Wildlife Cruises for Adventurers: See Bears, Orcas, Penguins & Maybe Even a Jaguar

1. Grizzlies of Khutzeymateen, Canada: Picture yourself gliding through the misty inlets of the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary in British Columbia, Canada. This is the first sanctuary of its kind in the country, and it’s home to some of the most powerful and majestic creatures on Earth. On a small ship cruise, you get up close to nature like never before. As your boat quietly moves along the water, you might spot a huge grizzly bear searching for salmon along the shoreline. The excitement builds as you get closer, surrounded by the sounds of the wild. This cruise gives you the rare chance to see these incredible bears in their natural habitat, making it an unforgettable experience.

2. All-White Bear Cruises, Canada: The Spirit Bear, also known as the Kermode Bear, is a rare white bear found only in the Great Bear Rainforest of British Columbia. Taking a small ship cruise to see these unique bears is like stepping into a fairytale. You’ll sail through lush, green forests where these mystical bears live. The moment you see a Spirit Bear emerge from the woods, perhaps catching a salmon, is truly magical. These bears are very rare, and seeing one in the wild is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

3. Falkland Islands & South Georgia Wildlife Cruises, South Atlantic Ocean: The Falkland Islands and South Georgia are far-off places in the South Atlantic Ocean, full of wildlife. Small ship cruises to these islands are thrilling and unique. Imagine standing on deck as your ship arrives in South Georgia, where thousands of king penguins are waiting to greet you. In the Falklands, you’ll see albatrosses flying overhead and sea lions resting on the beaches. In South Georgia, the history of polar explorers adds an extra layer of excitement. You’ll see elephant seals battling on the beach and fur seals playing in the waves. The sheer number of animals and the stunning landscapes make this cruise one of the most exciting wildlife adventures in the world.

4. Unusual Wildlife Cruises of Alaska, USA: Alaska is known for its wild beauty, but small ship cruises offer a different and exciting way to experience it. Imagine cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, not just to see glaciers but to witness some of Alaska’s most incredible wildlife. From the deck, you might see a pod of orcas swimming by or catch a glimpse of a rare sea otter with its pup. But what makes these cruises truly special are the unexpected encounters, like watching a massive humpback whale leap out of the water right next to your ship or spotting a pack of wolves along the shore. These cruises take you to places few have seen, offering close-up views of Alaska’s amazing wildlife.

5. Ecuadorian Amazon Wildlife Cruises, Ecuador: The Ecuadorian Amazon is a place where the jungle is alive with sounds and sights. A small ship cruise through this rich wilderness is an adventure like no other. As your boat winds its way through the rivers, you’ll hear the calls of howler monkeys, see the bright colors of macaws and toucans and maybe even spot a jaguar. You’ll also have the chance to explore hidden lagoons by canoe, see pink river dolphins and perhaps encounter an anaconda on the riverbank. The Amazon is full of surprises, and every day on this cruise brings something new and exciting.

6. Antarctic Peninsula & South Shetland Islands, Antarctica: An Antarctic wildlife cruise is the ultimate adventure. Your journey starts as you cross the Drake Passage, with excitement growing as you approach the icy continent. Once you arrive, the sight of giant icebergs and the frozen landscape is breathtaking. But the real stars of the show are the animals. Penguins are everywhere — Adélie, gentoo and chinstrap penguins nest in huge colonies, their calls filling the air. You might also see leopard seals resting on the ice or pods of orcas and humpback whales swimming nearby. Every moment in Antarctica feels like a discovery, making it one of the most thrilling wildlife cruises you can take.

Day Trips

Unique destinations to extend your Wildlife Cruising Adventure.

• Grizzlies of Khutzeymateen, Canada: After your bear-watching adventure, explore the Great Bear Rainforest, home to ancient trees and rich biodiversity.

• All-White Bear Cruises, Canada: Extend your journey to the Haida Gwaii archipelago, where you can experience Indigenous culture and more wildlife.

• Falkland Islands & South Georgia Wildlife Cruises: Pair your cruise with a visit to the remote island of Tristan da Cunha, where rare bird species thrive.

• Unusual Wildlife Cruises of Alaska, USA: Enhance your trip with a stop at Katmai National Park to witness the famous brown bears fishing at Brooks Falls.

• Ecuadorian Amazon Wildlife Cruises, Ecuador: Continue your adventure to the Galápagos Islands for a chance to see giant tortoises and marine iguanas.