When Cruise Passenger met up with the head of Silversea’s expedition division in Australia last month, he was brimming with enthusiasm about the potential of adventure journeys in Australia.
Conrad Combrink, Silversea’s Head of Expeditions, nominated Australia as a major area of interest. He was particularly interested in South Australia.
“We need to work with the smaller communities where I see a real opportunity with South Australia is more in the expedition sector than the Classic. Places like Kangaroo Island. Adelaide has got a very important role to play and they can become easily part of an itinerary that we already are doing in Melbourne to Auckland or Auckland to Melbourne.
“I think South Australia has just got so much more opportunity.”
It’s adventure and expedition week as part of 2024’s Cruise Month, Cruise Lines International Association Australasia’s event to highlight the cruise industry.
And things are looking good in this sector.
“The number of people taking expedition cruises has risen by more than 70 per cent since 2019, reflecting the incredible opportunities available on expedition ships in some of the world’s most remote destinations,” says CLIA managing director in Australia, Joel Katz.
There is a reason.
We’re all seeking more authentic and less crowded destinations. They don’t come more remote and less crowded than Antarctica.
Adventure cruise lines, with their smaller ships, are particularly innovative.
Take Ponant, the French line that has two ships in Australian waters and many more around the world.
They recently pledged to work towards ships of no more than 100 passengers, and “slow journeys” – where the vessels take their time, pause in ports and let guests soak in the culture.
Our own Kimberley region is witnessing this renaissance of our adventurous spirit. More lines than ever are in the area, home to the world’s oldest people and many wonders.
Why is adventure cruising so popular?
Desire for Authentic Experiences
Today’s traveller craves authenticity and deeper connections with the destinations they visit. Adventure cruises offer opportunities to engage with local cultures, encounter wildlife in their natural habitats, and explore remote regions inaccessible to larger vessels.
Growing Interest in Sustainability
With increasing awareness of environmental issues, travellers are seeking sustainable travel options. Many adventure cruise operators prioritize responsible tourism practices, such as minimising their environmental impact, supporting local communities, and promoting conservation efforts. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the values of eco-conscious travellers.
Unforgettable Adventures
Adventure cruises cater to a sense of adventure and a desire to explore the world’s most untouched destinations. From kayaking amidst icebergs in Antarctica to snorkelling with whale sharks in the Galapagos, these cruises create lasting memories.
Appeal to a Wider Demographic
While adventure cruises were once considered niche, they now appeal to a broader demographic. Millennial cruisers are particularly hooked. Operators offer various itineraries and activity levels, catering to families, couples, solo travellers, and multi-generational groups. The rise of “soft adventure” options, with less physically demanding activities, has further expanded the appeal.
Shift in Travel Priorities
The pandemic prompted many to re-evaluate their travel priorities, placing greater emphasis on meaningful experiences and personal growth. A “do it while you can” mentality. Adventure cruises offer opportunities for self-discovery, learning, and connecting with nature, fulfilling this desire for transformative travel.
Top 5 Popular Areas for Adventure Cruises:
- Antarctica: The ultimate frontier for adventure cruises, Antarctica offers breathtaking scenery, encounters with penguins and whales, and opportunities for kayaking and hiking amidst glaciers.
- Galapagos Islands: This unique archipelago teems with endemic wildlife, offering unparalleled opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and observing creatures like giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies.
- Arctic: Explore the remote landscapes of the Arctic, encountering polar bears, walruses, and Arctic foxes, while experiencing the Northern Lights and unique Inuit cultures.
- Alaska: Cruise through stunning fjords, witness calving glaciers, and observe whales, bears, and eagles in their natural habitat.
- Amazon River: Venture into the depths of the Amazon rainforest, encountering diverse wildlife, exploring indigenous communities, and experiencing the unique ecosystem of the world’s largest rainforest.
