85 Coral Expeditions operates in Australia, including Stanley Island in the Lakefield National Park FEATURE For example, Rurutu’s coastline is dotted with basalt and limestone cliffs that shelter ancient burial sites. South America is also a hot spot for cruise exploration. The Galapagos Islands, with their endemic species and famous for inspiring Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, are a bucket-list destination. The islands are protected as part of Ecuador’s Galapagos National Park and Marine Reserve so cruise lines must follow strict regulations. Metropolitan Touring designs itineraries focused on the “Big 15” Galapagos species while ensuring environmental responsibility. The Patagonia Fjords are another popular destination in South America, with towering glaciers, rainforests and indigenous community visits. Australis has operated here since the 1990s, providing four-night itineraries between September and April. “We know these waters and their wildlife intimately,” says Frederic Guillemard, sales and marketing manager for Europe and Asia at Australis. “As a cruise line, we understand what it takes to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience without compromising on comfort in exchange for this intrepid approach.” Various cruise lines offer trips to the Falkland Islands, 300 miles east of Patagonia, on a range of ships, from small icebreaking yachts to large luxury vessels. Carly East, tourism coordinator at Sulivan Shipping Services, says: “The Falkland Islands are an unforgettable shore excursion. Our expert guides enhance the experience, helping guests immerse themselves in stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, from penguins to majestic albatrosses.” Oceanwide Expeditions’ Antarctica itineraries also focus on wildlife, with opportunities to see endemic bird species in the Falklands and South Georgia. Stops at Carcass Island, Saunders Island and St. Andrews Bay offer guests close encounters with King, Magellanic, and Gentoo penguins, along with a variety of waders and passerine birds, including Cobb’s wrens and tussock-birds. Expedition cruises meet the growing demand for adventure and discovery, and the variety of itineraries now on offer ensures each journey is memorable and deeply connected to nature. Find out more about expedition cruise itineraries from the following associations. North America • Cruise Atlantic Canada • Cruise Lines Industry Association • Great Lakes St Lawrence Seaway System • The Great Lakes Cruise Association Central America & South Caribbean • Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association South America & Antarctica • Galapagos National Park • International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators Europe, Greenland & Arctic • Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators • Cruise Northern Norway & Svalbard • Cruise Iceland • Expedition Cruise Network Australasia & Pacific Islands • Australia Cruise Association • South Pacific Cruise Alliance ASSOCIATIONS FOR EXPLORATION
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzQ1NTk=