5 Best Cruises for Honeymooners Who Adore Wildlife and Adventure

For couples who share a passion for wildlife and adventure, a honeymoon is a perfect opportunity to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature. Imagine sailing to remote destinations, where pristine landscapes and exotic wildlife await at every turn. From the icy realms of Antarctica to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, these five cruises offer an unparalleled blend of romance, adventure, and close encounters with the wild. Each has been carefully selected for its commitment to providing intimate, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, responsible wildlife interactions, and luxurious accommodations, ensuring your honeymoon is filled with awe-inspiring moments that you'll cherish forever.

Journey to the White Continent

Partnering with National Geographic, Lindblad Expeditions offers an expedition to Antarctica that combines adventure with educational insights. This cruise takes you through the Drake Passage to explore the Antarctic Peninsula, where icebergs, penguins, and whales set the scene for an extraordinary honeymoon.

Highlights: Zodiac landings bring you up close with the continent’s wildlife, while kayaking among icebergs and guided hikes offer unique perspectives. Onboard naturalists and photography experts enhance your experience and knowledge.

Why It's #1: For its unparalleled wildlife encounters, expert guidance, and commitment to conservation, this expedition offers a profoundly moving and intimate journey into one of the planet's most pristine wildernesses.

A Luxurious Voyage Through the Amazon

Aqua Expeditions provides a luxurious experience aboard a boutique riverboat that navigates the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. This journey immerses couples in the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of the world's largest tropical rainforest.

Highlights: Skiff excursions for wildlife spotting, visits to local communities, and opportunities to fish for piranhas. The onboard experience is equally impressive, with spacious suites, gourmet cuisine, and panoramic views from every angle.

Why It's #2: Offering an intimate exploration of the Amazon with a strong emphasis on comfort and exclusivity, Aqua Expeditions delivers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure honeymoon that's both wild and wonderfully luxurious.

Arctic Wildlife and Northern Lights

Quark Expeditions' Svalbard Explorer cruise invites honeymooners to the Arctic wilderness of Svalbard, Norway. This expedition is perfect for couples seeking adventure in the land of polar bears, walruses, and the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

Highlights: Wildlife safaris by Zodiac boats, snowshoeing excursions, and opportunities for kayaking among glaciers. The small ship size ensures a personal and immersive experience, with expert guides providing insights into the Arctic's fragile ecosystem.

Why It's #3: Combining the thrill of Arctic exploration with the chance to witness the Northern Lights, Quark Expeditions offers an unforgettable honeymoon experience for couples drawn to the planet's last frontiers.

Encounters with Unique Wildlife on Enchanted Islands

Silversea’s Galápagos Islands expedition provides an unmatched level of luxury while offering intimate wildlife encounters on the archipelago that inspired Darwin. This journey combines the thrill of discovery with the comfort of a boutique ship, designed to navigate the unique ecosystem of the Galápagos.

Highlights: Daily expeditions ashore led by expert guides allow you to get up close with the islands' unique species, including marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and blue-footed boobies. Onboard, enjoy spacious, ocean-view suites and gourmet dining that incorporates local flavors.

Why It's #4: Silversea Cruises offers a blend of exploration and luxury that is hard to match, providing an immersive experience in one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations for wildlife enthusiasts.

Photo by Ponant

Australia’s Final Frontier: Where Wilderness Meets Luxury

Ponant’s Kimberley Expedition invites couples to explore one of Australia’s most spectacular and remote regions. Aboard Le Lapérouse, passengers experience the dramatic landscapes and ancient culture of the Kimberley, with its towering waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and aboriginal rock art.

Highlights: Zodiac outings and landings in secluded areas allow for personal encounters with the region's breathtaking natural wonders and wildlife. The ship features an underwater lounge, offering a unique perspective on marine life, and luxury accommodations that ensure comfort and elegance.

Why It's #5: For couples seeking an adventure off the beaten path, Ponant’s Kimberley Expedition combines the raw beauty of Australia's wilderness with French-inspired luxury, making it an unforgettable way to celebrate the start of married life.

Choosing a honeymoon cruise that focuses on wildlife and adventure allows couples to embark on a journey filled with awe-inspiring moments and the beauty of the natural world. Each of these five cruises offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the planet's most remarkable destinations, from the icy realms of Antarctica and the enchanted isles of the Galápagos to the mystical Amazon, the remote Arctic, and the rugged Australian Kimberley. These cruises not only promise the excitement of adventure and wildlife encounters but also provide luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and expert guidance, ensuring that every moment of your honeymoon is as comfortable as it is thrilling. As you venture into the wild together, these experiences will not only deepen your connection with nature but also with each other, laying a foundation of shared memories and adventures that will last a lifetime. Here’s to the beginning of your greatest adventure yet, filled with love, discovery, and the untamed beauty of our world.