 passengers on board, meaning they can go deeper and further into a destination than other ships. The company specialises in Antarctic and Arctic regions – whether you want to see wildlife and explore by helicopter, zodiac, kayak or bike.
Aurora Expeditions also caters for a small number of adventurous cruisers and prioritises size and manoeuvrability. Its ships have special Zodiac access points and activity platforms that allow for faster disembarkation from the ship for excursions like ski trekking. The ship’s compact size doesn’t mean compromising on comfort – 85 per cent of staterooms have their own balconies, there are modern lecture lounges that host fascinating talks and regionally sourced food is served.
/ Sustainability takes centre stage
Expedition cruise companies are at the forefront of sustainability – building ships that are powered with alternative fuels and batteries and finding energy-efficient solutions for the vessels.
For instance, Aurora Expeditions’ Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle both have shore side electricity, food waste digesters, and a special Ulstein X-BOW system that cuts
through the water more easily, reducing fuel consumption.
As part of the sustainability pledge, the cruise lines also offer eco-conscious shore excursions like science-based explorations, community engagement with the local population and clean-up initiatives.
Viking has a fantastic citizen science program that allows guests to take part in fieldwork with scientists via Zodiacs, special operations boats or submarine. Some of these trips have even led to the discovery of new wildlife.
/ Luxe listings
More luxury cruise lines are venturing into the adventure space with ships built to tackle thick ice floes and shallow reefs in five-star style.
Scenic, which was once known for its river cruise options, has built a series of Discovery Yachts with a Ice Class 1A super rating. This means the ships can easily
navigate through the thick icy waters of the Arctic and Antarctica.
Ponant’s icebreaking ship Le Commandant Charcot’s polar-class rating has made it the only passenger ship in the world to have visited both the Geographic North Pole and the most southerly point at the edge of Antarctica. And while these ships sail through the harshest conditions on the planet, the onboard offering of butlers, fine dining and sumptuous state rooms is a far cry from the Russian research vessels that were once the only options to see the most remote areas of the world.
Alaska, too, has become extremely popular with the top end of the market. Luxury line Crystal has a number of departures aboard Crystal Symphony
Partnering with its parent brand Abercrombie & Kent, the cruise line has next-level shore excursions that offer their guests unique experiences, such as bear-watching and ziplining.
Intrepid explorers
Clockwise, from above: Wildlife encounters in the Galapagos Islands; kayaking on a Scenic voyage; hiking Dundas Harbour in Arctic Canada.
Tokyo — Tokyo
23 NIGHTS FROM $16,450 PP
20 MAY 2026 ‑ 12 JUN 2026
CRYSTAL SYMPHONY
TO
Lisbon — Lisbon
18 NIGHTS FROM $15,280 PP 09 JUN 2026 ‑ 27 JUN 2026
CRYSTAL SERENITY
Vancouver — Seward (Alaska)
8 NIGHTS FROM $5,540 PP 24 JUL 2026 ‑ 01 AUG 2026
CRYSTAL SYMPHONY
A day in the life of an
EXPEDITION CAPTAIN
Life as a Captain on board a Ponant expedition ship in Antarctica is all about adapting to the challenges of weather and icy conditions. Teresa Ooi learns what it entails.
“There is no escape from it – there are always lots of briefings with the expedition leader to discuss the weather and icy conditions especially during the crossing of the Drake Passage,” says Captain David Marionneau.
“Safety is paramount in any expedition. Every day is different – nothing is routine. Whenever our team prepares for a shore landing, we always treat it as if it is our first time.
In Antarctica, when the ship spots whales on a feeding frenzy or the whales are breaching in the middle of the night, guests are woken up.
“They want to be told about it even at 3am – to watch the guests, many in their pyjamas, experience the sightings is such a great moment.’’
To make expeditions an enriching and educational experience, there are always special lectures held on board to explain to guests what the early explorers faced in Antarctica.
There are also talks on maritime history, wildlife and the weather, so that guests have a better understanding of the environment they are sailing in.
Most outdoor activities are completed before 6pm so that guests are able to have dinner by 7pm. Early nights are key to a successful expedition cruise.
“I try to mingle with guests during dinner, after which I spend some time catching up on my emails, which takes me until 10pm. For relaxation, I read a book but one book can last me a few months.
“Having a good rest every day is extremely important in my job – unfortunately, I have no time for hobbies.”
At the helm
Ponant’s Captain David Marionneau pilots a Zodiac.
“Antarctica is a hostile environment because the weather can change dramatically at any time. We have to adapt to the icy conditions to ensure that our guests are safe and to give them the best experience.”
To keep himself fit, Captain Marionneau spends 30 to 45 minutes a day at the gym on board the ship. He also uses this time to clear his head.
He makes sure he is at the marina to see guests board the Zodiacs for a shore landing and when they return to the ship.
“To see the joy and satisfaction on the faces of returning guests is so fulfilling. I also try to go on shore for about 15-20 minutes to stretch my legs, and share some tips and special moments with guests.”
Bad weather in Antarctica is part and parcel of any expedition. “If we go through bad weather, guests have to be prepared and made aware of their surroundings,” he says.
When the expedition is over and the ship returns back to Ushuaia in Argentina, Captain Marionneau has a clear priority. He makes it a point to go on a long hike – to stretch his sea legs.
“Safety is paramount. Every day is different – nothing is routine. Whenever our team prepares for a shore landing, we always treat it as if it is our first time.”
programs,
Destination IMMERSION
/ The Kimberley
The awe-inspiring, rugged and remote Kimberley is one of the most sought-after expedition cruise destinations in our region. Incredible rock formations, abundant wildlife, rich Aboriginal culture and stunning natural phenomena, such as the impressive Horizontal Falls, attract thousands of visitors each year.
Despite the cruise industry continuing to flourish in the region, ongoing oil and gas exploration has operators nervous. It is hoped that increased prioritisation of environmental conservation will prevent unmanaged development and limit the impact of infrastructure.
Cruise lines that go there: APT, Ponant, Silversea, Scenic, Coral Expeditions, Kimberley Quest, True North, Kimberley Expeditions, Eco Abrolhos Cruises, The Great Escape Charter Co, Ocean Dream Charters, Kimberley Pearl Charters, Odyssey Expeditions
/ Tasmania
Expedition cruises circumnavigate Tasmania in search of the island’s best coastal tracks, white-sand beaches, native wildlife and deep human history. Stops include Bruny Island for hikes through the eucalyptus trees and Maria Island for wildlife watching (you may even catch a glimpse of the notorious Tasmanian Devil).
See the striking beauty of Tasmania’s geology in the Freycinet Peninsula’s
Expedition cruise lines are reaching more remote destinations, giving guests an insight into the far corners of the world. Isabelle James finds out where you should go on your next expedition voyage.
orange-lichen covered boulders, before learning about the complex and tragic history of Port Arthur’s penal settlement. Start and finish in the dynamic city of Hobart, where you can taste fresh oysters and see celebrated art.
Cruise lines that go there: Aurora Expeditions, Coral Expeditions, On Board
/ Melanesia
Branching out from the popular South Pacific, expedition lines are now exploring areas of Melanesia that were once considered o -limits. Small ship experiences in the region are some of the most enriching on the planet, with amazing natural and cultural encounters. There has been an increase in local communities welcoming tourists, as sustainable tourism and respect for native customs and culture are prioritised to benefit the people.
Melanesia also boasts access to tropical reefs, stunning jungle terrain and even active volcanoes spewing lava and ash. War relics and wrecks throughout the northwest of the region, such as the beautiful Chuuk Lagoon and Milne Bay, make it a mecca for scuba divers.
Cruise lines that go there: Scenic, Heritage Expeditions, True North, Coral Expeditions, Ponant, Paul Gauguin Cruises
/ Alaska
between Anchorage and Vancouver. But most of these visitors will never experience the up-close beauty of an immersive shore excursion or a small ship exploration. Enjoy kayaking, salmon fishing, bear spotting and bird watching in this remote wilderness.
The Inside Passage is dotted with villages and towns like Petersburg, Ketchikan and Sitka, which o er a mind-boggling range of experiences. Like so many Arctic destinations, climate change is having an impact here and the mighty glaciers of Prince William Sound and elsewhere are receding fast, creating an unforgettable, if saddening, spectacle.
Cruise lines that go there: Crystal, Scenic, Ponant, Viking, Seabourn, Aurora Expeditions, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Silversea, American Cruise Lines
/ Galapagos Islands
Charles Darwin’s evolutionary playground is just a short flight from Ecuador and most visitors will spend about a week cruising among the many islands in this isolated archipelago. The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for their unique and vulnerable biodiversity. The large yellow land iguanas, delightful giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies are just some of the incredible wildlife that can be spotted on the islands.
Despite fears over the delicate ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands, ongoing conservation initiatives carefully monitor tourist numbers in an e ort to protect the islands’ flora and fauna.
Cruise lines that go there: Aqua Expeditions, Silversea, Celebrity Cruises, Avalon Waterways, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions, Royal Galapagos, Golden Galapagos Cruises
The relatively brief holiday window in Alaska brings cruisers by the thousands as the megaliners ply the fabled Inside Passage
/ Papua New Guinea
Despite often attracting adverse publicity, significant strides continue to be made in boosting Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector. Interest in the region is growing, aided by its one-of-a-kind cultural experience and lush landscape.
Explore the mighty Sepik River and see tribal dancers in their traditional dress in the legendary Trobriand Islands. Venture to the sublime and remote islands of the Bismarck Archipelago. This is trans–formational and experiential travel at its finest. Consider itineraries that cross into neighbouring Melanesia to extend and enhance your discoveries.
Cruise lines that go there: Ponant, Silversea, Scenic, Coral Expeditions, True North, Aqua Expeditions
/ The Arctic
Covering more than 14.5 million square kilometres, a trip to the Arctic can be as simple as a cruise to Iceland or Greenland, or as adventurous as a nuclear icebreaker to the North Pole itself. With January 2025 being the warmest January on record in the Arctic, ongoing alarm about climate change’s impact on the region continues to create urgency in those who wish to visit it. Glaciers are calving at unprecedented rates and ice packs continue to thin with warmer sea temperatures.
Apart from the North Pole, the historic North-West Passage that runs across the top of Canada from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean is becoming an increasingly accessible adventure. The opportunity to see the great polar bear in its diminishing natural environment is not one to miss.
“The Amazon is a biodiversity smorgasbord for naturalists and birdwatchers.”
/ The Amazon
This huge river can accommodate ships many hundreds of miles upstream. See the disappearing Amazon Basin jungles and their delicate yet bountiful ecosystem. Over 1800 bird, 250 mammal and 1500 fish species make the vast 6.2-million-squarekilometre basin a biodiversity smorgasbord for naturalists and birdwatchers. A range of remote river lodges in Ecuador, Peru and Brazil are a perfect add-on to any cruising itinerary and introduce an opportunity to visit remote indigenous communities. Cruise lines that go there: Crystal, Uniworld, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Seabourn, Lindblad Expeditions, Zafiro Cruise, Anakonda Amazon Cruises, La Perla Amazon Cruise
/ Antarctica
This iconic wilderness at the end of the Earth is the epitome of the adventure destination. Antarctica is on the radar of all serious expedition cruisers, with the opportunity it brings to sail ‘off the map’ to areas discovered only 100 years ago. Expeditions to Antarctica take several forms. The simplest are short itineraries of perhaps a week to 10 days to the Antarctic Peninsula from Ushuaia at the very bottom of South America. More ambitious journeys will be by icebreaker, travelling far below the Antarctic Circle to places like McMurdo Sound and Commonwealth Bay. The remote reaches of East Antarctica are also opening up to expedition cruises, with a handful of voyages departing from either Tasmania or New Zealand. Unique experiences include wildlife watching,
kayaking in icy waters, visiting scientific stations and research expeditions.
If Antarctica is the hard-edged, hero’s voyage then Tahiti is the soft, indulgent bon-bon of adventure cruising. It’s a haven for relaxation, romance and hedonism, sprinkled with scuba-diving, hiking, kayaking and soaking on white sand beaches. Tahiti is the largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. Along with famed Bora Bora, it soaks up the majority of the tourism trade. Look for itineraries to the Marquesas or Tuamotu Islands for a bit of mystical flair, or head to Moorea to explore the Polynesian marae. Cruise lines that go there: Silversea, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Ponant, Seabourn, Lindblad Expeditions, Windstar Cruises, Scenic, Aranui, Variety Cruises
/ New Zealand
The brilliant scenery and picturesque harbours of New Zealand attract adventure cruise companies with ambitious itineraries, including semi-circumnavigations, Milford and Doubtful sounds, and the Bay of Islands. Big ships revel in the country’s dramatic landscapes; however, enriching shore excursions offer amazing and up-close experiences of the country’s wildlife, including the world’s smallest dolphin in Akaroa, the Hector’s dolphin, and the famous kiwi bird. Further afield, the Sub-Antarctic Islands are within easy reach of the South Island. Cruise lines that go there: Aurora Expeditions, Scenic, Ponant, Viking, Crystal, Coral Expeditions, Heritage Expeditions
THE MUSHER GUIDING HIS DOGS
THE ICY AIR WHIPPING MY FACE THE TIMELESS MAGIC OF THE ARCTIC THE THRILL OF THE FIRST EXPLORERS
Ice is nice
As a young kid, holidays in cold places didn’t factor in my world. Life was a beach. However, when I was 11, a large poster covered in penguins was delivered with our daily newspaper and immediately piqued my curiosity – where was this magical photo taken, and how could I get there?
Back then, a holiday to the frozen continent was about as likely as a family picnic on the moon, but that poster planted a seed. And as it turns out, I wasn’t alone. Nowadays more travellers than ever are swapping their sandals for gumboots as the demand for expedition cruising, especially to the polar regions, soars.
“Cruising to cold-climate destinations is so much more accessible than in the past, and their popularity has really grown in response. Areas like Alaska and Norway have long been popular cruise destinations, but now we see increasing demand for other spectacular regions like Antarctica, Greenland, Iceland and Svalbard,” says Joel Katz, Managing Director Australasia for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
/ Animal attraction
Wildlife viewing is a magnet for travellers keen to give their toe-warmers a workout. Several decades after the penguin poster faded on my bedroom wall, I had my happy feet moment amid a cacophony of about 250,000 King penguins humming, honking, whistling, humming,
whirring and squawking at Fortuna Bay on South Georgia, a Subantarctic Island with one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on the planet. I was hooked.
Cold comforts
Clockwise, from main: Icebergs in Greenland; expedition vessels are well-equipped for extreme conditions; a bearded seal lazes in the sun.
As the breeding ground for king, Adélie, gentoo, chinstrap, emperor and rockhopper, penguins are the darlings of the southern waters and encounters on an expedition cruise are plentiful and treasured. Spoilt for choice, the passing parade of creatures also includes orca, leopard seals, humpback whales, crabeater and Weddell seals, and massive elephant seals in addition to superb seabirds such as albatross, gulls, terns and petrels.
At the other end of the world, the Arctic is home to a greater variety of species, however they tend to be more elusive. Even a glimpse of the region’s apex predator (aka the polar bear), is enough to send the nerve endings into a spin. And then there’s bearded seals with their coiffed curly whiskers, puppy-like harp seals, narwhals (known as the unicorns of the sea for their single pointy tusk), Arctic foxes, reindeer, and gregarious walrus who huddle up together along shorelines often poking each other with their tusks.
Lying in the ‘warmer’ subarctic zone, easily accessed by plane and with less likelihood of encountering rough water, Alaska is the perfect place for a cold climate cruise newbie. Twice the size of Texas, and with more wildlife than people, it’s home to about 100,000 black
Cold-climate cruising is hotting up, says Jocelyn Pride.
bears, 35,000 brown bears, and between 175,000 and 200,000 moose, in addition to wolves, caribou, sea otters, seals, Dall sheep and nine species of whales that gorge themselves silly on the nutrient-rich waters during the summer months, before migrating south to breed in warmer waters. A popular (and beautiful) Alaskan combo is to cruise the Inside Passage and add a few landlubber days in Denali National Park.
/ Ship mates
The vibe on expedition-style cruising is inclusive and generates a ‘we’re all in this together’ feeling. From solos to multi-generational, couples, friendship groups, clubs – a love of nature is the commonality. Friendships made on expeditions often extend way beyond the waters sailed, and loyalty to a particular company is strong. There’s a saying that you can see it in a person’s eyes if they’ve been to a polar region and that certainly rings true. To be pared back and witness the circle of life in its rawest form is both humbling and uplifting.
/ Cultural connections
The Arctic and Antarctica are geographically poles apart, however both have a deep history in polar exploration when the race was on to be the first to reach the north and south pole during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
“There’s a saying that you can see it in a person’s eyes if they’ve been to a polar region and that certainly rings true.”
Established in 1961, the Antarctic Treaty ensures the continent is used only for scientific and peaceful purposes. No-one lives there permanently, and no evidence of an Indigenous population ever existing has been discovered. In contrast, approximately 10 per cent of the four million people across the eight countries within the Arctic Circle belong to Indigenous groups such as Sami, Yupik, Inuit and Inupiat dating back thousands of years. With an international airport recently opening in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, and another two airports in other parts of the country planned to open within the next couple of years, exploring this magnificent country is getting a whole lot easier.
A thousand years in the making and rich in legends and sagas, Iceland is a go-to for expedition cruising and, like other Arctic countries, a brilliant place to marvel at the phenomenal aurora borealis.
/ Pack right
Cruise companies tend to put out packing lists for specific itineraries. No skimming – read and act on every word. If the company you’re travelling with supplies or hires out the outer layer and rubber boots, lucky you. It saves a lot of angst, not to mention luggage space. Expedition cruises (unless specifically stated) are a casual affair when it comes to onboard dress codes. For off-ship activities, layers are the key. Modern fabrics are scientifically researched to keep you toasty warm in cold climates. The layer against your skin is the most important as it manages sweat. It’s worth investing in a couple of top-quality base layers (long and short sleeved) and a couple of pairs of long johns made of merino wool because they wick away moisture and don’t retain body odour. Mid layers such as a polar fleece or light sweater on the top and track-type pants that are easy to bend in work as insulation, and the outer layer protects against snow and wind. If you have to buy your own, your outer layers (jacket and overpants) must be completely waterproof, and you’ll need waterproof gloves (or mittens), neck gaiter, sunglasses, goggles, and the warmest and most comfy socks you can find.
Hot tips
• Be ready
Imagine the captain announces a pod of orcas swimming towards the ship, and you can’t find your shoes, gloves, camera, etc? Store essentials in a specific spot, so you can grab and go without missing a trick.
• Be willing At some point even a seasoned traveller is likely to be challenged on an expedition cruise, however it’s also important to know your limits. Kindness goes a long way – offering someone a hand, sharing a story, helping with gear or just giving a thumbs up can often flip a ‘can’t do’ into a ‘can do’.
• Be flexible
There are no guarantees in nature, and safety always comes first. Maybe you won’t see a polar bear in the Arctic or a leopard seal in Antarctica, but trust the expedition team to work within elements of the environment to make the best of every single minute. Expect the unexpected and you won’t be disappointed.
• Be curious
Scientists conducting research are often on board as guides and presenters, and many companies also run citizen-science projects. Learning from the experts and engaging in projects such as counting birds, water-sample testing, shore clean-ups and micro-plastic studies, creates ongoing meaning to your expedition in addition to helping scientists solve problems.
• Be an ambassador
When Lars-Eric Lindblad led the first citizen voyage to Antarctica in 1966, he hoped experiencing a place first-hand would help people understand the importance of protecting vulnerable places. Now, more than ever, Lindblad’s premise is at the core of life on Earth.
Wonders of the wild Clockwise, from above left: One of Svalbard’s 3000 polar bears; Alpenglow, Denali National Park; penguins in Fortuna Bay, South Georgia.
Expedition Cruising in East Antarctica & the Ross Sea
Imagine soaring above the horizon by helicopter^to explore new frontiers in East Antarctica.
From the state-of-the-art design of Scenic Eclipse, to an expert polar Discovery Team, world-class culinary and wellness experiences, we will take you further than ever before.
McMurdo Dry Valley Helicopter Experience
explorer’s huts from Mawson, to Scott & Shackelton
penguins, Ross seals and orcas
Feeling HOT, HOT, HOT
Michael Turtle finds his favourite hot, remote destinations.
Standing in a small clearing, the first rays of the day’s light breaking through the jungle canopy, I’m staring intently into the trees, trying to find the source of the sound.
“Ark, ark, ark, ooh-ooh-oo-oo-ahh,” comes the bird call, a blend of a squawk and a crow.
I hear it again, this time able to locate the source perching on a branch – a red bird of paradise with the rich crimson feathers and long curled tail of a male. Here on the islands of Indonesia’s Raja Ampat is the only place in the world where you’ll find this exotic species... and I feel like it’s putting on its dawn courtship display just for me.
On the tip of West Papua, Raja Ampat has traditionally been a di cult place to reach, but now a variety of fresh expedition cruises are opening up this archipelago of 1500 islands and its rich biodiversity. And it’s just one of many warm-weather destinations that have new cruise itineraries, with expedition ships traditionally associated with the poles now heading towards remote parts of tropics, taking their Zodiacs to beaches and villages rather than glaciers and penguins.
Forget the fear of an Antarctic ice plunge. Trust me when I say you’ll want to be jumping straight into the clear warm water of Indonesia, and the gorgeous islands, atolls and archipelagos across the South Pacific.
Travelling on the 120-passenger Coral Adventurer, for instance, you can swim at deserted beaches in Micronesia and snorkel on colourful reefs in Palau. But, perhaps even more rewarding, the small ship allows visits to tiny communities across the islands of Melanesia, where local chiefs and groups of children introduce their traditional way of life (hint: a lot of it involves the palm trees!).
Heritage Expeditions, renowned for reaching some of the most remote parts of the Southern Ocean, has
“Even though it may feel like a summer holiday, there’s still always a sense of discovery and exploration.”
Who this is for
• Divers and snorkellers will appreciate the remote beaches and reefs that an expedition ship can reach, while meeting local communities or exploring ancient heritage is perfect for culture-seekers. Hot-weather cruises still have personalised service and expert guides like at the poles, but you may find them much more comfortable if you prefer bikinis to beanies.
Sunshine days Clockwise, from left: Hanging out with the sloths of Costa Rica; paddleboard in crystal clear waters; snorkel with jellyfish in Indonesia.
turned its gaze northwards and will this year be the first expedition cruise to ever visit Polillo Island in the Philippines, where dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls and a thriving fishing industry await. A Ponant cruise through the waters of Japan takes you on Zodiacs into small island villages and to the dramatic cli s o the coast of Kyushu. In a country that’s more than just Tokyo’s skyscrapers and Kyoto’s temples, these regions are a fascinating insight into traditional Japanese culture.
Who needs excess luggage on a warm-weather cruise when a T-shirt and shorts are all the equipment you need for an adventure? Yet, even though it may feel like a summer holiday, there’s still always a sense of discovery and exploration – even in some of the busiest tourist hotspots.
On Santorini recently, I felt like the Greek island’s famous white walls were hidden behind walls of visitors, the iconic blue domes floating above the shu ing tour groups. It’s why Lindblad Expeditions uses the 102-passenger National Geographic Orion to also take guests to quieter Aegean islands the large ships avoid. Visit the colourful medieval villages on Chios, the picturesque windmills of Leros and the Christian monuments of Patmos. And even in busier areas, you can get away from the crowds on a kayak, in a cooking class, or hiking across an uninhabited islet.
OCulture club
From top: Rowing through Japan’s Takachiho Gorge; the winding alleyways of Zanzibar; traditional dance in the Kimberley.
Best destination
• Despite incredible experiences around the world, I think it’s hard to beat Australia’s Kimberley region, where the vibrant ochre colours of the pindan radiate against the turquoise water. The secluded beaches, reefs and dramatic canyons are the perfect backdrop for the ancient rock art and rich cultural heritage.
ften a highlight of an expedition cruise is the wildlife. You know my least favourite, though? The white-faced capuchin monkeys in Costa Rica. They just look mean, with scowling expressions, thin lips in a sneer, beady eyes staring intensely. But, when you’re in a country with six per cent of the world’s biodiversity, not every animal is going to be cute!
Thankfully, from Manuel Antonio National Park, where I bravely scowled back at the monkeys, Aurora Expedition’s Costa Rica trip takes you through a series of parks and refuges where you can see sloths, toucans and tapirs, maybe even pumas and ocelots.
Of course, the Galapagos Islands to the south of Costa Rica are famous for their wildlife experiences, but head to the north and you’ll find exceptional trips under the bright blue skies of Mexico’s Sea of Cortez. One day you might have the privilege of seeing grey whales up close in birthing lagoons, the next you might land on shore to spot pelicans and blue-footed boobies. With hikes among towering cacti and through
What to pack
• The weather may be warm, but you’ll still want to explore, so light breathable clothing made from cotton or linen is a good idea, along with plenty of sun protection.
• Swimwear may not just be for the pool, so bring something sensible for reefs and lagoons, like a UV-resistant shirt. Thongs and sandals are nice on deck and the sand, but some solid trainers for hikes will also come in handy.
• I always put a small daypack in my luggage that’s different to the bag I use for things like passports, tablets and toiletries. That way I can easily carry a refillable water bottle, camera and towel without emptying my main daypack (and potentially losing things).
• While snorkelling equipment is probably provided, a pair of goggles can be handy for quick swims, and I also like to have a GoPro to capture everything I see underwater. Insect repellent and lip balm are also worth having, while a light rain jacket is normally enough for storms.
striking desert canyons, this is definitely not your typical Mexican cruise.
Speaking of not typical, I still remember the moment a seal jumped into our boat in Walvis Bay in Namibia. It came just after a pelican had been perched on a railing at the back, hoping we were one of the fishermen that would toss scraps into the water (we were not). The highlight here, though, were the dolphins that glide through the clear water around the boat, peeling off the sides, jumping in the air. It was a nice reminder not all African safaris are on land.
Remember also, not all African trips are safaris. Abercrombie & Kent is running a special expedition cruise that includes an immersion in Zanzibar’s Stone Town, a historic trading post where you’ll walk among limestone houses with carved wooden doors to visit markets bursting with spices and learn about its dark history as one of the world’s last open slave markets (closed only in 1873). The next day, about 300 kilometres away, the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani transport you back to a medieval merchant city where Swahili sultans once controlled the flow of gold, silver, pearls and perfumes.
It’s nice sometimes to swap layers of clothing for layers of history, to cruise warm waters well-trod by megaships in a small vessel instead, and to have all the luxuries of a boutique cruise even in some of the most isolated parts of the globe. So, kick off the shoes, slip on a hat and let your expedition guides show you what’s hot.
Exploring the POLAR WILDERNESS
Quark Expeditions’ polar-obsessed team helps guests embrace the expeditionary spirit on voyages to Antarctica.
/ Unforge able Polar Moments
Your Zodiac driver shuts o the engine and points to an expanse of water 30 metres o the starboard side of the small craft. You watch through binoculars as bubbles slowly form on the surface – then, suddenly, a massive humpback whale breaches the surface. The next day your kayak leader guides you and six other paddlers past an ice floe – atop which sits a predatory leopard seal, eyeing a thousandstrong rookery of Adélie penguins on a distant shore. (In the icy wilderness of Antarctica, safety always lies in numbers.)
On the second-last day of your expedition, you’re soaring over the open seas of Antarctica in a twin-engine helicopter when you spot the most stunning tabular iceberg the size of six football fields.
/ Polar-Obsessed Team of Experts
The best moments of a polar voyage are unplanned. They’re your reward for embracing the expeditionary spirit, for allowing nature, weather and wildlife to determine your voyage.
Of course, it’s not all up to happenstance. As polar pioneers, Quark Expeditions is the global leader in polar exploration. The
polar-obsessed team have focused exclusively on Antarctic and Arctic adventures since 1991. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, Quark Expeditions is constantly innovating, exploring seldomvisited destinations, and forever creating new, one-of-a-kind itineraries and o -ship excursions, including helicopter adventures, hiking, kayaking and camping.
/ Innovation Rules
The commitment to innovation is evident in Quark Expeditions’ Antarctic 2025/2026 season, which features the brand-new 12-day Antarctica by Helicopter: Icebergs, Mountains and Remote Lands voyage.
This cutting-edge itinerary explores the interior of the Seventh Continent, as well as Erebus and Terror Gulf, Antarctic Sound, and the great Weddell Sea. Bonus: Every guest enjoys one heli-landing and two heli-flightseeing excursions – all included in the cost of the trip.
The upcoming Antarctic season also features the 18-day Snow Hill to the Peninsula: Emperor Penguins and the 7th Continent, as well as two time-saving Antarctic Express itineraries, which allow guests to fly one way across the Drake Passage and cruise the other.
The equally innovative Arctic 2025 season showcases the brand-new 18-day Northwest Passage to Newfoundland: Glaciers, Mountains and Wildlife, an exciting 2,500-nautical mile journey down the east coast of Ba n Island to Newfoundland and Labrador, with a stop in the French islands of Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
Create polar memories to last a lifetime.
Polar
perfection
Clockwise, from main: A seal lounges atop the ice; guests join a heli-hiking expedition; Emperor penguin rookery at Snow Hill.
/ Book Now: Triple Bonus Offer
Quark Expeditions’ exclusive limited time o er, available on select Antarctic 2025/2026 voyages and all Arctic 2025 voyages, includes:
• AUD $2,350 Flight Credit (to cover your flight to the gateway city)
• Free Charter Flight and Hotel Package (a charter flight to the ship with fellow passengers following a hotel night in a vibrant gateway city)
• Free Priority Pass™ (two visits per passenger to exclusive airport lounges where you’ll enjoy food, drinks, spa treatments, sleeping pods and more).
That’s a value of AUD $5,500 on top of any in-market discounts.
