G Adventures is set to double its polar expedition capacity by July, following the announcement of its newly chartered expedition ship, which begins sailing in Antarctica this October.

The adventure operator’s expanded small-ship portfolio begins with the relaunch of its Arctic programme – its first return to the region since 2019 – and includes new itineraries across the Arctic Circle and Scottish Isles in the coming weeks.

Poon Tip added that these itineraries feature some of the most dramatic and beautiful coastlines around the Scottish coastline, resulting in the company’s most comprehensive and varied expedition program ever.

Four Arctic itineraries offering 10 departures are now available to book. These trips are designed to immerse travellers in remote wilderness, with wildlife viewing opportunities that may include polar bears, whales, walruses, arctic foxes, seals, puffins and a wide variety of seabirds. Educational programming with onboard experts, polar plunges and the tranquil beauty of the tundra and midnight sun enhance the experience.

In addition to Arctic sailings, five new itineraries exploring Scotland, Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Labrador will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Onboard experts – ranging from a marine biologist to a geologist and ornithologist – will deliver lectures and excursions designed to create a ‘floating classroom’ atmosphere. Smaller ship size allows for daily landings and zodiac outings, weather permitting, which are not typically possible on larger vessels. Guests can relax in the restaurant, lounge in the bar, unwind in comfortable cabins, or soak in the view from the sun deck or jacuzzi.

This relaunch follows G Adventures’ announcement of a newly refurbished expedition vessel, Expedition, which will host 128 guests in Antarctica beginning October 2025. The ship has undergone major renovations, including new engines, making it significantly more fuel-efficient. It will transition to Arctic expeditions in spring 2026.

New expedition itineraries now open for booking include:

• Realm of the Polar Bear: An eight-day adventure through Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, where travellers can navigate ice floes, observe unique wildlife like Svalbard reindeer and arctic foxes, and participate in polar plunges and zodiac outings. Expert-led talks provide deeper insights into the region.
• Arctic Highlights: This 15-day itinerary combines the stark beauty of Northwest Spitsbergen National Park with the Greenland Sea’s rich marine life. Highlights include blue and humpback whale sightings, a visit to the remote Ittoqqortoormiit settlement, and onboard lectures covering birdwatching, marine biology and more.
• Antarctica Classic: Spanning 11 days, this voyage features the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Travellers encounter penguins, whales and striking landscapes, with regular zodiac excursions and lectures from onboard experts.
• Spirit of Shackleton: A 21-day sailing that explores Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, this itinerary follows the route of legendary explorer Ernest Shackleton. Travellers will visit historical sites, wildlife-rich areas, and Shackleton’s final resting place in South Georgia, with daily excursions that bring the icy wilderness up close.

All Arctic departures begin in June 2026, while the Antarctica sailings begin in October 2025.

For more information, go to gadventures.com.

Source: Travelweek