An expedition cruise offers a unique opportunity to see the world in all its untouched glory. Travellers of different backgrounds, interests and motivations are drawn to the allure of remote destinations and one-of-a-kind experiences. Some of the experiences can be exhilarating, like the famous Polar Plunge. From photographers capturing breathtaking landscapes to bucket-listers fulfilling lifelong dreams, expedition cruises cater to a wide array of passions and interests.

This article looks at who suits an expedition cruise, and who you’ll meet on board if you do choose it’s right for you.

Photographers: Capturing nature's masterpieces

Avid photographers enjoy expedition cruises because they yearn for that opportunity to capture that once in a lifetime shot. Expedition cruises travel to remote destinations such as Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands and the far-flung reaches of Greenland. You wouldn’t be able to travel to these destinations on a normal holiday… even less able to snap stunning photographs of them. 

Whether professionals seeking to enhance their portfolios or amateurs looking to gain new skills, expedition cruises always offer a wealth of stunning backdrops. Breathtaking sunsets, rare wildlife and mesmerising natural phenomena are ten-a-penny when expedition cruising. 

Tip: Most expedition cruise lines will feature a professional on board photographer to catch stunning snaps and help amateur cruisers find their focus. Some cruise lines, such as AE Expeditions even offer photography workshops to cruisers. Read our exclusive AE Expeditions guide to find out more.

Nature Enthusiasts: Seeking intimate encounters with the wild

Expedition cruises are most-definitely for the nature-lovers amongst us. They’re designed to provide up-close-and-personal encounters with our world’s most mythical creatures. Expedition cruisers are treated to the chance to witness incredible biodiversity, from the diverse marine life beneath the ocean's surface to the remote and untouched landscapes found on remote islands. 

• Spot roaming polar bears from your ship in the Arctic
• Go whale-watching from a Zodiac in the Antarctic Ocean
• Land next to and play with puffins on the shores of the British Isles
• Encounter fearsome Komodo dragons on Komodo Island in Indonesia

With knowledgeable naturalist guides on board providing insight and lectures into the wildlife around them, travellers gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of our planet's ecosystems.

Thrill-Seekers: Chasing the adrenaline rush

Expedition cruises cater to adventure enthusiasts who look to take part in once-in-a-lifetime activities and excursions. Expedition cruises aren’t built for those who are unsteady on their feet. They’re designed for thrill-seekers.

Expedition excursions range from scuba diving alongside majestic marine creatures, zodiac rides through icy fjords and up to calving glaciers; ice-camping, multi-day trekking, kayaking, birdwatching and so much more. These voyages become an avenue for conquering fears, challenging oneself physically and mentally, and ultimately, creating lifelong memories of exhilarating adventures.

Fancy following in the footsteps of Ernie Shackleton on a three-day trek across the Antarctic with AE Expeditions? How about ice camping in the remote Greenland wilderness with Ponant?

Tip: Each luxury expedition cruise line features a different choice of excursion. You’ll have to give our experienced cruise connoisseurs a call on 0161 513 8200 to discover more about expedition activities from different cruise lines.

Still, you don’t have to be a thrill-seeker to enjoy expedition cruising. A journey to the most remote corners of the world no longer requires the strength of body or strength of mind as before. Luxury expedition ships feature all the comforts you’re used to on luxury ocean cruise ships: Fine dining, spa treatments, swimming pools (heated) and the rest.

Curious Learners: Seeking knowledge and cultural immersion

Above all, expedition cruises are designed to feed the minds of curious learners, immersing them in faraway cultures that they wouldn’t be able to experience otherwise. Passengers are passionate about understanding the historical, cultural and scientific significance of the destinations they visit.

Participate in lectures and workshops conducted by experts, expanding your understanding of the world around you. Engage with local communities, learn from indigenous cultures and explore historical sites. Take part in citizen science experience with real-life scientists and naturalists to help the conservation of these unique areas.

All in all, expedition cruises are for those who want to see what our wonderful world has to offer. Give our experienced team a ring on to speak to them about their expedition cruise experiences, and start talking through your own experience. You won’t regret it.

Read our unique AE Expeditions guide or our unique Hurtigruten Expeditions guide !

If you want to experience expedition luxury, call a dedicated Panache Cruises connoisseur on 0161 513 8200.