Rachel Imber: Curating the World's Best Small-Ship Adventures

Rachel Imber knows what makes a truly unforgettable expedition—because she’s been helping travellers find theirs for over two decades. As the Brand Manager of On Water Expeditions, Rachel draws on 25 years of experience with World Expeditions to handpick the most exciting collection of small-vessel trips on earth.

Her own journey began in the polar regions—Antarctica, South Georgia, the Falkland Islands, Greenland, Svalbard, and beyond—but her passion now extends far wider. From coral-fringed islands in the tropics to icy fjords and remote river deltas, Rachel’s goal is to help travellers explore the world’s wildest corners by water, without ever following the crowd.

“We don’t sell cruises,” she says. “We offer true adventure by small ship. That means more time ashore, more chances to be active—kayaking, snorkelling, hiking—and smaller groups that connect with places in a deeper, more intimate way.”

Rachel has personally experienced many of the polar journeys in our collection, including the 23-day Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica Wildlife Adventure, and carries vivid memories: six male polar bears gathering on a remote Arctic beach, whales breaching in glassy bays, curious king penguins inspecting her camera. But what sticks with her even more than the wildlife is the emotional impact.

“These journeys wake you up,” she reflects. “You’re in an environment of absolute purity—stark silence, crisp air, landscapes that shock you with beauty. Whether you're paddling through limestone coves in the Philippines or snorkelling with manta rays in Raja Ampat, it’s that same sense of connection that stays with you.”

Under Rachel’s direction, On Water Expeditions has launched with over 140 small-ship itineraries, all selected to offer more activity options, more remote landings, and a stronger sense of discovery. From the biodiversity of Raja Ampat to the ancient temples along the Mekong, every voyage is backed by decades of expedition expertise and a deep respect for the communities and ecosystems visited.

Her advice for travellers? “Start with what you want to feel—do you want to be challenged? Awed? Disconnected from the modern world? We can help you find the journey that matches that goal. That’s what we do best.”

When Rachel’s not shaping new itineraries or leading trip training sessions, she’s still exploring. And for those curious: yes, she’s done at least three Polar Plunges. “Nature’s Botox,” she laughs. “Your skin never forgets it.”

For Rachel and for On Water Expeditions, these trips are never just about where you go. They’re about how you go—and how those experiences shape you.

Ready to explore the world's most remote waterways with Rachel’s handpicked adventures?
Start here: www.onwaterexpeditions.com