Cruise ship vs. Expedition ship: What's the difference?
Size
Expedition ships are small, to get you close up - to the scenery, the wildlife, the land, and the sea. You need to be able to get everyone off the ship very quickly, either into the water itself, or onto the land nearby. Ships must be nimble, manoeuvrable, and sturdy, with excellent stability and performance in heavy seas. And since you are way off the beaten track, your ship needs to be supremely seaworthy.
Environmental impact
If you are visiting the polar regions, the ship must have an ice-strengthened hull, and new environmental requirements are introduced periodically to further minimise the vessel's impact on the environment. Improved fuel efficiency, hybrid technology, innovative propulsion systems and more all contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of the vessel.
Some vessels are actually icebreakers in their own right, but the majority would rely on another vessel to free them from pack ice in an emergency.
Crew
Every expedition ship is staffed, in addition to the normal crew, by a group of naturalists and expedition leaders who will enhance your experience - obviously they need to be housed somewhere on the ship, and a well-designed lecture theatre with excellent sightlines will significantly improve your enjoyment of seminars and presentations on board.
Extensive observation decks help you observe the wildlife even before going ashore, and some of the newest vessels have specially built platforms to help you get the very best views possible from the bows of the ship.
Equipment
The next generation of expedition vessels is the greenest ever. Designed to meet the exacting environmental standards required by the new Polar Code, these ships feature a range of technical innovations and green initiatives, as well as cool new design features.
Many ships are adding all sorts of exciting water toys in addition to the standard Zodiacs and kayaks, including wave runners, underwater scooters, submarines and remote operated vehicles (ROVs). Onboard innovations to improve the guest experience include extendable glass balconies, interactive learning centres and even an underwater viewing lounge.
In short, whilst an expedition ship can and will offer many of the features of a conventional cruise ship - including comfortable accommodation, restaurants, bars and lounges, a spa and a gym - it must also feature a whole range of specific additions to be the perfect expedition vessel.