From a front row seat at one of the world’s most active glaciers to exhilarating voyages to the furthest reach of French Polynesia, here are some of the most exciting cruises for 2024 and beyond.
Expedition cruises are increasingly popular, offering unique and enriching travel experiences. For 2024, several exciting new itineraries are available, showcasing a range of destinations and adventures. Here are nine notable options:
1. Explore the Austral Islands with Aranui Cruises
Aranui Cruises offers a rare opportunity to visit the Austral Islands, a remote archipelago in French Polynesia. This 11-day voyage departs from Papeete and visits all five inhabited islands. The trip features activities like ukulele lessons and craft workshops, with a unique hybrid cargo-passenger vessel. Sails on 30 March and 2 November 2024, from €5,209 (£4,555) per person, with discounts for additional passengers and no single supplement.
2. Sail Around New Zealand’s Poor Knights Islands
Black Tomato introduces bespoke sailing experiences around New Zealand’s Poor Knights Islands, known for their exceptional diving conditions. This private charter on a sustainable motor yacht allows up to eight guests to explore subtropical waters and deep-sea caves, with opportunities to encounter dolphins and orcas. The five-night trip starts in October 2024, from £20,500 per charter.
3. Discover US National Parks with American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines’ new itineraries for 2024 include extensive tours of US national parks. Options include an 18-day Alaskan adventure covering Glacier Bay and Denali National Park, a 12-day cruise through the Great Smoky Mountains, and a nine-day exploration of the Lewis and Clark expedition route. Departures between June and September 2024, starting from $12,455 (£9,940) per person.
4. Experience Greenland’s Glaciers with Wildfoot Travel
Wildfoot Travel offers a 13-day expedition cruise around west Greenland, featuring a lodge stay with views of Eqi Glacier. This intimate voyage aboard the M/S Balto includes visits to volcanic Disko Island and remote villages like Niaqornat. The trip starts on 26 June 2024, from £11,695 per person.
5. Explore the Seychelles and Madagascar with Ponant
Ponant’s Le Dumont-d’Urville will sail from the Seychelles to Madagascar, featuring an underwater observation lounge. This 11-day voyage includes visits to national marine parks and remote islands, with opportunities to see giant tortoises and endemic chameleons. Departing 28 November 2024, from €6,200 (£5,415), including flights.
6. Navigate Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords with Viking
Viking offers a 13-day journey through Patagonia and the Chilean fjords. This expedition includes kayaking the Strait of Magellan and visits to Patagonian farms, all while traveling with naturalists and experts aboard the Viking Polaris. The cruise begins on 8 November 2024, from £9,495 per person, all-inclusive, including flights.
7. Sail Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast with Rainforest Cruises
Rainforest Cruises introduces an upscale, eco-friendly yacht experience in Costa Rica. The Kontiki Wayra, accommodating 18 passengers, offers five- and eight-day itineraries exploring protected reserves along the Pacific coastline. Departures from January to May 2024, starting from $7,479 (£6,025) per person.
8. Discover Northern Peru’s Cultures with Swan Hellenic
Swan Hellenic’s SH Diana will offer a 10-day cultural expedition from Lima to Panama City. Highlights include wildlife viewing on various islands and interactions with the Indigenous Emberá people. The trip includes lectures and shore excursions. Sails on 18 March 2024, from £5,356 per person, including a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay.
9. Explore Kimberley, Australia with Seabourn
Seabourn Pursuit will embark on its inaugural cruises to Western Australia’s Kimberley region. This luxury expedition features visits to the Bungle Bungle Range, King George Falls, and the Horizontal Falls. The ship is equipped with submersibles and kayaks, and offers suites with panoramic windows. Departures between 12 June and 1 August 2024, from £8,899 per person.