A Guide to Expedition Cruising

Whilst browsing our small ship cruise itineraries around the British Isles, you will notice that many of the cruises feature an expedition cruising logo indicating that Zodiacs will be integral to the operation of the itinerary. These inflatable craft offer marvellous manoeuvrability allowing access to otherwise impossible landing places during both expedition cruises (and also some of our destination cruises) when we visit small and remote ports.

 These rubber boats have a shallow draft and air-filled compartmentalised pontoons. This gives them impressive flotation and weight-carrying abilities which enables them to hug the side of the ship closely, thus facilitating boarding and disembarking. These compartments are connected by valves which allow the internal air pressure to be regulated, and they will float even if one (or several) compartments become deflated. With these safe, durable and dependable boats we can land in many normally inaccessible sites such as beaches, shallow riverbanks, rocky outcrops, reef flats as well as docks, sea walls and jetties.

Further information on the Zodiac operation will be provided to booked passengers and a Zodiac safety briefing will be given on board. Should you wish to find out more about Zodiacs, please view the below videos or contact one of our experienced travel consultants.