Endlessly shaped by the embrace of surrounding seas, Ireland unfolds its wonders most splendidly through seafaring exploration. The nation’s modest size grants mariners the privilege of delving deeply into both its coastal jewels and inland marvels. Ireland, a land of captivating contrasts, weaves a spellbinding narrative with its myths, legends, and intrinsic allure. A marvel of nature, its towering cliffs, secluded islands, and verdant valleys cradle monumental castles, lively cities, and charming villages. Reflecting a visceral history, the proud and cultured inhabitants warmly welcome visitors with open arms, turning Ireland into an unwritten memoir waiting to be penned.
Welcome to Vantage Explorations’ Ireland: The Luck of the Irish. Pounded for eternity by its surrounding seas, Ireland’s coastline is best explored by ship. The country’s intimate size affords seafarers an...
Embark on a sea-based exploratory voyage to broaden your mind, your horizons and your personal exploration. Exclusive to Vantage Explorations this unique approach to cruising appeals to experienced globetrotters keen to share the magic of exploration with like-minded travelers. Exploration cruising brings together those with a curiosity about the world around them, a keen sense of culture, and a desire to immerse themselves in the local environment.
What will I do on an Exploration Cruise?
On our exploration cruises you will sail in our newest, purpose-built small ship with an expert, international exploration team, through some of the most culturally established regions on earth.
Our limited passenger numbers provide a uniquely intimate and relaxed atmosphere onboard while our ship provides us with a convenient ‘base camp’, indulging our travel senses with a full enrichment program, ranging from evenings onshore to onboard guests and social events.
Our exploration team is by our side the whole time, enriching our experience with fascinating presentations and insights into remarkable places. Hosted by our expert storytellers, and exploration team, our handcrafted onshore and onboard experiences immerse us in culture, traditions and history whilst following a theme chosen to uncover the hidden histories, secrets shared and enthralling tales of our destinations. Our ‘Your Choice’ curated excursions and enrichment program are included. They offer you a choice of experiences, designed to surpass your expectations and bring cruising to a whole new level.
What do you mean by ‘exploration’?
On our Exploration Cruises, we expand our travel aspirations and immerse ourselves in diverse destinations. Every voyage includes a range of experiences designed to entice our curiosity. They ensure we make the most of every opportunity to nurture our inner explorer.
35 years of expedition cruising has gifted Vantage Explorations a pioneering spirit. Whether we dine amongst 2,000-year-old Roman ruins, tapas hop on the streets of Seville, or become absorbed by an ancient tale told by one of Marrakech’s iconic storytellers, we return home, not only with stories to tell, but with the desire to discover more about our fascinating world.
ASHORE
Included Activities
Guided walks
Locally guided walking tours offer an insight into the places we explore and people we meet.
Photography
Whether you use a digital SLR or an iPhone, our photography guides are ready with handy hints to help you get the most out of your camera.
Historic sites
Join our storytellers and local guides to discover compelling sites, stories and ancient wonders.
Included Activities (select itineraries)
Onboard/At Sea
Our ships are designed to put people in connection with the environment. With expansive observation decks to bring you closer to the world outside, inviting communal areas, a comfortable lecture room and complimentary access to the gym, sauna, swimming pool, the exploration and discovery continue whether you’re ashore or on board.
Ship cruising
Find a spot of deck or in the observation lounge as we sail into iconic harbors, along dramatic cliffs and enjoy the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Enthralling, informative lectures
Join our storyteller each evening as they ‘set the scene’ for the following day with stories weaved by our theme throughout our journey.
Gym, Sauna & Jacuzzis
In between landings you have complimentary access to the gym, our sauna or our two jacuzzis on the top outside deck, which boast stunning views of the world outside.
Onboard Dining
You will be fueled-up for your expedition with our hearty meals with a ‘local influence’ cooked by our onboard chefs. Mealtimes are a great opportunity to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open-seating dining area. We also invite you to join our team for informal Welcome and Farewell drinks, with complimentary beverages and cocktail appetizers, followed by a 3-course meal.
Exploration 
