19 Expert-Recommended Expedition Cruises to Sell In 2026
- alexandra6859
- Dec 30, 2025
- 7 min read
As an increasing number of travellers search for authentic and meaningful experiences, expedition cruises only continue to grow in popularity for travel advisors.
The 2026 season presents a fantastic array of opportunities, from new ships discovering the frozen frontiers of the Arctic and Antarctica to fresh itineraries exploring the vibrant natural worlds of the Amazon, the Galápagos, and the South Pacific.
This past December, we’ve been sharing a collection of voyage picks recommended by our partner members, along with unique highlights and selling tips that make it even easier to recommend these amazing adventures to your clients. Catch up on the full series using #ECN2026VoyagePicks on Facebook and Instagram, or read on to see them all brought together in one place.
________________________________________
Chilean Channels — Bark EUROPA
This sailing through the Chilean Channels takes guests deep into glacier-carved Patagonian fjords, to quiet anchorages rarely accessible to larger vessels. Traditional tall-ship sailing, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes combine to create an authentic, immersive expedition.
This voyage is especially attractive to clients drawn to meaningful adventure, since it feels like an active sailing holiday. It also holds the appeal of a digital detox, meaning guests can feel truly present and connected to their surroundings.
Voyage: Chilean Channels
Operator: Bark EUROPA
Dates: 18 March–15 April 2026
________________________________________
Greenland Explorer — Polar Latitudes Expeditions
Following an ancient Norse sea route from Reykjavík, this itinerary explores East Greenland’s spectacular ice-filled fjords while visiting historic and culture-rich sites and settlements along the way.
Due to a later release, this voyage is being offered at excellent value in 2026, allowing guests to experience the different sides of Greenland in the new year.
Voyage: Greenland Explorer
Operator: Polar Latitudes Expeditions
Dates: 15–26 August 2026
________________________________________
Darwin’s Odyssey — Oniric Safari Cruises
This Galápagos sailing offers intimate small-yacht exploration with possible sightings of migrating humpback whales, frigatebird courtship displays, and encounters with the wildlife and landscapes that inspired Darwin.
A nearly one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, personalised service, and an Ecuadorian-inspired culinary programme make this voyage especially appealing to clients seeking comfort, intimacy, and immersive wildlife viewing.
Voyage: Darwin’s Odyssey
Operator: Oniric Safari Cruises
Dates: 11–17 June 2026
________________________________________
Peruvian Amazon Expedition — Aqua Expeditions
Exploring the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, this voyage journeys by skiff through blackwater lagoons and rainforest tributaries, with opportunities to encounter pink dolphins, macaws, and rich Amazonian wildlife. Guests also trek rainforest trails and visit remote river communities within one of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems.
An exclusive partnership with The Explorers Club gives guests the exclusive opportunity to enjoy this sailing guided by geothermal scientist and conservationist Andrés Ruzo, renowned for his research on Peru’s Boiling River and insight into the intersection of science, culture, and conservation.
Voyage: Peruvian Amazon Expedition
Operator: Aqua Expeditions
Dates: 7–14 November 2026
________________________________________
Ushuaia Roundtrip — Atlas Ocean Voyages
This itinerary has it all – from the magnificence of Antarctica to the vibrancy of the wildlife melting pot that is South Georgia to the bird-watchers paradise of the Falkland Islands.
The ability to experience three destinations in one journey makes this voyage particularly attractive to clients seeking strong value, wildlife variety, and a comprehensive, “once-in-a-lifetime” polar experience.
Voyage: Ushuaia Roundtrip
Operator: Atlas Ocean Voyages
Dates: 3 January 2027
________________________________________
Austral Islands with Rapa — Aranui Cruises
This itinerary blends the iconic islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, and Raiatea with explorations of the hidden gems of the Austral Islands, including Rurutu, Raivavae.
A 20% inaugural sailing discount adds strong appeal to this voyage, particularly for clients interested in cultural discovery combined with access to rarely visited islands.
Voyage: Austral Islands with Rapa
Operator: Aranui Cruises
Dates: 6–18 March 2027
________________________________________
Costa Rica and the Panama Canal — National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions
Guests enjoy an iconic journey that combines a transit of the Panama Canal, experienced both by day and night, with an exploration of Costa Rica’s wild and wonderful rainforests and national parks, home to rich wildlife including monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.
Savings of up to 20% and 50% reduced deposits on selected departures make this itinerary attractive for any clients interested in wildlife and culture.
Voyage: Costa Rica and the Panama Canal
Operator: National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions
Dates: Various dates
________________________________________
Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage — National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions
This itinerary offers the benefits of both sailing and flying across the Drake Passage, allowing guests to experience the iconic sailing before spending four immersive days exploring wildlife, historic sites, and dramatic ice formations and ending with a flight to remember.
"Travelling to Antarctica was truly a life-changing experience for me. Learning from the incredible onboard expedition team in real-life situations was such a privilege. I’ll never forget listening to the sound of ancient air bubbles popping in the ice, trapped there for thousands of years, or watching and learning about wildlife behaviours as they unfolded right before my eyes. This is what makes a journey to Antarctica so special." – Karen Hollands, Expedition Sales & Concierge Specialist
Voyage: Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage
Operator: National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions
Dates: Various dates
________________________________________
Uncharted Islands of the Deep South — Oceanwide Expeditions
This voyage ventures beyond traditional Antarctic routes to explore rarely visited southern islands, delivering dramatic polar scenery, abundant wildlife, and true expedition travel.
Its emphasis on adventure, plus a rare opportunity to explore Marguerite Bay and Lazarev Bay, make this voyage particularly well suited to experienced travellers seeking frontier exploration.
Voyage: Uncharted Islands of the Deep South
Operator: Oceanwide Expeditions
Dates: Various 2026 dates
________________________________________
Origin of Species Adventure — Metropolitan Touring
On this ultimate Galápagos’ adventure, guests will encounter many of the Galápagos’ Big 15 species, guided by expert naturalists. They also benefit from premium expedition amenities and all-inclusive expedition luxury.
Comprehensive inclusions — from expert guides to equipment and Wi-Fi — make this sailing particularly attractive to first-time Galápagos travellers and dedicated wildlife enthusiasts.
Voyage: Origin of Species Adventure
Operator: Metropolitan Touring
Dates: 19–27 March 2026
________________________________________
Best of the Southern Ocean — Poseidon Expeditions
The unique beauty of South Georgia is the star of this voyage – think mountain peaks, Caribbean blue water, golden sand and green tussock grass landscapes alongside whole colonies of king penguins, elephant seals, fur seals and more. Guests also visit historic Grytviken and Shackleton’s gravesite.
With multiple expert photographers onboard, this sailing is especially appealing to wildlife photographers.
Voyage: Best of the Southern Ocean
Operator: Poseidon Expeditions
Dates: 23 October–10 November 2026
________________________________________
Secrets of the Coral Triangle — Swan Hellenic
Exploring remote Indonesian archipelago regions like West Papua and Raja Ampat, this itinerary uncovers secluded lagoons, pristine coral atolls, and jungle-bordered shores, accessible exclusively by small ship, as well as whale-shark hotspots and remote island communities, with snorkelling, kayaking, and Zodiac excursions in pristine waters.
An included pre-night stay and charter flights make embarkation in Jayapura and departure from Sorong easy to book for you and easy for your clients.
Voyage: Secrets of the Coral Triangle
Operator: Swan Hellenic
Dates: 18–28 April 2026
________________________________________
Longyearbyen to Lonyearbyen — Silversea Expeditions
Sailing through glacial waters and fjords under the twenty-four-hour daylight of the Midnight Sun, this expedition searches for polar bears, walruses, seals and Arctic wildlife in remote Svalbard landscapes.
Silversea’s ultra-luxury offering, high staff-to-guest ratio, expert-led programming, and inclusive charter flights make this voyage appealing to clients seeking premium comfort alongside adventure.
Voyage: Longyearbyen to Lonyearbyen
Operator: Silversea Expeditions
Dates: 13–20 June 2026
________________________________________
Highlights of Antarctica — HX Expeditions
This full-season itinerary builds excitement during the Drake Passage crossing before offering landings, Zodiac cruising, kayaking, and close encounters with Antarctic wildlife and ice landscapes.
The supportive and highly experienced expedition team ensures that all guests get the best out of their trip.
Voyage: Highlights of Antarctica
Operator: HX Expeditions
Dates: Various dates
________________________________________
Micro Antarctic Expedition (Fly–Fly) — 60-South
With only 12 guests on board, every journey feels personal and flexible on these voyages. Guests fly directly to the Antarctic Peninsula, allowing them to spend more time surrounded by ice and wildlife, enjoying landings guided by experienced expedition leaders.
It’s the perfect option for travellers who want a real expedition — personal, adventurous, and unforgettable — without the days spent at sea.
Voyage: Micro Antarctic Expedition (Fly–Fly)
Operator: 60-South
Dates: Various dates
Link: https://60-south.com/
________________________________________
South Pacific Discovery: Norfolk, New Caledonia & Fiji — Scenic Discovery Yachts
Guests experience authentic cultural encounters, such as Māori welcomes & traditional Fijian kava ceremonies, and visit spectacular locations like historic Norfolk Island, the Bay of Islands & fiery Mount Yasur Travel — all while travelling in ultra-luxury aboard Scenic Eclipse II.
Scenic’s all-inclusive luxury — from dining to enrichment programmes — combined with immersive exploration makes this itinerary appealing to clients seeking indulgence paired with discovery.
Voyage: South Pacific Discovery: Norfolk, New Caledonia & Fiji
Operator: Scenic Discovery Yachts
Dates: 4–14 March 2026
________________________________________
Vancouver Island’s Wild Side — Maple Leaf Adventures
This coast-to-coast expedition offers an in-depth exploration of Vancouver Island’s wild outer coastline and unroaded wilderness, combining Indigenous culture, wildlife encounters, rainforest walks, and refined onboard comfort aboard the luxury boutique vessel Cascadia.
With the Vancouver–Port Hardy flight, hotel nights, land tours, cultural visits, and a winery experience all included, this voyage is especially appealing for guests as a seamless, all-inclusive way to experience Canada’s west coast in depth and comfort.
Voyage: Vancouver Island’s Wild Side
Operator: Maple Leaf Adventures
Dates: 20 July – 1 August 2026
________________________________________
The Geographic North Pole — PONANT
This extraordinary Arctic expedition gives guests the rare opportunity to reach the Geographic North Pole aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s only luxury icebreaker, while exploring alongside professional travel and wildlife photographer Cindy Miller Hopkins.
With no single supplement (limited availability), early booking savings of up to 25%, and flights and transfers included from Paris to Longyearbyen and return, this voyage is especially appealing to adventurous travellers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime polar achievement with premium comfort.
Voyage: The Geographic North Pole
Operator: PONANT
Dates: 11–27 August 2026
________________________________________
Across these expert-recommended voyages, your clients will find opportunities to witness extraordinary wildlife, immerse themselves in vibrant cultures, and explore some of the most remote and beautiful regions on the planet.
Whether they are drawn to the stillness of the polar world, the biodiversity of tropical waters, or the cultural richness of remote island communities, the upcoming expedition season presents a diverse range of experiences to suit many different interests and travel styles.
For travel advisors, these voyages offer strong selling potential, supported by clear points of difference, compelling inclusions, and practical advantages such as promotional offers, expert-led programmes, and unique access that helps turn client curiosity into confident bookings.
Why not tell us which voyage you'll be adding below?
