World Expeditions Travel Group has announced the launch of On Water Expeditions, a new specialist brand dedicated to small-vessel adventure cruising. With more than 140 expeditions now available through the newly launched website, the brand is set to offer active travellers a new way to explore some of the most remote and extraordinary places on Earth.
Designed for those who crave immersive, off-the-grid experiences, On Water Expeditions brings together the intimacy of small-ship cruising with the thrill of hands-on adventure. From the icy fjords of Greenland to the coral-rich waters of Palau and the cultural waterways of the Mekong River, the itineraries offer rare access to destinations that large ships simply can’t reach.
A new era of expedition cruising
Unlike traditional cruise lines, On Water Expeditions caters to small groups—with vessels carrying no more than 200 passengers and many accommodating fewer than 50. Each itinerary is focused on active exploration, with opportunities to kayak, snorkel, dive, hike, climb, or even camp in remote and pristine environments.
“We’re not just launching a new brand—we’re launching a new way to travel,” said Sue Badyari, CEO of World Expeditions.
“On Water Expeditions is for travellers who want more than just sightseeing; they want to get involved, to connect, and to discover places most people will never see.”
Intimate access to remote destinations
The brand’s expeditions span all corners of the globe, with highlights including Antarctica, the Kimberley coast, Raja Ampat, the Galapagos Islands, Taiwan, and the Scottish Isles. Each journey is crafted to reveal the hidden stories and ecosystems of a region, with local guides and sustainable travel practices at the core of the experience.
Leading the brand is Rachel Imber, a 25-year World Expeditions veteran and passionate advocate for authentic small-ship exploration.
“What excites me most is the chance to redefine what small-ship travel can be,” Imber said.
“These expeditions offer a depth of experience that large cruises simply can’t match. Travellers form strong connections with their surroundings, the local communities, and each other.”
Responsible and sustainable travel at sea
On Water Expeditions builds on World Expeditions’ longstanding commitment to responsible travel. Smaller vessels mean a lighter environmental footprint, and itineraries are carefully designed to support local communities without overwhelming them.
The brand also focuses on value, with transparent pricing, inclusions-rich packages, and an emphasis on reducing over-tourism by steering clear of crowded cruise ports in favour of quieter, lesser-known locations.
With hundreds of curated itineraries now live on the new website, travellers can explore detailed information on ships, activities, destinations, and departure dates.
