7 Wildlife Cruises You Must Visit Around The World

Animal enthusiasts are naturally drawn to the open waters, and embarking on a wildlife cruise offers them the perfect opportunity to observe and appreciate these creatures. Similar to a safari at sea, these cruises allow travelers to witness animals in their natural environments. On such journeys, one might find themselves spotting dolphins from the top deck or catching a glimpse of a polar bear in the distance. However, the true essence of these wildlife cruises lies in the multitude of spontaneous encounters with various fauna. I personally experienced this during my recent eco-cruise with World Expeditions in the Galapagos.

In the span of just one week at sea, we had the incredible privilege of snorkeling alongside sea turtles and sea lions. We witnessed the captivating mating dance of a blue-footed booby and visited a breeding and rehabilitation center for the Galapagos giant tortoise. One unforgettable moment was witnessing a petite Galapagos penguin feed her crying offspring on the volcanic shores of Bartolomé Island. As the ship shifted positions during the sunset, we were astonished by the sight of distant manta rays leaping out of the water—an extraordinary cherry on top of our adventure.

While sharing waterways with wildlife is a source of awe and inspiration, it comes with a crucial responsibility: preserving these pristine ecosystems. The cruise industry is notorious for its significant carbon footprint, but it is gradually responding to the increasing demand for sustainability from travelers. In 2022, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) introduced new eco-initiatives, including a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon cruising by 2050. Although the industry still has a long way to go, certain pioneering brands have made impressive strides towards sustainability. For example, Hurtigruten, a Norwegian adventure company, launched the world's first hybrid electric-powered cruise ship in 2019 and aims to introduce a zero-emission vessel by 2030.

From environmentally conscious Arctic voyages to intimate Galapagos expeditions on small ships, I present to you 7 of the finest overnight wildlife cruises worldwide. This selection includes details about the species you can expect to encounter and the measures implemented by the operators to protect them.

# Iceland, Greenland, and Canada — The Northwest Passage with Hurtigruten

The northwest passage, a maritime route connecting the Pacific and Atlantic through the Canadian Arctic, is teeming with Arctic wildlife. A 19-day cruise with Hurtigruten along this passage, as well as the coastlines of Greenland and Iceland, provides an opportunity to explore this untamed region. Onboard Hurtigruten's MS Fram expedition vessel, which accommodates 318 passengers, you may have the chance to observe various creatures such as musk ox, caribou, minke and humpback whales, and if luck is on your side, even the elusive polar bear. The cruise includes thrilling activities like RIB boat rides, hiking, and participation in citizen science programs.

The MS Fram, the ship for this expedition, offers both relaxation and enrichment. It features a science center where you can learn about Arctic geology, a gym to keep active between excursions, and hot tubs where you can unwind while keeping an eye out for wildlife. The recently updated vessel boasts two restaurants, as well as an outdoor barbecue area. With 125 cabins and suites available in four different classes, ranging from polar inside cabins to top-deck expedition suites with expansive window views, you can choose the accommodation that suits your preferences.

While travel to remote regions like the Arctic inevitably leaves an environmental footprint, cruising with Hurtigruten is perhaps the most responsible option for conscientious travelers. The brand actively supports various charitable projects worldwide, including initiatives that provide safe spaces for vulnerable children in Greenland. Furthermore, Hurtigruten was a trailblazer in 2018 by eliminating non-essential single-use plastic from its operations.

# Peruvian Amazon — Peruvian Rivers & Rainforest Discovery with Uniworld

Envision yourself gliding alongside pink dolphins in the Amazon River or immersing yourself in the symphony of critter calls during a nighttime safari in the jungle. These extraordinary encounters are just a taste of what awaits you on Uniworld's Peruvian Amazon wildlife cruise. This 11-day journey takes you from Iquitos, the largest city in the Amazon, to the Ucayali and Marañón rivers, where the mighty Amazon River begins. Prepare for a series of remarkable wildlife experiences, including jungle hikes and skiff-boat rides.

The ship for this adventure is a 16-stateroom vessel, ensuring an intimate and personalized Amazon experience. It boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that provide breathtaking views, ensuite bathrooms with walk-in showers for your convenience, spacious lounge areas to unwind, an observation deck to take in the scenery, and a top-level hot tub to relax in. For families or groups, there are four interconnecting suites available, and the fully air-conditioned accommodations offer a comfortable retreat. To satisfy your culinary desires, Uniworld has enlisted the talents of five-star chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, who crafts tantalizing Peruvian delicacies in the vessel's bright and airy dining area.

In recent years, Uniworld has taken significant steps towards sustainable wildlife cruising. They proudly became the first river cruise line to disclose their sustainability objectives and share their progress in achieving those goals. Notable eco-friendly initiatives include a commitment to reducing food waste by 50 percent by 2025 and ensuring that each trip incorporates at least one give-back experience. Additionally, the river-cruise brand strictly adheres to an animal welfare policy, ensuring the protection and well-being of the wildlife encountered during the cruise.

# Galapagos Islands, Ecuador — Galapagos on Solaris by World Expeditions

The Galapagos Islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, and World Expeditions offers a captivating seven-day Galapagos cruise led by naturalists, immersing you in the extraordinary flora and fauna of this remarkable destination with their signature adventurous touch. During this journey, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel among sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays, hike alongside sunbathing sea lions, and visit the Cerro Colorado Tortoise Protection and Growing Centre.

Onboard the first-class Solaris yacht, you'll find a range of amenities to enhance your experience. There's a rooftop deck where you can relax and soak in the surroundings, a dining area for enjoying buffet breakfast and lunch, and a plated dinner to satisfy your appetite. The yacht offers a combination of queen-bed and single-bed cabins, all of which provide ocean views and private bathrooms. For land-based excursions, travelers will be transported to the Galapagos' shores via small RIB boats, allowing for several hours of exploration on land with two land stops per day.

Tourism in the Galapagos has significantly increased over the past two decades. While strict wildlife protection regulations are enforced by park officials, including carefully controlled land visits, it's crucial to minimize your impact on the environment. Opting for a small-ship cruise that offsets carbon emissions, such as this 16-passenger adventure, aligns with this principle. The team behind the expedition also supports local communities by sourcing local ingredients, including seafood from local fishers and bread from an island baking cooperative.

# Southeast Alaska — Ultimate Glacier Bay, Wilderness, and Wildlife with Alaskan Dream Cruises

People from far and wide embark on journeys to witness the abundant wildlife along Alaska's Inside Passage. This region is a captivating blend of fjords, glaciers, coastal towns, and a sprawling archipelago of over 1,000 islands in the state's panhandle. For the ultimate experience, Alaskan Dream Cruises, the only Indigenous-owned cruise line in the country, is the top choice.

If your dreams involve whale watching in Alaska, the seven-night Glacier Bay expedition is a must. Not only will you have the opportunity to admire these majestic creatures, but you'll also have the unique chance to listen to their communications through shipboard hydrophones. This adventure begins in Sitka, surrounded by mountains, and concludes in Juneau. Excursions include kayaking amidst cliffs and rainforests, skiff-boat rides through the whale-rich Glacier Bay, and opportunities to observe puffins, sea lions, and, if luck is on your side, bears. The vessel for this expedition, the Kruzof Explorer, features six staterooms with windows for stunning views and a main deck dedicated to wildlife spotting. Originally a crab fishing boat, it has been repurposed and includes a central dining room and bar where travelers can gather and plan the activities for the next day.

Travelers can feel confident that their trip with Alaskan Dream Cruises supports the local community and ecosystem. The company operates small-ship outings with approximately 12 passengers per trip, avoids the use of single-use plastics, and is increasingly investing in solar panels for sustainable power generation.

# Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana — Southern Africa Riverboat Safari with Natural Habitat Adventures

Experience the soothing ambiance of hippos lulling you to sleep and awaken to the gentle rustling of elephants feeding. The 11-day riverboat adventure offered by Natural Habitat Adventures in southern Africa presents a truly unique African safari experience. This extraordinary expedition combines the best of both worlds, featuring three nights aboard an upscale riverboat and a week on a traditional land-based safari. While aboard the 14-person boat, you will venture into the wildlife-rich Lake Kariba, where hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and fish eagles abound. The land-based portion of the trip includes visits to Hwange National Park, the largest protected area in Zimbabwe, and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls.

Aside from thrilling daytime excursions, ranging from boating expeditions to 4x4 safaris, guests will be treated to luxurious accommodations throughout the journey. Overnight stays encompass the Zimbabwean Dream riverboat, boasting eight suites with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, access to a top-deck pool, and a picturesque restaurant. The regal and opulent Victoria Falls Hotel, a five-star establishment in Zimbabwe, awaits to pamper guests, while Namibia's Kaza Safari Lodge offers chalets enveloped by majestic baobab trees. Additionally, Davison's Camp in the remote Hwange National Park provides enchanting views of a waterhole.

In terms of sustainability, NatHab ensures carbon offsets for each traveler's journey. Furthermore, as the travel partner of the World Wildlife Fund, NatHab collaborates with naturalist guides and WWF scientists to impart knowledge about the ecosystems you encounter and promote their preservation.

# Great Barrier Reef, Australia — Citizen Science on the Great Barrier Reef with Coral Expeditions

Embark on an unforgettable overnight cruise with Coral Expeditions, a local outfitter, and witness one of the world's seven natural wonders, the mesmerizing Great Barrier Reef. Immerse yourself in the vibrant marine world alongside colorful sea creatures during this remarkable journey. By choosing Coral Expeditions' 14-night citizen science trip from Cairns, which accommodates up to 72 guests, you actively contribute to wildlife conservation efforts. As citizen scientists, you'll have the opportunity to snorkel and record sightings of various marine species, thereby assisting local conservation groups in their biodiversity monitoring endeavors. Along the way, the ship makes stops at crucial wildlife conservation facilities, including the Turtle Rehabilitation Center on Fitzroy Island and the Lizard Island Research Station, where informative narrations about vital conservation projects take place.

Beyond the captivating itinerary, travelers aboard the Coral Discoverer yacht can indulge in a range of infotainment options. Engage in guest lectures, explore the reference library, and enjoy open access to the ship's bridge. Accommodations cater to different preferences, offering standard rooms with porthole windows or staterooms with private balconies. The yacht features a sundeck lounge, alfresco bar, communal breakfast and lunch tables, and elegant multicourse served dinners.

Coral Expeditions holds an ecotourism certification from EcoTourism Australia, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices. The outfitter actively participates in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority's Eye on the Reef monitoring program. Additionally, Coral Expeditions has taken measures to reduce the use of polycarbonate plastics and provides all guests with SPF 50 reef-safe-certified sunscreen, ensuring the preservation of this precious ecosystem.

# Socorro Island, Mexico — Nautilus Belle Amie with Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI)

Explore Socorro Island, often referred to as Mexico's "little Galapagos," situated approximately 400 miles off the western coast of Mexico. Embark on a remarkable 10-night dive adventure aboard a liveaboard boat organized by the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI), offering an incredible opportunity to encounter Socorro's magnificent manta rays, humpback whales, dolphins, and whale sharks. Your journey commences in Cabo San Lucas aboard the Nautilus Belle Amie, a 17-cabin vessel. Each day, you'll have multiple dive and snorkel options (with dive gear provided) and the chance to experience the mesmerizing sea life during night outings.

The Nautilus Belle Amie welcomes up to 32 guests, offering a range of cabin options, from twin staterooms on the lower deck to superior suites on the wheelhouse deck. The ship provides a comfortable salon and a main deck dining area where guests can relax and socialize. Breakfast and lunch are served in buffet style, while dinners are either plated buffet or family style. To unwind after dives or snorkeling, the ship features a hot tub on the top deck, offering a perfect spot for relaxation.

PADI, the world's largest dive organization, sets the benchmark for responsible underwater adventures. It strictly enforces rules regarding interactions with marine life, emphasizing the importance of never touching the animals. Additionally, PADI's nonprofit organization, PADI AWARE, actively contributes to marine science and participates in ocean cleanups. To date, they have successfully removed up to two million pieces of trash from the ocean, showcasing their commitment to preserving and protecting our marine ecosystems.