AE Expeditions: Destinations and Solo Cabins in 2026
AE Expeditions, part of Aurora Expeditions, has unveiled its new Arctic and Beyond 2026 season, featuring significant updates. For the first time, the company will offer itineraries to Southeast Asia, the Mediterranean, and the Atlantic coast, along with the introduction of solo cabins on every voyage.
The 2026 season will include a total of 42 departures, with new expeditions to Indonesia and Borneo, offering the chance to witness the 2026 solar eclipse from Greenland during the Jewels of the Arctic itinerary. Additionally, AE Expeditions will introduce new combinations of Arctic destinations, while maintaining a maximum of 130 passengers per trip, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Popular destinations such as Costa Rica and Scotland will return, with a new, shorter seven-day voyage in Costa Rica designed for greater flexibility.
One of the most notable developments this season is the launch of Small Ship Cruises, a new style of exploration that will take passengers to the Mediterranean, the Atlantic coast, the British Isles, and Ireland. This program will differ from the traditional polar expeditions, focusing on immersive experiences led by experts, with pre- and post-cruise programs included, and a variety of onshore excursions at each port. These new cruises will aim to deeply engage with local cultures and histories.
2. Mykons (Greece)_Myths of the Mediterranean itinerary
1. County Cock_Luck of the Irish itinerary
0. Medina, Marrakesh_More than a Myths itinerary
AE Expeditions has also responded to the growing demand from solo travelers by announcing the introduction of 10 dedicated solo cabins for each trip, with no single supplement. This innovation will be available on all three ships in the fleet starting with the Arctic and Beyond 2026 season, and will be offered across different accommodation categories, catering to a diverse clientele.
AE Expeditions CEO Michael Heath emphasized the company’s consistent approach to travel, which focuses on immersive destinations and responsible exploration in a relaxed and informal setting. Heath stated that the Arctic and Beyond 2026 season marks a significant turning point for AE Expeditions, with greater diversity in destinations, climates, and exploration styles, allowing passengers to experience even richer adventures.
The CEO also highlighted the company’s commitment to solo travelers, confirming the introduction of solo cabins with no single supplement as part of a strategy to make their trips accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, with the inclusion of the new ship Douglas Mawson in the fleet, AE Expeditions is preparing to further diversify its offerings, aiming to innovate and surprise both loyal passengers and those yet to discover the allure of their expeditions.
Among the most spectacular highlights of the new season is the Jewels of the Arctic voyage, which will allow travelers to witness a unique astronomical event: the total solar eclipse of 2026, visible from Scoresbysund in Greenland. Aboard the ship Sylvia Earle, participants will be able to marvel at 2 minutes and 18 seconds of darkness turning into light, thanks to the stunning “diamond ring” effect created by the eclipse. The journey, set for August 2026, also includes sailing through breathtaking Arctic landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience.
3. Fjord system_Jewels of the Artic itinerary
4. Icebergs in East Greenland_Jewel of the Artic itinerary
No less captivating will be the In the Wake of Wallace: Indonesia & Borneoexpedition, taking place in October 2026. This 16-day journey between Bali and Singapore will take passengers into the heart of the Indonesian archipelago, an area of incredible natural beauty and cultural richness. Explorers will have the opportunity to visit the pristine waters of Raja Ampat, the ancient temples of Java, and observe orangutans up close in Central Kalimantan. The experience promises an exciting mix of nature, culture, and wildlife.
For history and nature enthusiasts, AE Expeditions offers the Historic Trails & Wilderness: Scotland, Faroes & Iceland expedition, departing in May 2026. This journey will take participants through the wild landscapes of the North Atlantic, exploring places like Jarlshof, with its archaeological sites, and the bird-clad cliffs of Fair Isle. The expedition will culminate in Iceland, a country known for its geological activity, where glaciers, volcanoes, and snow-capped peaks create a breathtaking setting.
5. Borobudur Temple, Indonesia_In the Wake of Wallace, Indonesia & Borneo itinerary
6. Iceland_Historic Trails & Wilderness Scotland, Faroes & Iceland itinerary
In addition to Arctic expeditions, as previously mentioned, AE Expeditions will also introduce a series of small ship cruises, a new style of exploration designed for those seeking deep cultural and historical immersion. The Moor than a Myth: Marrakech to Barcelona cruise will focus on the Moorish and Christian influences that shaped Spain and Morocco. From the labyrinth of Moroccan medinas to Spanish citadels, travelers will relive history through tales of royal alliances and imperial battles, while discovering millennia-old architecture and traditions.
Another exciting addition is the Luck of the Irish: Dublin to Dublin cruise, departing in May 2026, which will take passengers through the history and myth-rich landscapes of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The cruise will focus on Irish myths and legends, exploring castles, cliffs, and picturesque villages in search of symbols like the four-leaf clover and the stories of leprechauns that have fascinated the world for centuries.
Finally, the Myths of the Mediterranean: Athens to Naples cruise will offer an epic journey through the mythological lands of the Mediterranean. Travelers will have the opportunity to explore Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, Croatia, Italy, and Sicily, discovering ancient sites and legends of gods, emperors, and pirates. This cruise, scheduled for the fall of 2026, promises to be a true voyage through time, filled with rich and fascinating cultural and historical experiences.
7. Alhambra Palace (Spain)_More than a Myths itinerary
8. County Sligo (Ireland)_Luck of the Irish itinerary
9. Dubrovnik (Croatia)_Myths of the Mediterranean itinerary
Among the most sought-after experiences of the 2026 program, AE Expeditions also offers an adventure into the heart of Costa Rica. The Natural Treasures of Costa Rica expedition will allow travelers to explore one of the most biodiverse areas on the planet. During the journey, scheduled for April 2026, participants will be able to admire the local wildlife, including rare birds like the marbled wood quail, toucans, hummingbirds, spider monkeys, iguanas, and even the scarlet macaw, a rare and endangered species.
10. Manuel Antonio Beach, Costa Rica_Natural Treasures of Costa Rica itinerary
11. Punta Leona, Costa Rica_Natural Treasures of Costa Rica itinerary
With such a diverse offering, AE Expeditions combines grand adventures, cultural explorations, and immersion in the wilderness. The Arctic and Beyond 2026 season promises to be an unmissable opportunity for travel enthusiasts looking to discover the world from a different perspective.
Don’t miss further updates, news, and reviews on AE Expedition destinations and ships on Cruising Journal.
