Heritage Expeditions launches Antarctic cruise as UK ports report rising expedition cruise demand

Heritage Expeditions announced a 21‑day expedition cruise on its new vessel Heritage Discoverer, scheduled for 19 November to 9 December 2026. The itinerary will visit the Falkland Islands (East and West), South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula, offering wildlife viewing and a stop at the historic Shackleton tomb at Grytviken. Director of Sales Aaron Russ described the trip as “the definitive cruise for South Georgia, the Malvinas and the Antarctic Peninsula” and noted a 40 % discount for repeat guests and 30 % for new customers.

Meanwhile, Associated British Ports (ABP) highlighted growing demand for short‑duration and expedition cruises at UK ports. Recent visits by the expedition ship Douglas Mawson (Aurora Expeditions) and cruise vessels Star Legend and Le Champlain at Swansea, Millbay (Plymouth) and Southampton illustrate the trend. ABP’s regional manager Ashley Curnow said the ports are enhancing infrastructure to support the increasing interest in regional and polar itineraries, which he expects will boost local economies.