The incredible sights passengers are exposed to on expedition cruises will always make up for a ship that’s lacking in comfort. But with so many high-quality cruise ships designed for adventure cruisers, there’s no need to sacrifice style for the experience. Check out the best ships for adventure cruisers in 2020.

Hop On The Ortelius Traveling To Antarctica

Passenger on the Ortelius
Instagram
Its temperatures may be freezing, but when it comes to expedition cruising, Antarctica is one of the hottest destinations. There are several cruise ships that take adventure cruises to Antarctica, but one of the most prestigious is the Ortelius. The ship was built in Gdynia, Poland in 1989 and was used by the Russian Academy of Science. Now, the vessel takes passengers for expedition cruises to Antarctica and the Arctic. If you choose to book an Antarctic exploration expedition on the Ortelius, you’ll be one of only 116 passengers sharing 53 cabins. The ship was refurbished in 2014 and 2016, so now it fits the standard of an upscale hotel. On the Antarctic expedition cruises, the ship acts as a base camp and spends several days anchored in specific locations. Passengers are invited to kayak, hike, or even mountaineer in the surrounding landscape. RELATED: 10 Secrets Cruise Staff Don't Want You To Know

The Coral Discoverer Treks Through The Kimberly Coast

For anyone interested in exploring the Kimberly Coast, or other areas of Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia, the Coral Discoverer is one of your best bets. Although it’s technically an expedition cruise ship, it prioritizes comfort and is fitted with modern stabilizers, as well as other safety and navigation equipment. You’ll also find wireless internet access on the ship, but with the stunning views outside, you won’t spend much time scrolling through Instagram. The ship is staffed by an Australian and New Zealand crew and is one of the leading expedition ships operating in the area. On a trek through the Kimberly region, you’ll travel witness the rugged Australian landscape in all its glory. Be prepared for canyons, waterfalls, and other areas of spectacular untouched wilderness. RELATED: 20 Surprising Facts About Disney Cruises

Breaking Through The Ice In The North Pole Aboard The 50 Years Of Victory

woman on the 50 years of victory
Instagram
There is no experience quite like traveling to the Arctic on the 50 Years of Victory. Capable of breaking through the ice all year round, the vessel is the most powerful ice-breaker in existence and allows its passengers to travel to otherwise inaccessible northerly regions. What sets the 50 Years of Victory apart is that this isn’t a ship that was designed for tourists. Rather, it is a working ship built to transport cargo and smaller research ships through the ice. Even though it’s not technically a tourist ship, the accommodation on board is still comfortable and there are still plenty of spaces for socializing with other passengers. Many passengers think of a trip to the North Pole as the ultimate adventure experience. Along the way, you’ll get the chance to spot polar bears in their natural habitat, other wildlife, and sublime landscapes. The ship only takes on tourists during the summer months, so it’s worth booking as far ahead as possible. RELATED: 20 Things Cruises Hide In Plain Sight

See The Galàpagos Islands With The National Geographic Endeavour II

man on National Geographic Endeavour II
Instagram

One of the most recent additions to the National Geographic Lindblad fleet, the National Geographic Endeavour II is ideal for cruises to the Galápagos archipelago. The small vessel can fit 96 guests on board and features a selection of connecting outdoor cabins, which are perfect for large groups traveling together. The cabins boast plenty of amenities, including climate controls.

The ship features an exceptionally shallow draught that enables it to come up close and allow fantastic viewing opportunities for the passengers. Onboard, you’ll also find equipment for expeditions to the islands, including kayaks and snorkeling gear.

The Galápagos Islands are the ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and animal lovers as they’re home to a wide variety of sea creatures and land animals. You’ll also find several opportunities to get up close and personal with wildlife through ethical animal experiences.

Witness The Beauty Of The Indonesian Archipelago On The Ombak Putih

A traditional Indonesian schooner ship, the Ombak Putih is a truly authentic way to explore the Indonesian archipelago. First launched in 1997, the ship has undergone extensive renovations and now features 12 comfortable cabins with both open and covered space. The crew members are Indonesian locals who offer their stories and tips to make the experience unforgettable. There are two main decks on the ship, with every cabin offering private ensuite bathrooms, portholes, and air conditioning. The Ombak Putih will take you through idyllic turquoise waters where you will get a chance to get to know unknown islands. You’ll visit secluded beaches, coastal villages, lush jungles, and windy rivers. There will also be the opportunity to witness some local wildlife, including some famous komodo dragons. NEXT: The Best Cruise Deals In January 2020