Expedition Cruising – A Growing Trend

Firstly, WHY are travellers drawn to expedition cruises?

Adventure – Expedition cruises offer the chance to explore remote regions, from polar to jungles, islands and other hard-to-reach destinations in an adventurous way. Activities like hiking, kayaking and polar plunges add excitement.

Learning – There is a significant educational component with lectures from experts and naturalists as well as shore excursions that focus on nature, wildlife and culture.  Definitely an enriching experience for the mind, body and soul.

Unique Wildlife – Seeing Antarctica’s penguins, the Arctic wildlife like polar bears and whales, the Galapagos’ endemic species, witnessing rare animals unique to that region, etc. is a definite drawcard for almost everyone who embarks on an expedition cruise.

Remoteness – Just the thought of traveling somewhere off the beaten path, like Antarctica or the Kimberley, can be highly appealing. It’s a ‘polar’ opposite experience from any other type of holiday!

Flexibility – Because expedition ships can and often do quickly change course to take advantage of wildlife sightings or weather, it’s this spontaneity and flexibility that is part of the adventure.

Scenery – Dramatic landscapes like icebergs, fjords, rugged coasts and turquoise lagoons provide stunning and ever-changing scenery.

Small Groups – Depending on the cruise line, expedition ships usually have less than 200 passengers for a more immersive experience with the crew and the expert guides.

Sustainability – Many expedition companies highlight sustainability, conservation, and responsible travel. This appeals to eco-conscious travelers.

Bucket List – For some travelers, visiting Antarctica or seeing the Amazon is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and worth the splurge. It’s a bucket list achievement.

WHAT do you need to know?

Aside from being an exciting adventure, expedition cruises offer a unique opportunity to explore remote and often untouched destinations while immersing yourself in pristine nature and wildlife. While we are mostly familiar with the joys of river and ocean cruising, here are a few important  factors to take into consideration before booking an expedition cruise:

Flexible Itineraries: Expedition cruises often have flexible itineraries due to weather, wildlife sightings, and other unpredictable factors. Your expedition leaders will always prioritise your safety and will strive to maximise your experience, so do trust them and be prepared for any changes.

Small Ship Destinations: To allow for a far more immersive experience, expedition cruises almost always utilise smaller ships designed for navigating remote waters and reaching unique destinations for a chance to experience nature in its purest form. Expedition ships often take you to remote and pristine areas, away from typical tourist routes.

Nature and Wildlife: Expedition cruises are centered around exploring and appreciating nature, wildlife, and their ecosystems.  Expert guides onboard and ashore will provide incredible knowledge regarding the flora, fauna, and geology of the areas you visit.

Expert Guides: Expedition cruises are accompanied by experienced naturalist guides who are knowledgeable about the destinations and the wildlife you’ll encounter. Typically, you’ll be offered onboard lectures and talks and guided hikes or zodiac trips to enhance your understanding.

Limited Passengers: Naturally, smaller ships mean fewer passengers, which fosters a sense of camaraderie, creating a more personalised and memorable experience, perhaps even making a new friendship or two.

Clothing and Gear: Depending on your destination and activities, pack appropriate clothing and gear such as comfortable hiking shoes, waterproof and windproof clothing, sun protection, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Physical Fitness: Some activities offered on an expedtion tour like hiking and snorkeling, may require a certain level of physical fitness. Ideally, to maximise your experience, you would want to be reasonably fit.

Responsible Travel:  With an emphasis on eco-friendly tourism and minimising your impact on the environment, the “Leave No Footprint” principle is imperative.

Seasickness: While modern expedition ships are equipped with stabilisers to reduce motion, they are still small ships and seasickness can still be an issue for some. If you’re inclined to get motion sickness, it’s a good idea to bring medication or equivalent remedies with you.

Social Interaction: Expedition cruises encourage interaction with fellow travelers, fostering a sense of community among passengers who share a passion for exploration and nature.

Booking in Advance: Expedition cruises can fill up quickly due to their limited capacity and high demand. It’s advisable to book well in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and cabin type. Also if there are optional land tours that are not part of the standard itinerary, you may want to check if these need to be booked in advance as well.

Photography: Goes without saying! Bring a good camera or smartphone with a decent camera to capture everything amazing!  Please remember to respect wildlife by staying a safe distance and not disturbing them.

Local Cultures: Expedition cruises often include interactions with local communities. Be respectful and open-minded when engaging with local cultures and perhaps do a little research before you leave home!

Activities – Expedition cruises offer activities including kayaking, hiking, polar plunges, Zodiac excursions, and hands-on educational experiences. Traditional cruises focus more on entertainment, dining, pools, shows and relaxation.

Coral Expeditions

Ambiance – The atmosphere on expedition ships is casual, laid-back and centered around the destination adventures. Traditional cruises have a more formal vibe with entertainment and dining as the focus.

Comfort – Expedition ships offer comfortable but not lavish accommodations. Traditional cruises have larger staterooms, multiple restaurants and ample lounging areas.

Itineraries – Expedition itineraries are flexible to adapt to changing nature and weather conditions. Traditional cruise itineraries are usually very port-focused and consistent.

So in short, expedition cruises are more adventurous and destination-focused, while traditional cruises offer more amenities, dining, entertainment and a fixed itinerary.

Expedition cruising offers a chance to connect with nature, explore remote destinations, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around us. By keeping these important points in mind, you can make the most of your experience and create lasting memories of a remarkable journey.

Expedition cruise destinations continue to grow in popularity and here are a few top destinations:

Kimberley Coast, Australia – Remote and rugged, the Kimberley is known for its stunning, untouched landscape. Expeditions cruise here from April to October and is the most popular expedition destination Cruise Express book.

Antarctica – Antarctica cruises continue to be highly sought after for the chance to see majestic icebergs, penguins, whales and polar wildlife up close. The Antarctic season runs from November to March.

Arctic – Cruising around the Arctic regions of northern Norway, Greenland, Iceland and Canada allows passengers to see glaciers, fjords and potential northern lights. Peak season is June to August.

Galapagos Islands – This unique Ecuadorian archipelago with its abundance of wildlife and bird species remains a bucket list destination. The best time to visit is typically December to May.

Alaska – Cruising along Alaska’s coastline and glaciers is a popular way to see majestic sights like Glacier Bay, Denali and the Inside Passage. The main cruising season is May to September.

South Pacific – Remote island nations like Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Fiji that offer stunning beaches and exotic cultures are increasing in popularity as expedition destinations. The dry season from May to October is best.

Call us on 1300 766 537 or email info@cruiseexpress.com.au if you would like to discuss an expedition cruise adventure today.

How to be an Eco-Friendly Cruiser

Going on a cruise can feel like a more eco-friendly solution to traveling compared to the thousands of air miles flying across the planet. However, that doesn’t mean that a cruise doesn’t come with its own carbon footprint.

If you want to put the planet first for now and future generations, follow these tips to ensure you’re as eco-friendly and ocean loving as possible.

Power Usage

As on land, your use of electricity affects the planet. Wasting electricity is a definite no-no if you want to help conserve the planet’s resources. Turn off or limit the use of lights, air conditioning and other electrical items if it’s not necessary to have them on.

Reusable Bottles

It’s no secret that plastic harming to the planet. While it usually feels that such a massive problem is too big for one person to handle or have an impact on, remember that plastic pollution is avoidable. Did you know that by 2040, the amount of plastic expected to end up in the planet’s oceans is estimated at 29 million metric tons!?

Have a guilt-free and plastic bottle-free cruise by bringing a stainless steel, reusable water bottle. If you can refill your reusable one, there’s no point in buying loads of plastic water bottles along the way. You’ll save yourself money, and you’ll be helping the unnecessary negative impact of plastic pollution.

Your Towels

If it feels like a holiday luxury to use a towel once, have housekeeping wash it, and offer you a new one, that’s because it is! It’s a luxury because, after just one use, a towel isn’t likely to be very dirty at all. And on a cruise full of hundreds of people, that’s a lot of towels and wasted water.

So do your bit for the planet, and instead of a new daily towel, just hang it on the handrails or behind the door so housekeeping knows not to offer you a new one. If for some reason they don’t, simply ask them – the same goes for bedsheets that may be changed daily.

Litter

Remember that littering on a cruise is the same as littering anywhere else! Per day, a cruise with approximately 6000 people can generate masses of waste, including 14 tons of dry waste.

So think before you buy: Should you buy the item covered in plastic wrapping? Think before you throw plastic in the rubbish: Can you recycle your wrappings?

And never litter. Any of it, no matter the size might end up into the ocean, and you’ll be responsible for polluting these beautiful places you visit.

And Finally…

Being an eco-friendly cruise passenger requires the same logic as being environmentally friendly on shore. Be considerate, think and take the responsibility seriously. It’s not difficult, even on holidays you’re ultimately sure to lessen your environmental impact – and inspire others to do the same.

Escorted Heritage Rail Tours

The Ins and Outs!

Since 2016, Cruise Express has successfully run a myriad of escorted heritage rail journeys that combine the wonderful experience of heritage train travel with the delights and highlights of touring regional Australia. We join regional festivals, visit farms and wineries, enjoy private tours and performances and dine in terrific and authentic local restaurants

Demand for this style of travelling has increased as our clients experience not only the destination but the joy of travel itself!

Why do our clients love heritage train journeys?

There is a nostalgic romanticism about heritage trains, a step back in time to a bygone era like no other. Many of our clients remember the trains of yesteryear and in many cases have actually travelled on them in the past. Time and time again we also hear that there is a wonderful camaraderie onboard and people make lasting friendships on our tours.

A journey on a heritage train is a step back to a time of glamour, buffets and restaurant cars, first-class lounges, railway restaurants as well as the ‘fastest’ and ‘firsts’ that helped these national treasures be sealed in our psyche.  

 

Who runs the show? 

The organisations that manage the preservation, restoration and conservation of Australia’s heritage trains are mostly self-funded and run by a small but dedicated group of volunteers. The organisations rely heavily on funding from our charters, private donations and revenue from their own tours. Cruise Express collaborates with these groups, organising all the touring, accommodation, and dining to create a seamless rail holiday experience.

The staff and volunteers are often current or ex-railway workers and possess special skills as boilermakers, drivers, engineers, carpenters/train outfitters and those with knowledge of rail safety operations. Many are usually entirely unpaid for their time.

Some carriages date back to the middle of last century if not further, and are often in much the same condition as when they left service decades ago, showing an amount of wear and tear as part of their long history. Many spare parts are no longer manufactured, so when something goes wrong, this is where the dedicated volunteers’ creative abilities come into play.

While 21st-century technology is evolving at a rapid pace, raising awareness and educating the public on the importance of preserving our railway history is paramount. Additionally, passing these skills on to younger generations is critical for the survival of the heritage train industry, and it can only be done with continued interest and funding.

What to expect?

Heritage rail journeys are often thought to be part of current Government Railway operations, but being privately owned and operated, the discounts and benefits often offered on public transport regrettably don’t apply.

Another misconception is that heritage trains are able to run and stop almost wherever which is far from the case. Each train journey will have carefully allocated stops, working around all other trains and activities on the network including passenger and freight trains and track work.

One charming aspect many don’t expect is that most rail motors and some rail carriages are from an era before air-conditioning became commonplace. This means the windows can open, providing a unique connection between the traveller and their surroundings.

 

For those that have mobility issues, it is important to keep in mind that heritage trains were designed and built long before mobility concerns were factored in. Regrettably therefore, doorways and corridors are often not wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or walking frames. Onboard lavatories and bathrooms are also small.

Australia’s heritage trains truly are rare survivors of a long-lost era, and we are lucky to have access to them.

To find out more about our range of upcoming heritage rail journeys, please visit our rail page or call our Travel Specialists on 1300 766 537.

We look forward to welcoming you onboard!

 

The Kimberley Uncovered!

An Interview with Mick Fogg

PONANT’s Australian Expedition Manager

Mick is the Director of Expeditions and Destination Development, Asia Pacific for PONANT, and has led more than 300 expeditions through the Sub-Antarctic, South East Asia and Oceania regions spanning a 15-year career.

His enthusiasm for the cultures, wildlife and wonders of Australia is contagious! Below follows an article from PONANT where Mick talks about one of his all time favourite places – Australia’s Kimberley that we would like to share with you.

Question: After having led more than 300 expeditions through the Sub-Antarctic, South East Asia and Oceania regions, why does The Kimberley still amaze you?

MICK FOGG: It’s like nowhere else on earth, a wild land of remote, spectacular scenery spread over vast distances, it’s the Antarctica of the tropics. The sheer size and age of the landscape are humbling and it is a privilege to experience such a pristine environment that has so many facets.

It is home to the oldest continuous culture on earth, the world’s largest living reptile, the only two ‘horizontal falls’ on the planet, the world’s largest inshore reef and the largest population of migrating humpback whales on the planet. The Kimberley is one of the world’s last great wilderness areas and one of Australia’s greatest natural assets. It is a destination that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.

Question: Why is it different travelling by sea compared to doing The Kimberley by land?

MICK FOGG: The Kimberley coastline extends over 12,000 kilometres and contains more than 2,500 islands. The coastal environment is very different to the inland region, the spectacular archipelagos, pristine mangrove environments and deep gorges can only be accessed from the sea.

There are only a few places along the coast that can be accessed from the land, and these are only accessible to the truly adventurous over difficult 4WD tracks that require a lot of preparation. On board a luxury small ship like L’Austral you can experience all the coast has to offer in extreme comfort with a highly attentive crew to look after you.

Question: What do you continue to watch in awe, even after having experienced it over 100 times?

MICK FOGG: Montgomery Reef seemingly rising from the ocean.

Question: Can you explain how the reef rises from the ocean?

MICK FOGG: Imagine 400 square kilometres of reef system invisible at high tide, covered by more than five metres of water. Then, as the tide recedes, the earth appears to bend as the water struggles to escape off the top of the reef fast enough. As Montgomery Reef breaks through the surface, water starts to cascade off the reef, forming one of the world’s longest waterfalls. There really is no adequate way to describe it and photos and video don’t do it justice.

You have to see Montgomery Reef for yourself. It is an experience that will stay with you forever. Montgomery Reef at high tide completely covered by water, the water cascading off the reef turning into rapids. The reef appears before your eyes – a feeding frenzy for the birds which swoop down on all the marine life caught on the reef at low tide.

Question: I’ve heard the tidal changes in The Kimberley are something to be seen to fully appreciate the sheer volume of water and power of the tides

MICK FOGG: Absolutely! Talbot Bay and the ‘Horizontal Falls’ provide a great opportunity to witness the power of the tides. The Kimberley has, arguably, the 2nd largest tidal change in the world, creating a truly unique phenomenon. It’s amazing to think that there are only two ‘Horizontal Falls’ on the planet and both are in our own backyard! David Attenborough has described these Falls as one of the greatest wonders of the natural world. Ponant will take guests in Zodiacs to coincide with the peak flow at the Horizontal Falls taking you right to the mouth of the falls to feel the power of up to 1 million liters of water passing through the falls every second!

Question: The Kimberley is known for its breathtaking Gorges. What’s your favourite?

MICK FOGG: The 19-kilometre Gorge of King George with its spectacular 90 metre high sandstone cliffs. For the more adventurous guests we offer a hike to the top of the King George Falls where they will be rewarded by an amazing view and a refreshing swim, but for me it’s about the journey up the Gorge – it is absolutely spectacular. The colours of the Warton Sandstone change throughout the day creating endless photographic opportunities– an area ideal for exploration by Zodiac.

Question: The Kimberley is home to an incredible number of Indigenous rock art sites, and this is one of the primary reason for it being put forward for world heritage listing. Is there any style of Indigenous art that is close to your heart?

MICK FOGG: The Wandjina Rock Art Gallery of Ngumbre at Raft Point is a special place. There is a sense of tranquillity that spreads over you as you sit and contemplate the activities that have gone on in this significant location of the Worrorra people. I take great pleasure in watching Ponant guests interact with the traditional custodians of the land and learn about their ancient culture and stories in stone.

The Wandjina images came to prominence during the 2000 Sydney Olympics when a Wandjina image was chosen to represent Indigenous Australia. The image of a 40-foot-high Namarali rising from the ground was a very special moment. During the 2016 Vivid festival, there was a spectacular projection of Wandjina figures onto the Sydney Opera House and that is certainly an image I won’t forget for a very long time.

Question: Is it true that in The Kimberley you will find the oldest depictions of the human form on the planet?

MICK FOGG: Whilst no exact dates on the age of the Gwion Gwion style of rock art unique to the Kimberley has been validated, it is generally thought that they are at least 15,000 years old and may be as much as 40,000 years old. These intricate and complex depictions of the human form may be more than 5 times older than Egyptian Hieroglyphs. They were once known as ‘Bradshaws’ but their correct name is Gwion Gwion or Gyorn Gyorn. It is yet another fascinating aspect of our Kimberley experience.

Kimberley with National Geographic 2020

Question: What’s an unknown fact about The Kimberley that people discover?

MICK FOGG: When they travel to The Kimberley with Ponant in July and August, guests don’t realise that this is the prime breeding time for Humpback Whales. In fact, in The Kimberley there were 36,500 Humpback Whales there last year – the largest population of migrating Humpback Whales on the planet.

Question: Who do you have travelling with guests Mick?

MICK FOGG: Each voyage is accompanied by 12 Expedition Guides who are experts in their fields – renowned anthropologists, marine biologists, historians, botanists, geologists, naturalists and ornithologists all giving guests a greater understanding of the area. They really are the best in the business and your journey will be so enriched by their knowledge, enthusiasm and experience.

Call us on 1300 766 537 or email info@cruiseexpress.com.au if you’d like to visit The Kimberley.

5 Important Things to Know When Booking a Cruise

 

No matter how many cruises you’ve been on, you can always learn more to make your voyage as perfect as possible. We’ve discovered some great tips along the way and here are a few we’d like to share.

 

Choose the Right Ship 

There are many factors to consider when choosing the most appropriate ship for your cruise. Remember the main three cruising styles are Ocean, River and Expedition. Aside from price and itinerary, the ship’s overall vibe and layout are also important. Some are luxurious, small or mid-size targeted for a more genteel cruise experience and others host over 5,000 passengers, offering many activities including kids and teens programs, waterslides, rock climbing walls, or even go-karting. 

Make sure you’re choosing a ship that has a good array of activities and amenities that you and your family will enjoy.

 

Choose Your Cabin Wisely

When booking your cruise, speak with your Travel Agent and do some research about the ship’s layout and which cabin best suits your needs and budget. We recommend cabins that are not directly above, below or next to a busy area that may be noisy at certain times of the day. None of us wants to hear nightclub music or poolside deckchairs scraping the floor while we’re trying to enjoy peace and quiet.

If you are prone to seasickness, book a cabin in the middle of the ship on a lower deck for less rocking and rolling, and if you have mobility issues, the best cabins will be close to the lifts.  Families should ideally look for interconnecting rooms, but get in early as these tend to sell quickly, especially on holiday sailings.

 

Give Yourself Ample Time

Don’t fly into your port city to join the cruise on embarkation day, that’s rolling the dice! If you are embarking at an incredible destination such as New York, Lisbon or Barcelona, make sure to arrive at least a day before your cruise departs to allow a buffer for flight delays and other unforeseen events – sadly the ship won’t wait.  Also, give yourself an extra day or two to explore these top travel spots. 

 

Consider the Calendar

It’s not necessarily a mistake to sail in the Australian cyclone season (typically from November to April), but don’t be surprised if the seas are a little rocky during your voyage. You’re more likely to have your itinerary altered and should consider travel insurance that covers this. Also, if you sail during school holidays expect the ship to be busy with larger family groups travelling with children onboard.

 

Budget Accurately

As we’re sure you are aware, on some cruises your expenses don’t end when you make final payment for your cruise fare. Unless your Travel Agent pre-arranged an all inclusive package deal for you, be ready to pay for drinks, gratuities, excursions, specialty dining, and souvenirs. Remember to also find out what currency is used onboard, it may be Australian dollars, US dollars or Euro depending on the cruise line and where you will be cruising.

Before booking your cruise, it may also help to chat with friends and family for their recommendations and positive travel experiences.

Then call us on 1300 766 537 or email info@cruiseexpress.com.au. and we’ll be happy to help with all the arrangements.

Click here for some inspiration for your next cruising holiday experience!