At Expedition Trips, we hear it all the time:
“We’re not cruisers.”
And we get it.
For many travelers, the word cruise conjures images of crowded buffets, scheduled entertainment, and massive ships hopping from one tourist port to another. It’s no wonder that people who crave authenticity, nature, and exploration feel hesitant.
But what many don’t realize is that an expedition cruise is something else entirely—a journey rooted in adventure, flexibility, and immersion.
We often hear from first-time expedition travelers that they’re unsure whether to move forward with a trip like this. Their hesitation? It’s rarely about the financial commitment or timing. More often, it’s that they’re not sure they even like cruises.
But here’s the thing: you can’t compare a traditional cruise to an expedition.
What Is an Expedition Cruise, Really?
An expedition cruise isn’t about the ship—it’s about where the ship can take you.
These small, purpose-built vessels act as floating basecamps, designed to access remote regions like the Antarctic Peninsula, Svalbard’s icy fjords, or the Galápagos Islands. Once on location, it’s all about getting off the ship: stepping into Zodiacs to cruise beside glaciers, hiking to scenic viewpoints, kayaking near penguin colonies, or snorkeling alongside sea lions.
On a traditional cruise, you’re often moving from port to port with pre-scheduled excursions and limited interaction with the environment. On an expedition, nature sets the agenda. Plans are flexible by design, allowing the captain and expedition leader to make real-time decisions based on weather, wildlife sightings, or ice conditions.
You’re Not a Cruiser? Perfect.
If you’ve ever said, “I’m not a cruise person,” you might be the perfect expedition traveler.
Expedition cruises attract curious, active people. These are travelers who value small groups, meaningful conversation, and rare wildlife encounters more than casinos or cabaret shows. The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and unpretentious. You won’t find formal nights or dress codes—just waterproof boots, fleece jackets, and passionate naturalists offering fascinating insights.
Of course, that doesn’t mean comfort is compromised—quite the opposite. The majority of expedition ships we work with are tailored to discerning travelers, combining a spirit of exploration with modern luxury. Expect:
- Thoughtfully designed suites that feel like boutique hotel rooms
- Wellness amenities like spas, saunas, gyms, and yoga classes
- Food and beverage programs that celebrate sustainability and regional ingredients
- Intimate lounges with panoramic views and quiet corners for reflection
And most importantly, you’ll find fellow explorers who care deeply about the destinations they visit and seek to connect with the natural world in a meaningful way.
Let Experience Be Your Guide
We’re not here to talk anyone into a trip. But we are here to help people make informed decisions—especially when it comes to once-in-a-lifetime destinations like Antarctica.
The truth is, expedition cruises are not traditional cruises. They’re designed for the non-cruiser: the explorer, the lifelong learner, the traveler who wants more than just a vacation.
So if you’ve been saying, “I’m not a cruiser,” maybe it’s time to redefine what cruising can be.
Because some places—like Antarctica—can’t be reached any other way.
As Ashton Palmer, our founder, often says:
“In 30 years, I’ve never had anyone come back and regret going to Antarctica—even though 95% of our travelers say they’re not cruisers.”
