Culture Discovery Cruises
A Ponant expedition ship in a remote coastal landscape
Cruise Category

Expedition Cruises

Polar regions and remote coastlines, in genuine comfort and with expert guides.

Overview

About Expedition Cruises

Expedition cruising reaches the places larger ships cannot, from Antarctica and the Arctic to the Galapagos and Kimberley, aboard purpose-built ships with naturalists, Zodiacs and real comfort at the end of the day.

Why book with CDV

The advantage of a true specialist

Exclusive specials

Group offers on thousands of sailings a year, with onboard credit, included excursions or gratuities you cannot get direct.

Stacked with every promotion

Our offers combine with the cruise line's current national promotions, and full credit toward loyalty status.

The luxury of experience

We plan life experiences, not just bucket-list stops. Personal attention from people who treat you as family.

Protected and connected

Cruise price protection on every booking, plus a seamless way to pair your voyage with a CDV land tour when it begins or ends near our tour regions.

Good to know

Expedition Cruises FAQs

What is an Expedition Cruise?

An expedition cruise is a type of voyage that takes you to some of the world’s most remote and inaccessible regions, such as the Arctic, Antarctic, or the Amazon. Unlike traditional cruises, expedition cruises prioritize adventure, education, and cultural immersion over entertainment and relaxation. They are designed to give travelers a unique and authentic experience that they wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else. On an expedition cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to explore natural wonders, encounter rare wildlife, and learn from expert guides.

Who Offers Expedition Cruises?

Many cruise lines offer expedition cruises, but not all are created equal. At Culture Discovery Cruises, we specialize in expedition cruises that offer an immersive and authentic experience. Our expeditions are designed to take you to the most remote destinations in the world while providing you with top-notch service and amenities. Some of the cruise lines we work with include Hapag-Lloyd, Quark Expeditions, Hurtigruten, National Geographic Expeditions, Silversea Expeditions, Seabourn, and Lindblad Expeditions. In addition, we work with other cruise lines that also have expedition cruises. Some of these include Celebrity Cruises, Ponant, and more.

What are the Top 5 Expedition Cruise Ships?

Choosing the right ship for your expedition cruise is important, as it can make all the difference in your overall experience. Here are our top 5 picks for expedition cruise ships:National Geographic Endurance: This state-of-the-art ship was designed specifically for polar exploration. It features an ice-strengthened hull, an observation deck, and a fleet of Zodiacs for excursions.Seabourn Venture: Seabourn’s newest ship is designed for luxury expedition cruising. It features spacious suites, a heated pool, and a world-class spa.Silver Explorer: Silversea’s Silver Explorer is a small ship that can take you to some of the most remote destinations in the world. It features a gourmet restaurant, a library, and a spacious outdoor deck.Lindblad National Geographic Orion: This expedition ship is perfect for those who want to explore both polar regions and tropical destinations. It features an onboard spa, a fitness center, and a lecture theater.Quark Ultramarine: The Quark Expeditions Ultramarine ship is a modern marvel that combines cutting-edge technology with luxurious comfort. It’s the perfect vessel for those who seek to explore the world’s most remote and extreme destinations, such as the polar regions. With world-class amenities, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views, the Ultramarine is an unforgettable way to embark on a journey of discovery.

What are the Top 5 Expedition Cruise Lines?

Choosing the right cruise line for your expedition cruise is just as important as choosing the right ship. Here are our top 5 picks for expedition cruise lines:National Geographic Expeditions: National Geographic Expeditions is known for its immersive and educational expeditions. Their expert guides and naturalists will take you on a journey of discovery that you’ll never forget.Silversea Expeditions: Silversea Expeditions combines luxury with adventure, providing guests with a unique and exclusive experience. Their itineraries are designed to take you to some of the most remote destinations in the world.Seabourn: Seabourn offers luxury expedition cruises that are perfect for those who want to explore the world in style. Their ships are equipped with top-notch amenities, including a spa, a pool, and multiple dining options.Lindblad Expeditions: Lindblad Expeditions offers a wide range of expedition cruises, from polar expeditions to tropical voyages. Their ships are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and knowledgeable guides.Quark Expeditions: Quark Expeditions is a leading provider of expedition cruises to some of the world’s most remote and breathtaking destinations. With a commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, Quark Expeditions offers unforgettable experiences with expert guides and innovative ships. Embark on a journey of discovery that will change the way you see the world, with Quark Expeditions leading the way.

What Does a North Pole Cruise Cost?

A North Pole cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that comes with a price tag. The cost of a North Pole cruise can vary depending on the cruise line, the ship, and the itinerary. At Culture Discovery Cruises, our North Pole cruises start at around $30,000 per person, but the price can go up to $50,000 or more for a more luxurious experience. While this may seem like a lot, it’s important to remember that a North Pole cruise is a truly unique experience that very few people get to have.

What Do I Need to Bring With Me on An Expedition Cruise?

When shopping for an expedition cruise, you’ll need to consider several factors such as the destination, weather conditions, and the specific needs of your trip. To ensure you have everything you need, consider shopping at the following types of stores or websites:Specialty Outdoor Retailers: These stores carry a wide range of gear and clothing suited for expedition cruises. Examples include Patagonia and The North Face. Marine Supply Stores: If your expedition cruise involves activities like sailing or kayaking, marine supply stores such as West Marine or Defender can provide the necessary gear and equipment.Travel Gear Stores: Retailers like Eagle Creek or Luggage Pros specialize in travel gear and accessories, such as luggage, packing organizers, and travel-sized toiletries.Local Outdoor Stores: If you prefer to shop in person, visit local outdoor stores in your area. The staff at these stores can often provide expert advice on the gear and clothing you’ll need for your specific expedition cruise.Remember to create a packing list and research the specific needs of your expedition cruise before shopping to ensure you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable trip.

Exclusive Specials

We have special offers you cannot get directly from the cruise lines on thousands of sailings every year. When you search for a cruise on our website, look for these badges next to a sailing : and, These indicate a special group offer that can provide you with free onboard credit, free excursions, or included gratuities.

Plus All Qualifying Cruise Offers

The special and exclusive CDV offers can almost always be combined all with current qualifying national promotions offered by the cruise line, as well as full credit toward cruise line status.

& Everything That Makes Us CDV!

We believe in the concept of Luxury of experience. This means that our guests are not just looking for bucket list places, but life-changing experiences. Our passion is making that happen, and to do so, we need to think of each person we deal with as friends and family. We are not just planning a trip or event or you, but rather a life experience you will talk about long into the future.Our secret sauce is a mixture of people that truly care about you above the “product,” leading-edge technology, and our carefully cultivated relationships with vendors that have become dear friends. For us, it is always personal. Click here to learn more about us and why we are in no way a typical travel agency.

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