Adventure cruises offer a dynamic way to explore the world’s most stunning and remote destinations. For some, it’s a peaceful escape—lounging on deck, enjoying a cocktail, and soaking in the scenery. For others, it’s an active adventure, engaging with the natural world through activities like kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling. The allure of these cruises lies in their ability to provide unique, immersive experiences, far from typical tourist paths.
Travelers today crave new experiences and authentic cultural encounters. They seek places that remain largely untouched by modern development. Adventure cruises cater to these desires, offering itineraries that change with the weather, bringing a sense of unpredictability and excitement.
Despite the adventurous spirit, comfort is not sacrificed. Many of these cruises offer luxurious amenities like gourmet dining, hot tubs, and spacious suites to relax in after a day full of activities.
Destinations such as Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, and the Arctic Circle are popular among adventure cruises. These trips often include guided excursions that allow travelers to explore diverse ecosystems, from dense tropical forests to icy polar landscapes. Educational programs onboard enhance the experience, providing insights into the local wildlife and environment.
The variety of options ensures that both novices and seasoned adventurers can find an itinerary that excites and challenges them, making every journey a memorable exploration.
Adventure Cruises
UnCruise Adventures – Belize Cruise: Wonders, Rivers, Reefs, and Mayan Culture
UnCruise Adventures – Belize Cruise: Wonders, Rivers, Reefs, and Mayan Culture
Explore the wonders of Belize with UnCruise Adventures on a journey through rivers, reefs, and Mayan culture. This seven-night cruise offers a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences.
Start your adventure in Belize City, where you’ll board your ship and set sail for the first destination. The itinerary includes a visit to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, kayak through mangroves, and explore the diverse marine life.
The cruise takes you to the Mayan ruins of Lamanai, nestled in the jungle along the New River. A guided tour reveals the history and significance of this ancient site. In addition, explore the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
Venture into the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its jaguar population. Hike through the rainforest, swim in waterfalls, and learn about the conservation efforts in the area. The cruise also includes a visit to the southern barrier reef, where you can snorkel and dive among vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish.
Throughout the journey, enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and the expertise of naturalist guides. This cruise offers an immersive experience in the natural and cultural wonders of Belize, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Viking Expeditions – Undiscovered Great Lakes: Thunder Bay to Milwaukee Expedition Cruise
Viking Expeditions – Undiscovered Great Lakes: Thunder Bay to Milwaukee Expedition Cruise
Viking Expeditions’ Undiscovered Great Lakes cruise is an 8-day journey from Thunder Bay, Ontario to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This expedition offers a unique exploration of the Great Lakes, focusing on their natural beauty and historical significance.
The adventure begins in Thunder Bay, where guests can hike through boreal forests and learn about Anishinaabe First Nations heritage. The itinerary includes stops at Silver Islet and McGarvey Shoal, where guests can kayak over submerged silver mines and explore picturesque islands and channels. In Duluth, Minnesota, passengers can ride a vintage train, visit the Great Lakes Aquarium, or stroll along the Downtown Waterfront.
One of the highlights is the transit through the Soo Locks, a crucial navigation point between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. The journey continues to Mackinac Island, a car-free island known for its historic charm and natural beauty. Guests can explore the island by carriage, bicycle, or on foot. The cruise concludes in Milwaukee, where travelers can discover the city’s revitalized waterfront and cultural attractions.
Adventures by Disney – Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise
Adventures by Disney – Galápagos Islands Expedition Cruise
Explore the Galápagos Islands, one of the most unique and biodiverse regions on the planet, with Adventures by Disney. This nine-day cruise starts in Quito, Ecuador, where you’ll spend a night before flying to the Galápagos. Upon arrival, board the Galápagos Legend, your home for the next week.
Your journey begins on Baltra Island, with an immediate immersion into the rich wildlife and striking landscapes. Snorkeling in the clear waters around North Seymour Island reveals vibrant marine life, while hikes with naturalists provide insights into the unique ecosystems. Each island visited offers a new adventure, from hiking up the volcanic landscape of Bartolomé Island to snorkeling alongside playful sea lions and curious penguins.
San Cristóbal Island provides opportunities to kayak and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, while Española Island, the oldest in the archipelago, showcases fearless mockingbirds and stunning beaches. The guided tours offer close encounters with endemic species like the blue-footed booby and the giant tortoise.
The ship itself provides comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and engaging evening activities such as stargazing and educational presentations.
Hurtigruten – Circumnavigating Svalbard: The Ultimate Expedition
Hurtigruten – Circumnavigating Svalbard: The Ultimate Expedition
Embark on the ultimate Arctic adventure with Hurtigruten’s Circumnavigating Svalbard expedition. This 12-day journey starts in Oslo, where you’ll fly to Longyearbyen, the world’s northernmost town. Begin your exploration with a day to discover this unique town before setting sail on the state-of-the-art expedition ship, MS Fram or MS Spitsbergen.
Your journey aims to cross the 80th parallel north, taking you into the heart of the Arctic wilderness. Witness stunning nature reserves, home to seabirds like Brünnich’s guillemots and kittiwakes. Keep an eye out for reindeer and the elusive polar bear on land, while at sea, you might spot whales and seals. The fjords of Hornsund and Isfjord offer breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into the history of Arctic whalers and explorers.
The expedition includes daily landings with small boats (RIBs) and guided activities by an expert Expedition Team. Enjoy in-depth lectures, photography tips, and use of the Science Center onboard. The ship also features amenities like hot tubs, a sauna, and a gym. This journey combines adventure with education, providing an unforgettable experience in one of the most remote areas on Earth.
Adventures by Disney – Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise
Adventures by Disney – Antarctica and Patagonia Expedition Cruise
This cruise offers an unparalleled adventure to the remote and pristine landscapes of Antarctica and Patagonia. Begin your journey in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the vibrant city life sets the tone for the adventure ahead. From Buenos Aires, you will fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, known as the “End of the World.” Here, you’ll embark on your cruise ship, ready to explore the stunning and icy wilderness.
Daily Zodiac excursions will take you close to massive icebergs and diverse wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. Each day presents new opportunities for landings and wildlife spotting, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder.
Highlights include exploring the Drake Passage, known for its challenging waters, and stepping onto the Antarctic Peninsula, where few have ventured. Despite the remote locations, luxury is not compromised. Return to the ship each evening for gourmet meals, comfortable accommodations, and even a heated pool.
In Patagonia, you will visit the Harberton Settlement, experiencing its rich history and natural beauty. The lush forests, stunning fjords, and towering mountains of this region offer breathtaking views and exciting hiking opportunities. This expedition is perfect for those who seek adventure and enjoy nature in its most untouched form.
UnCruise Adventures – Columbia River Cruise: Rivers of Adventure and Wine
UnCruise Adventures – Columbia River Cruise: Rivers of Adventure and Wine
Join UnCruise Adventures for an exciting Columbia River Cruise, blending adventure with wine tasting. This seven-night cruise starts and ends in Portland, Oregon, and offers a mix of outdoor activities and culinary delights.
Begin your adventure in Portland, where you can explore the city before boarding the Wilderness Legacy. The journey takes you to Astoria and Fort Clatsop, where you can hike trails and learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The cruise then navigates the Columbia River Gorge, offering breathtaking views and a private tour of the Bonneville Dam.
Enjoy a guided hike to Multnomah Falls and a wine tasting in Hood River Valley. In Walla Walla, Washington, tour local wineries and taste culinary delights at historic venues. The cruise also includes a visit to Palouse Falls State Park, where you can hike and admire the stunning waterfall. Activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and bird watching add to the adventure.
In The Dalles, choose between a whitewater rafting adventure on the Deschutes River or winery tours. The cruise ends with a farewell dinner as you sail back through the Columbia River Gorge. This itinerary is perfect for those who love both adventure and fine wine.
Lindblad and National Geographic – Wild Peru Escape: Amazon and Machu Picchu
Lindblad and National Geographic – Wild Peru Escape: Amazon and Machu Picchu
Experience the best of Peru with this expedition that combines the wonders of the Amazon and the iconic Machu Picchu. Starting in Lima, you will fly to Cusco, the heart of the Inca Empire, and then travel to the Sacred Valley. From here, a scenic train ride takes you to Machu Picchu, where you’ll spend a full day exploring the ancient ruins with expert guides, learning about the rich history and cultural significance of this World Heritage site.
After exploring the highlands, the adventure continues in the Amazon. Fly to Iquitos and board the Delfin II, a comfortable riverboat designed for exploring the Amazon’s remote tributaries. Over the next five days, you’ll journey through the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, a vast area of flooded forest teeming with wildlife. Daily excursions on skiffs and kayaks allow for close encounters with pink dolphins, monk saki monkeys, and a myriad of bird species.
The cruise also includes visits to local communities, providing a glimpse into the lives of the people who call the Amazon home. Naturalists on board offer insights into the rainforest’s ecology, making this not just an adventure but an educational experience as well.
Abercrombie & Kent – The Northwest Passage: From Greenland to the Bering Sea
Abercrombie & Kent – The Northwest Passage: From Greenland to the Bering Sea
Abercrombie & Kent’s expedition from Greenland to the Bering Sea is a remarkable journey through one of the world’s most remote regions. This 24-day adventure begins in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, where guests board the luxurious ‘L’Austral’ ship. The voyage starts with navigating the icy waters of the Davis Strait and exploring the spectacular fjords of Greenland.
Passengers will visit historical sites such as the Inuit hunting grounds of Nipisat Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey continues to Canada’s Arctic Archipelago, including stops at Beechey Island, renowned for its connection to the ill-fated Franklin Expedition. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in sightings of polar bears, walruses, and beluga whales, especially around Coningham Bay and the Smoking Hills.
The expedition offers an array of activities including Zodiac excursions, guided hikes, and insightful lectures by onboard experts. The trip culminates as the ship navigates through the Bering Strait, reaching the remote town of Nome, Alaska. This adventure is perfect for those seeking to experience the raw beauty and isolation of the Arctic while enjoying the comfort and luxury of Abercrombie & Kent’s renowned service.
Adventure Canada – Newfoundland Circumnavigation
Adventure Canada – Newfoundland Circumnavigation
Adventure Canada’s Newfoundland Circumnavigation is a 12-day cruise that takes you around the rugged coastline of Newfoundland. The journey starts and ends in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and offers an immersive experience into the island’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Highlights of the trip include Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geological features. Here, guests can hike the spectacular Tablelands and learn about the region’s natural history. Another significant stop is L’Anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Viking site in North America, where visitors can explore reconstructed Norse buildings and learn about Viking history.
The cruise also includes a visit to the French islands of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, providing a taste of Europe just off the Canadian coast. The journey features daily cultural presentations, local music, and culinary experiences, allowing guests to savor regional delicacies.
This circumnavigation offers a blend of adventure, education, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal choice for travelers who wish to explore Newfoundland’s unique landscape and heritage.
Quark Expeditions – Canada’s Remote Arctic: Northwest Passage to Ellesmere and Axel Heiberg Islands
Quark Expeditions – Canada’s Remote Arctic: Northwest Passage to Ellesmere and Axel Heiberg Islands
Quark Expeditions’ voyage through Canada’s remote Arctic is a 12-day exploration of some of the most untouched landscapes on Earth. Departing from Calgary, Canada, this expedition aboard the Ultramarine is equipped with two helicopters and 20 quick-launching Zodiacs, providing unparalleled access to the Arctic wilderness.
The itinerary includes iconic locations like the Northwest Passage, Ellesmere Island, and Axel Heiberg Island. Guests will experience breathtaking sights such as soaring cliffs, mummified forests, and expansive glacial formations. The adventure includes flightseeing tours, allowing guests to see the majestic Arctic landscape from above, and heli-landings for more intimate exploration.
Wildlife enthusiasts will have the chance to spot polar bears, walrus, muskox, and even the elusive Arctic wolf. The trip is enriched by the presence of Inuit guides who share their culture and knowledge of the region. This expedition is designed for those who seek a deep connection with nature and a true sense of adventure, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the world’s most remote frontiers.
Final Thoughts
Adventure cruises offer a unique and exhilarating way to explore some of the world’s most stunning and remote destinations. Each cruise promises unforgettable experiences, providing a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. This makes them an ideal choice for intrepid travelers seeking new horizons.