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The Expedition Cruise Podcast

The Expedition Cruise Podcast

Written by: Rona Wheeldon
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About this listen

Think cruising isn’t for you? Host Rona Wheeldon once felt the same - until she discovered expedition cruising.

Each week on The Expedition Cruise Podcast, you’ll explore small ships and extraordinary adventures - where exploration, wildlife, science and adventure come first. From polar routes to remote archipelagos, penguins to polar bears, and everything in between, this show is your guide to the fast‑growing world of expedition cruising.

Through solo episodes and expert interviews, Rona covers everything you need to know: what an expedition cruise really is, why you should consider one, who the providers are, where these ships explore and what you can expect onboard and ashore.

Small Ships. Extraordinary Adventures. Welcome to the World of Expedition Cruising.

2025 Rona Wheeldon
Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary
Episodes
  • Zodiacs in Antarctica: Landings, Cruising & What It’s Really Like
    Feb 19 2026

    #8 Zodiacs are one of the most iconic parts of an Antarctic expedition. But if you’ve never stepped into one before, it’s completely normal to feel a little unsure about what to expect.

    In this episode, host Rona Wheeldon walks you through exactly how zodiac cruising and landings work, from boarding the boat for the very first time to what it actually feels like to explore Antarctica at water level.

    You’ll learn how the crew keep you safe, what the different types of landings involve and why these small inflatable boats often become the highlight of the entire trip.

    You’ll learn:

    • What a zodiac is and how it’s used on expedition cruises
    • How boarding and disembarking really works
    • The difference between wet and dry landings
    • How the expedition team keeps you safe
    • Who zodiac landings are suitable for
    • The tiny habit that makes early‑morning landings easier

    This is your complete guide to zodiac landings and cruising in Antarctica.

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    8 mins
  • What to Pack for an Antarctic Expedition: Your Expedition Cruise Gear Guide
    Feb 12 2026

    #7 Packing for Antarctica isn’t like packing for any other holiday, and that’s exactly why so many travellers feel overwhelmed before their expedition even begins.

    In this episode, host Rona Wheeldon guides you through everything you actually need for an expedition cruise to the White Continent, from the layering system that keeps you warm and dry to the tech and photography gear that makes capturing the experience effortless.

    You’ll learn:

    • The three‑layer clothing system that works in sub‑zero temperatures
    • What to wear on zodiac landings and cruises
    • What to wear indoors onboard
    • The accessories that make the biggest difference to your comfort
    • Essential tech for staying powered and connected
    • The photography gear worth bringing
    • The simple piece of kit that helps when packing bulky winterwear

    This is your complete expedition cruise gear guide - practical, reassuring and based on real experience.

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    10 mins
  • Antarctica Wildlife Encounters | What You’ll Really See on an Expedition Cruise
    Feb 5 2026

    #6 Step into one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations on the planet.

    In this episode, host Rona Wheeldon takes you to the Antarctic Peninsula to reveal what wildlife encounters are actually like - from penguin rookeries bursting with life to whale, sea and seabirds sightings.

    Discover which penguin species you’re most likely to see, how the breeding season unfolds month by month, why Antarctica is one of the world’s best whale‑watching regions and what responsible wildlife viewing really looks like in this pristine environment.

    Whether you’re planning your first expedition cruise or simply dreaming of the White Continent, this episode gives you a practical insight to help you understand what makes Antarctica so magical.

    Perfect for adventure travellers, wildlife lovers and anyone curious about expedition cruising.

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    10 mins
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