Adventure Cruises for Everyone

Cruising is known to be relaxing, restorative and luxurious.  However, tour companies now offer smaller and more adventurous cruises for those who seek more than spa treatments and extensive buffets. Get ready for an integration of luxury and adventure at some of the most active and pure destinations in the world.

Antarctica
Antarctica is a dream destination for the nature-lover. However, a journey to the most southern part of the world comes with a hefty price tag.  The World Outdoors tour company has been in operation since 1988.  This company features an Antarctica Adventure Cruise where travelers peruse the “White Continent” through hiking, zodiac excursions and wildlife viewing. Take a walk on the icy side as you step foot on the continent at Neko Harbour. This trip is rated “easy” and is suitable for various fitness levels. Cruises are offered in the southern hemisphere’s summer, November – March.www.theworldoutdoors.com

Alaska
Alaska, land of outdoor exploration, is one of the most adventurous destinations in the world. Adventure cruises offer outdoor enthusiasts the best views and activities without the challenge of trying to visit each destination via land traveling.  Adventure Smith Explorations feature small ship or yacht, adventure cruises. The “Active Inside Passage” and “Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise” are two of the many active itineraries offered.  Activities include kayaking, hiking, birding and wildlife viewing. The “Active Inside Passage” package was featured on the National Geographic’s Top 50 Tours of a Lifetime.  www.adventuresmitexplorations.com

Arctic
The Arctic region is another natural beauty that provides adventure amongst a majestic environment. Quark Expeditions, The Leader in Polar Adventures, features various cruise itineraries for all interests. Explore this polar landscape through kayaking amongst ice-fjords, searching for polar bears and trekking on the top of the world. Bring your camera to capture a photo with the famous North Pole sign or possibly the Northern Lights. The Arctic is a large place, and cruises visit various countries, which may include Iceland, Greenland, Russia, Scandinavia, Svalbard or Franz Josef Land. www.quarkexpeditions.com

Hawaii
Soak up the sun on deck and bathe in the ocean while snorkeling. The Small Ship Adventure Company features two Hawaiian itineraries that allow guests to enjoy the best of Hawaii’s marine life. Guests have the option to night snorkel with manta rays, hike amongst tropical landscapes, row the waters in hand carved canoes and search for humpback whales in the Humpback National Marine Sanctuary. www.smallshipadventure.com

Galapagos Islands
Explore beaches, oceans and of course, wildlife, while not on board this Lindblad Expedition cruise. Aboard the National Geographic Islander ship, up to 48 guests enjoy the best views and activities of the Galapagos. Whether you are in a zodiac or a kayak, guests will have the opportunity to view wildlife day and night. Snorkel with seals by day and relax in the hammock by night.   www.expeditions.com