Aqua Expeditions is set to sail into the Arctic Circle for the first time in 18 years, deploying its new ship, Aqua Lares, in mid-2026.
The six-deck superyacht features an Ice Class 1 B-rated hull, allowing access to high-latitude regions previously unreachable by conventional vessels.
The luxury small ship operator unveiled Aqua Lares in early August. The 30-passenger vessel will debut in East Africa in February, operating cruises to the Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll, and Zanzibar.
Following its maiden season in East Africa, Aqua Lares will head north for the Arctic summer, positioning to explore the fjords of Norway, Svalbard, and the Arctic Circle from June to September 2026.
Voyages will range from 5 to 14 nights, visiting remote destinations including the Lofoten Islands and Tromsø.
“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 company said in a press release.
“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,” said Francesco Galli Zugaro, Founder & CEO of Aqua Expeditions.
Aqua Lares will be the only superyacht in the Arctic Circle offering both private charters and individual cabin bookings for up to 30 guests.
Designed to reach remote Arctic corners beyond conventional routes, the vessel features 15 spacious cabins - including three Owner’s Suites - alongside lounges, dining areas, and a wellness deck with spa, sauna, and indoor-outdoor Jacuzzis.
Bookings, itineraries, rates, and departure dates are expected to be announced in mid-October 2025.
