Discover
First we get to know you: your interests, your budget and the type of expedition you’re after.
Luxury travel that connects you with the extraordinary
Luxury travel that connects you with the extraordinary
Exclusive Expeditions plans journeys for those who want to understand the world, not just tick destinations off a list. From small-ship voyages through Antarctica, the Arctic and the Galápagos to land journeys through Bhutan, Botswana and the Kimberley, every trip connects you with the local experts and communities who know each place best, and whose company is the rarest luxury of all.
Why travel with us
Three decades of expertise
Expedition pioneers
Loved by seasoned travellers
Unrivalled partnerships
Preserving the world we love
Complete peace of mind
We’re a proud part of The Cruise Line, planning and organising award-winning luxury voyages since 1993.
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The people behind the journey
Robin Maclear , Chairman
Robin founded the company in 1993 as a luxury cruise specialist before pioneering expedition travel. He ran Basecamp Explorer UK and was among the first to see the potential of expedition cruising, operating our own ship in India for two years from 2008. He also founded World of Cruising, publishing it for 15 years; it remains the leading magazine in its field. A passionate explorer and environmentalist with philanthropic interests in Malawi, he believes travellers can make a real contribution to local communities while gaining a deep understanding of them.
David Smith , Managing Director
For more than 20 years, David has helped travellers discover journeys beyond the ordinary. He is especially drawn to remote wildernesses, Alaska standing out as one of the most life-changing destinations he has experienced. Before travel, he studied film and toured as a musician, experiences that nurtured a lasting curiosity about culture, landscapes and human connection. He believes the most memorable adventures are those that stay with you long after the journey ends.
Ashley Lowndes , Head of Sales
Ashley brings specialist knowledge shaped by working directly for leading operators in the world's most remote regions. His explorations span 31 countries across all seven continents, and close relationships with experts in Antarctica, the Arctic and Africa give him the insight to guide clients with confidence. Passionate about wild places and meaningful exploration, Ash tailors adventures that inspire lasting memories.
Melanie Gambrill , Finance Director
Melanie has been looking after our finances since 2002, supporting the company’s vision and maintaining our solid ethics and values across the business. She came to the role through her passion for seeing people expand their horizons and understanding of our world. Outside of the office she can be found actively volunteering on conservation projects as part of her work for a local conservation charity, of which she is Chair. Improving habitats for wildlife and nurturing a community of nature lovers are key elements of her role. Culture and music are also keen interests for her - she plays the viola in a local classical orchestra.
Robin Maclear , Chairman
Robin founded the company in 1993 as a luxury cruise specialist before pioneering expedition travel. He ran Basecamp Explorer UK and was among the first to see the potential of expedition cruising, operating our own ship in India for two years from 2008. He also founded World of Cruising, publishing it for 15 years; it remains the leading magazine in its field. A passionate explorer and environmentalist with philanthropic interests in Malawi, he believes travellers can make a real contribution to local communities while gaining a deep understanding of them.
David Smith , Managing Director
For more than 20 years, David has helped travellers discover journeys beyond the ordinary. He is especially drawn to remote wildernesses, Alaska standing out as one of the most life-changing destinations he has experienced. Before travel, he studied film and toured as a musician, experiences that nurtured a lasting curiosity about culture, landscapes and human connection. He believes the most memorable adventures are those that stay with you long after the journey ends.
Ashley Lowndes , Head of Sales
Ashley brings specialist knowledge shaped by working directly for leading operators in the world's most remote regions. His explorations span 31 countries across all seven continents, and close relationships with experts in Antarctica, the Arctic and Africa give him the insight to guide clients with confidence. Passionate about wild places and meaningful exploration, Ash tailors adventures that inspire lasting memories.
Melanie Gambrill , Finance Director
Melanie has been looking after our finances since 2002, supporting the company’s vision and maintaining our solid ethics and values across the business. She came to the role through her passion for seeing people expand their horizons and understanding of our world. Outside of the office she can be found actively volunteering on conservation projects as part of her work for a local conservation charity, of which she is Chair. Improving habitats for wildlife and nurturing a community of nature lovers are key elements of her role. Culture and music are also keen interests for her - she plays the viola in a local classical orchestra.
How we create your journey
How we create your journey
Design
Then our cruise experts design your bespoke journey, down to every detail.
Connect
Next we connect you with our leading lights: the planners, guides, cultural experts and concierges who know their corner of the world better than anyone.
Experience
Now all that’s left for you to do is experience the extraordinary.
Discover
First we get to know you: your interests, your budget and the type of expedition you’re after.
Design
Then our cruise experts design your bespoke journey, down to every detail.
Connect
Next we connect you with our leading lights: the planners, guides, cultural experts and concierges who know their corner of the world better than anyone.
Experience
Now all that’s left for you to do is experience the extraordinary.