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Embark on voyages through Arctic waters, expeditions in the Amazon, and island-hopping in the Galápagos to get up close with some of the most unique wildlife on our planet.
Published December 25, 2023
11 min read
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Get ready to set sail on expeditions that bring us closer to the diverse wildlife inhabiting some of the most pristine parts of our natural world. From the Arctic waters to the Amazon rainforest and the Galápagos archipelago, here are 11 of our favorite wildlife cruises for the year ahead.
1. Gannets & dolphins in New Zealand
Embark on Lindblad’s National Geographic Orion expedition ship and take the Coastal New Zealand journey, where you will encounter Australasian gannets, little blue penguins, and yellow-eyed penguins, with whale-watching and sightings of dusky dolphins in the seas off Kaikoura. Expect to be immersed in Māori culture and introduced to New Zealand’s culinary specialties and wines as part of this extraordinary coastal experience.
2. Reindeer & Arctic foxes in Greenland
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Greenland, a habitat for polar bears, reindeer, musk ox, moose, and Arctic fox. AE Expeditions offers the Greenland Odyssey via its new 71-cabin, 100% climate-neutral expedition ship, Sylvia Earle, taking you between key coastal sites such as Kangerlussuaq Fjord, Prince Christian Sound, and the UNESCO World Heritage Area of Ilulissat Icefjord with opportunities to spot wildlife from the rigid inflatable boats, on hikes, and via kayak.
3. Pink dolphins in the Peruvian Amazon
Embark on expeditions with Peruvian-owned Delfin Amazon, navigating the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in the Upper Peruvian Amazon aboard their upscale vessels: the four-suite Delfin I, 14-suite Delfin II, and 22-suite Delfin III — the first cruise company to have become a part of Relais & Chateaux.
