In the wake of the pandemic, a transformative trend has emerged in tourism — a desire for experiential travel. Particularly, expedition cruising has swiftly gained traction among like-minded explorers who are craving adventure and seeking uncharted territories.
These voyages sail to remote, lesser-explored destinations, giving travelers the opportunity to see sights they’ve only ever dreamed of, with smaller groups. Read more about what makes this trending travel type so desirable and how it differs from conventional cruising.
Curious about what kinds of expedition cruises exist? Check out these popular picks across four desirable destinations.
1. Alaska
From snow-capped mountains to fjords and forests, the views as you cruise through Alaska are simply stunning. On excursions like the Alaska Ocean Wilderness Expedition and Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching, you can experience remarkable wildlife including sea lions, seals, eagles, humpback whales and more. It’s like being a fly on the wal…water.
2. Canadian High Arctic
There’s nothing quite like Canadian arctic cruises. This isolated region of the country is home to majestic fauna including polar bears, beluga whales, harp seals and more.
Spot them in their natural habitat against a backdrop of mesmerizing fjords and frozen landscapes. Wondering how you can get intimate access to such a rare and remote adventure? Check out expedition cruise companies like Quark Expeditions, the leader in polar adventures.
3. The Kimberley Coast
Venture to secluded corners unreachable by larger vessels and discover the wild allure of the Kimberley Coast. Encounter untamed landscapes that meet pristine waters and get up close and personal to magnificent waterfalls, millennia-old rock art, impressive gorges and wonderful wildlife.
Witness an assortment of creatures like humpback whales, snubfin dolphins and surprisingly, crocodiles, too. Experience all the above via Kimberley Expeditions or aboard luxury ships like True North. However you reach this remote destination, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with remarkable sights when you arrive.
4. The Galapagos Islands
Sail through the remarkable archipelago on a Galapagos Islands cruise. Beyond the breathtaking scenery is captivating wildlife including playful sea lions, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies and other rare species. On voyages like Golden Galapagos Cruises you can closely witness the above while onboard a small cruise ship with a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio.
Intimate settings like this lead to unforgettable experiences.
The Hilton Grand Vacations Difference
There’s a multitude of incredible cruise destinations for you to uncover as a Hilton Grand Vacations Member. Through our vacation membership, you can use your points to book all sorts of exceptional vacation experiences, including unique cruises.
Sail to Costa Maya, Mexico, to explore ancient Mayan ruins and mysterious jungles or head to Harvest Caye, Belize, for an adrenaline-charged ziplining adventure. Some of these cruises even offer exciting onboard entertainment like cocktail parties, private performances and unique culinary experiences through HGV Ultimate Access.
Discover how one Member used her points to sail the Baltic Sea.