EXPEDITIONS FOR 2020

The technologically-advanced polar expedition ship Ultramarine by Quark Expeditions is due to set sail in 2020. With a fleet of specifically equipped small-expedition vessels, icebreakers, and unique land-based adventures, Quark is offering travellers access to the most remote places on earth. Led by passionate and seasoned teams – which include scientists, naturalists and researchers – Quark’s interesting onboard programme focuses on guest interaction to enrich the passenger experience. quarkexpeditions.com

For an unforgettable Christmas and New Year, Heritage Expeditions is sailing to one of the least visited coastlines in the world on a 25-day trip to East Antarctica. Their ‘In the Wake of Mawson: East Antarctica’ voyage allows you to discover for yourself why East Antarctica held such fascination for pioneering Antarctic explorer Sir Douglas Mawson. heritage-expeditions.com

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises launched their HANSEATIC nature expedition ship earlier this year. It’s a small ship that cruises the Artic in the European summer and the Antarctic in the European winter, and it features an SCR catalytic converter that reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by almost 95 per cent. Special propellers and a special hull design also reduce fuel consumption – and, therefore, emissions. hl-cruises.com

Quasar Expeditions offer a unique experience cruising aboard Grace Kelly’s honeymoon yacht, M/Y Grace, on a Galapagos immersion with a naturalist guide. With only 18 guests onboard, you can explore the islands like Darwin once did. quasarex.com

If experiencing the wild beauty of Iceland is on your bucket list, then a nine-day Hurtigruten cruise aboard MS Fram may be the perfect pick for you. Circumnavigating the country, the cruise explores the otherworldly coastline of the land of fire and ice. hurtigruten.com.au