The World Expeditions Travel Group announced the launch of On Water Expeditions yesterday, 17th April.
On Water Expeditions is an exciting brand dedicated entirely to small-vessel adventure cruising. Designed for active travellers seeking immersive off the grid experiences, this new venture combines small-ship intimacy with access to some of the world’s most remote and breathtaking destinations.
The new brand’s website thus serves as a comprehensive hub, featuring over 140 expertly curated small-ship expeditions spanning diverse regions: from the icy extremes of Antarctica and Greenland to the tropical paradises of the Maldives, Galapagos, and Raja Ampat.
Time to evolve
The new brand and its associated on-water adventures was a natural evolution for World Expeditions.
According to World Expedition’s CEO Sue Badyari: “World Expeditions has long been a pioneer in adventure travel, leading expeditions to the most remote and pristine corners of the planet. The launch of On Water Expeditions is an exciting evolution of that spirit of discovery. On Water Expeditions is designed for travellers who crave authentic, immersive experiences in some of the most spectacular and far-flung corners of the globe.”
With smaller vessels, expertly curated itineraries, and a focus on active exploration, the new brand is slated to redefine what small-ship adventure travel can be.
She’s in charge
At the helm of On Water Expeditions is Brand Manager Rachel Imber, a 25-year veteran of World Expeditions with a deep passion for small-ship exploration.
Imber said of her appointment: “What excites me most about this role is the opportunity to redefine small boat travel, not just as a mode of transportation, but as a truly immersive adventure. Our expeditions take travellers to places that larger ships simply can’t access, creating an unparalleled connection with nature and local cultures.”
Her vision for On Water Expeditions includes launching 100-plus new itineraries across an even broader range of destinations and elevating On Water Expeditions as the go-to expert in true small-ship adventures; enhancing traveller engagement with deeper, more immersive experiences that balance adventure with comfort.
What’s the difference?
Unlike traditional cruise lines, On Water Expeditions is committed to genuinely small-group experiences.
Every vessel carries no more than 200 passengers, with many accommodating fewer than 50, allowing access to off-the-beaten-path destinations larger ships simply cannot reach.
These are not passive sightseeing cruises, as each expedition is designed for travellers who want to be in the action. not just watching from the deck.
Guests can kayak, snorkel, dive, hike, climb, or even camp in breathtaking environments; whether it’s paddling through Greenland’s icebergs, snorkelling with marine life in Palau, or camping on the ice in Antarctica, every journey is an adventure.
Expeditions explore extraordinary destinations, including Antarctica, the Kimberley, Taiwan, Palau, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam’s Mekong River.
Itineraries are carefully crafted to reveal the hidden sides of these regions, fostering deep cultural and environmental connections.
Sustainable and responsible
Also, in keeping with World Expeditions’ long-standing commitment to responsible travel, On Water Expeditions prioritises environmental sustainability and community-focused tourism.
Smaller groups mean 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.
With rising travel costs, environmental concerns, and increasing over-tourism, On Water Expeditions offers a smarter, more sustainable way to explore.
