If you enjoy the intimacy of small-ship travel, there are four new expedition-style cruises now available from International Expeditions. Each voyage is led by experienced guides and expedition leaders, with a clear focus on sustainability, authentic cultural encounters, and exploring nature, history and local traditions.
Ecuador: Andes & Amazon is a ten-day itinerary that blends highland culture with rainforest immersion. Guests stay in a restored 17th-century hacienda and take a four-night excursion deep into the Amazon, accompanied by daily nature walks and guided wildlife viewing. The program also includes time to explore Quito, visit the indigenous market town of Otavalo and discover nearby villages for an up-close look at regional crafts and customs.
Northern Archipelago & Chiloé Island is a 12-day expedition that showcases Chile’s diverse landscapes. Highlights include trekking through the temperate rainforests of Tepuhueico Park, viewing the San Rafael Glacier, and exploring northern Patagonia’s rugged coastline. The route also visits the remote islands of Chiloé, where traditional wooden churches, artisanal fishing communities and distinctive local architecture offer cultural insight into this singular region.
The new Cuba Voyage is a 10-day cultural cruise aboard the intimate Panorama (48 guests) or Panorama II (46 guests), sailing from Cienfuegos to Havana. The itinerary features four nights in Old Havana, a walking tour of the colonial town of Trinidad, and a range of hands-on cultural activities: learn about traditional Cuban medical practices, take dance lessons, join pottery workshops and studio visits, and enjoy local theater and musical performances. The cruise also visits Cayo Largo and the Guanahacabibes Peninsula for additional coastal exploration.
For those seeking remote island biodiversity, the 17-day Raja Ampat expedition visits the Indonesian islands of Misool, Salawati, Batanta and Waigeo. Naturalists lead snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding excursions in one of the planet’s most biologically rich marine environments, with ample opportunities to observe coral reefs, tropical fish and coastal wildlife.
All four itineraries emphasize small-group experiences, expert-led interpretation, and mindful travel practices designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing authentic cultural and natural encounters. Whether you prefer rainforest hikes, glacier views, vibrant city culture or world-class snorkeling, these new departures offer a range of immersive options for travelers seeking meaningful, sustainable exploration.