Expeditions will operate in the Arctic for the first time in summer 2026 with the launch of its new 30-passenger superyacht, Aqua Lares.
Following winter and spring itineraries along the East African coast, the vessel will begin operating five- to 14-night Arctic cruises between June and September. Homeports will include Longyearbyen and Tromsø in Norway, and Glasgow, Scotland.
Shorter itineraries will include a five-night sailing to Bear Island, the southernmost point of the Svalbard archipelago. Aqua Lares is designed to break non-compact ice, giving it greater flexibility in remote areas.The yacht’s small capacity will allow naturalists to move guests quickly into tender boats for wildlife encounters, including opportunities to spot polar bears.
CEO Francesco Galli Zugaro said the line aims to attract travellers seeking more adventurous experiences. He emphasised that the combination of small-group exploration and luxury facilities would be key selling points for trade partners targeting high-end clients.
The move expands Aqua Expeditions’ portfolio, which currently includes river vessels in the Amazon and Mekong, and small-ship operations in Indonesia and the Galápagos. The Arctic deployment positions the brand more firmly within the luxury expedition sector, offering new opportunities for agents selling immersive, adventure-led cruising.Shorter itineraries will include a five-night sailing to Bear Island, the southernmost point of the Svalbard archipelago. Aqua Lares is designed to break non-compact ice, giving it greater flexibility in remote areas.
The yacht’s small capacity will allow naturalists to move guests quickly into tender boats for wildlife encounters, including opportunities to spot polar bears.