Introduction
Cruising is no longer just about pool time or visiting crowded tourist hot spots. In recent years best cruises for adventure has become super popular for travellers who want excitement, exploration and to get up close and personal with nature. These adventure cruises take you to remote destinations, offer adrenaline-pumping activities, and immerse you in new cultures and landscapes. Whether you want to see wildlife up close, kayak through glaciers, or explore tropical islands there’s an adventure cruise for you in 2024.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the best cruises for adventure to consider for the year ahead. From the icy waters of Antarctica to the lush jungles of the Amazon these cruises promise experiences of a lifetime for adventure lovers. So pack your bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Antarctica Expedition Cruise
Why It’s Awesome
An Antarctica Expedition Cruise is one of the coolest trips on the planet. Antarctica is the last great wilderness, the most remote and least explored continent on Earth. For adventure lovers, it’s an otherworldly experience, with stunning natural beauty, and a chance to see wildlife that few people ever get to see in person.
Antarctica’s remoteness makes it a holy grail for those who love to explore. It’s a place where you can truly unplug from the modern world and get up close and personal with nature’s brute force. On an Antarctica expedition cruise, you can sail through icy waters, walk on the frozen ground, and experience the silence of the Antarctic wilderness.
Wildlife is one of the big highlights of the trip. Penguins are the most famous residents of Antarctica and you will see several species, emperor and Gentoo penguins. Seals and whales are also common, humpback and mink whales often surfacing alongside the ship.
Activities
Some expeditions also offer:
- Kayaking: Paddle through the icy waters surrounded by icebergs and get up close to wildlife from the water.
- Hiking on the Antarctic Peninsula: Step foot on the continent and hike through the ice. These guided walks allow you to explore the landscape and get up close to the flora and fauna.
- Camping: For the ultimate experience some expeditions offer the chance to camp on the ice for a night. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the untouched wilderness.
- Polar Plunge: For the brave many cruises offer the chance to take a dip in the Antarctic waters—a must-do for any adventure traveller.
When to Go
The best time to visit Antarctica is during the Antarctic summer, November to March. This is when the ice melts enough to allow ships to get to the continent and wildlife is most active. During these months you will have long days, the sun can stay up for 24 hours a day. The weather is also milder, though still cold, -2°C to 8°C (28°F to 46°F).
Recommended Cruise Lines
- Quark Expeditions: Small ships and expert guides for polar expeditions. Kayaking and camping.
- Silver sea Cruises: Luxury polar expeditions on smaller, all-inclusive ships.
- Hurtigruten: Eco-friendly expedition cruises with a focus on sustainability and education. Guides and scientists on board.
Galapagos Islands Cruise
Why It’s Awesome
A Galapagos Islands Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore one of the most unique and biologically diverse places on the planet. 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are famous for being the inspiration for Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. The islands are home to an incredible array of wildlife, much of which can’t be found anywhere else on Earth. This cruise takes you into the heart of this untouched archipelago, up close and personal with wildlife and in tune with nature.
The magic of a Galapagos adventure cruises are being able to see wildlife in their natural habitat, unafraid of humans. You’ll see giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and sea lions.
Activities
A Galapagos Islands cruise offers many activities, many of which get you up close and personal with the islands’ wildlife. Here are some of the top ones:
- Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: The waters around the Galapagos are full of marine life and snorkeling is one of the highlights of any cruise. You can swim with sea turtles, tropical fish, sharks, and even penguins. Scuba diving is also available for certified divers to explore some of the best underwater environments in the world.
- Wildlife Watching: Every island has its unique species and the guided excursions take you to the best spots to see animals in their natural habitat. You’ll see Galapagos penguins, frigate birds, Galapagos hawks, and land iguanas.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Many islands have hiking trails that take you through volcanic landscapes, forests, and beaches. These hikes are often led by naturalist guides who will explain the geology and biology of the islands.
- Kayaking: See the islands from a different angle by paddling through the calm waters where you may see rays, turtles, and sharks swimming beneath the surface.
Best Time to Visit
The Galapagos can be visited all year but there are two seasons to consider. The warm, wet season from December to May is best for snorkeling and wildlife. The cool, dry season from June to November is best for diving as marine life is more active in cooler waters.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- National Geographic Expeditions: Cruises with expert naturalists and photographers on board, educational experiences, and world-class wildlife viewing.
- Celebrity Cruises: Luxury and comfort, Celebrity offers Galapagos cruises with great service and amenities.
- Lindblad Expeditions: Leader in responsible travel, Lindblad small-group expeditions focused on conservation and immersion.
Norwegian Fjords Adventure Cruise
Why It’s an Epic Adventure
The Norwegian Fjords Adventure Cruise is a journey through one of the most spectacular landscapes on earth. Norway is famous for its fjords, deep narrow inlets of the sea surrounded by cliffs. These fjords were carved by glaciers during the Ice Age and today they are some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. A cruise through the Norwegian fjords takes you past towering mountains, waterfalls, and villages.
The fjords are breathtakingly beautiful and a Norwegian fjord cruise allows you to get up close to this wilderness. The calm, deep blue waters of the fjords are surrounded by cliffs and snow-capped mountains, it’s a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Whether you’re kayaking in the calm waters, hiking to viewpoints, or simply taking in the views from the deck of your ship, this cruise offers endless opportunities to connect with nature.
What to Do
A Norwegian Fjords adventure cruise has a lot of activities to get you out into the landscape and wildlife of this beautiful region. Some of these are:
- Kayaking in the Fjords: Paddle through the calm waters of the Fjords and see the cliffs and waterfalls up close. Kayaking gets you closer to nature and is a peaceful way to explore the fjords.
- Hiking: The fjords are surrounded by mountains and forest and many cruises offer guided hikes to scenic viewpoints. Hikes vary in difficulty so there’s something for everyone whether you want a challenging climb or a leisurely nature walk.
- Wildlife Watching: The fjords are home to a wide range of wildlife and you can expect to see eagles, seals, porpoises, and possibly even whales during your cruise. Birdwatchers will love the chance to spot white-tailed eagles, one of the largest birds of prey in Europe.
- Cultural Excursions: Many cruises stop at small coastal villages where you can learn about Norwegian culture, history, and traditions. Visit fishing villages, and historic churches and try local food.
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When to Go
The best time to visit the Norwegian fjords is during the summer months from May to September. This is when the weather is mild, the days are long and the fjords are at their best. Summer is also the best time to experience the Midnight Sun where the sun stays visible for most of the day and night.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- Hurtigruten: Their coastal voyages are famous for fjord cruises with a focus on sustainability and local culture.
- Viking Ocean Cruises: Luxury cruises through the fjords with great service, comfortable ships, and many excursions.
- Ponant: Small ship expeditions through Norway’s fjords with personalized service and Eco-friendly travel.
Alaska Inside Passage Adventure Cruise
Why It’s an Epic Adventure
An Alaska Inside Passage Adventure Cruise is one of the most epic journeys you can take in North America. You’ll explore the wild and remote regions of Alaska where glaciers meet the sea, forests cover the land and wildlife roams free. The Inside Passage, a coastal route along southeastern Alaska, is famous for its scenery, calm waters, and marine life.
Wildlife is a big highlight of this cruise. You’ll see humpback whales, orcas, bald eagles, and brown bears as you travel through this wilderness region. Glacier Bay National Park, one of the main stops on many Inside Passage cruises, is where you can see massive glaciers calving into the sea and creating a breathtaking sight.
Activities
The Inside Passage has many outdoor activities so it’s an adventure cruise for nature lovers. Some of the most popular activities:
- Whale Watching: Humpback whales, orcas, and Gray whales call the Inside Passage home. Many cruises offer guided whale-watching excursions where you can see these magnificent creatures up close as they breach and spout.
- Glacier Viewing: The Inside Passage is famous for its glaciers and many cruises stop at places like Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord. You’ll see massive glaciers calving into the ocean and take part in photography tours to capture the icy landscapes.
- Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle through the calm waters of the fjords surrounded by towering cliffs and forests. Kayaking gets you up close and personal with the Inside Passage and often brings you face-to-face with wildlife like seals and sea otters.
- Hiking and Wilderness Walks: Many cruises offer guided hikes in Alaska’s national parks like Tongass National Forest or Mendenhall Glacier. These hikes take you through the dense temperate rainforests and tundra of the region and teach you about the local flora and fauna.
- Cultural Excursions: Some cruises visit Native Alaskan villages where you can learn about the traditions, art, and culture of Alaska’s Indigenous people. You’ll see totem poles, visit cultural museums, and meet local artisans.
When to Go
The best time to cruise the Alaska Inside Passage is summer, May to September. The weather is mild, wildlife is most active and the long days allow for more exploring. July and August are the best for whale watching, May and June have fewer crowds and wildflowers.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- UnCruise Adventures: Small ship adventure cruises with intimate experiences and active excursions like kayaking and hiking.
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Luxury Alaska cruises with great service and in-depth shore excursions focused on wildlife and culture.
- Princess Cruises: Many Alaska itineraries with naturalists on board and excursions that highlight Alaska’s wildlife and scenery.
Amazon River Cruise
Why It’s Awesome
The Amazon River Adventure Cruise is a journey through the world’s largest tropical rain forest, in one of the most bio diverse places on the planet. The Amazon River goes through multiple countries in South America but cruises usually take you through the heart of the Brazilian or Peruvian Amazon. This cruise takes you into the jungle, where you’ll explore remote rivers, visit local villages, and see wildlife that few people ever get to see.
The Amazon Rain forest has thousands of animal and plant species, many of which are found nowhere else. On an Amazon River cruise, you’ll see sloths, monkeys, pink river dolphins, caimans toucans, and macaws. The dense jungle creates an adventure like no other as you wind through rivers and channels surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
Activities
An Amazon River adventure cruise offers many activities to explore the river and the jungle. Some of the top activities are:
- Canoe Trips and Piranha Fishing: Take guided canoe trips along the smaller tributaries of the Amazon River and see wildlife in its natural habitat. Some cruises even offer piranha fishing which is a fun and educational experience.
- Jungle Walks and Night Safaris: Many cruises include guided jungle walks where you can learn about the jungle flora and fauna. Night safaris are especially cool as you can see nocturnal animals like caimans and hear the jungle sounds at night.
- Wildlife Watching: From the boat, you can spot pink river dolphins, capybaras, howler monkeys, and many bird species. Keep an eye out for the jaguar along the riverbanks.
- Cultural Visits: Visit indigenous communities along the river and learn about their traditions, culture, and the challenges they face in preserving their way of life. Many cruises offer the chance to buy handicrafts from local artisans.
- Photography Expeditions: The jungle, wildlife, and river landscapes offer endless photography opportunities. Many cruises offer photography workshops or guided tours with expert naturalists.
When to Go
The best time for an Amazon River cruise varies by country and part of the river but generally the dry season from June to November is the best time to visit as the water levels are lower and easier to explore the jungle and better wildlife sightings.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- Aqua Expeditions: Luxury Amazon cruises with personalized service, gourmet food, and expert naturalist guides.
- Del fin Amazon Cruises: Eco-friendly, small-ship expeditions with a focus on wildlife and cultural experiences in the Peruvian Amazon.
- Avalon Waterways: Amazon River cruises with a focus on local culture and immersive excursions.
Arctic Expedition Cruise
Why It’s Awesome
If you want the ultimate polar adventure then an Arctic Expedition Cruise is for you. The Arctic is big, wild, and unspoiled. This cruise takes you to some of the most remote places on the planet, Greenland, Svalbard, and the Canadian Arctic. The Arctic is famous for its ice seas, snow mountains, and glaciers.
What makes an Arctic expedition cruise so cool is the chance to see wildlife that lives in this extreme environment. Polar bears are the Arctic’s most famous residents and many people come on this cruise to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Along with polar bears the Arctic is home to walruses, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and a multitude of seabirds. You’ll also see marine life like beluga whales, narwhals, and seals.
What to Expect
The Arctic is full of adventure and many expedition cruises offer lots of activities. Here are some of the top ones:
- Zodiacs: Most Arctic cruises use Zodiacs to get to places that larger ships can’t. These small inflatable boats allow you to get up close to glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife like seals and walruses. Zodiacs are an essential part of the Arctic cruise experience.
- Wildlife Viewing: Seeing polar bears is the highlight of any Arctic cruise. Expedition leaders will take you to known polar bear habitats so you have the best chance to see them in the wild. You’ll also see walruses, Arctic foxes, and seabirds like puffins and guillemots.
- Tundra Hikes: Many Arctic cruises offer guided hikes on the tundra where you can explore the barren yet beautiful landscapes of the region. You’ll see unique Arctic plants and spot animals like reindeer and Arctic hares.
- Kayaking: Some cruises offer the chance to kayak through the icy Arctic waters and get up close to glaciers, icebergs, and marine life. Kayaking in the Arctic is a unique and peaceful way to experience the region’s wilderness.
- Northern Lights: If you visit in late summer or early autumn you might be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon, also known as the Aurora Borealis, creates spectacular displays of colorful lights in the night sky.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to the Arctic is in the summer months from June to September when the ice melts enough for ships to get in. This is also the best time to see wildlife as polar bears and walruses are most active in the summer. Late August and September are the best time to see the Northern Lights as the nights start to get longer.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- Ponant: Luxury Arctic expeditions with small ships and expert guides, wildlife viewing, and cultural excursions.
- Quark Expeditions: Polar expeditions with a focus on adventure activities like kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac excursions.
- Silver sea Cruises: Luxury and comfort, all-inclusive, and expert naturalists on board.
Patagonia and Chilean Fjords Cruise
Why It’s Awesome
A Patagonia and Chilean Fjords Cruise is one of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the world. At the bottom of South America Patagonia is known for its untouched wilderness, towering mountains, and glaciers. The Chilean fjords along the southern coast of Chile are just as impressive with deep blue waters, lush forests, and snow-capped peaks. For adventure seekers and nature lovers, this is a dream come true, to explore one of the most remote and wild places on earth.
The region is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts with plenty of opportunities to explore. The Chilean fjords are a peaceful escape into nature where you can sail through narrow passages flanked by cliffs and glaciers.
Wildlife is another big attraction of this cruise. You will see whales, dolphins, penguins, sea lions, and condors during your journey. Patagonia’s vast landscapes are also a great place to spot Guantanamo, a wild relative of the llama and the elusive puma.
Activities
Patagonia and Chilean Fjords cruise offers outdoor activities to fully experience the region’s nature and wildlife. Some of the activities are:
- Hiking and Trekking: Patagonia is a hiker’s heaven, many cruises offer shore excursions to hike in the national parks including Torres del Paine. These hikes will take you through the rugged landscapes, mountains, and lakes of Patagonia.
- Glacier viewing: The Chilean fjords have several glaciers including the massive Pío XI Glacier one of the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere. You will sail up close to these glaciers and see the ice calving into the sea.
- Wildlife: Patagonia and the Chilean fjords are full of wildlife. Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, sea lions, and penguins as you cruise through the fjords. Birdwatchers will also spot the Andean condor, the world’s largest flying bird, flying above the cliffs.
- Kayaking and Zodiac: Many cruises offer kayaking or Zodiac trips. You can explore the fjords and waterways up close. Kayaking through the fjords is a peaceful way to see the landscape and wildlife.
When to Go
The best time to cruise Patagonia and the Chilean fjords is during the summer months of the Southern Hemisphere, November to March. This is when the weather is warmest and the days are longest so you have more daylight hours to explore. Wildlife is also most active during these months so it’s the best time to see animals.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- Australia: Specialises in Patagonia and Chilean fjords cruises, small ship expeditions with expert guides, and adventure and wildlife focus.
- Seaborne: Luxury cruises through the fjords, comfort, and immersive shore excursions and wildlife viewing.
- Lindblad Expeditions: Eco-friendly, adventure-focused cruises, in-depth exploration of Patagonia’s national parks and fjords.
Island-Hopping Cruise
Why It’s Awesome
For those looking for tropical paradise and adventure, an Island-Hopping Cruise is the perfect escape. The South Pacific is home to some of the most beautiful and remote islands in the world, Tahiti, Fiji, Vanuatu, Bora Bora, and Cook Islands. This cruise offers the best of both worlds, relaxation, and exploration, with pristine beaches, clear waters, lush rainforests, and coral reefs.
The South Pacific is famous for its Polynesian culture, stunning natural beauty, and incredible biodiversity. On this island-hopping adventure, you’ll get to explore secluded beaches, hike through tropical rainforests, snorkel in coral reefs full of marine life, and visit villages to learn about the local culture.
Activities
A South Pacific island-hopping cruise has heaps of activities to keep you busy on land and in the water. Here are some of the top ones:
- Snorkelling and Scuba Diving: The South Pacific has some of the best coral reefs in the world and you can snorkel or dive with tropical fish, sea turtles, stingrays, and even sharks in places like Bora Bora and Fiji.
- Kayaking and Paddle boarding: Paddle the calm, turquoise lagoons by kayak or stand-up paddle board. Many islands have peaceful, shallow waters perfect for paddling at your own pace with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Hike through the rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and coastal trails of islands like Vanuatu and Tahiti. Guided nature walks let you learn about the local flora and fauna while taking in the island views.
- Cultural Experiences: Visit traditional Polynesian villages and learn about the local culture, dance, music, and crafts. Many cruises offer cultural excursions where you can witness a kava ceremony, a traditional Fijian custom, or watch hula dancers in Hawaii.
- Beach Time: And of course, no South Pacific cruise would be complete without some beach time. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot on a remote island or a lively beach with water sports, the South Pacific has it all.
When to Go
The best time for a South Pacific island-hopping cruise is during the dry season which is May to October. These months are warm and sunny with calm seas perfect for snorkeling, diving, and beach time.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- Paul Gauguin Cruises: Specialises in South Pacific luxury cruises, all-inclusive with a focus on cultural immersion and island exploration.
- Oceania Cruises: Upscale cruises with itineraries that include several South Pacific islands, comfort adventures, and cultural experiences.
- Wind star Cruises: Small-ship sailing cruises, Wind star offers an intimate island-hopping experience with plenty of water sports and relaxation.
Australia’s Kimberley Coast Adventure Cruise
Why It’s an Awesome Adventure
The Kimberley Coast in northwestern Australia is one of the most remote and untouched regions on the planet, a true wilderness adventure. Known for its towering cliffs, ancient rock formations, hidden waterfalls, and dramatic gorges the Kimberley Coast is a land of natural beauty and rugged landscapes. A Kimberley Coast adventure cruise lets you explore this wild region in depth, and visit places that can only be accessed by boat.
The Kimberley is often called one of the last great wilderness areas, with vast stretches of coastline that have remained unchanged for thousands of years. On this cruise, you’ll sail through narrow channels, explore hidden bays, and visit ancient Aboriginal rock art sites over 40,000 years old.
Wildlife is another big plus of the Kimberley Coast. Saltwater crocodiles, wallabies, sea turtles, whales and more. Birdwatchers will love spotting tropical birds like white-bellied sea eagles and brolgas.
Activities
A Kimberley Coast cruise offers many activities to get you into the wilderness. Here are some:
- Waterfalls and Gorges: The Kimberley Coast is famous for its hidden waterfalls and many cruises visit waterfalls like King George Falls and Mitchell Falls. You can take a Zodiac or helicopter to these spectacular locations and be surrounded by towering cliffs and falling water.
- Aboriginal Rock Art: The Kimberley has some of the world’s oldest rock art and many sites feature paintings by Aboriginal people thousands of years ago. Guided tours to these rock art sites will give you an insight into the history and culture of the region’s Indigenous people.
- Wildlife: Kimberley’s diverse landscapes are home to saltwater crocodiles, wallabies, whales, and sea turtles. Many cruises offer wildlife excursions where you can see these animals in their natural habitat.
- Zodiacs: Explore the narrow channels, gorges, and waterfalls of the Kimberley Coast by Zodiac. These small, inflatable boats get you up close to the dramatic landscapes and offer wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Many cruises offer guided hikes through the Kimberley wilderness where you can explore the coastal cliffs, gorges, and ancient rock formations. These hikes offer stunning views of wildlife and unique plant species.
When to Go
The best time to cruise the Kimberley Coast is during the dry season April to September. Warm and sunny with minimal rainfall, perfect for getting out and about and wildlife viewing.
Recommended Cruise Lines
- Coral Expeditions: Small ship expeditions along the Kimberley Coast with expert guides and in-depth exploration of waterfalls, wildlife, and rock art.
- Ponant: Luxury expeditions with a focus on wildlife and cultural experiences, including Aboriginal rock art sites and helicopter flights over the Kimberley.
- Silver sea Expeditions: Luxury cruises with all-inclusive Kimberley Coast cruises, adventure, wildlife and comfort.
Conclusion
The Patagonia and Chilean Fjords Cruise, South Pacific Island-Hopping Cruise, and Australia’s Kimberley Coast Adventure Cruise are the ultimate adventure travel experiences for those who want to get off the beaten track and into the wild. Whether you’re hiking in Patagonia, snorkeling in the South Pacific, or exploring the ancient rock art of the Kimberley Coast, these cruises offer a chance to connect with nature like few other trips can.
In 2024 these adventure cruises will deliver the ultimate experiences, wildlife viewing, cultural immersion, and outdoor activities that will last a lifetime. No matter which destination you choose you’ll be on an adventure like no other.
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