What is an Expedition Cruise?
Welcome to the first episode of The Expedition Cruise Podcast, where host Rona Wheeldon answers the question - What is an Expedition Cruise?
This episode aims to demystify expedition cruising and clear up any misconceptions you may have around it.
We'll look at some of the main differences between traditional ocean cruising and expedition cruising.
Then we'll highlight the appeal of expedition cruising and how it is such an incredible way to explore the world - one that I've falled in love with...
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Picture penguins waddling past you along their own little highways. Picture enormous icebergs drifting slowly by, glowing turquoise beneath the waterline. Picture yourself getting ready to set off kayaking in a quiet Antarctic bay, the sun blazing in a cloudless sky. This is the world of Expedition Cruising. It's magical. It's rich with wildlife. And it's awe-inspiring. It's actually nothing like what many people imagine when they hear the word cruise.
So what is an Expedition Cruise? And how is it different from traditional Ocean Cruises on one of those huge mega ships? In this very first episode of The Expedition Cruise Podcast, I want to demystify Expedition Cruising and clear up some of the biggest misconceptions around it.
If you’re not quite sure what an expedition cruise actually is or if you're firmly in the ‘I will never go on a cruise’ camp, which I absolutely used to be, then this podcast is for you. Until a few years ago, I hadn't even heard of Expedition Cruising. But I had heard my husband talk about wanting to follow in the footsteps of Shackleton, once he'd retired. Antarctica was his dream. Because there are no hotels in Antarctica, an expedition cruise is really the only way to visit, with the ship acting as your floating hotel. So in January 2025, we went on an Expedition Cruise to Antarctica with Viking. And that's when I fell in love with Expedition Cruising. It's a world of small ships, extraordinary adventures, and journeys that will take you to some of the most remote places on earth.
Hello. My name is Rona Wheeldon and welcome to the show. If you're wondering why I started this podcast, well, Expedition Cruising is one of the most misunderstood parts of the travel industry. For some people, the word expedition sounds intimidating, like you'll be ice climbing or that it's only for explorers or scientists. But the reality is very different. It's far more accessible and much more comfortable and way more magical than most people realise. Expedition Cruises are an incredible way to explore the world by sea. And the aim of this podcast is simple. I want to demystify Expedition Cruising and help more people like you discover the unforgettable adventures you can have. Demand is growing. Ships are evolving. And more and more people are choosing to be adventurous when they travel.
So first things first, please forget everything you associate with the word cruise. For a moment, put aside any mental images you might have of mega ships, thousands of passengers, water slides and pool parties. They're perfect for some people, but they're definitely not my cup of tea. Now imagine something completely different. Think of small purpose-built ships heading far beyond where most travellers ever go. Ships where the focus isn’t on entertainment - it's on education, science and exploration. Your daily plans are shaped by the weather conditions. There are normally plans at B and C, just in case Plan A isn't possible. Each morning, members from the expedition team will head out on a zodiac boat scout the area around the ship and assess which activities can safely take place that day. This is Expedition Cruising. An adventurous journey with a purpose.
Now, let's look at some of the main differences between traditional Ocean Cruising and Expedition Cruising because this is where lots of the confusion often starts. First of all, ship size. On a traditional Ocean Cruise ship, you may have anywhere from 1,000 to 6,000 and more passengers on board. On an Expedition ship you usually find somewhere between 60 to around 400 guests. The smaller size means that Expedition ships can access places big ships simply can't reach. The smaller size also creates a much more intimate onboard experience. You really do get to know your fellow travellers and the crew as well.
Next, the primary goal. Traditional Ocean Cruising is generally about entertainment and relaxation, whereas Expedition Cruising is about the wildlife, penguins in particular, environment, exploration and in inhabited areas, the culture.
Then there's the dress code. On a traditional Ocean ship you might pack formal wear and evening dresses. On an Expedition Cruise, it's all about baselayers, gloves, parkas, waterproof trousers and binoculars.
And when it comes to off-ship activities, the difference is even clearer. Traditional Ocean cruising usually means bus tours, port shopping or guided walking excursions. Expedition Cruising means zodiac landing, zodiac cruising, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, wildlife viewing, sometimes even going under the water in submersibles or flying above in a helicopter.
And finally, the overall vibe. On a traditional Ocean Cruise, the ship is the destination. On an Expedition Cruise, the ship is your base camp.
Let's take a look at some expedition essentials. There are a few things that really define the expedition experience. One of the most important is a flexible itinerary. Plans change. And that's a good thing because wildlife, weather and sea conditions always come first.
Then there are the Zodiacs, I mentioned earlier - these small rubber boats that make everything possible. They're how you weave through the ice, land on shores and get closer to wildlife.
Another defining feature is the expedition team. They're not just guides. They're often 20 or more experts. For example, geologists, historians, biologists, ornithologists, whale-watching guides and sometimes you even get chances to sit to have dinner with them. They help you interpret what you're seeing and understand the place you're visiting.
Many expedition ships now support real scientific research, including citizen science. You may get the opportunity to help collect data and even see weather balloons being launched.
So if I had to sum up an expedition cruise in one sentence - An expedition cruise is a small ship journey focusing on adventure, wildlife and learning - a way of seeing the world that prioritises exploration over entertainment. I used to be firmly in the ‘I will never go on a cruise’ camp, but now I'm a complete Expedition Cruise convert. In fact, my husband and I have just booked our next Expedition Cruise.
So if you're starting to warm up to the idea, keep a lookout for next week's episode, where I'll be answering the question, Who is an Expedition Cruise actually for?
If this way of exploring the world by Expedition Cruise intrigues you, make sure you follow or subscribe, whether that's on your favourite podcast app or on YouTube. I'd love to hear from you. So do come and say hello on social media and send over any questions you might have about expedition cruising. Until next time.