Expedition cruises are a bucket-list dream — from stepping onto Antarctic ice to watching narwhals breach in the Arctic. But they’re also known for their premium price tags. But with the right timing and strategy, you can save big — sometimes up to 50%.
In this post, I’ll show you how to find deals on expedition cruises, especially with top polar lines like Quark Expeditions and National Geographic. I’ll also share how I landed a half-price trip to Greenland with Quark — a journey I’ll never forget.
My Greenland Adventure with Quark Expeditions
I booked a Quark Expeditions cruise to Greenland just a few weeks before departure — and saved 50%. No typo.
Here’s how:
- I started tracking Quark’s site in late summer (after seeing an instagram post of theirs)
- In early August, I noticed a steep discount for a September sailing
- I emailed a Quark advisor directly, confirmed the offer, and booked within 48 hours
And while this is an incredible deal, we did had to be ready to leave within a month — but the trade-off was an unforgettable Arctic voyage at half the cost.
Being flexible with dates and willing to go last-minute made this dream experience financially possible. But it’s not the only way to save.
Checkout my Guide to Expedition Cruising for more details on our Greenland adventure.
Where to Find Expedition Cruise Deals
If you’re dreaming of Antarctica, the Arctic, or other far-off places, start here:
1. Check Cruise Line Websites
Top expedition cruise lines often run seasonal promotions. Visit:
Look for offers like:
- 15–50% off select sailings
- Free roundtrip flights or flight credits
- Complimentary excursions or onboard credits
These promos tend to appear when cruise lines want to fill spots close to departure — so timing is everything.
2. Talk to a Human
Pick up the phone or send an email. Here’s why:
- Cruise advisors may have unpublished deals
- They know what cabins or sailings need to be filled soon
- They can sometimes bundle perks (e.g., upgraded cabins, waived fees, gear rentals)
In my case, chatting with a Quark advisor directly gave me the confidence to pull the trigger — and locked in my best value.
Flexibility = Major Savings
If you’re not tied to school breaks or rigid schedules, you have a major advantage.
- Late bookings (30–60 days out) often get big markdowns
- Shoulder season travel (start or end of polar cruise windows) can mean fewer crowds and better pricing
The key is checking regularly, staying open-minded, and acting quickly when the right deal appears.
Final Thoughts on Expedition Deals
Don’t let the price tag on sites scare you off. With some smart planning, flexibility, and a willingness to negotiate, you can find incredible deals on expedition cruises. Start by browsing cruise sites, signing up for promo emails, and reaching out directly. Then, when the stars (and schedules) align, jump on it.
Stay Smart, Stay Adventurous
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