Ponant just announced 36 new co-branded Smithsonian sailings for 2026

November 20, 2024 No Comments

Ponant has announced 36 co-branded sailings for 2026 in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution.

Marking the most departures ever offered in a single year, this expanded lineup represents a fifth year of collaboration between Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys highlighting a continued shared commitment to fostering global citizenship through immersive travel experiences.

These extraordinary voyages blend Ponant’s seafaring expertise and esteemed hospitality with Smithsonian’s unparalleled legacy as the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, offering guests unparalleled opportunities to explore the world with depth and purpose.

A selection of returning favourites complements seven exciting new itineraries for 2026. Among the highlights of these popular voyages are:

  • Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America (7 nights): Featuring a specially arranged visit to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s open-air Punta Culebra Nature Center. Departure dates: February 19–26, 2026 and February 26–March 5, 2026. Fares begin at $6,420 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.
  • A Voyage Along the Great Lakes (8 nights): Explores the beauty of the Great Lakes region. Departure dates: August 11–19, 2026 and August 19–27, 2026. Fares begin at $9,000 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.
  • Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean (7 nights): A picturesque journey through the Southern Aegean. Departure dates: June 16–23, 2026 and October 8–15, 2026. Fares begin at $6,150 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.
  • Antarctica: The White Continent (11 nights): Featuring three renowned Smithsonian Journeys Experts – polar explorer Ann Bancroft, astrophysicist Michelle Thaller, and photographer Jim Preston. Departure date: January 8–19, 2026. Fares begin at $13,780 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

Aside from the Antarctica departure with three experts, each voyage will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts to provide onboard lectures and discussions that dive deeper into a destination’s history, language, environment, and wildlife.

New voyages

New: Madagascar and Seychelles: Natural Treasures of the Indian Ocean, January 7-17, 2026,  Le Bougainville

This 10-night voyage from northern Madagascar through more than 1,000 miles of the Seychelles Archipelago offers an exploration of the rich endemic flora and fauna including lemurs, chameleons, red-tailed tropicbirds, radiated tortoises, multi-colored fish, green turtles, and more. A full day in Diego Suarez in the Emerald Sea Lagoon brings extensive snorkeling and birding opportunities before heading onto the Seychelles. Ports of call include the iconic beach at Anse Source d’Argent, surrounded by large blocks of granite and edged with coconut palms, and the Aride nature reserve, with some 73 hectares of colourful vegetation and more than one million birds. Fares begin at $11,110 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

New: Coastal Vietnam by Sea: Singapore to Hong Kong, February 8-22, 2026, Le Jacques-Cartier

This two-week long itinerary explores the many sides of Vietnam, from the ancient civilizations of Cham and Khmer, through Chinese influence and French colonialism, to the present day. Highlights include visits to four UNESCO World Heritage sites in Vietnam: The Ancient City of Hội An, the My Son temples, the Imperial City of Hue, and Hạ Long Bay, with opportunities to experience local cuisine in each port of call. Also featured are a performance of Vietnamese dance and song in Ho Chi Minh City, visits to handicraft markets in Nha Trang and Da Nang, and a day in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi. Fares begin at $12,500 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here. 

New: South Africa and Namibia by Sea: Around the Cape of Good Hope, March 19-29, 2026, Le Bougainville

This 10-night voyage along the southern coast of South Africa highlights the best of South Africa with three days devoted to a ‘safari by sea’ exploring the great game parks of the Eastern Cape followed by two days focused on Cape Town and its surroundings, as well as an exploration of the wild coastlines of Namibia from Lüderitz. The itinerary will showcase the world-famous conservation efforts of Addo Elephant Park; multiple opportunities for safaris through game parks in search of the “big five;” panoramic tours of the stunning beauty of the Cape Peninsula; the wine country surrounding Stellenbosch; the UNESCO World Heritage site of Robben Island; and Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain. Fares begin at $7,660 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

New: Voyage to Indonesia: Dragons, Reefs, and the Spice Islands, May 1-13, 2026, Le Jacques-Cartier

Highlights of this 12-night voyage include discovering the lush and idyllic islands of Indonesia and sailing through the heart of the Coral Triangle before arriving to the northern shores of Australia. It will combine both a deep dive into the region’s extraordinary biodiversity in the air, on land, and under the sea with visits to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and extensive possibilities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters with pristine coral reefs, as well as a rich immersion with the local people of Sumbawa and their age-old customs and traditions. Fares begin at $10,330 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here.

New: A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Across the Western Mediterranean, August 11-19, 2026, Le Dumont-d’Urville

This voyage offers the chance to witness the extraordinarily rare setting of the sun just moments after totality, followed by an exploration of the natural beauty and cultural history of the islands of the western Mediterranean. On August 12, 2026, after an afternoon exploring the landmarks of Palma de Mallorca, guests will reboard Le Dumont-d’Urville and head out to sea to view the total solar eclipse. The eight-night itinerary will continue to four additional Mediterranean islands including Menorca; Sardinia, with the opportunity to see prehistoric edifices called nuraghi; Corsica; and Napolean’s summer residence on Elba. Fares begin at $10,270 per guest based on double occupancy. Full details linked here. 

PONANT ships embody French sophistication in refined exploration, infused with the vibrant joie de vivre of the company’s French heritage. Guests enjoy elegantly appointed staterooms and suites with private balconies, wellness centers, complimentary Wi-Fi, and gourmet dining curated by PONANT’s chefs in collaboration with Ducasse Conseil, blending flavors from local destinations with timeless favorites. All-inclusive fares cover a shore excursion or activity in each port of call and seamless roundtrip airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days. For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com/cruises/themes/smithsonian-journeys; call 1-833-889-0800, or contact a travel advisor.

Fares are per guest in U.S. dollars, based on double occupancy.

Atlas Ocean Voyages shows off 2026 itineraries with 28 new ports of call

November 11, 2024 No Comments

Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled its 2026 summer itinerary collection, featuring new expeditions across the Canadian Arctic, Bermuda, Caribbean, and Europe—including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland.

With 28 new ports of call, this season’s expanded portfolio offers unparalleled experiences for returning and new guests. From Polar and Cultural Expeditions to Epicurean journeys, Atlas Ocean Voyages now provides a more diverse selection of immersive adventures than ever before.

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ new summer expeditions feature an exciting range of ports, offering guests unique encounters and immersive experiences. In Brønnøysund, Norway, marvel at sea eagles and seals in their natural habitat, while Warnemünde, Germany, combines scenic beaches with traditional maritime culture and easy access to Berlin. Sip robust wines in Çeşme, Turkey, famed for centuries-old vineyards. St. Anthony and Red Bay in Canada showcase Viking history, while Îles de la Madeleine and Corner Brook highlight nature’s beauty. Bermuda’s St. George’s and Hamilton add vibrant culture, rounding out a season of captivating destinations.

“We are excited to introduce 28 new ports to our destination portfolio,” said James Rodriguez, president and CEO. “Our expanded team of experts and guides ensures a deeply immersive experience aboard every voyage. These additions will be popular with our past guests and likely to sell out quickly.”

Enhanced Destination Experience with Late Departures and Overnights

Featuring over 70 extended evenings, leaving ports after 8 PM, allowing ample time to immerse in each destination’s local culture, cuisine, and energy. Additionally, with more than 25 overnight stays, travelers have extended hours to explore, creating a relaxed and enriched journey.

New expeditions highlights

Picturesque Peaks & Fjords | 14-NIGHT LONDON ROUNDTRIP | JUNE 1, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Denmark & Sweden Beauties | 10-NIGHT OSLO TO STOCKHOLM | JUNE 30, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Sea of Antiquity | 10-NIGHT ISTANBUL TO ROME | JULY 20, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Riviera Marvels | 10-NIGHT ROME TO BARCELONA | JULY 30, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Pearls of Italy | 7-NIGHT ROME TO DUBROVNIK | SEPTEMBER 8, 2026 | Epicurean Expedition

Greenland & Canada Explorer | 11-NIGHT KANGERLUSSUAQ TO HALIFAX | SEPTEMBER 21, 2026 | Polar Expedition

Bermuda & Island Wonders | 12-NIGHT HALIFAX TO PHILIPSBURG | OCTOBER 2, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

Colours of the Caribbean | 7-NIGHT PHILIPSBURG TO BRIDGETOWN | OCTOBER 14, 2026 | Cultural Expedition

 

Ponant launches four new expert-led voyages for 2025

November 8, 2024 No Comments

Ponant has released a new series of expert-led themed itineraries for 2025 that welcome notable experts and special guests and include tailored programming and shore excursions.

Each themed itinerary is designed to inspire guests by blending cultural immersion with expert insights, allowing for a richer appreciation of the history, sights, sounds, and flavors of the destinations.

New itineraries feature an exploration of the Iberian Peninsula’s rich tapestry of cultures, and a musically themed voyage from Glasgow to Bordeaux with special appearances by Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart and six internationally renowned musicians.

“While PONANT is known for our immersive expeditions and exploration, we also curate themed voyages that invite guests to embark on a more personalized journey of discovery that speaks to their individual passions and curiosities,” said Samuel Chamberlain, PONANT Exploration’s CEO of the Americas. “With robust expert-led enrichment tailored to pique a unique range of interests—whether gastronomy, history, or culture—these bespoke voyages offer enriching onboard programs and illuminating shoreside experiences to reveal each destination through a distinct lens. The result is journeys that exceed expectations and deepen both understanding and connection on a profoundly personal level.”

Where traditional PONANT voyages are operated in both French and English, these themed departures are operated in English only while preserving the company’s signature French flair and heritage in onboard delivery and service.

For more information, visit https://us.ponant.com .

Tauck is launching two new river boats in France for 2026

October 25, 2024 No Comments

Tauck has announced that two new ships will be joining the company’s fleet of award-winning riverboats in 2026.

The two ships, which have not yet been named, will launch in spring 2026 following construction next year in Serbia and The Netherlands.

The two newbuilds include a 135-meter vessel that will sail on Tauck itineraries along the Rhone. Accommodating a maximum of just 130 guests in sixty-eight cabins, the 135-meter ship will boast twenty-two spacious 300-sq. ft. suites on its upper (Diamond) deck, thirty-four roomy 225-sq. ft. cabins primarily on the middle (Ruby) deck, and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the lower (Emerald) deck.

A slightly smaller (125-meter) sister ship will host up to 124 guests along the River Seine, with accommodations including twenty 300-sq. ft. suites on its Diamond Deck, thirty 225-sq. ft. cabins (mainly on the Ruby Deck), and twelve 180-sq. ft. Category 1 cabins on the Emerald Deck. At 180-sq. ft., the Category 1 cabins on both newbuilds will be 20% larger than the Category 1 cabins found on Tauck’s other riverboats.

In keeping with Tauck’s tradition of welcoming solo travelers, all Category 1 cabins on the new ships will have the single supplement waived on every sailing.

In addition, Tauck opened its 2026 river cruises for preliminary bookings earlier this month and guests are now able to reserve space on the 2026 itinerary and departure date of their choosing.

All guests who book 2026 cruises now will have the opportunity to cancel their bookings, and receive a full refund of their deposits, when pricing and final itinerary details are announced in early 2025.

For more information, visit www.tauck.ca.

National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions introduce new co-brand

September 30, 2024 No Comments

For more than 20 years, the collaboration between Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic has been synonymous with small-ship modern expedition cruising.

Now, the two companies are taking their industry-defining relationship to the next level with the debut of a new name and refreshed co-branded identity, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions.

The launch of the new co-brand represents a significant milestone in the long-term extension and expansion of the strategic relationship between Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic, and The Walt Disney Company.

The move was made possible under the new 17-year agreement between the three innovative brands announced in November 2023, which granted Lindblad Expeditions global rights to the National Geographic brand for expedition cruises until at least 2040.

Together, the brands and their guests have embarked on thousands of expeditions designed for discovery to highlight the wonder of the world and their collective role in protecting it. These voyages helped to progress important conservation priorities, educational opportunities and environmental scientific research at local, regional, and global levels with initiatives like the Visiting Scientist Program.

Working with the National Geographic Society, Lindblad Expeditions has hosted hundreds of educators on expeditions around the world through the Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship, and these educators bring what they learn back to their classrooms, inspiring the next generation of planetary stewards.

Additionally, through the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund, the two organizations and their guests have invested more than $22 million to support numerous conservation, education and science initiatives around the globe.

To learn more about the strategic relationship between National Geographic and Lindblad Expeditions, visit http://www.expeditions.com/campaign/national-geographic-lindblad-expeditions.

 

Ritz-Carlton’s super yacht debuts in Rome

August 28, 2024 No Comments

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection proudly introduces Ilma, its second new-build luxury super yacht, to its distinguished fleet.

The yacht embarked on its maiden voyage, a seven-night journey from Monte Carlo to Rome, on Sept. 2.

As the first and only luxury hospitality company at sea, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection advances its position at the forefront of the industry with a second yacht now sailing, illustrating a future-focused vision that keeps pushing the boundaries of luxury travel at sea.

Ilma measures 790 feet, offering 224 airy and intuitive suites, all with private terraces providing direct access to the sea. Stopping at signature and intimate ports of call, Ilma takes guests on enchanting itineraries to coveted destinations.

Ilma’s inaugural season in the Mediterranean includes ports of call visiting Santorini, Porto Cervo, and Valletta, before departing for the Caribbean, with stops in Virgin Gorda, Gustavia, and St. John. Ilma will additionally sail the North and Baltic Seas of Northern Europe—a first for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection—during the 2025 summer season offering immersive itineraries in dynamic and culturally rich destinations like Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Reykjavík.

The purposefully designed yacht accommodates up to 448 guests and offers among the highest space-to-guest and guest-to-staff ratios at sea.

On board the yacht

Ilma invites guests to discover five dining venues, a refreshed in-suite dining program, sevens bars, and a signature wine vault.

Highlights include two dining venues conceptualized by MICHELIN-starred restaurant chefs Fabio Trabocchi and Michael Mina.

The Beach House, designed by the Toronto-based luxury design firm Chapi Chapo Design, offers 180-degree views of the sea that seamlessly integrate with the coast, creating a daytime to nighttime experience where guests can relax and unwind.

The beach club-inspired venue draws from Peruvian and Pan-Latin cuisine, blending globally influenced flavors in a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere.

Designed to combine the luxury lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton with the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers bespoke voyages in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, and Central America.

Calling on unique and distinguished destinations, voyages typically span five to ten nights with an all-inclusive onboard journey and curated excursions ashore.

Spanning 790 feet, Ilma will offer 224 spacious, light-filled suites of varying categories, accommodating up to 448 guests. Slated to make its 2025 debut, Luminara will join Ilma and Evrima on voyages to secluded harbors and iconic cities.

Reflective of The Ritz-Carlton on land, each yacht offers personalized service, elevated dining experiences, and exclusive amenities.

Private charter options are also available, allowing guests to craft a truly tailored journey. For more information, visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com.

Windstar shows off newest ship with floor-to-ceiling windows

August 19, 2024 No Comments

Small ship cruise line Windstar Cruises is unveiling a first look at its Star Seeker – a 224-guest, brand-new ship that will debut in January of 2026.  

Star Seeker will have 112 spacious suites, all but ten featuring a full private veranda or floor-to-ceiling infinity window.

The ship also boasts five dining options (all are included in Windstar’s cruise fare), a full-service spa with a grand entrance from the deck above, a fitness facility, and a fresh take on the line’s iconic Watersports Platform, which turns the ocean into an infinity pool by letting guests access the sea directly from the ship. 

“Guests aboard Star Seeker will experience a sense of tranquility in their suites; they are designed to be an oasis for relaxation,” says Stijn Creupelandt, vice president of hotel operations at Windstar Cruises. “We used light wood and a soothing color palette of light blues, greens, and natural browns – elements that reflect our Star Class style. Inspired by the sea, sky, and landscapes, these colours and textures create a serene atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway. In the ship’s public spaces and restaurants, you’ll find more vibrant hues inspired by sunrises and sunsets, including warm yellows, golds, and oranges, ensuring a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort throughout the ship.”

Three suite categories

Star Seeker features two Horizon Owner’s Suites, a new suite category for the line, at the aft of the ship on deck 7, which can be combined with adjacent suites for more space and multi-generational families.

Each comes with a wrap-around balcony offering spectacular vistas — perfect for evening cocktails or a private dinner. The two suites are Star Seeker’s most luxurious and spacious offerings; however, the ship has a full menu of suite offerings with 12 different accommodation types to choose from, many allowing triple occupancy. Star Seeker has 72 suites with large verandas where guests may sit outside and enjoy the view and fresh air.  New for Windstar, 30 infinity suites feature a large floor-to-ceiling infinity window that slides down half-way from the top to open the suite to refreshing sea breezes.

As on all Windstar ships, there are no interior cabins. Star Seeker’s 10 Oceanview suites have plenty of natural light and a view of the sea, a walk-in mosaic glass shower, and an inviting queen bed which can be converted into two twins if desired. All suites include a fully stocked mini-bar and refrigerator, interactive TV, safe, fresh fruit, and waffle weave robe and slippers. The four highest suite categories – Horizon, Star, Classic, Deluxe – add other amenities such as an Illy espresso machine, Canapes service, and fresh flowers.

Star Seeker is under construction in Portugal. The maiden voyage will be a Transatlantic sailing in early January from Malaga to Miami. After a christening event in Miami where the cruise line is headquartered, Star Seeker will sail its first voyage in the Caribbean and offer more cruises in the Caribbean before heading up the West Coast of the United States to Alaska for a full season of summer cruises.

From there, the ship will sail to Japan and bring back the line’s popular Japan itineraries before heading to Southeast Asia.

Details on Star Seeker’s Caribbean, Alaska, and Japan cruises will be announced first to Yacht Club members (loyalty members) and travel advisors – giving them priority access to book. In early September, Star Seeker’s itineraries will be announced publicly and available for all to book.  

Windstar will debut an additional new sister ship, Star Explorer, in December of 2026. 

More at www.windstarcruises.com/. 

Some of Seabourn’s new ultra-luxe immersive itineraries are up to 48 days long

August 9, 2024 No Comments

Seabourn has announced a new program of immersive itineraries available on Seabourn Quest as the ship explores Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii and the Panama Canal from December 2025 to April 2026.

Seabourn Quest will sail a total of 22 itineraries with 46 destinations in 13 countries, including a new series of 10-day voyages sailing roundtrip from Papeete (Tahiti) that provide a full immersion in French Polynesia.

With itineraries ranging from 10 to 48 days, Seabourn Quest will offer abundant opportunities for guests to take in new sights and scenes and experience authentic cultures through a combination of iconic destinations and smaller, less-explored ports.

In addition to the new 10-day roundtrip voyages from Papeete, the season includes a 19-day Panama Canal Passage from Long Beach, Calif., to Miami; 15-day voyages in Australia and New Zealand; overnight calls on select voyages at coastal Cairns and Melbourne in Australia, and Bora Bora and Tahiti in French Polynesia; and extended stays in Napier in New Zealand, Honolulu and Kona in Hawaii, Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, and Cartagena on the Caribbean coast of Colombia.

The Seabourn difference

Guests will experience the unparalleled Seabourn all-inclusive difference on board the intimate, yacht-like Seabourn Quest.

The ship’s dedicated onboard team provides intuitive and authentic service, ensuring that every guest enjoys a personalized and extraordinary experience. From the moment of embarkation, guests will have endless opportunities to create lasting Seabourn Moments.

In addition, the ship is equipped with SpaceX’s Starlink, the leader in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology, to provide guests with greater connectivity to share their experiences with friends and family. These new voyages will also include bespoke, curated onboard entertainment and Seabourn Conversations programs, featuring renowned performers and guest speakers.

For more details about Seabourn, including itineraries, pricing and departure dates, visit www.seabourn.com.

Explora Journeys offers a series of tropical Caribbean escapes

August 7, 2024 No Comments

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group unveils a series of exclusive Caribbean destination experiences.

Guests can discover these meticulously crafted experiences during their Caribbean journeys, blending celebrated destinations with off-the-beaten-path ports.

With EXPLORA II arriving in the Caribbean in November 2024 and EXPLORA I in December 2024, guests will have unparalleled opportunities to immerse themselves in the Caribbean’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures, all while indulging in exceptional luxury.

EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II will visit a varied array of destinations in the Caribbean until March 2025.

These include Gustavia in St. Barts, Oranjestad in Aruba, and St. John’s in Antigua. Itineraries also feature ports such as Belize City, Bequia in the Grenadines, and Cozumel and Progreso in Mexico. Each destination is selected to provide a unique and enriching exploration experience.

Willemstad, Curaçao 

Guests can snorkel on the vivid reefs of Director’s Bay, encountering abundant marine life. They will learn from a marine biologist about his foundation’s work to restore endangered coral reefs. The journey continues aboard the Pura Vida yacht to discover Curaçao’s rich natural environment and includes a visit to a tranquil mangrove reservoir, accessible only by boat, for hiking, swimming, and immersion in nature.

 

Saint-Pierre, Martinique, Lesser Antilles, French West Indies

In a small group, guests will discover Martinican rum culture at Rhum Clément, the birthplace of ‘rhum agricole.’ This includes a guided exploration of the large estate and its lush gardens, a tour of three rum cellars, and tastings of barrel-aged rum paired with delicious chef-crafted foods.

 

Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy

Guests can spend the day at the five-star Rosewood Le Guanahani resort, savouring a three-course meal on a golden sandy beach. This experience includes lounging in luxury and snorkelling in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, providing the ultimate in beachside relaxation and culinary delight.

Progreso (Merida), Mexico

Guests will explore the ancient Mayan city of Uxmal, known for its stunning Puuc-style architecture and celestial alignments. They will see the Pyramid of the Soothsayer and the Palace of the Governor, enjoy an exclusive lunch of regional specialties in the open air of the former hacienda church, and partake in an authentic Mayan purification ceremony within the natural beauty of Xocnaceh.

Cozumel, Mexico

Highlights of this experience include a scenic 45-minute flight over the Caribbean Sea and Yucatán Jungle, landing minutes from the ruins. Arriving before the daily influx of visitors allows for a more intimate and immersive experience. A knowledgeable guide will lead guests through the history and architecture of this ancient city.

 

Guests can book these exclusive destination experiences via the Explora Experience Centre, their preferred travel advisor, or directly on the Explora Journeys website.

This small ship cruise company takes just 200 guests to the remote Arctic

July 29, 2024 No Comments

Atlas Ocean Voyages‘ 2026 Arctic season will feature six and seven-night expeditions and include pre-cruise hotel stays for the first time.

Onboard World Voyager and World Navigator, the season will also discover new ports exploring the remote Skjoldungen Island in Greenland, the heart of Icelandic culture in Stykkishólmur, and “miniature Norway” from Senja, the island of adventure.

Reaching restricted areas for larger ships from Svalbard, Atlas’ small intimate yachts provide fewer than 200 guests with the opportunity to explore the remote region. All expeditions departing from Longyearbyen and Kangerluusuaq include the pre-cruise hotel.

 

Arctic season highlights

Shorter Svalbard expeditions

Guests embark on a seven-night expedition from Tromsø to Longyearbyen featuring ports along the stunning Norwegian coast, including Hammerfest and Skarsvåg (North Cape), Norway, before culminating in the breathtaking landscapes of Svalbard departing May 22, 2026, A six or seven -night expedition Longyearbyen roundtrip is available for departures May 29, June 5 and June 11, 2026.

Iceland and Greenland

Expeditions will continue visiting Greenland in 2026, a favourite offering allowing travellers to explore Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland in one extraordinary journey. Whether it’s the towering icebergs, vibrant coastal villages, or the mesmerizing Northern Lights, each day promises a new and awe-inspiring experience. Choose from expeditions of 10 to 15 nights for an unforgettable experience: July 29,  July 31,  Aug 11 (solar eclipse) Aug 15, Aug 20 Aug 30, August 31 and Sept 10, 2026.

Norway

Two departures featuring the Norwegian fjords and Svalbard depart June 18, and July 19, 2026.

Included private jet service from Oslo or New York JFK

On expeditions embarking or concluding in Longyearbyen or Kangerlussuaq, guests will enjoy an inclusive charter flight inclusion. Expeditions departing or ending in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, include charter air flights from Oslo, Norway to Longyearbyen, making it easier for guests to begin or end their expedition. Expeditions departing or ending in Kangerlusssuaq will include charter air flights from New York JFK.

New included pre-cruise hotel in Oslo or New York

For 2026 Arctic polar expeditions, a complimentary pre-cruise hotel night is included for all departures from Longyearbyen, with accommodations provided in Oslo, Norway, the night before the charter flight. Additionally, for the Aug. 31, 2026 departure from Kangerlussuaq, a pre-cruise hotel night will be offered in New York the night before the charter flight.

Exclusive cultural immersions

Every 2026 Polar Expedition by Atlas includes a free cultural immersion experience, offering guests unique insights into local communities. Examples include visits to Indigenous villages like Ittoqqortoormiit, Paimutt, or Ilulisat in Greenland, where guests can engage with local traditions, taste regional treats, and explore cultural nuances. In Longyearbyen, guests will enjoy a panoramic drive and a welcome aboard event featuring an insightful talk on local life, complemented by delicacies such as reindeer canapés, coal mine beer, and regional chocolate.

Adventure activities include free Zodiac sightseeing safaris, allowing for up-close-and-personal experiences with stunning landscapes and wildlife. Plus, landings ashore, where our world-class expedition team guides you, and for the daring, take the plunge with our exhilarating polar plunge opportunity, creating memories that last a lifetime. Each guest also receives a complimentary parka to take home with them.

For more information, visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.