From the icy wilderness of Antarctica to the vast savannahs of Africa, our planet offers extraordinary adventures that promise to transform the way you see the world. These aren't just vacations—they're life-changing experiences that take you to the most remote corners of the Earth, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich cultures and untamed wildlife.

You can access amazing offers on these incredible experiences during Expedia Cruises' World Explorer Sale, running October 8 - 31! This is your opportunity to secure unforgettable journeys to destinations that will leave you with stories to tell for a lifetime.

Here are seven iconic journeys capture the essence of each continent and promise experiences that are epic, enriching, and endlessly photogenic.

1) Antarctica: Peninsula Expedition Cruise

Antarctica represents the ultimate frontier for adventurous travelers. This expedition cruise takes you to the Antarctic Peninsula, where towering glaciers meet the sea and penguin colonies thrive in their natural habitat. Most cruises depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, crossing the legendary Drake Passage to reach this pristine wilderness. You'll witness massive icebergs, observe whales feeding in nutrient-rich waters, and step foot on the seventh continent. The cruise season runs from November to March, during the Southern Hemisphere summer when wildlife is most active. Expert guides and naturalists accompany you on the journey, sharing insights about this fragile ecosystem while you experience the raw beauty of Earth's last untouched continent.

2) South America: Galápagos Islands Cruise, Ecuador

South America: Galápagos Islands Cruise, Ecuador The Galápagos Islands offer an unparalleled wildlife experience that inspired Darwin's theory of evolution. These volcanic islands, located 600 miles off Ecuador's coast, host species found nowhere else on Earth. A typical 7-day cruise allows you to explore multiple islands, each with unique ecosystems and endemic wildlife. Watch giant tortoises roam freely, swim alongside sea lions, and observe blue-footed boobies perform their distinctive mating dance. The islands can be visited year-round, but each season offers different advantages—warmer waters from December to May, or cooler temperatures and active wildlife from June to November. Small expedition ships ensure minimal environmental impact while maximizing your encounters with this living laboratory of evolution.

3) Asia: Japan and South Korea Discovery Cruise

Experience the dynamic blend of ancient culture and modern marvels on a 7-night or longer cruise through Japan and South Korea. These itineraries often begin in bustling Tokyo or Osaka and set a course for remarkable ports like Shimizu (gateway to Mount Fuji), Kagoshima with its stunning Sakurajima volcano, and the historical castles of Kochi. Most journeys include stops in Busan or Jeju Island, South Korea, where you can explore UNESCO-listed volcanic landscapes and vibrant markets. On board, enjoy sweeping views of cherry blossoms in spring or fiery foliage in autumn. Longer cruises allow for immersive shore excursions—think tea ceremonies, ancient temples, and world-class cuisine—while comfortable ships provide a seamless journey between rich traditions and futuristic skylines. Choose from round-trip or repositioning options, with itineraries ranging from Japan’s northern islands to southern Kyushu and beyond.

4) Europe: Norwegian Fjords Cruise, Norway

Norway's dramatic fjords represent some of Europe's most spectacular natural architecture, carved by glaciers over millions of years. A cruise through the Norwegian fjords takes you past towering waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and charming villages nestled along pristine coastlines. The famous Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcase nature's incredible power and beauty. During summer months, experience the midnight sun phenomenon, while winter cruises offer chances to witness the Northern Lights dancing across dark skies. Ports like Bergen, Flam, and Geiranger provide opportunities to experience Norwegian culture, from traditional stave churches to local seafood delicacies.

5) North America: Panama Canal Cruise

Experience one of the world’s greatest engineering marvels with a cruise through the Panama Canal—a journey that links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and is rich in both history and spectacle. This journey begins in North America and actually takes you to certain ports in South America, as the canal straddles the boundary between the two continents, making for a truly unique adventure, which is the reason why we felt compelled to include this journey here. Panama Canal cruises typically range from 10 to 15 nights and can be roundtrip from ports like Fort Lauderdale, or one-way between Florida and the U.S. West Coast. You’ll transit the canal’s impressive locks and sail through lush rainforest landscapes, with the chance to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, toucans, and monkeys from your ship’s deck. Along the way, enjoy stops at vibrant ports including Cartagena in Colombia, Colón in Panama, and Costa Rican beach towns—offering a rich blend of cultures, natural beauty, and history during this passage between two mighty oceans.

6) Australia: Great Barrier Reef Cruise, Australia

Embark on a 7- to 12-night roundtrip cruise from Sydney to experience the world’s largest coral reef system—the Great Barrier Reef. These immersive voyages depart from Australia’s iconic harbor city and typically call at ports in Queensland such as Airlie Beach, Cairns, and Port Douglas, offering various ways to access the reef’s wonders. Once docked, you’ll join guided snorkeling and diving excursions led by expert marine biologists, discovering vibrant coral gardens, swimming with reef sharks and sea turtles, and learning about ongoing conservation efforts. Some cruises include a stop at the outer reef, renowned for its pristine coral and crystal-clear waters, accessible only via select ships and tenders. On board, enjoy presentations on reef ecology and marine life before stepping ashore to coral cays and white-sand beaches—ensuring your adventure above and below the surface is truly unforgettable.

7) Africa: Luxury Safari Tour, Kenya and Tanzania

Experience Africa's wildlife heritage on a guided luxury safari through Kenya and Tanzania's most celebrated national parks. This comprehensive tour takes you through the Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, following the Great Migration and encountering the Big Five in their natural habitat. Expert guides with intimate knowledge of animal behavior ensure exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities while sharing insights about local cultures and conservation efforts. Luxury lodges and tented camps provide comfortable accommodations under starlit African skies, where the sounds of the wilderness create an unforgettable soundtrack. The dry season from June to October offers optimal game viewing, when animals gather around water sources and the Great Migration crosses the Mara River.

These seven journeys represent the pinnacle of adventure travel, each offering unique perspectives on our planet's natural wonders and cultural diversity. From the icy silence of Antarctica to the vibrant life of Africa's savannahs, these destinations promise experiences that will expand your understanding of the world and create memories to last a lifetime.

As your local travel experts, we're ready to make your travel dreams a reality. We provide expert advice on booking every aspect of your epic adventure, so you can enjoy a stress-free vacation experience and fully embrace the excitement ahead.

You can access amazing offers on your vacation during our World Explorer Sale that runs October 8 - 31. Start planning your once-in-a-lifetime journey today and embark on an adventure that will leave you with wonderful memories to cherish forever.