Expedition/Small Ship Sailing
Aspect | What Consumers Need to Know | What Travel Advisors Need to Know |
---|---|---|
Definition & Experience |
|
|
Ship Size & Facilities |
|
|
Itinerary & Activities |
|
|
Health & Safety |
|
|
Cost & Value |
|
|
Environmental & Ethical Considerations |
|
|
Booking & Preparation |
|
|
Category | Atlas Ocean Voyages | Seabourn | Lindblad Expeditions | Ponant | HX Cruises | Silversea Expeditions | Celebrity Cruises Expedition Fleet |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fleet & Ship Size | Small luxury ships (~196 passengers), ice-class vessels suited for polar regions | Ultra-luxury ships (~264 passengers), modern amenities with polar capability | Small expedition vessels with 20-50 passengers, intimate expedition style | Small to mid-size luxury expedition ships (92-264 passengers), ice-strengthened hulls | Small expedition ships (~100-170 passengers), focused on intimate experiences in polar and Galápagos areas | Luxury vessels with 100-260 passengers, ice-class ships designed for extreme polar environments | New expedition ships around 200-300 passengers, modern facilities with pioneering design for polar cruising |
Target Clientele & Style | Upscale, adventure-seeking travelers wanting immersive polar expeditions with luxury comfort | Ultra-luxury travelers valuing rich onboard amenities coupled with expedition experiences | Dedicated expedition travelers seeking small-group, educational polar and Galápagos experiences | Luxury travelers seeking French-inspired elegance combined with exploratory itineraries | Adventurous travelers prioritizing authentic, small-group exploration with expert-led activities | Affluent travelers wanting top-tier luxury combined with serious expedition exploration | Contemporary luxury travelers looking for a balance of comfort, style, and exploratory expedition experiences |
Destinations & Itineraries | Antarctica, South Georgia, Falkland Islands; some Arctic and Patagonia routes | Antarctica, Arctic, Alaska, Canadian Arctic | Antarctica, Arctic, Galápagos, Patagonia | Antarctica, Arctic, Alaska, Galápagos | Antarctica, Arctic, Galápagos, Alaska | Antarctica, Arctic, Alaska, Galápagos | Antarctica, Arctic, Alaska, Galápagos, plus some novel polar routes |
Included Activities & Excursions | Zodiac cruises, guided hikes, wildlife viewing, expert lectures, kayaking (select trips) | Zodiac excursions, kayaking, paddleboarding, guided hikes, lectures by experts | Personalized zodiac excursions, snorkeling (Galápagos), hiking, environmental education | Kayaking, zodiac landings, snorkeling (Galápagos), cultural visits, expert seminars | Zodiac cruises, guided hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, science lectures | Zodiacs, kayaking, hiking, photography workshops, expert-led naturalist lectures | Zodiac and inflatable excursions, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving (Galápagos), expert-led presentations |
Onboard Amenities & Accommodations | Elegant suites, panoramic windows, fine dining, wellness areas, casual atmosphere | Opulent suites, multiple upscale dining venues, spa, pool, but intimate ship size | Comfortable cabins, focus on functionality and expedition experience over luxury | Elegant staterooms, gourmet French dining, spa and wellness facilities, refined décor | Comfort-oriented cabins with some luxury touches, focus on expedition functionality | All-suite accommodations, exquisite dining, spa, personalized service, luxurious yet expedition-ready | Modern stylish staterooms and suites, rich dining options, spa, fitness center, refined casual luxury |
Expertise & Guides | International team of naturalists, historians, expedition specialists | Highly trained expedition staff, including marine biologists, historians, lecturers | Small expert teams guiding personalized experiences with scientific focus | Multilingual expedition team with scientific and cultural expertise | Experienced naturalists, scientists, and photographers onboard | Expert-led lectures, scholars, scientists, and photographers specializing in regions | Extensive expedition team with scientists, historians, naturalists, and guest experts |
Environmental & Sustainability | Focused on responsible tourism, small group sizes to minimize impact | Zero single-use plastics policy, sustainable sourcing, advanced waste management | Committed to low-impact travel and education on environmental preservation | Strong eco-commitments, including advanced waste treatment, eco-friendly ship tech | Environmental stewardship, partnerships with conservation groups | Leading sustainability programs, carbon offset initiatives, and eco-certifications | Robust sustainability initiatives including carbon reduction, waste management, and ocean conservation partnerships |
Price Range & Inclusions | High-end pricing; includes excursions, most beverages, expert lectures; flights extra | Premium to ultra-luxury pricing; typically all-inclusive including gratuities and excursions | Moderate to upper range; includes shore excursions and lectures, some extras extra | Luxury pricing; includes excursions, dining, and expert programs; flights may be extra | Moderate to premium; includes excursions and some onboard activities | Ultra-luxury pricing with nearly all inclusive: excursions, beverages, transfers, and gratuities | Luxury to premium pricing; includes excursions, meals, select beverages, gratuities; flights usually extra |
Booking Policies & Client Requirements | Early booking recommended; moderate physical fitness required for excursions | Flexible booking policies; active participation encouraged but accessible options exist | Small group limits require early booking; fitness standards tailored per trip | Moderate physical demand; flexible bookings with deposits; cancellations vary | Active participation generally expected; small group sizes; advance deposits required | Pre-trip health disclosures; some trips require good fitness; flexible but firm booking terms | Booking policies vary; physical activity moderate; flexible cancellations with advance notice encouraged |
Aspect | Detailed Analysis | Marketing Guidance |
---|---|---|
Market Segmentation & Client Profiling | Identify luxury adventure seekers with interests in remote destinations like Antarctica, Arctic, Alaska, and Galápagos. Recognize different client motivations: wildlife enthusiasts, cultural explorers, adventure thrill-seekers, and eco-conscious travelers. | Develop tailored messaging that highlights expedition features relevant to each segment (e.g., immersive wildlife experiences for nature lovers, exclusive onboard amenities for luxury clients). Use client travel history and preferences to customize outreach. |
Positioning Each Cruise Line | Leverage the unique brand strengths of each cruise line—Silversea and Seabourn for ultra-luxury; Ponant for French elegance and cultural immersion; Lindblad for intimate, scientifically rich experiences; Celebrity for contemporary luxury with modern designs; Atlas for accessible upscale expeditions; HX for authentic small groups. | Present each line as a specialized solution to client needs. Use personalized consultations to align client values/preferences with cruise line profiles. Feature signature experiences and exclusives (e.g., Silversea’s all-suite design, Celebrity’s scuba diving). |
Emphasizing Sustainability & Responsible Travel | Environmental stewardship is a key differentiator—most expedition cruise lines have advanced sustainability policies, eco-certifications, and low-impact itineraries. Clients increasingly seek responsible travel options. | Highlight sustainability commitments and how clients’ journeys support conservation. Share stories and credentials about waste reduction, carbon offsetting, and partnerships with scientific or conservation groups. |
Educating Clients on Expedition Experience | Expedition cruising differs widely from mainstream cruises in ship size, activity level, and focus on exploration and education. Potential clients might underestimate physical demands or the unique travel logistics. | Provide detailed pre-trip briefings, packing lists, and health considerations. Use storytelling and visual content (videos, photos) to set accurate expectations. Emphasize expert lecture programs and adventurous shore excursions as part of the value. |
Pricing & Value Communication | Expedition cruises command premium prices due to specialized itineraries and limited capacity. While some include flights/gear, others do not, which impacts overall costs. | Transparently communicate what is included/excluded for each line. Use value framing—expertise, exclusivity, immersive experiences justify premium prices. Offer flexible payment and cancellation policies where available. |
Leveraging Exclusive Offers & Partnerships | Many expedition cruise lines offer exclusive amenities or partnerships with travel advisors for added client value (e.g. private shore experiences, complimentary excursions, onboard credits). Visit the Mast site or contact Kelly for more information. | Highlight exclusive promotions for Guru Travel clients. Position these perks prominently in marketing materials to strengthen closing rates and foster loyalty. |
Digital Marketing & Content Strategy | Digital presence is vital to reaching high-net-worth adventure clients and inspiring exploration through rich storytelling. | Host live chats, share destination guides, client testimonials, and video content showcasing expedition highlights. Use social media and email campaigns segmented by client interests (e.g. polar region vs. Galápagos). |
Training & Advisor Expertise | Advisors must have deep knowledge of expedition cruise lines’ differentiators, physical demands, environmental policies, and logistical arrangements to fully support client decision-making. | Attend ongoing training sessions on expedition products. Use TA discounts experience cruises firsthand for authentic recommendations. |
Client Profile | Travel Preferences & Priorities | Recommended Expedition Cruise Line(s) | Rationale for Recommendation |
---|---|---|---|
Anna & Michael, Luxury Adventure Seekers Age 45-55, Professionals |
|
Silversea Expeditions, Seabourn |
|
David & Sara, Nature Enthusiasts & Conservation-Minded Age 35-50, Educators |
|
Lindblad Expeditions, HX Cruises, Ponant |
|
Linda, Active Solo Traveler Age 50+, Fitness-focused |
|
Celebrity Cruises Expedition Fleet, Atlas Ocean Voyages |
|
Mark & Emily, First-Time Expedition Cruisers Age 40-60, Family |
|
Ponant, Seabourn |
|
Greg & Olivia, Exclusive Wildlife Photographers Age 55-70, Retired |
|
Silversea Expeditions, Lindblad Expeditions |
|
Small Ship Cruise Selling Tools
Aspect | What Consumers Need to Know | What Travel Advisors Need to Know to Address Consumer Concerns |
---|---|---|
Ship Size & Experience | Small ship cruises offer a more intimate and personalized experience with fewer passengers, enabling access to smaller, less crowded ports where larger ships cannot dock. | Understand the passenger capacity and ship dimensions of brands like Azamara, Explora Journeys, Oceania, Paul Gauguin, and how this influences itinerary options and onboard atmosphere. |
Destinations & Itineraries | Know the unique destinations accessible, such as remote islands, luxury ports, or cultural hubs not covered by mainstream cruise lines, and the typical length of voyages. | Be well-versed in each cruise line’s signature itineraries and exclusive ports of call; highlight niche or culturally immersive experiences that align with client interests. |
Luxury & Onboard Amenities | Evaluate the level of luxury, including suite accommodations, service standards, dining experiences, enrichment programs, and wellness facilities. | Have detailed knowledge of onboard offerings such as spa services, specialty dining, personalized shore excursions, and exclusive amenities that set each brand apart (e.g., Regent Seven Seas’ all-inclusive luxury or Silversea’s butler service). |
Price & Value | Understand the pricing structure, what is included in the fare (drinks, gratuities, excursions), and how it compares to larger cruise lines or land-based luxury vacations. | Be prepared to present transparent pricing breakdowns and emphasize inclusions versus add-ons; highlight value propositions like inclusive shore excursions (Seabourn) or flexible cancellation policies. |
Passenger Profile | Know the typical clientele, such as age group, travel style (adventurous, culturally curious, luxury seekers), and social atmosphere (quiet, family-friendly, adult-only). | Guide clients based on matching personal travel preferences with the cruise line’s passenger demographic and onboard vibe, ensuring compatibility with expectations. |
Sustainability & Health Protocols | Be aware of the cruise line’s environmental stewardship practices and current health and safety protocols, particularly in a post-pandemic context. | Stay updated on each cruise company’s sustainability initiatives and health standards to confidently reassure clients about responsible travel and safety measures. |
Booking Flexibility & Policies | Understand cancellation policies, deposit requirements, and options for date or itinerary changes. | Relay clear, up-to-date policy information to clients and advocate for flexible terms if possible, to add peace of mind when booking. |
Personalization & Customization | Clients seek tailored experiences both onshore and onboard, including special occasion packages and personalized services. | Highlight the capacity of each cruise line to customize experiences—from private excursions to special dining and celebrations—to align offerings with clients’ unique needs. |
Aspect | Azamara | Explora Journeys | Oceania Cruises | Paul Gauguin | Ponant | Regent Seven Seas | Seabourn | Silversea | Windstar |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ship Size & Passenger Capacity | 3 ships; ~700 passengers; midsize vessels enabling boutique experience | New luxury fleet; ~500 passengers; modern and environmentally-friendly | 8 ships; 600-1250 passengers; classic mid-size luxury | 1 ship; 330 passengers; intimate South Pacific focus | 12 ships; 64-264 passengers; small, boutique expedition ships | 6 ships; 700-750 passengers; all-suite, ultra-luxury ships | 6 ships; 450-600 passengers; ultra-luxury with personalized service | 10 ships; 296-596 passengers; intimate, ultra-luxury expedition vessels | 6 yachts; 148-312 passengers; sailing and motor yachts with boutique feel |
Primary Itineraries & Destinations | Global itineraries; extended stays; immersive cultural ports | Emerging luxury itineraries worldwide focusing on immersive experiences | Worldwide: Europe, Americas, Asia, Australia; culinary-focused | South Pacific, Tahiti, French Polynesia, exclusive island access | Expeditions to polar regions and exotic locations; small port access | Global luxury cruises including Antarctica, Mediterranean, Asia | Expeditions & classic routes worldwide; emphasis on experiences | Polar and exotic expeditions; ultra-luxury voyage experiences | Adventurous itineraries including Caribbean, Mediterranean, Asia |
Onboard Experience & Amenities | Luxury spa, fine dining, cultural enrichment, destination events | Focus on wellness, sustainability, refined premium design | Upscale dining, onboard cooking classes, elegant amenities | Polynesian culture, casual luxury, authentic island vibe | Expedition-focused, modern comfort, expert guides onboard | All-inclusive luxury with gourmet dining, suites with balconies | Butler service, gourmet culinary offerings, spa and wellness | Butler service, multiple dining venues, enrichment programs | Yacht-style luxury, open decks, water sports, casual fine dining |
Included Features & Services | Most shore excursions included, gratuities, select beverages | Extensive inclusion likely: wellness, excursions, dining | Many shore excursions, gratuities, select drinks included | Most island excursions included, soft drinks, gratuities | Excursions and expert guides included; variable beverages | All-inclusive: excursions, beverages, gratuities, transfers | Most gratuities, select shore excursions, drinks included | All-inclusive: shore excursions, gratuities, beverages | Selected excursions, gratuities, drinks vary by fare |
Typical Passenger Profile | Upscale travelers seeking cultural immersion and comfort | Wellness and luxury seekers, environmentally conscious | Food and wine enthusiasts, sophisticated families and couples | Couples and small groups seeking relaxed luxury in South Pacific | Adventure travelers, expedition enthusiasts, nature lovers | High-net-worth clients seeking ultra-luxury and exclusivity | Affluent travelers desiring personalized luxury and service | Discerning luxury travelers focused on expedition experiences | Active travelers, intimate ambiance, and casual luxury lovers |
Sustainability Initiatives | Robust programs including waste reduction and community engagement | Strong focus on sustainability and reducing carbon footprint | Commitments to sustainability and responsible tourism | Focuses on environmental respect of the South Pacific | High environmental standards for polar and expedition cruising | Initiatives focused on ocean conservation and green technologies | Progressive environmental sustainability policies | Industry leader in sustainable expedition practices | Eco-conscious operations emphasizing small ship impact |
Health & Safety Protocols | Enhanced measures post-pandemic, continual updates | Up-to-date health safety with wellness focus | Stringent health protocols, medical facilities onboard | Health protocols aligned with French Polynesian guidelines | Strict expedition safety and health procedures | Comprehensive safety program with medical staff onboard | Enhanced protocols balancing safety and guest comfort | Full medical support on expeditions, COVID protocols updated | Enhanced safety protocols including medical capabilities |
Price Range & Value Proposition | Upper premium, good value with inclusions for cultural travelers | Luxury pricing reflective of new brand and product | Mid-to-upper luxury, with strong culinary value | Premium pricing for niche Polynesian experience | Luxury expedition pricing, strong value on remote itineraries | Ultra luxury, full inclusions justify premium price | Upper luxury pricing with personalized services | Premium pricing for ultra-luxury expedition | Upper mid-range luxury with yacht-style value |
Booking Policies & Flexibility | Flexible cancellation options and deposit structure | Innovative flexible booking models expected | Flexible deposit and cancellation plans | Standard premium line policies with some flexibility | Expedition-focused flexible booking policies | Generous cancellation and rebooking policies | Flexible booking, refundable deposits on many cruises | Flexible cancellation and rebooking for expedition trips | Flexible deposit and cancellation options |
Personalization & Custom Options | Custom shore excursions, private experiences available | Emphasis on wellness and personalized itineraries | Varied shore excursions, cooking classes, and specialty events | Local immersion and tailored Polynesian experiences | Expert-led excursions personalized to guest interests | Tailored luxury experiences and private shore excursions | Butler services, custom excursions, special celebrations | Highly personalized guest experiences and bespoke itineraries | Customizable sailing yachts, private events and excursions |
Brand | Key Strengths | Ideal Client Profile | Marketing Angle for Guru Travel Advisors |
---|---|---|---|
Azamara | Immersive cultural experiences, longer stays and overnight port calls, inclusive shore excursions | Upscale travelers seeking deep cultural immersion and destination-focused luxury | Promote Azamara as the brand for guests who want luxury with authentic local experiences and more time to explore ports beyond the mainstream |
Explora Journeys | New luxury brand with wellness focus, sustainable ship design, modern onboard wellness and fitness experiences | Luxury and wellness-conscious travelers who value environmental responsibility | Position Explora as the future-forward luxury cruise line combining elegance with conscious travel and wellness, perfect for eco-aware clients |
Oceania Cruises | Renowned for culinary excellence, sophisticated mid-size ships, broad global itineraries | Food and wine enthusiasts, sophisticated couples and families desiring refined comfort | Highlight Oceania’s acclaimed cuisine and elegant service for clients seeking a gourmet cultural journey |
Paul Gauguin | Exclusive South Pacific itineraries, intimate ship size, authentic Polynesian cultural immersion | Couples and small groups looking for idyllic island escapes with relaxed luxury | Market Paul Gauguin as the premier choice for luxury lovers who want authentic, boutique South Pacific experiences |
Ponant | Expedition expertise, luxury expedition ships, focus on remote and polar regions, French flair and style | Adventure seekers and luxury explorers wanting small-ship expeditions with cultural enrichment | Portray Ponant as the elegant expedition line for environmentally-conscious travelers craving remote destinations with exceptional service |
Regent Seven Seas | All-suite, all-balcony ships, truly all-inclusive fares, exceptional service | Ultra-luxury seekers wanting comprehensive indulgence and seamless travel | Emphasize Regent’s ultra-luxury all-inclusive promise delivering effortless, pampering experiences for the discerning traveler |
Seabourn | Personalized service with butlers, intimate ships, curated shore excursions, culinary excellence | Affluent clients seeking bespoke luxury and high-touch service | Promote Seabourn as the brand where intimacy meets sophistication and personalized luxury thrives |
Silversea | Ultra-luxury expedition and classic cruises, butler service in all suites, immersive enrichment programs | Luxury lovers desiring expedition-style voyages without sacrificing opulence and comfort | Highlight Silversea’s blend of adventurous cruising with five-star service and all-suite comforts |
Windstar | Small yachts with sailing and motor vessels, casual luxury, adventurous itineraries including lesser-known ports | Active travelers desiring boutique yacht experiences with a relaxed vibe | Sell Windstar as the perfect blend of intimate yacht sailing with luxury, ideal for clients wanting less typical luxury cruising |
Client Profile | Travel Preferences & Interests | Recommended Small Ship Cruise Line(s) | Rationale for Match |
---|---|---|---|
Culture Enthusiast Couple | Enjoys immersive cultural experiences, extended stays in unique ports, fine dining, and upscale comfort. | Azamara, Oceania Cruises | Azamara specializes in overnight stays and destination immersion with cultural events; Oceania offers world-class culinary experiences and refined elegance on mid-size ships. |
Eco-Conscious Wellness Traveler | Values sustainability, wellness programs, modern design, and small-ship intimacy. | Explora Journeys, Ponant | Explora Journeys combines luxury with wellness and sustainability in a new fleet; Ponant emphasizes environmental responsibility with elegant expedition-style offerings. |
Romantic Island Escape Honeymooners | Seek intimate, luxury cruises to tropical or exotic islands with personalized service and relaxed atmosphere. | Paul Gauguin, Seabourn | Paul Gauguin focuses on the South Pacific’s exclusive islands with authentic island culture; Seabourn offers ultra-luxury and bespoke service perfect for romance. |
Luxury All-Inclusive Traveler | Prefers seamless, all-inclusive pricing covering excursions, beverages, gratuities, and transfers in an ultra-luxury environment. | Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Seabourn | Regent Seven Seas leads with all-suite, all-inclusive luxury; Silversea and Seabourn similarly provide premium inclusions and high-end personalized service. |
Active Yacht Cruiser | Enjoys small yacht-style cruising with sailing options, casual luxury, and adventurous itineraries focused on smaller ports. | Windstar, Ponant | Windstar offers sailing and motor yachts with an adventurous casual luxury vibe; Ponant blends expedition-style cruising with refined elegance. |
- CLICK HERE to login.Â
- Email register@atlasoceanvoyages.com and copy Kelly.
- CLICK HERE to go to the Azamara agent portal.
- Our agency ID: 340613
- Email Kelly with your date of birth to register.
- CLICK HERE to access TA Login Center.
- You can book both Scenic and Emerald in the same place as they are the same company.
- Message Kelly with registration issues.
- CLICK HERE to register.
- CLICK HERE to access the ta portal.
- Click to register yourself.
- You only need our CLIA number to do so.
- CLICK HERE to register.
- Agency ID is our CLIA.
- CLICK HERE to register.
- Click on create your travel advisor account.
- Our agency ID is: 46251
-
1-Go to:Â https://us.ponant.com/#
modal_login-customer Â
2- Click on are you a Travel advisor access your portalÂ
3- Click create account
4- Respond YES to are your agency register with PonantÂ
5- Enter your agency code: 46251
6- Then enter the information requested. You should then receive an email to confirmÂ
- CLICK HERE to access the TA portal.
- Reigster as a Travel Agent.
- Put in our CLIA.
- For the dropdown put in Home Based Agent Agency.
- Use your Polar Online credentials to log in HERE.
- CLICK HERE to register and access the ta portal.
- Click create an account.
- CLICK HERE to access and register for the ta portal.
- CLICK HERE to access the advisor hub.