AdventureSmith closely tracks developments in expedition cruising so travelers can focus on booking dream trips to unimaginable destinations. Some significant updates are shaping the industry and making remote destinations more accessible in the coming year and beyond. Whether you’re in the market for an adventure cruise or curious about where you can go in the future, check out the following new information.
- Easier Access to the Arctic: New Airport in Greenland
Greenland’s new international airport in Nuuk will open in November, offering more convenient access for North American travelers. Arctic cruise itineraries are adjusting to reflect these developments, with some expeditions now launching from Toronto instead of Reykjavik. This will create new pathways for travelers to experience the Arctic’s vast and pristine wilderness.
2. Peak Solar Cycle: Northern and Southern Lights Cruises
With the solar cycle nearing its peak in July 2025, demand for Northern Lights cruises has skyrocketed. Many new cruise options are dedicated to aurora viewing, making it easier for travelers to witness this magical phenomenon. There are even options to view the southern lights: a special Polar Circle Cruise on March 21, 2025, will offer aurora viewing with guidance from a NASA scientist and professor of astronomy.
3. Visa-Free Travel to Indonesia
Indonesia is rolling out a new visa policy for tourists from 20 countries, including the United States, India, Australia, and Japan. This policy, expected to take effect in October 2024, will simplify travel to Indonesia, making it easier to access AdventureSmith’s popular cruises in this biodiverse archipelago. This policy is part of broader efforts to boost international tourism in Indonesia’s post-pandemic era.
New Adventures in Expedition Cruising
- Activity-inclusive “basecamp” Antarctica departures
Active travelers seeking a fully immersive Antarctica experience can look forward to more all-inclusive “basecamp” expeditions. These itineraries allow guests to experience kayaking, hiking, and snowshoeing without additional booking costs. Popular options include Antarctica All-Access for the 2025 season and Antarctica Active Cruise for the 2025-26 season. Due to increased demand, the long-running Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp Cruise is adding more departures across three vessels.
3. Fly-cruise options expanding for Antarctica
With an 18% increase in departures this November compared to the previous season, more travelers than ever can access Antarctica via fly-cruise options. Fly-cruise packages allow travelers to bypass the often-rough Drake Passage and start their Antarctic adventure sooner. Options now include round-trip flights or flexible one-way fly-cruise itineraries.
3. Patagonia and Antarctica combo cruises
The Patagonia cruising season begins each September, and this year brings an increase in combination Patagonia-Antarctica cruises. New offerings for 2025-26 include the dedicated Antarctica & Patagonia Cruise and the Active & Wild Antarctica Air Cruise, and Spirit of Antarctica Expedition, which provide exciting extensions into Patagonia and the Chilean Fjords.
4. Culinary experiences at sea: South Australia
Expedition cruises are increasingly incorporating culinary programming, and one of the standout trips is the South Australia Cruise on December 1, 2024. This journey highlights the region’s diverse seafood, wine, whiskey, gin, and other local delicacies. Guests will have exclusive opportunities to visit sustainable aquaculture projects, taste wild-farmed abalone, and savor freshly caught lobster in the traditional fishing outpost of Robe.
Expedition cruising has become one of the fastest-growing segments in the travel industry, offering travelers intimate, small-ship journeys to some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. As we head into 2025, AdventureSmith Explorations, a leader in small-ship adventure cruises, is rolling out new ships, itineraries, and destinations to provide adventurers with unprecedented ways to explore.
“As people start planning their travel for 2025, we’re excited to report that there is no shortage of ‘new’ coming to the small-ship cruise industry,” says Todd Smith, founder and president of AdventureSmith Explorations.
“With a significant expansion in the Mediterranean and beyond, 2025 is set to be a remarkable year for expedition cruising.”
New Expedition Cruising Ships Launching
AdventureSmith Explorations will introduce six new small ships in 2025, with two more expected by year’s end. Designed to enhance the intimate travel experience, most vessels will accommodate fewer than 50 guests, making them some of the smallest in their respective fleets.
“Last year, only two new small ships launched, both in the Galapagos Islands,” notes Smith. This year’s expansion highlights the industry’s dedication to sustainable, personalized exploration.
Mediterranean adventures: expanded itineraries
AdventureSmith’s Mediterranean cruises will grow from 12 itineraries to 25 in 2025. New voyages on the 72-guest Variety Voyager and 34-guest Callisto will explore diverse destinations, including Italy, Malta, Slovenia, Albania, Croatia, and Montenegro, starting as early as April and running through late November.
Additionally, the National Geographic Orion will be repositioned to offer brand-new itineraries in Turkey, Sicily, Croatia, and the Greek Islands, providing ample opportunities to explore the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
Southeast Asia and Oceania: luxury exploration on the Paspaley Pearl
Travelers dreaming of exploring Indonesia, Australia, and Papua New Guinea can look forward to the luxury of the 30-guest Paspaley Pearl, launching in Indonesia in January. Originally purpose-built in 2021 and recently renovated, this ship combines mid-century modern design with state-of-the-art technology and amenities, including an upscale al fresco dining area and guided excursions led by naturalists.
The ship will travel throughout Indonesia and eventually to its home destination in Australia’s Kimberley region, where guests can immerse themselves in its rich maritime culture and natural beauty.
Galapagos: new educational and luxury expeditions
The Galapagos Islands remain a top destination for small-ship cruising. Travelers can enjoy upgraded options aboard new vessels like the 16-guest National Geographic Delfina, 48-guest National Geographic Gemini, and the luxurious 20-guest Hermes mega-catamaran.
The Delfina, the smallest in Lindblad Expeditions’ fleet, will offer an intimate itinerary ideal for charters. The Hermes, launching in late spring, provides an ultra-high-end experience for those looking to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site in style. Learn more about 2025 Galapagos cruises.
Baja California: new itineraries and unique experiences
In Baja California, AdventureSmith Explorations is introducing two new 11-day itineraries, seasonal deals, and convenient air travel to La Paz, Mexico. These additions coincide with peak marine life viewing season from November through April, making it an ideal time to visit this vibrant marine region.
“Travelers are showing more interest in the northern reaches of Baja, and we’re eager to show them why this lesser-visited region is so special,” says Smith.
Highlights of the New Baja Itineraries: In Steinbeck’s Wake: An Epic Voyage through the Sea of Cortez.
Inspired by John Steinbeck’s Log from the Sea of Cortez, this 11-day journey aboard the Safari Voyager explores sites Steinbeck and marine biologist Ed Ricketts visited. Starting in November 2024, this unique itinerary includes themed dinners and activities. Special sailings in April will feature an exclusive tour of Steinbeck’s historic ship, the Western Flyer.
Baja California Discovery: Exploring Mexico’s Gulf of California.
Baja California Discovery: Exploring Mexico’s Gulf of California results from years of careful exploration by veteran naturalists and features this rich sea’s best destinations. This 11-day exploration of the Sea of Cortez aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Venture includes some lesser-visited sites like the Midriff Islands, including Isla Rasa, where half a million nesting seabirds occupy a 150-acre island. National Geographic photographers and photo instructors are also aboard to share tips and years of expertise.
Making travel to Baja easier than ever, Alaska Airlines has returned to La Paz, Mexico, on the shores of the Gulf of California with non-stop service from LAX.
Antarctica and arctic expeditions: Expanded options for polar exploration
In the polar regions, we will see the launch of two new ships that will offer additional Arctic cruises in the coming seasons. The 138-guest Ocean Explorer and 156-guest Douglas Mawson provide new ways to access Antarctica, including flights over the Drake Passage and helicopter excursions to explore icebergs, mountains, and remote coastlines.
AdventureSmith Explorations has partnered with PolarQuest to offer enhanced Arctic journeys on vessels accommodating just 12 to 50 passengers. For over two decades, PolarQuest has led Arctic explorations focusing on sustainability and immersive experiences.
These smaller vessels allow flexibility in daily activities, such as adjusting routes based on weather or wildlife sightings. With PolarQuest’s dedication to conservation, they help travelers gain a deep appreciation for Arctic wildlife and ecosystems. Learn about Arctic adventures with PolarQuest.
Why Choose a Small-Ship Expedition for Expedition Cruising?
Small-ship expedition cruises offer a unique way to connect deeply with remote environments while leaving a minimal footprint. As Niklas Nilsson, a PolarQuest travel consultant, explains,
“Imagine arriving in a remote settlement in Greenland, home to just a handful of families, where life moves in harmony with nature. Now imagine experiencing this with just 11 fellow travelers instead of hundreds. This is the magic of small ship expeditions with PolarQuest.”
From the Mediterranean to the Arctic, AdventureSmith Explorations provides travelers with unique ways to explore the world’s most remote destinations. Their commitment to offering intimate, sustainable, and carefully curated experiences ensures that each voyage is not only an adventure but a journey that fosters a connection with the environment.
Ready to plan your expedition cruising adventure? Visit AdventureSmith Explorations to explore these new offerings and choose the cruise that’s right for you.