Expedition Cruise Line Comparison: HX, Atlas, Scenic & More
When you're looking to explore some of the most remote places on Earth—Antarctica, the Arctic, the Kimberley, or even the Amazon—you want a cruise line that delivers more than just a floating hotel. Expedition cruises combine luxury with real-deal exploration, and a handful of elite operators stand out from the pack.
Quick Take
When you're looking to explore some of the most remote places on Earth—Antarctica, the Arctic, the Kimberley, or even the Amazon—you want a cruise line that delivers more than just a floating hotel. Expedition cruises combine luxury with real-deal exploration, and a handful of elite operators stand out from the pack.
Here’s how the top expedition cruise lines—HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions), Atlas Ocean Voyages, Scenic, and Lindblad Expeditions—stack up in terms of experience, ship design, excursions, and who they’re best for.
HX Expeditions (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions)
Style: Scandinavian, science-forward, and environmentally conscious.
Ships: MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen lead the charge with hybrid propulsion, clean Nordic design, and science centers onboard.
Best For: Adventurers who want education with their expedition. HX offers citizen science, sustainability-focused excursions, and a true sense of purpose.
Vibe: Less luxury, more mission-driven. Think expedition parkas over tuxedos.
Destinations: Antarctica, Arctic, Northwest Passage, South America, West Africa
Atlas Ocean Voyages
Style: Boutique luxury meets soft adventure.
Ships: World Navigator and World Traveller are sleek, small, and stylish, carrying fewer than 200 guests each.
Best For: Travelers who want an intimate cruise with modern comfort and all-inclusive perks. Atlas leans into culinary experiences and wellness alongside serious destinations.
Vibe: Upscale but not stuffy. They call it "All Inclusive All the Way," and they mean it.
Destinations: Antarctica, Arctic, South America, Mediterranean
Seabourn Expeditions
Style: Ultra-luxury meets serious exploration.
Ships: Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit (264 guests each)
Highlights: These purpose-built expedition ships offer all-suite accommodations with private verandas, gourmet dining, and personalized service. Equipped with 24 Zodiacs, two custom-built submarines, and a 24-person expert expedition team, guests can enjoy immersive experiences in remote destinations. The ships are designed to PC6 Polar Class standards, enabling them to navigate diverse environments safely.
Best For: Travelers seeking a blend of luxury and adventure, with access to remote regions like Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Amazon. We also found it to be fantastic for our entire family, including kids aged 12 and 13.
Vibe: Elegant and refined, offering a private yacht ambiance with the capabilities of an expedition vessel.
Destinations: Antarctica, Arctic, Amazon, South Pacific, and more.
Suggested Trips
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
Style: Ultra-luxury with James Bond-level toys.
Ships: Scenic Eclipse I and II are yachts in every sense of the word. Private helicopters? Check. Submarines? Yep.
Best For: High-end travelers who want to explore by day and return to spa-level comfort at night.
Vibe: Glam meets grit. Champagne after kayaking with penguins.
Destinations: Antarctica, Arctic, Norwegian Fjords, Kimberley, South Pacific
National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions
Style: Academic, immersive, and partnered with National Geographic.
Ships: National Geographic Endurance, Resolution, and Explorer are built for polar environments and scientific enrichment.
Best For: Curious minds. Families, solo travelers, and science nerds alike.
Vibe: Think lectures, photography workshops, and naturalist-led Zodiac rides. Less glitz, more grit.
Destinations: Antarctica, Galápagos, Arctic, Baja, Alaska, Amazon
Which One Is Right for You?
- Want scientific depth and sustainability? Go with HX.
- Crave boutique luxury with all-included perks? Atlas is calling.
- Dreaming of high-tech toys and indulgence? Scenic will blow your mind.
- Looking to explore like a NatGeo photographer? Lindblad delivers.
Still unsure? Let us match you to the right expedition cruise based on your vibe, your wishlist, and your budget.
Ready to start planning your expedition cruise? Request a quote and we’ll tailor your perfect trip.
