Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has highlighted its Young Explorers program for children and young people aged 10 to 17.

Available during selected cruises to Iceland, Svalbard and Greenland, the learning program teaches children about the Arctic, while encouraging them to make their own discoveries – from looking at plankton through a microscope to encounters with whales and glaciers.

Experienced expedition experts, such as glaciologist Benjamin Schröter, share their knowledge of oceans, glaciers and polar regions in a playful way, sparking curiosity.

“Children want to experience things for themselves. When they see a glacier or spot a whale for the first time, these experiences stay with them forever. When, at the end of the day, a child says, ‘That was the best day of my life,’ then I know why I do this job,” said Schröter.

Complementing the educational content of expedition cruises for adults while being tailored to children’s interests, the program takes place provided there are a minimum of five young guests.

“The core of every expedition is curiosity: the willingness to ask questions and see the world through different eyes. Anyone who experiences just how fascinating and worthy of protection our natural world is at an early age will carry this awareness with them,” noted Isolde Susset, managing director Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

There are currently 19 voyages for Young Explorers to choose from during the school holidays until the end of 2028, ranging from Northern Lights adventures in Norway, expeditions around Svalbard or to Newfoundland, St Lawrence River as well as explorations of the Azores.

Sample cruise:

Expedition Svalbard Circumnavigation (July 12-22, 2027 (10 days))

This expedition from Tromsø to Longyearbyen passes glaciers, deep fjords and the icy landscapes of the Arctic.

There are zodiac rides to see walruses and seals as well as expert guides providing insights into geology, climate and polar research, and the success of the Svalbard circumnavigation depends on the weather and ice conditions.

The cruise is bookable in the Platinum fare from €32,240 for two adults and one Young Explorer (including early booking discount, valid until Oct. 31, 2026), including charter flights.