The growing popularity of destination-centered voyages has spurred many lines to order new expedition vessels. Here’s the latest wave.
National Geographic Quest
In June, Lindblad Expeditions will debut this 100-passenger vessel—the first of three new ships coming in the next three years. The Quest will make its inaugural voyage along British Columbia’s coast and Alaska’s Inside Passage.
Celebrity Xploration and Cebrity Xperience
Last year, Celebrity Cruises purchased the Galápagos tour operator Ocean Adventures and its two ships. Following multimillion-dollar renovations, the 16-guest catamaran Xploration and 48-guest ship Xperience will launch in March, joining the line’s existing Galápagos ship, the 100-guest Xpedition.
Silvercloud
In August, Silversea Cruises will begin refitting this 296-passenger ship (the same one the U.S. Olympic basketball team called home during the Rio Olympics), converting it into a 200-guest luxury ice-class vessel that will operate mainly in the polar regions, starting in November.
Ponant Explorers
French luxury line Ponant is ponying up for four new 184-passenger expedition yachts, dubbed the “Ponant Explorers,” to roll out in the summers of 2018 and 2019. Passengers will be able to pick among sailings to warm-weather destinations like Costa Rica and Papua New Guinea.
Crystal Endeavor
Crystal Cruises’ 100-suite expedition yacht, arriving in 2018, will come equipped with two helicopters, two submarines, and underwater scooters. Dynamic positioning technology will allow the ship to hover over delicate coral reefs without the need to drop anchor.
Scenic Eclipse
Scenic’s over-the-top expedition vessel will be kitted out with a submarine, two helicopters, kayaks, and sumptuous staterooms. Debuting in August 2018, the ship will offer both classic sailings in the Med and expedition voyages to the Arctic and Antarctica.cruises