Simon Flower

Size (Well, Passenger Numbers) Matter with Arctic Cruises

In the Arctic, the number of passengers on your expedition ship can make or break your experience. Once passenger numbers push much beyond 200, it becomes very difficult for a genuine expedition vessel to offer a truly immersive program. And once you’re over 300 passengers? In our opinion — it’s impossible.

Not long ago, some representatives from a large cruise line visited our office to talk about their new “expedition” product to the Arctic. It was certainly a beautiful ship with elegant cabins, a luxurious spa, and multiple dining venues.

They even had the hallmarks of an Arctic expedition: zodiacs for landings, a team of expedition leaders, expert naturalists and lecturers.

But here’s the thing: the point of going to the Arctic is to get off the ship — to step onto tundra, wander through seabird colonies, and get close to the region’s incredible wildlife — not just admire the scenery from the deck.

So we asked the obvious question:

“How many off-ship excursions do your passengers get?”

It took a few tries to get a straight answer. Eventually they told us:

“We try to guarantee our passengers at least two off vessel excursions… per voyage.”

The point of going to the Arctic is to get off the vessel, not stand on the deck and look at it!

Two excursions for the ENTIRE TRIP — not two per day? So we have never booked this company. Two excursions per voyage is just not enough.

We’ve also seen another operator using a lottery system for excursions. Imagine watching your fellow travellers head ashore to photograph walrus haul-outs, explore glaciers, or hike up ridgelines, while knowing you won’t get your turn until tomorrow (or the next day). That’s not exploration — that’s torture.

Our goal at Expedition Partners is to connect you with an expedition that suits your travel style, goal and budget – we want you to experience destinations how they should be experienced!

Why Can’t Large Ships Land Everyone at Once in the Arctic?

There are two main reasons:

1. The “100 Rule”

Most reputable Arctic operators follow the guidelines set by AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators), which work in harmony with local regulations in sensitive wilderness areas. One of the most important rules is simple:

No more than 100 guests can land at a site at the same time.

This limit is designed to protect fragile environments, minimise disturbance to wildlife, and ensure a safe, high-quality experience for all guests. In some Arctic locations, like Svalbard, the restrictions are even stricter. See our Guide to Arctic Wildlife Watching here.

Expedition groups of less than 100 guests ensure you get the most out of your expedition, as well as protecting the fragile environments and the wildlife that make the Arctic so special!

2. Basic Logistics

The Arctic is remote. There are no docks or piers at expedition landing sites. All landings are by Zodiac. Each Zodiac usually carries around 10 guests, and operations can be slowed by swell, ice, or wildlife activity.

When you have fewer passengers, everyone can land together, maximising time ashore. Smaller ships (around 100 guests) can usually manage two long (often 2+ hour) excursions per day.

What Happens as Passenger Numbers Increase?

Around 200 passengers – Landings are often split into two groups. While one group is ashore, the other might be on a Zodiac cruise, and then they swap. Excursion time gets shortened to make the rotation work.
Over 300 passengers – It’s logistically impossible to get everyone ashore every day. This is when you’ll see lotteries or hear lines like “we try to guarantee at least two excursions per voyage.”

Our Recommendation

Arctic expeditions aren’t cheap. And getting to gateway ports like Longyearbyen, Kangerlussuaq, or Nome takes time and effort. If you’re going all that way, you deserve the most immersive experience possible, with daily, unhurried opportunities to explore.

That’s why we generally recommend expedition ships with 200 passengers or fewer. Daily excursions, no rush, and maximum time to experience the wild beauty of the Arctic – You may even be lucky enough to spot a Polar Bear (or two).

If spotting a polar bear is on your bucket list, your best chance is aboard a small ship with local naturalists and daily excursions!

Planning an Arctic adventure? Our team specialises in matching travellers with the right vessel and itinerary for their specific interests, preferences, and budget. If you are curious about How Much An Arctic Cruise really costs, see our guide here or contact us for personalised Arctic cruise recommendations that go beyond the marketing brochures.

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About Simon Flower

Originally from the United Kingdom, Simon has worked in the travel industry for over thirty-five years. He is passionate about genuine expedition style travel and has travelled to both the Arctic and Antarctic on expedition vessels.

Expedition Partners (formerly Flower Travel) specialise in expedition style travel by small ship cruise and private rail journeys.

PH: 1300 654 861

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contact@expeditionpartners.com.au