Formed to add nuanced intellectual depth to select itineraries, the alliance reflects a shared belief that exploration is most meaningful when it is informed. Dozens of itineraries-from the Mediterranean and Northern Europe to the Americas, Asia, Antarctica, and beyond-combine PONANT EXPLORATIONS ' expertise in small-ship exploration with Smithsonian Journeys' long tradition of educational travel. The resulting journeys engage guests with a destination's history and culture, environment and wildlife, in a considered and meaningful way.
Take Seabourn, an ultra-luxury line debuting its first such cruise in 2027. "Travelers are seeking voyages going beyond traditional cruising that are immersive, rarely repeated, and part of something very few will ever experience," says Robin West, Seabourn's vice president of expedition operations and planning. "2027 presents the perfect alignment of guest interest and operational capability to bring it to life."