Why Travel with On Water Expeditions?

For decades, World Expeditions has pioneered adventure travel, offering unique experiences in some of the world's most remote and untouched destinations. With the launch of On Water Expeditions, it is taking that spirit of exploration to the seas. 

Designed for travellers who crave adventure beyond the shore, On Water Expeditions is a brand dedicated entirely to small vessel journeys that combine intimacy, sustainability, and active exploration. 

Tropic or Ice? Find more choice

Explore a handpicked collection of more than 140 expeditions that take you to the most extraordinary corners of the world – from Antarctica's icy wilderness and the raw beauty of Greenland to the vibrant coral reefs of Raja Ampat and the cultural waterways of Vietnam's Mekong River. 

With small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel, On Water Expeditions sets a new standard for small-ship adventure cruising.

Unlike traditional cruises, each expedition is curated for those who seek more than just sightseeing. It's about getting you off the deck and into the action. 

Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Raja Ampat

Hawksbill Sea Turtle, Raja Ampat

One of the most rewarding ways to experience Antarctica is aboard a kayak

One of the most rewarding ways to experience Antarctica is aboard a kayak

Zodiac cruising in the Antarctic Peninsula | Peter Walton

Zodiac cruising in the Antarctic Peninsula | Peter Walton

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Whether kayaking through icebergs, snorkelling with marine life in Palau, hiking rugged coastlines, or even camping on the Antarctic ice, every journey is built around immersive, hands-on experiences. But the choice is yours to adventure as much or as little as you want, with opportunities to simply unwind. 

Smaller is better

Vessels are chosen to meet our criteria to ensure an intimate and enriching experience. 

With no more than 200 passengers on board – many with fewer than 30 – passengers can explore more off-the-beaten-path locations that larger ships cannot reach. 

This allows for a more personalised and comfortable experience, where travellers form lasting connections with fellow adventurers and the expert guides who bring each destination to life. 

Smaller groups means:

• A lower ecological footprint, helping to protect fragile marine and coastal ecosystems. 
• On reaching land, visits to local communities provide direct economic benefits without overburdening resources, ensuring tourism remains a force for good. 
• Travellers benefit, too, as smaller ships create a more intimate and rewarding experience, fostering meaningful cultural exchanges and a tight-knit group dynamic.

Travel with purpose 

As a brand founded on the principles of responsible travel, On Water Expeditions is committed to sustainability and supporting local communities. By maintaining small group sizes, voyages minimise environmental impact while maximising meaningful cultural exchanges. 

Each itinerary is crafted to support conservation efforts and contribute directly to the communities we visit. 

Brand Manager Rachel Imber, a passionate advocate for small-ship exploration with over 25 years of experience at World Expeditions, is at the helm of this exciting venture. 

Rachel's vision for On Water Expeditions is clear: to redefine small-vessel travel by offering deeper, more immersive experiences while maintaining the high standards of adventure and sustainability that World Expeditions is known for. 

In a period where over-tourism, environmental concerns, and rising travel costs are reshaping the way we travel, On Water Expeditions provides a more sustainable to explore:

• Exceptional value inclusions and cost-conscious planning ensure premium experiences without inflated prices. 
• Sustainable practices reduce emissions and support carbon-conscious travel. 
• Remote expeditions help combat over-tourism, steering clear of overcrowded hotspots.

Discover voyages that offer exceptional value, eco-conscious travel alternatives, and a chance to truly connect with the places you visit – without the crowds or compromise. On Water Expeditions is your gateway to the world's most remarkable destinations, designed for those who believe adventure should be experienced, not observed. 

Find your next great adventure on the water →