Beyond the Horizon: How Explore Cruising is Redefining Travel for Seasoned Cruisers

For seasoned cruisers who’ve ticked off the Caribbean, the Med, and even a world cruise or two, the traditional cruise experience can start to feel a little too familiar. That’s where Explore Cruising comes in, a new wave of travel that blends immersive discovery with the comfort and style experienced cruisers expect.

Far removed from the crowds of large cruise ships, explore cruises are designed for travellers who want deeper, more meaningful encounters with the world. Think smaller ships, expert led excursions, and access to remote regions that few ever get to see.

Cruise lines like HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Quark Expeditions, Scenic, Oceania, and Emerald Cruises are at the forefront of this movement, each offering their own unique take on the art of exploration.

HX: Adventures in the World’s Wildest Places With a focus on sustainability and scientific enrichment, HX takes guests to awe inspiring destinations like Antarctica, Greenland, and the Arctic. These journeys are perfect for travellers looking to explore nature up close, with expert guides leading hikes, zodiac trips, and wildlife encounters.

Quark Expeditions: Polar Pioneers For those craving the extremes, Quark offers once-in-a-lifetime access to the polar regions. From kayaking alongside icebergs to spotting penguins on remote beaches, this is true adventure cruising with purpose.

Scenic: Luxury Meets Discovery Scenic Eclipse redefines luxury exploration. With helicopters, submarines, and a 6-star onboard experience, Scenic offers a way to see the planet’s hidden corners in total comfort. Think Antarctica, the Kimberley Coast, or the fjords of Norway, all with fine dining and world class service.

Oceania Cruises: Cultural Exploration Through Cuisine While not a traditional explorer line, Oceania is ideal for travellers seeking cultural depth and culinary immersion. Their smaller ships sail to lesser known ports, offering local food tours, cooking classes, and extended stays that go beyond the usual cruise experience.

Emerald Cruises: Intimate Adventures by River Emerald brings explore cruising to rivers and waterways. Whether it’s navigating the Mekong or terraced valleys of Portugal’s wine country, their small ships offer a boutique style way to experience local life, landscapes, and culture.

Explore Cruising is more than a trend, it’s the next evolution for curious, experienced travellers who want more than just to visit a place, they want to connect with it. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of explorers in the Arctic or sipping wine in a tucked away European port, these cruises help you see the world not just differently, but more deeply.