This New Superyacht Carries Just 30 Guests To The Arctic And Africa

A former icebreaker is taking a distinctly more luxurious approach to exploring the planet’s wildest frontiers. At 252’ (77m), Aqua Lares carries just 30 guests and is designed to take guests far beyond the usual cruising routes, offering a rare combination of private yacht charter and individual cabin bookings.

The superyacht sails expedition itineraries across two dramatically different regions: the Norwegian Arctic and East Africa. With 15 bespoke cabins, a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, and expert-led excursions, it combines the intimacy of a small expedition vessel with the comforts of a luxury superyacht.

Photo from Aqua Expeditions

An Arctic Adventure

In the far north, Aqua Lares heads into the extraordinary landscapes of Svalbard, where vast glaciers, jagged mountains and deep fjords create a constantly shifting backdrop. During the Arctic summer, the sun barely disappears, so there is plenty of time for adventure and activities. It is also a prime opportunity for wildlife encounters, with itineraries venturing into remote areas in search of polar bears, walruses and seabirds.

Guests can explore by Zodiac and kayak, getting closer to the icy edges of fjords, including Liefdefjorden and Raudfjord. Landings add a cultural dimension, too, with historic sites such as Gravneset and Smeerenburg revealing the region’s long history of whaling and Arctic exploration.

The result is less a conventional Arctic cruise and more an immersive Svalbard yacht expedition, with the freedom to spend time in places that larger vessels cannot reach.

Photo by © Freesurf69 | Dreamstime.com

From Arctic Ice To East African Islands

Aqua Lares changes course dramatically for its East African expeditions, traveling through the Seychelles and onwards to Tanzania and Zanzibar. The focus here is on biodiversity, with itineraries exploring some of the Indian Ocean’s most remarkable marine and terrestrial environments. At Aldabra, guests can encounter the world’s largest population of giant tortoises, while excursions around Assumption and Astove reveal coral reefs, tidal channels and underwater landscapes populated by turtles, rays and tropical fish.

On Praslin, the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai offers a glimpse into the Seychelles’ prehistoric natural world, while Zanzibar brings a different perspective, combining tropical landscapes with centuries of history shaped by the spice trade. For travelers considering an East Africa yacht charter, the appeal lies in exploring these remote islands at a slower pace, with twice-daily excursions designed around wildlife, nature and local culture.

A Superyacht Designed To Explore

Despite its expedition credentials, Aqua Lares is far removed from the utilitarian feel of a traditional expedition ship. The interiors combine warm wood veneers, Italian Dedar fabrics and bespoke Gaya Ceramics with furniture from Minotti and Poltrona Frau. Antique maps and prints add a sense of history, while the overall aesthetic is deliberately relaxed rather than overtly formal.

The superyacht has 15 cabins across five categories, including three owner’s suites ranging from 420 to 710 square feet. Elsewhere, guests can retreat to the sun deck and jacuzzi after a day ashore or on the water.

Dining is similarly destination-led. Michelin-starred chef Karime López has created menus inspired by each region, with East African itineraries drawing on Mediterranean and coastal Creole flavors, while Arctic voyages spotlight ingredients such as Norwegian scallops, king crab and local brown cheese.

Small Ship Luxury, Big Adventures

Perhaps Aqua Lares’ most distinctive offering is its flexibility. Guests can book an individual cabin rather than committing to a full yacht charter, while groups can reserve the entire 252’ vessel for a private expedition.

It creates a different way to experience small-ship expedition cruising: intimate enough to feel personal, luxurious enough to rival a private yacht and capable of reaching destinations far beyond the conventional cruising map. From polar bears on the pack ice to giant tortoises in the Seychelles, Aqua Lares is built around one simple idea: to explore some of the world’s most extraordinary lands far from the crowds.