
Luxury + Expedition Cruises
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Welcome to your hub for all things high-end adventure. If you're dreaming of stepping onto the icy shores of Antarctica, snorkeling with sea lions in the Galápagos, or cruising the Nile in total comfort, you're in the right place. This collection of expert-written articles is designed to help you navigate the world of luxury and expedition cruising—so you can plan smarter, travel deeper, and get the most from your bucket-list investment.
Planning a vacation that satisfies toddlers, teens, parents, and grandparents can feel like herding cats. But here's the good news: cruises are the secret sauce to stress-free, multi-generational getaways. At ABC Trips, we've seen firsthand how cruises transform family vacations into unforgettable experiences.
If you're hoarding American Express Membership Rewards like a dragon with a treasure hoard, it's time to put those points to work. Yes—you can use Amex points to chip away (or fully pay off!) luxury cruises, including high-end expeditions to Antarctica, the Galápagos, the Nile, and beyond. But unlike flight redemptions, it takes a little know-how to squeeze out full value.
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.
Unlock serious savings and bonus points on luxury cruises with these current Amex offers. Learn how to stack perks, earn up to 50,000 points, and get a $300 credit on Seabourn and Holland America sailings.
The American Express® Gold Card is currently offering a limited-time welcome bonus of 100,000 Membership Rewards® points. This offer is available to new cardholders who spend $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership.
We have a buffet of self-service travel sites, apps, and AI-driven tools that promise the cheapest flights, the best hotel deals, and the most convenient rental cars. But here’s the reality check: just because you can book everything yourself doesn’t mean you should.
Antarctica Cruises
Antarctica — It lay undetected for most of recorded time, beyond the margins of the known world. Even after someone stumbled on it, its isolation and the necessary rigors of the journey kept all but the most intrepid away. Those who did return ran short of superlatives to describe its magnificence.

33-Page Guide To Planning An Antarctic Cruise
If you're considering a cruise to The Great White Continent, our PDF outlines everything you need to know—and it’s yours for free.
Antarctica is one of the most epic destinations on Earth—but picking the right cruise line to get you there? That can feel like navigating through sea ice blindfolded. Two of the top contenders in the polar cruise space are Seabourn and Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic). Both deliver an unforgettable journey, but their style, vibe, and approach couldn’t be more different.
Antarctica cruises aren’t cheap—and that’s putting it mildly. With price tags often ranging from $15,000 to $50,000 per person, it’s fair to wonder: what exactly are you paying for? Is it just the bragging rights of stepping onto the 7th continent? Or is there real value behind that premium fare?
Let’s get real — Antarctica isn’t the kind of place you just casually decide to hit up next month. You’re not booking a last-minute weekend in Vegas here. This is the bucket-list trip of a lifetime. Icebergs! Penguins! Zodiac rides into the great white yonder! But here’s the deal: if you want the best experience (and the best bang for your travel buck), you’ll want to start planning now — ideally 12 to 18 months ahead.
Antarctica—a continent of awe-inspiring icy landscapes, abundant wildlife, and untouched natural beauty—is one of the world’s last great frontiers. For travelers seeking an experience that blends adventure with indulgence, luxury cruise expeditions offer the perfect gateway to this remote wonderland. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Antarctica on a luxury cruise expedition, from planning and packing to enjoying onboard amenities and unforgettable excursions.
Dec 26, 2025 - Jan 5, 2026 • From $8,899 • Expires Jun 30, 2025
Experience Antarctica (and a bit of Buenos Aires) for 10 nights and 11 days aboard the luxurious World Voyager while exploring the Great White Continent for less cash than ever.
Open Dates • From $5,500
Known for redefining luxury expedition cruising, Scenic Eclipse blends five-star indulgence with bucket-list adventure.
Jan 22 - Feb 2, 2027 (11 Days) • From $16,999 $11,699
Set out for a bucket list adventure to the continent that 99.999% of humans will never see. This is an all-inclusive, luxury expedition that spans 2 continents and memories to last a lifetime.
Open Dates • 9-21 Days
Set out for a bucket list adventure to the continent that 99.999% of humans will never see. We’ll provide options for an all-inclusive expedition that covers multiple 2 continents and memories to last a lifetime.
Oct 18th, 2025 to Nov 8, 2025
Spend 3 full weeks exploring the wonder of the Southern Ocean, its surrounding islands, and the 7th continent — all with the most iconic expedition brands in existence.
Galápagos Islands Cruises
Few locations on the planet portray so obviously and freshly the processes of evolution and adaptation of the species. This bucket list destination gave humanity the key to a better understanding of the origin and development of life. And now it’s giving us the opportunity to share in its magic, together.

By the time travel restrictions lifted, our paradigm had completely changed. We were longing to explore the world—and between the kids’ virtual schools and Phil’s virtual office, we had the freedom to do just that. We began designing our life around travel instead of the other way around.
The Galápagos Islands are one of the most biologically unique destinations on Earth. But to experience them properly, bigger isn’t better—smaller is smarter. Small ship cruises give you access to more landing sites, closer wildlife encounters, and a deeper connection to the islands themselves.
Imagine sailing on a ship that weaves through crystal-clear waters, stopping at remote islands full of wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and a sense of wonder unlike anywhere else. The Galápagos offer just that—a magical blend of adventure, nature, and family-friendly experiences that transform an ordinary vacation into an unforgettable journey.
September 10-18, 2025 • From $7,026pp
Few locations on the planet portray so obviously and freshly the processes of evolution and adaptation of the species. This bucket list destination gave humanity the key to a better understanding of the origin and development of life. And now it’s giving us the opportunity to share in its magic, together.
July 11-20, 2025
Experience the Galápagos for 9 nights and 10 days aboard a stylish and stable double-hulled yacht for 16 guests, well-equipped for up-close exploration.
Why Choose ABC Trips for Luxury & Expedition Travel?
We’re not just travel advisors—we’re seasoned explorers who’ve actually lived the adventures we recommend. From Antarctica to Abu Dhabi, we’ve walked the decks, hiked the trails, and tested the service on the world’s top cruise lines and land-based adventures.
When you work with ABC Trips, you’re getting:
Unbiased Guidance Across hundreds of travel brands
Insider access Special perks + limited-time offers
Hands-on Support Before, during, and after your trip
Whether you’re chasing penguins in the polar south or planning a once-in-a-lifetime family safari, our mission is the same: to help you travel smarter, deeper, and with zero regrets.
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Traveling with the Lockwoods exceeded all my expectations for our Antarctica trip. They not only secured an unbeatable price and complimentary nights at a luxurious five-star hotel but also went above and beyond to ensure we had an unforgettable experience. Their genuine dedication to creating a seamless and memorable journey truly stood out. I can’t wait to plan my next adventure with them!
- Amanda White
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Thank you for taking us on an incredible adventure to an incredible destination, Antartica! We go home richer in knowledge, experience and precious memories. Hope to share more unique and epic destinations with you!
- Liz Banocnoc