Aqua Expeditions will deploy its new ship, Aqua Lares, to the Arctic Circle in mid-2026, offering high-latitude voyages for the brand’s first time in 18 years. This new announcement comes as Aqua Expeditions reveals that its latest superyacht has icebreaking capabilities with an Ice Class 1 B-rated hull.
The luxury small ship operator revealed details of its highly-anticipated sixth vessel, Aqua Lares, in early August. The 30-passenger ship will enter service in East Africa from February, operating sailings to the Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll and Zanzibar.
Now, following its maiden season in East Africa, Aqua Expeditions will position the six-deck ship to the fjords of Norway, to Svalbard and the Arctic Circle over the northern summer, from June to September 2026. The expeditions will range from 5- to 14-nights, unlocking the Lofoten Islands, Tromsø and other remote regions.
“These journeys promise dramatic glacial landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity, and a profound sense of remoteness—delivered in Aqua’s signature style aboard a sleek polar vessel with the intimacy and service of a private yacht. Itinerary highlights include opportunities to spot polar bears, migratory whales, and Arctic foxes, alongside visits to historic whaling stations and expansive seabird nesting cliffs,” the Ponant-owned cruise operator said.
Francesco Galli Zugaro, Founder & CEO of Aqua Expeditions said: “With Aqua Lares, we’re setting a new benchmark for luxury exploration at the edges of the map. “
“No other superyacht offers this combination of access, exclusivity, and personalised service in the Arctic. From Svalbard and the Arctic Circle to East Africa, Aqua is pioneering a truly global, deeply luxurious and personal way to explore.”
Aqua Lares will be the only superyacht in the Arctic Circle offering both private charters and individual cabin bookings, for a maximum of 30 guests.
The ship is equipped to reach remote corners of the Arctic beyond the scope of conventional routes. Her five-deck layout balances rugged capability with elevated comfort: 15 spacious cabins—including three Owner’s Suites—plus expansive lounges, dining spaces, and a wellness area with spa, sauna, and indoor-outdoor Jacuzzis.
Last month, speaking exclusively with LATTE at Virtuoso Travel Week, Galli Zugaro hinted that an “exciting” announcement would be revealed in September.
Bookings, itineraries, rates, and departures dates will be announced in mid-October 2025.
Guests, travel advisors, and partner companies may now register their interest to be among the first to sail Aqua Lares’ inaugural Arctic season at aquaexpeditions.com/destinations/svalbard-arctic-cruise
