AE Expeditions’ largest European small-ship cruising season to date begins next month, with 19 voyages exploring more than 120 ports across the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Northern Europe and the UK & Ireland.
*All details correct at time of publish (20 March 2026)
Operating from April to October 2026, the voyages will take place primarily aboard AE’s newest purpose-built ship, Douglas Mawson, bringing the company’s style of immersive, small-ship travel to destinations ranging from the Canary Islands and Portugal to the Greek Islands and Adriatic coast.
“We’re seeing growing interest in smaller ships and more immersive styles of travel, particularly in destinations where travellers are looking for deeper context and a stronger connection with the places they visit,” said Justin Ewin, Global Head of Product, AE Expeditions.
Known for its polar voyages in Antarctica and the Arctic, AE has long focused on journeys that prioritise insight, storytelling and time spent understanding a destination. The European programme builds on that philosophy, applying the same thoughtful approach to culturally rich regions.
Each itinerary is enriched by onboard Master Storytellers – historians, genealogists, art experts and cultural specialists – who explore the people, traditions and defining moments that shaped each destination.
Ashore, all-inclusive Your Choice experiences allow travellers to personalise their time in port through curated excursions designed to reveal the character of each region.
The European small-ship cruising season forms part of AE Expeditions’ broader 2026/27 global programme, with its fleet of three purpose-built ships – Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle and Douglas Mawson.
Together, the ships will operate voyages ranging from Antarctic and Arctic expeditions to small-ship cruises across Europe, reflecting AE’s continued evolution while remaining grounded in its founding philosophy of intimate voyages, more time ashore and responsible travel that encourages deeper engagement with the places they visit.
To mark the season, AE Expeditions is offering a limited-time companion sails free* offer on selected 2026 voyages, inviting travellers to experience the journey together.
For more information, visit https://www.aexpeditions.co.uk/gb
*Offer valid on new bookings of select 2026 Small Ship Cruising (SSC) departures only. Promotion is subject to availability at the time of booking and is capacity-controlled.
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