Baja California
The stunning Baja California peninsula is separated from the Mexican Coast by the Sea of Cortez, one of the world’s most diverse marine environments. Baja California expedition cruises explore the wildlife-rich islands that dot the Sea of Cortez and colourful coastal Mexican towns including lively Acapulco.
Discover pure wilderness in the most exhilarating way possible on board an expedition cruise ship for the chance to get up close to dolphins, sea lions and whales. Tropical expedition cruises in Baja California offer snorkelling and scuba diving in the colourful underwater world. The turquoise water teems with sea urchins, green turtles and manta rays.
Central America
Venture into a tropical paradise on a Central America adventure. Experience lively Caribbean culture, lush jungles, idyllic islands and ancient civilisations in Panama, Nicaragua, Colombia, Costa Rica and Mexico. Go ashore on white sandy beaches for some of the world’s best areas for diving and snorkelling, or hike a volcano to discover stunning crater lakes and amazing views.
On expedition cruises, on-board experts and naturalists will explain the ecosystems of Central America and the Caribbean and accompany on-shore landings. Costa Rica is perfect for animal lovers, with incredible wildlife including colourful toucans, capuchin monkeys and the elusive ocelot. On select Central America expedition cruises you navigate the Panama Canal. This marvel of modern engineering separates the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
Galapagos
An expedition cruise around the Galapagos Islands is tropical exploration at its finest. Follow in Darwin’s footsteps as you observe the unique wildlife, including blue-footed boobies, Galapagos penguins, sea turtles and prehistoric iguanas. A close-up view of the famous Galapagos tortoises will make your cruise an unforgettable experience. Galapagos expedition cruises offer nimble zodiac boat trips to take passengers to shore. Some offer kayaking trips to get even closer to the natural beauty and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
Peru
Peru is a land of ancient Incan ruins, spectacular landscapes and fascinating wildlife. On a Peru expedition cruise it is possible to explore the beautiful volcanic Ballestas Islands, often referred to as Peru’s Galapagos due to their vast array of wildlife. Pisco, on the Peruvian coast, is the gateway to the famous and mysterious Nazca lines.
Peru expedition cruises often include land tours to discover the highlights of the Incan Empire and learn about a civilisation that thrived long ago. Visit the formidable stone fortress of Ollantaytambo and admire the sophisticated craftmanship of Sacsayhuamán fortress. A real highlight is the magnificent Inca archaeological site of Machu Picchu, spectacularly located amid misty cloud forest high above the Sacred Valley.
Amazon
Explore the exotic flora and fauna of the Amazon on a tropical adventure into the heart of dense jungle, the traditional hunting ground of the American Indians. Amazon expedition cruises are active adventures with excursions deep into the jungle, led by skilled naturalist guides. A night-time Zodiac ride is an unforgettable experience, revealing nocturnal animals that are rarely seen during the day including caymans and night monkeys.
The culture of the people who live in this vast wilderness is also explored on an Amazon expedition cruise. See small fishing villages perched on stilts, enjoy encounters with local families, watch traditional dance ceremonies and learn how the natives hunt with blowpipes. There is often the chance to experience village life with visits to schools and the chance to see inside a typical home.
Indian Ocean
On an Indian Ocean expedition cruise purpose-built Zodiacs allow landings on otherwise inaccessible beaches. Hike to vast lagoons, snorkel amongst coral reefs and encounter some of the world’s most beautiful tropical scenery. In the Seychelles, discover the Aldabra Atoll which is only accessible by ship and is the last breeding ground of the giant tortoise. A tropical exploration of remote Madagascar reveals the island’s unique wildlife including over 100 species of lemur and wildly colourful chameleons.
Kimberley Coast
Experience the wild beauty of Australia’s Kimberley Coast on an expedition cruise. Cruise past sheer cliffs rising from the ocean, witness mammoth tidal streams and explore mangrove-dotted rivers. Set out on Zodiac excursions to explore narrow gorges carved by ancient rivers. Uncover Aboriginal rock art, hidden island beaches and remote waterfalls. Snorkel pristine reefs, swim in freshwater rock pools and enjoy thrilling helicopter flights over the remarkable landscape.