Make waves with an extra dose of adrenaline on an expedition cruise. These trips are typically led by guides with specialized knowledge of the area or a subject matter, and often venture into more remote destinations. Tempest says those in the Galapagos, Antarctica, and the Nordic areas are rising in popularity for the "amazing wildlife, exquisite scenery, and opportunities to hike, kayak, and even take zodiac and helicopter rides" for this style of cruising.
For example, National Geographic Expeditions takes travelers on seven nights through Alaska's Inside Passage, while G Adventures sails on a 20-night Spirit of Shackleton voyage through Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands.
Curry points adventurers to Quark Expeditions for their polar adventures, which include helicopter rides, hiking, camping, kayaking, and paddleboarding. "Most travelers get introduced with a standard Antarctic trip and then return back to see Greenland, Svalbard, and the Northwest Passage," she says.
