Question 1

What is an expedition cruise?

Accepted Answer

An expedition cruise is an immersive journey designed for discovery. These small ships venture to remote, wild destinations — from Antarctica to the Arctic, the Galápagos to Alaska — with a focus on nature, wildlife, and culture.

Instead of large theaters, casinos and onboard waterparks, you’ll find expert guides, scientists, and naturalists leading daily excursions and enriching lectures that deepen your connection to each destination.

Question 2

What’s the difference between an expedition cruise and a traditional ocean cruise or a river cruise?

Accepted Answer

While traditional ocean and river cruises focus on comfort, culture, and scenic sailing, expedition cruises are built around discovery. These small ships go where others can’t — into icy fjords, remote archipelagos, and wildlife-rich coastlines.

Onboard life feels more like a floating boutique lodge than a resort or hotel. You’ll spend less time dressing for dinner and more time donning a parka for a zodiac landing, kayaking beside glaciers, or listening to naturalists share stories of the day’s sightings.

River cruises bring you closer to the heart of cities and villages; expedition cruises bring you deeper into nature — to places where there may be no port, no roads, and no crowds at all. Both styles offer enrichment and connection, but an expedition cruise invites you to step off the beaten path entirely.

Question 3

Do I need to be physically fit?

Accepted Answer

You don’t need to be an athlete to enjoy an expedition cruise — just curious and ready for adventure.

Most excursions offer options for different activity levels, from relaxed scenic rides to more active hikes or kayak outings.

The expedition team is excellent at matching guests to experiences that suit their comfort and ability.

If you have mobility concerns, we can discuss them in the discovery & collaboration phases and address specific questions with suppliers to make the best decisions for you.

Question 4

What’s included on an expedition cruise?

Accepted Answer

Expedition cruises are designed to make exploration effortless — and that means most of what you’ll need is already included. Your fare typically covers accommodations, all meals onboard, daily guided excursions, lectures and briefings with the expedition team, and use of gear such as boots or parkas in polar regions. Many itineraries also include transfers, park fees, and internal flights where required.

Depending on the ship and destination, you might also enjoy complimentary wine and beer with meals, wellness programs, and photography workshops. Some vessels feature resident scientists or naturalists who lead talks, citizen science projects, or small-group learning experiences that bring each landing to life.

While inclusions vary by cruise line, the value lies in the access and expertise — every detail is planned so you can focus entirely on the experience. From early-morning zodiac adventures to evenings sharing stories in the lounge, it’s an all-encompassing journey that blends comfort, connection, and discovery.

When you hire Milestones & Mondays to plan your expedition, you’ll know exactly what’s covered before you book — and I’ll help clarify every detail.

If you prefer a more a la carte approach, we will find the best options that fit that model as well.

Question 5

Can I travel solo on an expedition cruise?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely.

Expedition cruises attract a community of like-minded travelers who value meaningful exploration and conversation.

Many lines offer solo-friendly cabins or reduced single supplements, and onboard life naturally encourages connection.

It’s one of the best travel styles for solo adventurers who want independence without feeling alone.

Question 6

What are expedition ships like, will I be roughing it?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Expedition ships are purpose-built for exploration — designed to reach remote, hard-to-access regions safely and comfortably — but that doesn’t mean giving up comfort or style.

These vessels are much smaller than traditional cruise ships, typically carrying fewer than 500 guests. Most host fewer than 200, and some intimate expedition yachts carry fewer than 50 travelers. The result is a more personal, flexible experience where you can truly connect with the destination — and with your fellow explorers.

There’s also a wide range of styles. Some ships embrace a cozy, come-as-you-are atmosphere where camaraderie and discovery take center stage. Others offer contemporary luxury with refined suites, spa facilities, and elevated dining. Many strike a balance — modern, comfortable, and perfectly equipped for those who love learning and adventure, with lecture theaters, science labs, and panoramic lounges.

Whichever style you choose, all share the same spirit of exploration — small groups, expert guides, and a front-row seat to some of the most extraordinary places on Earth.

Question 7

Are expedition cruises environmentally responsible?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In fact, expedition cruising often leads the way in responsible and sustainable travel. These small ships are built to explore the world’s most delicate ecosystems with care and respect. Strict environmental guidelines limit the number of guests ashore at one time, minimize wildlife disturbance, and ensure that nothing is left behind but footprints in the snow or sand.

Most modern expedition ships are equipped with cutting-edge technology — hybrid or low-emission engines, advanced waste and water treatment systems, and refillable water programs that eliminate single-use plastics. Many also feature onboard science centers, allowing guests to participate in real research and learn about conservation firsthand.

Sustainability goes beyond technology, though. Expedition teams work closely with local communities to ensure visits provide meaningful economic support. When possible, ships source regional ingredients and showcase local produce, artisans, and traditions, creating a more authentic connection to each destination.

While no form of travel is entirely impact-free, the expedition travel community continues to raise the bar — investing in cleaner ships, supporting conservation partnerships, and empowering travelers to protect the incredible places they’ve come to experience.

Question 8

When is the best time to take an expedition cruise?

Accepted Answer

The best time depends entirely on where you want to go — and what you hope to experience. Because expedition cruises follow the rhythms of nature, each region has its own ideal season.

Antarctica’s summer, from November to March, offers long daylight hours, pristine ice formations, and incredible wildlife activity — from penguin chicks hatching to whales feeding in calm waters. The Arctic season runs roughly from May to September, with opportunities to see polar bears, walrus, and vast landscapes awash in midnight sun.

The Galápagos Islands are a year-round destination, with unique wildlife encounters in every month. Alaska and the Canadian Arctic are best from late spring through early fall, while Baja California Sur’s whale-watching season peaks from January through March. Even tropical and coastal expeditions — such as the South Pacific or the Kimberley — align with their own seasonal highlights, from coral spawning to cascading waterfalls.

Because these voyages operate only during select months and carry limited guests, early planning is key. I’ll help you choose the perfect destination and timing based on what matters most to you — whether it’s calm seas, wildlife migrations, or once-in-a-lifetime photographic moments.

MILESTONES & MONDAYS TRAVEL

EXPEDITION CRUISING

The Expedition Difference

THE TIME IS NOW

WHERE WILL YOUR EXPEDITION TAKE YOU?

FROM ICONIC WONDERS TO SECRET SHORES

ANTARCTICA

SVALBARD

ALASKA

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

BAJA CALIFORNIA SUR
(WHALE SEASON)

CHILEAN FJORDS & PATAGONIA

GREENLAND

ICELAND

NORTHWEST PASSAGE

ARCTIC CANADA

BRITISH ISLES

SHETLAND ISLANDS

FAROE ISLANDS

ATLANTIC ROUTES

FRENCH POLYNESIA
& THE PACIFIC

AFRICA &
THE INDIAN OCEAN

THE KIMBERLEY,
AUSTRALIA

GREECE

CROATIA

THE MEDITERRANEAN

What Sets Expeditions Apart

Your Day on an Expedition Cruise:

A Peak Inside a Few Expedition Ships

Expedition Ships: Small in Size, Big on Discovery

Ready to Plan Your Expedition?

Next Steps

DISCOVERY CALL

COLLABORATION

VACATION TIME

FAQ

Antarctica: Wildlife Encounters at the Bottom of the World

Journey to the White Continent: What Antarctica Expedition Cruise Travel Feels Like

Polar Wonders: A Guide to Arctic and Antarctica Expedition Travel

Meet Your Travel Advisor