What's New in Expedition Cruising: Latest News

Published 7th of May 2025 | By Claire Benktander

Cruise Lines:

In classic ocean cruising, we are constantly hearing announcements of new ships, new itineraries and new partnerships on the horizon. But, there's plenty going on in the world of expedition too, from exciting new ships launching this year to industry-first polar hotels. Read on to find out more…

AE Expeditions' Douglas Mawson

The new expedition ship from AE Expeditions, Douglas Mawson - named after the legendary Australian explorer - is the third in the line's fleet of revolutionary purpose-built expedition ships. She promises the latest in cutting-edge nautical technology, featuring the newest X-Bow design and the largest choice of cabins in the fleet, including single berths, plus beautiful open deck space for taking in the views and a heated outdoor swimming pool.

The ship's inaugural season immerses guests in the pristine landscapes of East Antarctica, marking AE Expeditions' return to this region for the first time in 15 years. Itineraries begin in November 2025 with fascinating Tasmania expeditions before sailing Australia and New Zealand's subantarctic islands.

Find out more about Douglas Mawson

Rendering of AE Expeditions' new ship Douglas Mawson

Silversea's Antarctica Hotel

Silversea Expeditions' industry-first 150-room hotel, Cormorant 55, is set to open in Puerto Williams - the world's southernmost city and the line's current embarkation and disembarkation port for most of its Antarctica voyages - at the end of 2025. Its launch aims to enhance guests' Antarctica experience and make it all even more seamless, keeping in line with Silversea's level of service and facilities throughout.

Guests can expect seafront views over the Beagle Channel framed by snow-topped Patagonian peaks and pristine forest landscapes, and facilities will include a large restaurant, a bar, lounge, fitness centre and gift shop, while the design will showcase local architecture, materials and art and aim to blend into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

View all Silversea cruises

Rendering of Silversea's new hotel, Cormorant 55 — Rendering of a suite in Silversea's Cormorant 55 hotel

Pure Amazon

Luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent, which now owns classic cruise line Crystal, has revealed its new Pure Amazon river vessel, due to launch in Peru on the Amazon this summer. Expect stunning dark-wood interiors in 10 elegant suites and two solo staterooms, and expansive windows to bring the rainforest views in.

Guests can enjoy indoor/outdoor lounges and a wellness room and gym, and local flavours are the focus for the daily meals in the onboard dining room. Come daytime, A&K's guides will lead daily excursions from cultural experiences with local communities to guided nature walks.

Rendering of A&K's new Pure Amazon expedition ship — Rendering of A&K's Pure Amazon

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad is now National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, officially cementing its longtime partnership with National Geographic, with which it has offered cruises for over 20 years. Acquiring Celebrity Xpedition and Celebrity Xploration in the Galápagos, which launched in February and March 2025 as National Geographic Gemini and National Geographic Delfina, means the line now offers a total of four Galápagos ships ranging from 16 to 96 passengers.

Plus, with its newly refreshed focus on the UK market, with new UK offices and sterling pricing, this is a key cruise line to consider for your next expedition.

View all National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions cruises

National Geographic Delfina ship in the Galapagos — National Geographic Delfina

Aqua Expeditions

From December 2025, Aqua Expeditions will sail the Seychelles and Zanzibar on a yet-to-be-revealed ship, which will offer voyages of varying lengths from five to 14 nights. Alongside a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio and small-group excursions led by expert guides, highlights will include Aldabra, Cosmoledo, Astove, Farquhar Atoll, Kilwa Kisiwani and Pemba, as well as the African Banks, the northernmost uninhabited islands in the Seychelles archipelago.

The line has also recently partnered with luxury French expedition/classic cruise line Ponant which has acquired a majority share in Aqua Expeditions. Its new name Ponant Explorations is backed by the highend Artémis Group, which owns fashion houses including Gucci and Saint Laurent, and the partnership aims to expand both brands' visibility in expedition cruising and offer an even more varied product range.

Find out more about Aqua Expeditions

Anse Source d'Argent, famous beach on La Digue Island in the Seychelles — Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue, Seychelles

Meet the Author

Claire is Marketing Manager at Mundy Adventures, having worked with the company for two years and in travel for over 8 years. Her most recent adventure was a cruise on Seabourn Venture and she has also sailed with Ponant. Her favourite adventure destination is Sweden however she's also enjoyed adventures in South America, the Galapagos, Australia, Northern Europe, Southern Africa, and the Far East. When she’s not travelling she loves walking, skiing, camping and weekends away in the countryside.

More about Claire

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