Canada's Travel Industry Directory
Listed in Cruise Lines, Expedition Cruise Lines
Heritage Expeditions is a family-owned New Zealand expedition-cruise company founded in 1984 by conservationists Rodney and Shirley Russ. Based in Christchurch and now operated by their sons, Aaron and Nathan Russ, the company combines wilderness travel with conservation awareness and responsible tourism. Its small-ship voyages explore remote, wildlife-rich regions including Antarctica’s Ross Sea, New Zealand and Australia’s Subantarctic Islands, Japan, Taiwan, Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, the Kimberley Coast, and coastal New Zealand. The fleet includes the 140-guest Heritage Adventurer and 18-guest expedition yacht Heritage Explorer, with the 130-guest Heritage Discoverer set to begin its maiden 2027–28 season in the High Arctic, Antarctic Peninsula and Europe.
Heritage Expeditions offers guided wilderness journeys rather than conventional cruises. Naturalists, biologists, historians, botanists and regional specialists lead wildlife encounters, photography opportunities, lectures and shore landings, sharing insight into each destination’s ecology, culture and history. Routes and landings remain flexible to suit weather and local conditions, helping guests make the most of every opportunity while respecting fragile environments. These expeditions are designed for curious travelers who value birds, wildlife, conservation, remote places and meaningful small-group adventure.
