6 Twists on 2021 Holiday Traditions

Lauren A. Greene

If there were ever a year to go big—and leave home!—this is absolutely the year. Give your usual holiday traditions a new twist and plan to celebrate in one of these wild places. Whether you’re gathering the whole family together for a long-overdue reunion or traveling solo, our small ship expeditions make the ideal holiday adventure. With daily activity options, flexible schedules, and open seating at mealtime, you can do as much or as little as you like, on your own or with the group. Plus, we make planning seamless and stress-free. Book now—and end the year on a wild, unforgettable note. Get Inspired By Photos, Videos, Webinars, Stories, And Exclusive Offers. Sign Up

Marvel at the Lights of a Legend

Instead of driving around town to look at holiday decorations, experience the twinkling lights of the legendary Panama Canal. On our in-depth voyage, you’ll transit the Canal over the course of two days—giving you the rare opportunity to see it by day as well as all lit up in the coolness of the night, perhaps with a celebratory cocktail in hand. Witnessing this marvel of engineering is impressive enough, but paired with Costa Rica’s lush rainforest, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s a singular winter adventure you’ll remember forever.

Departing: Dec. 19 & 26

CELEBRATE IN COSTA RICA & PANAMA >

Toast to the Holidays—And Stellar Wildlife

Swap your eggnog and hot toddies for some world-class wines from the Valle de Guadalupe. On this epic voyage along the Pacific Coast, you’ll spend a day exploring the vineyards and culinary delights of this emerging wine region, including a private lunch and behind-the-scenes tour. And instead of searching for gifts, spend your time searching for whales, dolphins, elephant seals and other wildlife as the ship navigates from the remote Channel Islands all the way down to beautiful Baja.

Departing: Dec. 5

CELEBRATE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA & BAJA >

Watch a One-of-a-Kind Marine Ballet

Skip the Nutcracker in favor of a different kind of ballet. In a place Jacques Cousteau dubbed “the world’s aquarium,” you’ll have a front-row seat to an unforgettable performance: pods of bow-riding dolphins, acrobatic sea lions, and graceful mobula rays leaping out of the water; plus, flocks of seabirds soaring above. And after each thrilling day exploring the Sea of Cortez there’s one last encore—a spectacular golden hour that lights up the desert landscape, changing colors until the sun slips behind the horizon and a curtain of stars envelops the night sky.

Departing: Dec. 19 & 26

CELEBRATE IN THE SEA OF CORTEZ >

Rejoice with a Wild Soundtrack

Forget “Jingle Bells” and “Deck the Halls.” In Galápagos, you’ll be serenaded by the sounds of unique and spectacular wildlife: whistling blue-footed boobies; warbling frigatebirds; barking sea lions; salt-sneezing marine iguanas; and honking Galápagos penguins. Hike, kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel your way through this wild wonderland, having up-close encounters of the very best kind.

Departing: Multiple dates throughout Nov. & Dec.

CELEBRATE IN GALÁPAGOS >

Have an Epic Snow Day

Ditch your backyard for the world’s biggest snowy playground—Antarctica! As you explore the virgin landscapes, you’ll have a chance at once-in-a-lifetime winter fun: slide down hills, toss snowballs, or make snow angels on the 7^th Continent. On early season voyages, you can even snowshoe or cross-country ski on a frozen sea. Just think of the jaw-dropping photos you'll capture for next year's holiday cards!

Departing: Multiple dates in Nov., Dec., Jan. & Feb.

Photo: Michael S. Nolan

Celebrate in Antarctica >

Burn Off Calories in the Canopy

Want to burn off that Thanksgiving dinner? Trade your annual Turkey Trot for an adventurous and active escape to Guanacaste, one of Costa Rica’s richest regions. Zipline past mist-shrouded volcanic peaks; horseback ride along palm-lined beaches; walk suspension bridges through the jungle canopy in search of wildlife; and snorkel among a galaxy of tropical fish. When it’s time for a break, enjoy a relaxing afternoon poolside at the lively Hacienda Guachipelin, where local marimba guitarists perform, and fresh ceviche is prepared.

Departing: Nov. 29; Dec. 4; Dec. 9; Dec. 14

CELEBRATE IN GUANACASTE >

6 Ways to Go Wild for the 2021 Holiday Season