Expedition Cruising: Awe, Wonder, and Why It Might Be Your Next Journey

On Thursday this week, I had the honour of being invited to speak at the ACTA Canadian Travel Summit on a panel called “Mastering Adventure Cruising: How to Identify and Attract Your Ideal Clients.”

This wasn’t about me learning the ropes. Quite the opposite—I was asked to share my expertise as a Canadian leader in expedition cruising, helping train other advisors on how to introduce clients to this extraordinary style of travel.

It was a proud moment, and one that reflects my own journey: from actuary in financial risk management to the founder of Lush Life Travel here in Ottawa, to being named a Virtuoso Cruise Icon—recognized among the top 1% of cruise advisors worldwide.

I’ve sailed to Antarctica aboard Lindblad’s Endurance and to the Canadian Arctic on Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot. I’ve snorkeled in the Galápagos, birded in the Amazon, fished in my home province of Newfoundland, and dog-sledded in Québec. These journeys aren’t just stamps in a passport. They’re transformational experiences that I now have the privilege of curating for my clients.

What Makes Expedition Cruising So Different?

Expedition cruising is about awe and wonder. Instead of casinos and Broadway shows, you’ll find:

Raw landscapes – glaciers, icebergs, volcanic islands, pristine fjords.

Wildlife up close – penguins, polar bears, sea lions, whales, birds.

Every day unique – shaped by ice, weather, and wildlife, not rigid timetables.

Immersive learning – naturalists, historians, glaciologists, and marine biologists onboard to enrich what you see ashore.

It’s flexible, unscripted, and unforgettable. Expedition travel changes the way you see the world—and yourself.

Who Chooses Expedition Cruising?

My expedition guests are often not “cruisers” at all. They’re:

Safari-goers, river cruisers, and bucket-listers seeking their next chapter

Curious explorers – photographers, birders, history lovers, lifelong learners

Adventurous families, solo travelers, and entrepreneurs who want meaning, not mass tourism

They want smaller ships, expert-led programs, and real time off the vessel in Zodiacs, kayaks, or on guided hikes. They’re not looking to be entertained—they’re looking to be moved.

Busting the Myths About Expedition Cruising

Many people dismiss expedition cruising because of misconceptions. Let’s set the record straight:

Myth 1: “It’s too adventurous.”

Truth: You don’t need to be an elite athlete. If you can walk at a steady pace, climb a few steps into a Zodiac, or get in and out of a bathtub, you can explore. Adventure doesn’t mean extreme—it means engaging.

Myth 2: “It’s too dangerous.”

Truth: Modern polar-class ships are designed for safety, with stabilizers, advanced navigation, and highly trained expedition crews. These aren’t daredevil journeys—they’re carefully managed explorations with safety at the core.

Myth 3: “It’s too rugged.”

Truth: Imagine a floating base camp with a spa, a chef’s table, hot tubs on deck, and even igloos or research lounges on certain vessels. Yes, you’ll get mud on your boots—but you’ll return to comfort and luxury.

Myth 4: “It’s too educational.”

Truth: Learning is part of the joy, but it’s balanced. One morning you might hear a glaciologist explain ice formation, and that afternoon you’re kayaking past icebergs. There’s also yoga, wellness, and time to simply watch the wildlife from deck.

Myth 5: “It’s too expensive.”

Truth: Expedition cruising is a high-value investment. Most excursions, enrichment programs, and often even beverages are included. It’s a bucket-list experience, but one that delivers memories far beyond the price tag.

Myth 6: “It’s too cold.”

Truth: With the right gear (often provided), it feels more like a ski holiday than a hardship. Layer properly, and you’ll be comfortable whether you’re in Antarctica or the Arctic. (It was -1 C when I was in Antarctica - that's not cold!)

Where Expedition Cruising Can Take You

🌍 Antarctica – penguins, icebergs, and the humbling silence between waves
🌍 The Arctic – polar bears, walrus, and endless summer light
🌍 The Galápagos – snorkel with sea lions and watch blue-footed boobies dance
🌍 The Amazon – a birder’s paradise and rich cultural immersion
🌍 Closer to Home – circumnavigating Newfoundland, kayaking in Haida Gwaii, or dog-sledding in Québec

No fences. No zoos. Just wild, raw nature.

Why Work With Me

Expedition cruising isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right ship, company, and voyage make all the difference.

As both a Virtuoso Cruise Icon and someone who has personally experienced these journeys, I can help you navigate the options, prepare with confidence, and unlock exclusive Virtuoso perks.

For me, it’s not about booking a trip—it’s about ensuring your expedition delivers maximum meaning, joy, and your ultimate Return on Life.

👉 If you’ve ever dreamed of penguins in Antarctica, the northern lights in the Arctic, or snorkeling in the Galápagos, now is the time to start planning. Let’s find the expedition that’s your perfect match.

Because in the end, this isn’t just travel.
It’s your Return on Life.

📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey:

🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey:

🔹 Schedule a Consult

Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca

🌍 This Week’s 4 Travel Corners

Each week, we bring you insights from four inspiring corners of the travel world—designed to spark ideas, fuel your wanderlust, and keep you in the loop on what’s possible next:

River Cruise Corner – Explore the best of river cruising with itinerary highlights, ship spotlights, and insider tips.

Adventure Travel Corner – From safaris to polar expeditions, get inspired by journeys that push the boundaries of exploration.

Wellness Travel Corner – Discover retreats, resorts, and experiences that help you relax, recharge, and reconnect.

Come Travel With Me Corner – Join one of my upcoming hosted group trips and experience the world with fellow curious, like-minded travelers—crafted and guided by me.

Where will your next corner of the world be? Let’s find out together.

1. River Cruise Corner - Scenic Amber River Cruise | Sun Lounge Balcony Overview & Luxury Highlights

Ever wondered what it’s really like to have a sun lounge balcony on a river cruise? Step inside Scenic Amber, where the design blends indoor comfort with open-air views. 

With the push of a button, the floor-to-ceiling window lowers — leaving a wood ledge at eye level so you can rest a drink, lean out for fresh air, and still enjoy the comfort of your stateroom. 

On this tour, I’ll give you a quick overview of: 

🌟 How Scenic’s sun lounge balcony works 

🍷 All-inclusive dining, fine wines & premium drinks 

🛶 Immersive excursions and cultural experiences 

💆‍♀️ Wellness & relaxation spaces on board 

I’m a river cruise expert who has sailed and toured ships across Europe, and I’ve helped countless clients match their travel style to the perfect itinerary. As a Virtuoso Cruise Icon (top 1% of cruise advisors worldwide), I also bring insider knowledge and connections that ensure you get the most value from your journey. 

I had this in last week's newsletter, but I thought I'd include it again and point out - I"m 5'4" - when I sit in the char in front of the moving window, the wood ledge goes right across my eye level. So, you do have to stand to see out the window (whether the window is open or closed), unless you sit much higher in the chair than I do. It's great to get fresh air, of course - and have that view. But for clients of mine who like the idea of enjoying a glass of wine or a cup of coffee and seeing the scenes sail past,  you will have to stand between sips to see the sights.

👉 Ready to plan your river cruise? Let’s create your perfect journey: www.lushlife.ca

— Sheila

2. Adventure Travel -  Croatia – From Coastlines to Castles 

Few destinations combine history, adventure, and natural beauty like Croatia. From medieval walls and island-speckled coastlines to vineyards, olive groves, and bike trails, Croatia invites travellers to go deeper — whether by land or by sea. It’s a place where you can sip fine wine, cycle past Roman ruins, wander UNESCO sites, and then step aboard a luxury cruise to see it all unfold from the Adriatic.

🍷 Nibs & Sips of Croatia

For food and wine lovers, Croatia is a revelation. The Nibs and Sips of Croatia journey combines vineyard visits, truffle tastings, olive oil tours, and chocolate workshops with guided explorations of Dubrovnik and Split. This curated itinerary blends culture and culinary pleasures, offering travellers a delicious way to discover the country.

🏰 Game of Thrones & Gourmet Adventures

In Dubrovnik, the streets double as a film set and a culinary playground. From fresh Adriatic seafood to family-owned konobas (taverns), Croatia delivers flavour at every turn. Check out my feature on How to Eat, Drink, and Find Game of Thrones in Croatia for inspiration on where to indulge while reliving iconic TV moments.

🚴 Active Adventures: Cycling Slovenia & Croatia

For those who love an active pace, Croatia and neighbouring Slovenia are cycling paradises. The mix of rolling countryside, dramatic coastline, and historic towns makes for unforgettable routes. Take a look at Great Bike Trips in Slovenia and Croatia to see how you can blend adventure, fitness, and fun into your next journey.

🚢 Sailing the Adriatic: Valletta to Split with Azamara

The Adriatic coast was meant to be seen from the sea. Picture yourself onboard a boutique luxury ship, gliding into ports like Kotor, Dubrovnik, and Split. This Silversea cruise from Valletta to Split cruise, Sept 16–25, 2025 or this Croatian Intensive cruise with Azamara Cruises offers immersive port calls, late-night stays, and authentic local experiences — all with the comfort and intimacy of small-ship cruising.

🌟 Why Croatia with Lush Life Travel

When you plan a Croatian adventure with me, you don’t just tick off Dubrovnik’s walls or Split’s palaces. I’ll help you:

Blend culinary tours with cultural immersion

Add active adventures like biking or kayaking

Maximize time with a land + cruise combination

Unlock Virtuoso-exclusive perks — from onboard credits to private tastings and unique excursions

✅ Call Sheila

Croatia offers something for every traveller — the foodie, the adventurer, the history buff, and the cruiser. Let’s schedule a call to design your perfect Croatian journey — whether nibbling and sipping, pedalling and paddling, or sailing the Adriatic in style. Want to learn more? 

3. Wellness Corner - Wellness at Sea & On Shore: Journey Through Japan

Find Your Zen in Japan: Wellness by Sea and Land

Imagine drifting along the Japanese coast on a boutique cruise, with mornings of yoga at sea and afternoons soaking in hot springs ashore. Now picture pairing that with a land journey through Kyoto’s temples, Hakone’s onsen, and the artful mindfulness of a tea ceremony. For travellers who want renewal, balance, and culture, Japan offers the perfect harmony of wellness by sea and wellness on land.

🌸 Why Japan Is a Wellness Destination

Japan has long been a sanctuary for wellness traditions — onsen hot springs, forest bathing (shinrin-yoku), tea ceremonies, kaiseki cuisine, and minimalist design that soothes the spirit. Whether afloat or ashore, Japan invites travellers to slow down, breathe, and immerse themselves fully in restorative rituals.

🚢 Option 1: Wellness Cruising in Japan

Small-ship cruises explore ports like Hakone, Beppu, and Okinawa — regions known for hot springs, meditation, and natural beauty.

Onboard: spa treatments, healthy cuisine, yoga, and quiet lounges.

Ashore: mindful excursions like temple meditations, forest bathing, and authentic onsen visits.

Seasons matter: cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage bring a special magic to wellness-focused travel.

🏯 Option 2: Land-Based Wellness Journey in Japan

If you’d rather go deeper inland, I recommend Virtuoso’s Wellness Journey in Japan — a 12-day itinerary that blends luxury with mindful immersion. Highlights include:

Kyoto: mindfulness meditations, Zen gardens, and tea ceremonies.

Hakone: rejuvenating onsen hot springs, with Mt. Fuji views.

Tokyo: wellness-inspired cuisine, spa treatments, and guided cultural experiences.

Luxury accommodations designed to calm and restore, with local guides enhancing every stop.

🌿 Why Travel With Lush Life Travel

As a wellness-focused advisor (and Virtuoso Luminaries, Legends & Leaders Award Winner for Wellness Travel), I ensure your itinerary is seamless, rejuvenating, and tailored:

The right mix of balance and pace

The most restorative experiences, whether spa at sea or onsen in Hakone

Exclusive Virtuoso amenities, upgrades, and insider access

✅ Let's Chat

“Would you like to explore Japan’s wellness journeys by cruise, by land, or both? Let’s schedule a call to review the options together and design the restorative adventure that best fits your style of travel. Your next wellness journey could be just over the horizon.

4. Come Travel with Me Corner  

🌟 Travel With Sheila:  Australia & New Zealand

.Virtuoso Cruise Icon Celebration | Silver Nova | Nov 30–Dec 12, 2025

This November, I’m honoured to once again be recognized as a Virtuoso Cruise Icon for 2025—a distinction reserved for the top 1% of cruise travel advisors worldwide. To celebrate, Silversea and Virtuoso are hosting a special Cruise Icon Celebration aboard the spectacular Silver Nova, and my husband and I will be sailing from Melbourne to Auckland, Nov 30–Dec 12, 2025.

✨ The best part? You’re invited to join us.

Just yesterday, I toured the Silver Shadow in Montreal (more on that next week) and it made me even more excited to sail on Silver Nova in November. The cabins were large and spacious, the ship bright and beautiful, and the food absolutely divine. Seeing Silversea’s luxury firsthand reaffirmed why I’m so thrilled to share this journey with you.

Together, we’ll set out from Melbourne, cross the Tasman Sea, and explore New Zealand’s legendary landscapes and vibrant cities. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in Silversea’s all-inclusive, ultra-luxury experience:

🌊 Spacious suites with sweeping ocean views

🍷 Exceptional dining and curated wine experiences

🤝 Personalized, intuitive service

✨ An intimate, elegant onboard atmosphere

This isn’t just a voyage—it’s a chance to celebrate with some of the most accomplished Virtuoso advisors in the world, while discovering one of the planet’s most breathtaking regions.

🌟 Voyage Highlights

Melbourne’s laneways, galleries & buzzing food scene

Scenic cruising along pristine coastlines

New Zealand’s charming ports, wine regions & dramatic fjords

Exclusive onboard events for the Virtuoso Cruise Icon Celebration

With Silver Nova’s boutique size, every port feels personal, every experience curated, and every moment designed with you in mind.

📅 View the full itinerary here: Melbourne to Auckland – Silver Nova

Space is limited for this rare sailing. Let’s secure your suite now and make this a once-in-a-lifetime South Pacific celebration together.

🌟 Travel With Sheila: Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure — Fall 2026

🍁 Montreal to Montreal | September 25 – October 9, 2026

🛳 14 Nights Aboard Windstar’s Elegant Star Pride

Explore Canada’s Wild Atlantic Coast—A Rare Voyage

This fall, I’m inviting you on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Canada’s untamed Atlantic coast—a sailing that Windstar is offering only once.

On the Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure, we’ll journey from cosmopolitan Montreal into towering fjords, colorful fishing villages, and rugged northern coastlines—just as autumn’s golden colors are at their peak.

This itinerary is especially meaningful to me—it brings us right to my home province of Newfoundland, where dramatic cliffs meet the endless ocean and every harbor tells a story.

And here’s the twist: though the cruise never leaves Atlantic Canada, it does whisk us to France. With a stop in St. Pierre & Miquelon, you’ll step into a little slice of French culture—without crossing the ocean. (A rare treat, since maritime laws usually require cruises here to include a U.S. port.)

Aboard the boutique-style Star Pride, you’ll enjoy:
✨ Small-ship intimacy & personalized service
✨ Destination-inspired gourmet dining
✨ Open decks perfect for whale watching
✨ A warm, welcoming atmosphere—more like traveling with friends than cruising

Itinerary Highlights:

Montreal’s vibrant culture & historic Old Port

The dramatic fjords of Saguenay

Newfoundland’s wild coastlines & fishing villages

The French charm of St. Pierre & Miquelon

Golden autumn landscapes at every turn

📅 View full itinerary & group pricing here:
Windstar Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure – Details & Booking

(If that link gives you trouble, simply copy & paste into your browser. My group receives an exclusive 5% discount on this sailing.)

➡ More details from Windstar here: Quebec & Newfoundland Adventure Itinerary

Space is limited, and demand is high for this one-time voyage. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Canada’s Atlantic coast in style, this is the year to make it happen.

Let’s reserve your suite and create unforgettable memories together. 

✨ Four Directions of Travel Inspiration

Each edition of our newsletter brings you four curated travel insights to spark your wanderlust and keep you in the know. Here’s what to expect:

In the Spotlight - From client journeys to industry features, see how Lush Life Travel is creating memorable adventures—and making headlines along the way.

Virtuoso Travel Inspiration – Handpicked features from Virtuoso Life, Virtuoso Traveler, or Virtuoso Insight—ideas that transport you.

Elevate Your Stay – A weekly look at standout hotels from our preferred partner network, plus the VIP perks you receive when booking with Lush Life Travel.

Exclusive Offers – Special promotions and insider access available only through Lush Life Travel, a proud affiliate of Direct Travel and top Virtuoso producer.

This section is your one-stop compass for ideas, upgrades, and exclusive opportunities—all designed to help you live your lushest travel life.

5.   Spotlight: What REALLY Happens on an Antarctica Cruise? (It’s Not What You Think…)

Think an Antarctica cruise is just floating past icebergs? ❄️ Think again. 

Here’s what it’s actually like to explore the White Continent on a Lindblad Expeditions | National Geographic journey—based on my own experience aboard the Endurance: 

🎓 Sit in the “Circle of Truth” lecture hall and learn from world-class expedition guides about penguins, krill, seabirds, and polar science 

🧊 Watch glaciers calve and identify ice types with naturalists 🐧 Hike a zig-zag mountain trail to visit a penguin colony 

🛶 Take zodiac rides among towering icebergs 

🥶 Do the polar plunge (or warm up in the hot tub if you’re not feeling brave) 

🎿 Cross-country ski, snowshoe, and hike on the ice 

🛏️ Sleep in an actual igloo while crossing the Drake Passage 🍽️ Enjoy a Chef’s Table tasting menu 

🎹 Join in a singalong with fellow passengers in the piano lounge 

🔬 Spend time in the onboard science center geeking out with researchers 

This is not just a trip—it’s a transformational, once-in-a-lifetime expedition. 

And I’d love to help you get there. 

✨ Ready to answer Antarctica’s call? #AskSheila 🦭 #AntarcticaCruise #LindbladExpeditions #PolarAdventure #BucketListTravel #VirtuosoCruiseIcon #LiveYourLushLife

Subscribe to my youtube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@SheilaGallantHalloran

📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey:

🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey:

🔹 Schedule a Consult

Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca

Additional info: exclusive perks 

VIP’ing You at My Preferred Hotel Programs and 

💡 Still Wondering Why Book with an Advisor?

This week, we feature:  Le Bristol in Paris

8.  Exclusive Offers

As the owner of Lush Life Travel, a boutique travel agency affiliated with Direct Travel, I’m delighted to bring you access to exclusive offers through Direct Travel’s status as one of the largest Virtuoso luxury travel network partners.

Here are some fantastic opportunities from a few of our favorite travel supplier partners:  

DESTINATION of the week: Japan

SMALL OCEAN CRUISE Partner of the week: Silversea

RIVER CRUISE Partner of the week: Scenic

EXPEDITION CRUISE Partner of the week: Lindblad Antarctica

TOUR PARTNER of the Week: Backroads Japan Walking

HOTEL of the week:  Four Seasons Kyoto

LUXURY experience of the week: Big Ticket Cruises with Extended Land Packages

I have some offers and information on all these weekly partners. Click the button to see more. 

📩 Let’s Start Planning Your Bucket List Journey:

🔹 Pre-Consultation Survey:

🔹 Schedule a Consult

Sheila Gallant-Halloran | www.lushlife.ca | ✉️ sheila@lushlife.ca