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12 Top Cruises on Small Ships

From wildlife viewing in the remote polar regions to magical sunsets in the Indian Ocean, these ships offer unforgettable voyages.

Al Bakker | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Even if you're sailing in chilly Antarctica, cruising on a small ship offers comfort and coziness.

If you are feeling a sense of wanderlust and ready to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in far-flung corners of the world, consider booking a small ship cruise. These luxury mega-yachts, expedition-style vessels and sailing ships can visit tucked-away harbors, exotic locales and pristine beaches that larger ships can't reach. And if you opt for a cruise on a rigged sailing vessel, there's nothing more romantic than watching the sun set into the ocean while the wind fills the sails of a tall ship at sea.

Smaller ships offer an intimate onboard vibe where the experience is highly personalized with a higher crew to passenger ratio – and where you'll get to know many of your fellow passengers. Smaller ships are often more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than traditional cruise ships, using either wind power or the latest technologies. With the addition of new or existing cruise lines entering this market along with other lines investing in upgrading older ships, there are many more vessels in these smaller ship classes to choose from when considering your cruise options.

If you're seeking an adventure of a lifetime – whether to meet the penguins in Antarctica, people- and yacht watch in glamorous ports of call in the Mediterranean, or go island hopping in paradise in Hawaii – then plan your voyage to set sail on one of these small ships.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Star Clippers: Royal Clipper

Inspired by the legendary 1902 Preussen, the first five-masted ship, Royal Clipper was launched in 2000 as a true sailing vessel at 439 feet in length with 54,000 square feet of sails across 42 sails. With five fully rigged masts, the ship is recognized in Guinness World Records as the largest square rigger in service today.

Modeled after the historic clipper ships, Royal Clipper travels under full sail – and by wind power – for up to 80% of its voyages. When the vessel does navigate under power, the energy-efficient engines only use high-quality, low-sulfur gas oil, earning Star Clippers the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate for all three of its clipper ships.

The ship can accommodate as many as 227 passengers in 114 staterooms, along with 106 crew. While on board, guests will enjoy 19,000 square feet of open teak deck, three swimming pools and hidden balconies on either side of the bow, where you can view wildlife like dolphins swimming alongside the ship. You can also relax in the bowsprit net overlooking the ocean and keeping an eye out for whales. For the more adventurous sailor, climbing the mast to 75 feet above the water affords unforgettable ocean views from your perch in one of the passenger crow's nests. Other features of Royal Clipper are its three-story atrium, trilevel dining room, and unique spa and health club with underwater portholes called the Captain Nemo Lounge.

The ship's seven-night Windward Islands itinerary sails round trip from Barbados with stops in Antigua , Martinique , St. Kitts, Îles Des Saintes and St. Lucia. You'll even have an opportunity to sail alongside one of the line's sister ships and another tall ship – Star Flyer – to the island of Dominica . Royal Clipper's longer itineraries include several Grand Voyages: The 19-night cruise from Cannes in France to Lisbon in Portugal, for example, calls on other ports in France, Italy, Spain, Gibraltar and Morocco.

Read: Cruise Essentials for Your Next Trip

Silversea Cruises: Silver Wind

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Launched in 1995, Silver Wind was Silversea's second of four vessels that the line built for the ultra-luxury market. This ship underwent a significant upgrade in 2018, followed by another refurbishment in 2021 that included an enhanced ice-class hull. This new addition allows Silver Wind to be one of the most adaptable ships in the fleet, sailing from the polar regions like Antarctica to sunny island climates in the Caribbean and cruising picturesque shorelines along the Mediterranean Sea.

Silver Wind measures about 515 feet in length and has 149 all ocean-view suites, more than 80% of which boast a private veranda. The ship carries 274 guests and 239 crew and features elegant public rooms, including lounges for gazing out at the ocean or watching onboard entertainment. There's also an upscale bar, shipboard boutiques and a spa.

Dining is a highlight, with four venues spanning international cuisine such as Italian, regional specialties and seasonally inspired menus. For an evening under the stars, The Grill features fine steaks and seafood or vegetables that guests can cook at the table on 400 degrees Celsius lava stones. After dinner, spend time chatting with fellow passengers at Connoisseur's Corner, where you can sip cognac and enjoy a cigar.

Silver Wind offers an epic 20-night expedition cruise from Tromsø, Norway, to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, visiting various destinations in Iceland as well as remote regions and glaciers in Greenland. For a warmer voyage, the 10-night Puntarenas to Guayaquil itinerary takes you from Costa Rica to Ecuador in South America, with stops at the remote Darien Jungle in Panama, the Utría National Natural Park in Colombia and several ports in Ecuador, including the city of Guayaquil.

Want to cruise a small ship on Silversea Cruises? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Sea Cloud Cruises: Sea Cloud

Courtesy of Sea Cloud Cruises

Built in 1931 as a private yacht for Wall Street broker Edward Francis Hutton and his wife Marjorie Merriweather Post, an American socialite and philanthropist, this legendary windjammer maintains the elegance of a time gone by.

Originally named Hussar, the 360-foot Sea Cloud has a fascinating history – while the ship started as a private yacht, it later became a floating palace of diplomacy and then a warship. Today, Sea Cloud accommodates up to 64 passengers in 32 outside cabins and carries about 60 crew. The ship also boasts 29 sails, with the height of the main mast towering 184 feet above the water.

If you've never been on this type of vessel, cruising under full sail on a tall ship is unlike any other experience. Sea Cloud does not rely on motors (though they are installed just in case), allowing the wind and sea to determine the ship's course whenever possible, guided by the skills and seamanship of the crew for navigation. This setup provides an opportunity to teach the art of sailing to the passengers. The captain of Sea Cloud and guests prefer to cruise under full sail, which is the lure of sailing on a windjammer. Life on board the ship is intimate and relaxed – just as you would find on a private yacht.

Amenities on Sea Cloud include a lido bar and deck and a restaurant serving cuisine inspired by the destination, which features local products, fresh fish and regional wines.

One of Sea Cloud's top itineraries, Between Lifestyles and Nature's Paradises, sails for seven nights from Monte Carlo, Monaco , to the Spanish island of Palma de Mallorca , with calls on less visited ports along the Mediterranean coast in southern France like La Ciotat and Collioure. You can also join the jet-setters in St. Barts with a front-row seat from your sailing ship for the Bucket Regatta. This 10-night adventure includes two days in the French West Indies island of St. Barts and other picturesque ports of call in the Caribbean.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Atlas Ocean Voyages: World Navigator

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages' first luxury expedition ship, World Navigator, launched in August 2021. With a length of 423 feet and capacity for 196 passengers and 127 crew, the ship sails to fascinating destinations around the world. By optimizing fuel efficiency with the incorporation of the latest hybrid power management and propulsion system, World Navigator uses as little as one-fifth of the fuel of standard cruise ship systems. The quiet alternate hydro-jet propulsion system allows for up-close viewing of marine animals and other wildlife.

The 98 beautifully appointed staterooms and suites feature upscale amenities like Egyptian linens and a menu to personalize your selection of a pillow. Some accommodations also have Juliet-style or walk-out balconies, and certain suites come with butler service. For dining options, you'll find Portuguese-inspired Porto, which is the main dining room, or the New York-style 7-Aft Grill for steaks and seafood. Passengers can also opt to have lunch poolside or enjoy light bites at the Dome Observation Lounge, which offers panoramic views of the sea.

Other ship amenities include three bars and lounges, the SeaSpa by L'Occitane, an auditorium, a mud room, a pool and two hot tubs, a boutique and a fitness center. To wind down after a day of exploring destinations in far corners of the globe, convene with other passengers to relive the experience during Àpres Sea.

For the ultimate bucket list adventure, book the nine-night round-trip expedition from Ushuaia, Argentina, to the southernmost continent. Highlights of this venture to Antarctica include navigating the Drake Passage; embarking on water safaris to Deception Island or Yankee Harbour; encountering wildlife like penguins, seals and whales; and even camping on land overnight. For a less adventurous itinerary, history enthusiasts will appreciate the 12-night Western Europe voyage sailing from Hamburg in Germany to London , with an overnight in Amsterdam and ports of call in cities like Antwerp and Bruges , Belgium; Plymouth, U.K.; and Honfleur, France.

Read: The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Flora

This 100-passenger luxury mega-yacht is the first ship of its kind built for the Galápagos Islands . Launched in 2019, Celebrity Flora is 333 feet long and features 50 spacious all-suite accommodations, each designed with a veranda or an infinite veranda that extends the terrace to be part of the living space. Each suite is fully automated, allowing guests to control everything with the touch of a button. Amenities include luxurious linens and bathrobes, and you'll enjoy chocolates and toiletries locally sourced from Ecuador. The ship is also eco-friendly and built with the latest environmental technologies.

There are two dining venues on board Celebrity Flora. Seaside Restaurant offers an upscale casual experience with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. For alfresco dining in the evening, Ocean Grill serves local, sustainable seafood during "Dinner Under the Stars." Other inviting indoor spaces include the Discovery Lounge, where Celebrity's naturalists host briefings and presentations, and the Observatory, a library and lounge with a view.

Outside, The Vista offers guests an open-air escape with private cabanas, cocoon-style loungers and a Jacuzzi. Cruisers can head to the outdoor Sunset Lounge for a dip in the plunge pool or experience Galápagos Glamping on the top deck with an evening of dining and sleeping under one of the most spectacular night skies in the world.

Celebrity Flora sails seven-night inner- and outer-loop Galápagos itineraries and has extended trips with land packages that add on Quito or Machu Picchu . The 16-night Galápagos Outer Loop & Machu Picchu itinerary includes island hopping in the Galápagos, where you'll have up-close encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas, Galápagos penguins, red- and blue-footed boobies, and sea lions. Afterward, head to Lima, Peru , where you'll fly to Cusco and venture onward to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Looking to plan a small ship cruise on Celebrity Cruises? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Windstar Cruises: Wind Star

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

When it first launched in Le Havre, France, in November 1985, Wind Star was the world's largest sailing vessel and the flagship for the line. While this schooner may not be the largest tall ship on the seas today, Wind Star is an elegant four-masted sailing yacht and the cruise line's namesake. Since its launch, this ship has been through a few renovations, with the most recent one in 2018. The 360-foot vessel features 73 deluxe ocean-view staterooms that accommodate 148 passengers, and it can carry 101 crew. Four masts stand at 204 feet tall, and six triangular Dacron sails, which are self-furling and computerized, make up a surface area of 21,500 square feet.

As with other Windstar vessels, you'll find the same casual elegance on board this sailing ship. Guests will get to sail away to the music Windstar traditionally plays while raising the flag during every port departure – Vangelis' song "1492: Conquest of Paradise," which is the musical score to the movie of the same name. The culinary program on Windstar's fleet is in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, so dining is a real treat. The three restaurant venues on Wind Star include Amphora, whose contemporary, international menu was created by James Beard-affiliated chefs. The romantic Candles offers an alfresco dining experience with grilled steaks and skewers, while the Veranda is the ship's casual breakfast and lunch buffet with outdoor seating.

Other onboard amenities include a lounge, the Yacht Club Café, a pool bar, a salon and spa, a boutique, a library, a fitness center, a water sports platform and an open bridge where you can enjoy a chat over coffee with the captain.

Treasures of the Greek Isles is a seven-night voyage that sails round trip from Athens to several Greek islands, including Mykonos and Santorini . This itinerary also includes a stop in Kusadasi, Turkey, where you'll be able to visit the fascinating ancient city of Ephesus. For a South America adventure to transit the Panama Canal and explore destinations in the region like rainforests, reserve the seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal voyage.

Read: Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Viking Cruises: Viking Octantis

Courtesy of Viking

Built in 2022, Viking's new Polar Class 6 ship, Viking Octantis, is 665 feet in length and accommodates 378 guests in 189 staterooms and 256 crew. The purpose-built expedition ship boasts more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than many other expedition vessels, providing guests with up-close views of some of the most incredible scenery in the world. The energy-efficient design of this ship and the line's other expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, exceeds the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) requirements by 36%. The cruise line is also recognized for receiving one of the first highest-level certifications for quiet ship propulsion, minimizing underwater noise pollution.

Cruisers familiar with Viking Ocean Cruises' ships will recognize familiar spaces and dining venues such as The Living Room, The Explorers' Lounge, The Nordic Spa, Manfredi's, The Restaurant and The World Cafe. New spaces on Viking Octantis include The Aula, a panoramic auditorium designed for lectures and daily briefings, and the adjacent Finse Terrace. This outdoor lounge area sits just above sea level and boasts recessed, heated couches and lava rock "fire pits." Passengers will also find the industry-first in-ship marina, The Hangar, where guests can easily embark and disembark the ship, and three pools offering varying temperatures with an inside-outside passage. In addition, all staterooms feature Nordic balconies that convert from a sunroom to an alfresco viewing area.

For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, book the 12-night Antarctic itinerary sailing from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina. This expedition includes the Drake "rite of" Passage, scenic sailing around Cape Horn and wildlife viewing in the icy waters of the "White Continent." For U.S. travelers interested in staying closer to home, the seven-night Great Lakes Explorer departs Milwaukee for Thunder Bay in Ontario, Canada. Cruisers will enjoy a stop in Mackinac Island in Michigan, scenic sailing along the St. Mary's River and transit from the U.S. into Canada through the Soo Locks.

Want to plan a Viking Expedition Cruise? See top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Emerald Cruises: Emerald Azzurra

Emerald Cruises' luxurious 360-foot superyacht, Emerald Azzurra, launched in May 2022. The boutique ship carries just 100 passengers and is designed for cruising the waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic Coast and the Red Sea. Its sister ship, Emerald Sakara, will debut in 2023. On board Emerald Azzurra, you can expect to be pampered by 68 crew members while soaking in the sun poolside or relaxing indoors during a day at sea.

The 50 spacious modern staterooms and suites, most with balconies, offer spectacular views of off-the-beaten-path destinations and smaller ports and harbors. The ship also features several dining, bar and lounge venues; quiet spaces for relaxing or reading a book; a wellness area; a hot tub with a view and an infinity-style pool; a boutique; and a fitness center. The marina platform on the ship's stern offers paddleboarding, snorkeling and other water sports activities.

The seven-night Gems of the Arabian Peninsula sails from Doha, Qatar, to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. This cruise calls on Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi , United Arab Emirates, as well as two ports in the country of Oman. For unforgettable ocean and island views and a vacation in paradise, book the seven-night Tropical Charms of the Seychelles, sailing round trip from Victoria, Mahé , which is the capital of the Seychelles .

Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Endurance

Alexandra Daley-Clark | Courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Launched in July 2021 as one of two new polar vessels and a sister ship to National Geographic Resolution (November 2021), this extraordinary vessel can explore deeper and further into the Earth's polar regions. National Geographic Endurance is the first new polar build in the company's 50-year history, and its name honors the ship of renowned Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton. The elegant Scandinavian-inspired design also features the patented X-Bow, offering eco-friendly benefits and a smoother, quieter ride.

National Geographic Endurance is 407 feet in length and has 69 spacious staterooms with large windows or balconies to accommodate up to 126 passengers. The ship also carries 112 crew. Unique onboard amenities include the first polar art exhibit at sea, curated by environmental artist Zaria Forman, and the first igloos at sea. Guests can arrange to spend an evening under the stars in these glass domes, which are available to reserve on a first-come, first-served basis.

Passengers can also enjoy one complimentary evening at the Chef's Table, sustainable cuisine during their voyage, a lounge and bar area, outdoor infinity-style hot tubs, a yoga studio, saunas with a view of the sea, and state-of-the-art facilities for presentations and films. Every expedition also has a National Geographic photographer and a certified photo instructor and video chronicler.

For an unforgettable rendezvous with nature, book a 10-night cruise called Land of the Ice Bears. This adventure sails to the best place in the world to view polar bears: the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard in the Arctic Ocean. In addition to many opportunities to see those amazing animals, you'll also encounter walruses, reindeer, arctic foxes and fur seals. Another incredible journey for the extreme adventurer is the 35-day Epic Antarctica sailing. This expedition will venture to remote West Antarctica and explore the sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand and Australia, traveling to destinations where possibly few – or even no – humans have set foot before.

UnCruise Adventures: Safari Explorer

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

Built in 1998, Safari Explorer is 145 feet in length and one of UnCruise Adventures' four Safari-class ships in its expedition-style fleet. Nicknamed "the Bulldog," this ship transports passengers to wild and remote areas that larger ships can't navigate. The 36-passenger yacht was recently renovated with interior refinishes, touch-ups and upgrades. There are just 18 cabins and 18 crew.

The lifestyle is casual on board, and guests have access to three decks with a library, dining room, rooftop sun lounge and exercise equipment. You'll find common areas on the main deck such as the salon, bar and wine bar. When it's time to hit the water or go ashore, the vessel is equipped with expedition gear, including kayaks, inflatable skiffs, paddleboards, snorkel equipment and more.

In the summer months, Safari Explorer sets off in search of humpback whales in Alaska and spends winters island hopping in Hawaii. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes sailing cruises to four islands, including stops in Molokai, Lanai , Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii . There are two itineraries in Alaska. The seven-night Alaska Glacier Cruise itinerary sails one way from Juneau to Sitka through the northern passages. For an extended expedition that includes wilderness areas with even more opportunities for wildlife and whale viewing, book the 12-night Cruise to Alaska voyage from Seattle to Juneau.

Read: The Best Times to Cruise to Alaska

Ponant: Le Commandant Charcot

Ponant's first high polar expedition vessel, Le Commandant Charcot, launched in September 2021. The 492-foot-long ship is eco-friendly and powered by liquefied natural gas with the latest innovations and technologies. Le Commandant Charcot is also the first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.

All of the 123 staterooms and suites have a private balcony or terrace. The atmosphere for the 245 passengers on board is much like that of a private yacht, given an extraordinary ratio of passengers to crew with 215 crew members. Two culinary options, gastronomic restaurant Nuna and casual dining concept Sila, are part of a collaboration with Ducasse Conseil and Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse; the menus are designed by the renowned French chef. Guests can enjoy complimentary French wine, Veuve Clicquot Champagne and Ladurée macarons throughout their voyage.

You'll also find beautiful public spaces, a boutique, a theater, expedition rooms and a promenade deck where you can access the bow. Not to be missed is the wellness area, which is a partnership with Biologique Recherche and features amenities like a 14 degrees Fahrenheit snow room with fresh powder snow, a sauna and an indoor pool. On the pool deck, passengers can enjoy a sunroom, a heated outdoor blue lagoon, a giant fire pit, an outdoor bar and the Blue Lagoon bar.

Le Commandant Charcot sails to the farthest points in the Northern and Southern hemispheres, including Antarctica and the North Pole. The 24-night Northwest Passage cruise takes guests from Reykjavik in Iceland to Nome, Alaska, and features polar activities like kayaking between the ice floes, snowshoeing, ice fishing or even exploring with a naturalist guide by hovercraft. The 15-night Geographic North Pole expedition sailing from Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, in Norway pushes the limit of sailing to the northernmost point in the world. Le Commandant Charcot is the only passenger ship able to reach the geographic North Pole.

Read: The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Aurora Expeditions: Greg Mortimer

Matt Horspool | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Australian-owned Greg Mortimer is a 341-foot-long purpose-built expedition ship, and the first passenger ship designed with the Ulstein X-Bow. This state-of-the-art design offers environmental benefits such as producing fewer emissions and requiring less fuel. The unique bow design also provides a smoother cruise experience when crossing rough seas like the Drake Passage en route to Antarctica. In addition, the ship's Rolls Royce dynamic stabilizers contribute to the vessel's stability and lower its fuel consumption.

The vessel was built in 2019, features 79 cabins with ocean views – 85% of which have balconies – and can accommodate an average of 132 passengers and 74 crew. Onboard amenities include bars and lounges, the main dining room, lecture facilities, a library, a mudroom to store wet expedition gear, a spa, a sauna and a gym. The ship also has hydraulic viewing platforms offering unobstructed views of the local marine and wildlife, as well as 15 Zodiac boats that launch from four platforms.

With Greg Mortimer and its new sister ship, Sylvia Earle, Aurora Expeditions travels to wild and remote destinations around the world. Popular itineraries include its nine- to 23-day Antarctica voyages, navigating icy waters on the 17-day Northwest Passage expedition from Canada or on the 11-day Iceland Circumnavigation cruise, which sails round trip from Reykjavik.

Want to explore cruise options? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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The 18 best small cruise ships sailing the world

In a world where gigantic megaships draw all the attention, I've always found small ships to be the best.

I've sailed on more than 125 cruise ships of all sizes, but my favorites have never been the big "floating resorts."

I'm drawn to the intimacy and instant community that develops between a small number of passengers and crew cruising together. I enjoy the serenity of small-ship cruising, with no lines to wait in or crowds to contend with on board.

I also gravitate to the off-beat itineraries small ships offer because they focus on unusual and remote places that only small vessels can access.

Who needs the bustling Caribbean when you can explore Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean; lesser-known Greek Islands like Skopelos and Skiathos; French Polynesia; or the Galapagos Islands?

People often ask me which are the best small ship cruises, and that question is difficult to answer.

The new high-tech expedition ships, outfitted with the latest hardware and design touches, are incredibly appealing. However, I also adore certain older small ships for their heritage and atmosphere.

Of course, the best small ship for you may depend on where you wish to sail and whether you're looking for a relaxing yacht-like experience or a rugged adventure.

If you're like me and find that bigger isn't always better, this list is for you. Here are 18 of the world's best ocean-going small cruise ships, both older and new. Each carries fewer than 400 passengers and all are ideal for your next intimately sized travel adventure.

Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Resolution and National Geographic Endurance

How small? 128 passengers. Best for: Gadget-loving adventurers.

Lindblad Expeditions has been a leader in small-ship expedition cruising since 1966 when company founder Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered expeditions to Antarctica, Easter Island and the Galapagos.

Today, the line's fleet of small ships explores nearly the entire planet, always with an impressive lineup of experts and photographers along for the ride.

Lindblad's newest 128-passenger ships, National Geographic Resolution (2021) and National Geographic Endurance (2020), were built for hard-core exploration in the polar regions they call home.

They sport a striking X-bow design (an inverted ship bow design for fuel efficiency), a polar class rating of PC 5 Category A (a notch above most Antarctica cruise ships), and a dynamic positioning system that keeps the ships hovering quietly in place.

Passengers can utilize each ship's fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks and stash of snowshoes and cross-country skis that aid in exploration.

High-tech toys, such as a remotely operated vehicle and underwater video camera, hydrophone, remote-controlled aerial camera and video microscope, allow guests to view footage of undersea life wherever the ships may be.

The ships also feature a gym, yoga studio, spa, ocean-view saunas, library and two dining venues. On deck, two infinity hot tubs offer amazing views.

All cabins are outward-facing (and 12 are single cabins, a rarity) with an "expedition command center" that includes a tablet, multiple electrical and USB outlets, a TV, a barometer and a National Geographic Atlas.

Cruise fare covers wine and spirits, excursions and excursion gear.

Related: These are the best Antarctica cruise ships

SeaDream Yacht Club: SeaDream I and II

How small? 112 passengers. Best for: Yacht enthusiasts seeking the sun.

SeaDream Yacht Club 's 40-year-old ships may not be new, but they're still some of the prettiest classic luxury yachts afloat. Suites don't have balconies. However, they're spacious, recently refurbished, and feature wood details that evoke a classic nautical feel.

What the ships lack in modern touches, they make up for in experience and service. The food is excellent and served both on the romantic outdoor decks and inside the cozy restaurant.

The line's iconic weekly beach barbecue on a remote stretch of sand, complete with Champagne and caviar in the surf, is a cruise highlight on all itineraries. An open bar contributes to the social atmosphere on board, and watersports from a stern marina when conditions are right are a great perk for active travelers.

The SeaDream twins winter in the Caribbean and summer in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and Scandinavia.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Sea Cloud Cruises: Sea Cloud I

How small? 64 passengers. Best for: History buffs and sailing ship lovers.

The one-of-a-kind, four-masted Sea Cloud was originally commissioned as a private luxury yacht by multi-millionaire Wall Street titan E. F. Hutton in 1931. Hutton's extravagant heiress and businesswoman wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post, oversaw the ship's interior design, outfitting it in marble, mahogany and gold-plated fixtures.

After passing through various owners, Sea Cloud I has spent the last several decades offering casually elegant windjammer cruises to old-ship lovers from Europe and North America.

Passengers choose from 10 original cabins, including Post's own suite with its Louis XIV–style bed and nightstands, marble fireplace and bathroom, chandeliers and intricate moldings.

Sea Cloud winters in the Caribbean and summers in Mediterranean, visiting the Greek Islands, Italy and the Canary Islands.

Related: Big vs small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

UnCruise Adventures: Wilderness Legacy

How small? 90 passengers. Best for: Sporty cruisers who love quirky ships.

Constructed in 1983, UnCruise Adventures ' Wilderness Legacy is truly a one-of-a-kind quirky ship. Its throw-back style exterior harkens back to a 20th-century steamboat.

The ship attracts a loyal fan base thanks to its roomy size and cabins that open onto covered promenade decks (rather than a central interior corridor). It even features a hot tub on deck and an elevator, a rarity on older small adventure ships like this.

The portable, custom-made "sea dragon" platform at the stern makes for easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming, activities popular with UnCruise's sporty fans. The adventurous can also enjoy hiking, bushwhacking and cycling in some ports.

Fares include everything from wine, beer and spirits to daily excursions.

The largest ship in the UnCruise fleet and built for coastal cruising, Wilderness Legacy spends its time in Alaska's Inside Passage and Glacier Bay National Park, as well as on the Columbia and Snake rivers.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

Star Clippers: Royal Clipper

How small? 227 passengers. Best for: Sailing enthusiasts with a penchant for the past.

Star Clippers' handsome five-masted tall ship Royal Clipper is considered the largest square rigger in service. Modeled after the great 1902 German clipper Preussen, the ship is a real throwback, with lots of wood and brass features and nautical-style elements.

Royal Clipper also has impressive modern niceties for a ship of its size, including three small pools and an aft marina for easy access to complimentary water sports. It also offers a small gym and spa.

In the winter, Royal Clipper island hops around the Caribbean, sailing round trip from Barbados to some of the lesser-known islands. During the summer, it cruises the Mediterranean along the French and Italian rivieras and explores the coast of Croatia and the Canary Islands.

Windstar Cruises: Wind Star and Wind Spirit

How small? 148 passengers. Best for: Romantics and foodies.

Windstar Cruises ' 148-passenger four-masted motorized yachts are beloved for their upscale yet casual sailing vibe and great food in partnership with the James Beard Foundation.

Standing on deck when the sails are unfurled is one of the more romantic moments you'll likely experience on any ship.

The expansive wooden sun decks on Wind Star and Wind Spirit make you want to be on topside as much as possible to enjoy the yachting life. Each has multiple dining options, both indoor and on deck, including a weekly barbecue on deck under the stars.

Both have a stern marina for easy access to water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding.

The cozy cabins aren't huge, but they are well-appointed with wood details and nautical flair. Suites are a combination of two cabins.

Windstar offers both cruise-only and all-inclusive fares. You can build an a la carte vacation or pay upfront for an easy trip that includes an open bar, unlimited Wi-Fi and included crew gratuities.

Wind Spirit is stationed in the islands of French Polynesia, sailing year-round out of Tahiti through February 2024. Wind Star is its globe-trotting sister, focusing mostly on the Greek Islands in the summer and Costa Rica and Panama in the winter.

Related: The 2 classes of Windstar ships, explained

Ponant: L'Austral

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 264 passengers (200 in Antarctica). Best for: Chic Francophile foodies.

Ponant has been busy launching six new ships in its impressive Explorers series. However, L'Austral (with sister ships Le Boreal, Le Soleal and Le Lyrial) is my favorite ship in the fleet.

Why? L'Austral is the ideal size for a small ship — intimate but still large enough for amenities such as a gym, spa and show lounge.

Its gorgeous tiered stern decks feature a lovely outdoor pool area at the back of Deck 6 with a perfect stretch of deck for sunbathing and scenery watching and an open-air bar above for stunning views.

With Ponant's French pedigree, it's not surprising that food is a cut above, especially the desserts, cheeses and wine. I had the best chocolate mousse of my life on L'Austral. Dine outdoors on the pool deck or in the elegant indoor restaurant. Enhance your evening with complimentary wine (mostly French), Charles Heidsieck Champagne, beer and spirits.

L'Austral explores both polar regions and spends time in the Mediterranean, cruising along the coast of Croatia and around the smaller, less touristy Greek Islands like Amorgos, Milos and Delos.

Emerald Cruises: Emerald Azzurra

How small? ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­100 passengers. Best for: Travelers seeking intimate luxury.

Emerald Cruises' new Emerald Azzurra (and soon-to-debut sister Emerald Sakara) is one of the smallest luxury cruise ships afloat and a good choice for travelers who want something more intimate than what Silversea or Seabourn offer.

The ship's six gleaming white-tiered decks sport a futuristic pyramid-like profile that turns heads when it arrives in port.

Emerald Azzurra features a watersports platform at the stern for convenient access to kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling and riding SEABOBs (electric underwater scooter-like jet skis). Inside, you can avail of a small gym and spa.

Choose from open-air and indoor dining for your meals. Wine and spirits are included, so take advantage of two impressive outdoor spots for a drink and stunning views — the Sky Bar at the top of the ship and the chic infinity pool at the stern of Deck 3, adjacent to a lounge and cafe.

Itineraries focus on the Mediterranean during the summer, with mostly one- to two-week cruises that call on ports along the coasts of Croatia, Albania, Italy, France, Turkey and the Greek Islands. It spends the winters in the Caribbean.

Explore these destinations in depth with included excursions.

Scenic Cruises: Scenic Eclipse

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 228 passengers (200 in polar regions). Best for: Design fans with wanderlust.

An impressively kitted-out expedition ship, Scenic Eclipse has an ice-strengthened hull with a C6 rating suited for polar cruising, including navigating the Northwest Passage. High-tech features include a GPS dynamic positioning system to maintain a location without dropping anchor.

The Australia-based line's debut into ocean cruising had Scenic Eclipse drawing attention with impressive additions like a pair of six-passenger helicopters and a five-passenger submarine (both offered at an additional cost), as well as kayaks, zodiacs and e-bikes. (Sister Scenic Eclipse II is set to debut soon.)

The ship's sleek angled silhouette makes for a handsome profile. The eye-catching interior is sophisticated, with a stark black, gray and beige color palette, lovely wood details, white Carrara marble surfaces and bold art.

Passengers can enjoy a relatively large spa and fitness area, plus multiple dining venues, including Asian, Japanese, French and Continental restaurants. Wine and spirits are included in the fare.

While small luxury ships typically have fancy owners' suites, the pair of top accommodations on Scenic Eclipse is on another level. Each measures over 2,000 square feet with a huge forward-facing teak-lined terrace, complete with a large whirlpool tub.

Scenic Eclipse cruises to nearly every corner of the world, including French Polynesia and the Pacific Islands, Australia, the Indonesian archipelago and Antarctica. The cruise fare includes excursions.

Related: These cruises cost $30,000 and have no set itinerary. Here's what to expect

Silversea Cruises: Silver Endeavour

How small? ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­200 passengers. Best for: Intrepid travelers who demand the utmost luxury.

Silversea Cruises is a pro at luxury small-ship cruising — the line has been at it for more than 30 years. With Silver Endeavour, it achieves the perfect mix of ultra-luxury surroundings with tough-as-nails expedition hardware for its focus on polar cruising.

On board, many rooms are veranda suites measuring 356 square feet (including a private balcony), all with marble baths. The largest Grand and Owner's suites are massive multi-room affairs with huge private verandas. The passenger-to-crew ratio is one-to-one; service is excellent.

For dining, there are four main restaurants, including an Italian and a French-inspired venue. The Grill is an eatery enclosed in floor-to-ceiling glass for the best views in the house.

There's an impressive spa, salon and gym with panoramic ocean views and several lounges for drinks (always included) and lectures.

Near the well-stocked library is the Expedition Study, where the 20-member expedition team is accessible for questions. Outdoor deck space includes the forward-facing bow area with an outdoor hot tub.

With its PC6 ice-class rating, Silver Endeavour spends November through April in Antarctica and the rest of the year in the Arctic, including Greenland, Arctic Canada, Iceland and Norway. Excursions are always complimentary.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Seabourn: Seabourn Venture

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 264 passengers. Best for: Travelers with high standards for luxury and special itineraries.

Seabourn 's new Seabourn Venture (and upcoming sister Seabourn Pursuit) are on par with Silver Endeavour and Scenic Eclipse when it comes to pairing top-of-the-line luxury and pampering with incredible itineraries.

Elegant interiors include a main restaurant, several lounges and bars where drinks are all included, a plush lecture hall, a cafe for coffee and snacks, and spacious balcony suites that start from 355 square feet (including the balcony).

The windowed fitness center and spa area includes an ocean-view sauna and the infinity pool at the back of Deck 5 boasts killer views.

Not just a pretty ship, Seabourn Venture is tough, built to PC6 Polar Class standards for a focus on expedition cruising in the polar regions. The ship carries two submarines, as well as a fleet of double sea kayaks and 24 Zodiacs that can accommodate all guests at once.

Seabourn's large expedition team leads daily complimentary excursions, such as Zodiac sightseeing tours, shore walks, hikes, snorkeling and kayak outings. Also, accomplished guest lecturers give onboard talks.

Like Silver Endeavour, Seabourn Venture will spend the year in the polar regions, with long repositioning cruises in between, such as a 51-day Antarctica, Atlantic and Northwest Africa voyage from Buenos Aires to Malaga, Spain.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Seabourn cruise ship

Atlas Ocean Voyages: World Navigator

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 196 passengers. Best for: Travelers craving luxury and lots of open deck space.

World Navigator is a deluxe expedition ship sporting a 1B Ice Class-certified hull and the latest technologies, such as a GPS-based dynamic position system to minimize movement and noise.

Multiple dining options include the main restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the ship's wake and a steakhouse on the Lido Deck. For cocktails, head to either of two piano bars, the Dome Observation Lounge or the Atlas Lounge, just outside the lecture theatre.

The Atlas Ocean Voyages ship has terrific outdoor spots for remarkable views (not hogged by a helipad or stern and aft suite balconies), including a close-to-the-water spot on Deck 5 forward and a "secret" arc of deck on Deck 6 aft.

You can also take in the scenery from the ship's shallow pool and two adjacent hot tubs.

Don't miss the spa, even if you don't book a massage. It features an appealing seating area facing the sea and an ocean-view sauna. Walkers and joggers keep fit on the top-of-ship track.

World Navigator's itineraries focus on the polar regions, but the ship visits Europe and the Canary Islands while repositioning.

Landings and Zodiac safaris are included on Antarctica cruises, but excursions are not included on other itineraries. All non-polar cruises offered from April through October are called Epicurean Expeditions (with one complimentary wine- or food-focused experience per cruise).

American Queen Voyages: Ocean Victory

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 186 passengers. Best for: In-depth Alaska cruises for nature lovers.

Newcomer Ocean Victory is large for a small cruise ship, which allows it to offer more on its Alaska expeditions.

Its sizable expedition team, which can number 18 on select voyages, comprises seasoned authorities in a wide range of fields, such as geology, whale communications and photography. Team members lead complimentary excursions on sea kayaks and 18 Zodiacs so passengers can experience glaciers, icebergs and wildlife up close.

In place of an observation bow with direct views of the water, as many similar ships offer, Victory has a pair of viewing platforms on each side of the ship, thanks to its distinctive X-bow design. These platforms are cantilevered directly over the water for great views of bergy bits and potential marine life.

The American Queen Voyages ship offers three dining venues, plus multiple bars and lounges (drinks are included in your fare).

Like any good expedition ship, Ocean Victory has one lounge dedicated to lectures with large flat screens to view presentations. You'll find an ocean-view fitness center, a small spa and an outdoor pool with two hot tubs.

Ocean Victory's 11- and 12-night Alaska cruises depart between May and September. The ship sails between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Sitka, Alaska. It visits destinations such as Frederick Sound, Endicott Arm, Tracy Arm, the Waterfall Coast (Gut Bay), Misty Fjords National Monument and Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet) in Canada's Inside Passage.

Your fare includes a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay.

In winter, Ocean Victory sails in Antarctica for Albatros Expeditions.

Related: Looking for nature and adventure on an Alaska cruise? Choose a smaller ship

Swan Hellenic: SH Vega

How small? 152 passengers. Best for: Cruisers looking for unique itineraries including Africa and South America.

Swan Hellenic's compact, well-laid-out SH Vega is built for expedition cruising with a PC5 ice-strengthened hull.

The interior has a contemporary, Scandinavian-inspired low-key design ethos. SH Vega is nearly identical to its younger sister, Minerva. The third, slightly larger sibling Diana is set to debut in May.

When returning from a frigid Antarctica excursion, you will appreciate the fireplaces (yes, that's right) built into the walls of all cabins. They're electric but quite realistic, with flames and crackling sounds.

When the weather's good, skip the main restaurant and eat at the buffet, which is set up at the back of Deck 7, adjacent to the attractive (and heated) infinity swimming pool. Vega also has a small gym and a spa with an ocean-view sauna.

The expansive Observation Lounge takes up most of Deck 7 and is the spot for expedition lectures. Thirteen Zodiacs and eight kayaks take guests on water adventures and ashore.

Don't miss the little observation point called the Swan's Nest all the way forward on Deck 6. You play out your Jack and Rose fantasies there.

SH Vega cruises the Arctic region (visiting Greenland, Iceland and northern Canada), South America, the coast of Africa (including South Africa, Namibia and Angola) and the Antarctic Peninsula.

Cruise fare includes a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay and one excursion in each port.

Viking Cruises: Viking Octantis

How small? 378 passengers. Best for: Expedition cruisers with an academic bent.

Among the larger ships on our list, Viking 's new 378-passenger Viking Octantis (along with sister Viking Polaris) was designed to explore the polar regions with some pretty cool features, including a large two-level garage called the Hangar.

Inside are not only Zodiacs and kayaks but a pair of six-passenger submarines and military-grade speed used to shuttle cruisers on excursions.

The ship is equipped for scientific inquiry with a remote-controlled underwater robot, baited underwater camera and a FerryBox system for collecting water samples, which you can view under a microscope in the ship's science lab. Weather balloons are released on every cruise to capture info on temperature, humidity and wind speed.

For decidedly less academic pursuits, Viking Octantis has a fitness center and a spa that includes a lovely indoor pool with sea views, plus a sauna, snow grotto (with snowflakes descending gently from the ceiling through chilled air) and outdoor spa tub.

Four dining options include Manfredi's Italian and several attractive lounges, such as the windowed Aula auditorium for lectures.

Viking Octantis spends part of the year in Antarctica and the rest of the year cruising the Great Lakes and Canada, with a handful of repositioning cruises in between.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Small Ship Cruises

Are you ready for an immersive journey where adventurous activities meet remote waters—and likeminded fellow passengers become friends. No crowds, no strict routes… time to explore. Meet your new favorite travel style, small ship cruising, and the experts at AdventureSmith Explorations who are equipped to help you find your best match.

ON THIS PAGE – Small Ship Cruises : Type of Small Ship Cruises Why AdventureSmith 2024 & 2025 Cruises – What’s New Small Cruise FAQ Where to Cruise Read Cruise Reviews

VIEW ALL SHIPS & TRIPS

Find cruise rates & dates, and view ship details.

Authentically Small Cruises

We emphatically believe that the core definition of a small ship cruise is one where guests can get off the ship away from port. While some may consider a ship with 500 or even 1,000 guests small, in reality, the logistics of operating off-vessel activities like hiking, kayaking and snorkeling require that the ship be under 250 guests.

Adventure Cruises

While every small ship cruise has a heavy dose of adventure, a growing segment can be called adventure cruises. The hallmark of an adventure cruise is a focus on off-vessel activities such as hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, camping, diving and more, with twice daily excursions. Actively explore off the ship by day in the company of expert naturalist guides. Each evening, return to your small ship for a hot shower, a glass of wine with a delicious meal and a comfortable cabin while the ship cruises to a new active location.

Expedition Cruises

Expedition cruises focus on the exploration of remote wilderness. An expedition is defined as a journey or voyage undertaken by a group of people with a particular purpose. The hallmark of an expedition cruise is a sense of exploration and scientific learning. Purpose-built expedition ships bring you to some of the most remote and pristine places on Earth. Journeys like North Pole expeditions , Falkland Islands & South Georgia cruises and Northwest Passage voyages are all examples of this growing segment of small ship cruising.

Small Luxury Cruises

If you’re looking for top-tier service, amenities and fine dining while aboard, let us point you to the best in luxury small ship cruises. Small luxury cruise ships feature suites that are often larger than other small boats, and include private balconies or floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Add to that top-rated naturalist guides with high crew-to-guest ratios and you are set up for a premium sailing experience. View our curated Galapagos luxury cruises , Alaska luxury cruises and Antarctica luxury cruises pages for an example of what to expect in our most popular destinations.

Our Expertise

The Best Small Ship Cruises Start with AdventureSmith

Small cruises are what we do, and we do it well. Find the best small ship cruise with our expert insight and firsthand experience aboard small boat cruises worldwide.

Personalized

Work with one dedicated U.S.-based specialist to purchase & prepare for your small ship cruise.

We match you with trusted small cruise ships, averaging only 40 guests worldwide.

Never pay more booking with AdventureSmith. Secure deals with our insight & partnerships.

Our small cruises include guided snorkeling, kayaking, hiking & skiff rides.

The Largest Selection of Small Ship Cruises for 2024 & 2025

Find more than 300 small cruise itineraries listed with AdventureSmith Explorations. Each is vetted by our operations team, and most have been tested by our staff. We highly recommend travelers book early for the best small ship cruises in 2025 and 2026. Get in touch today to secure your space.

Up to Date on Trends & New Ships

AdventureSmith is a resource for both travelers and the media looking to cover this growing segment in the travel industry.

Trends for 2025 small ship cruises include more focus on wilderness exploration in even more remote reaches of the world thanks to advances in expedition ships (cue the new Douglas Mawson , Le Commandant Charcot & the helicopter-equipped Ultramarine ). Along with many operators launching their smallest cruise ships ever in 2025, and Mediterranean small ship cruises booming in 2025 thanks to multiple expedition ships repositioning here for the first time.

Northern Lights cruises and solar eclipse cruises are also among the top trending 2025 and 2026 small ship cruises, selling out early.

Visit our media page for even more trends and new releases, or consult our dedicated pages for the latest on 2025 small Alaska cruises , 2025 Galapagos cruises and the 2025 and 2026 Antarctica cruise seasons . Or better yet, sign up for our newsletter to ensure the latest in small ship cruising hits your inbox.

Only the Best Small Ship Cruise Lines

We have partnered with the top small ship cruise lines on earth. We work with large, well-established small boat cruise operators and smaller, locally owned, boutique outfitters that are off the radar of most travelers. Research our list of the best small ship cruise lines by viewing our travel partners . We boast the premier small ship cruise collection.

Top Value & Deals

It’s more than just the “percent off” with AdventureSmith. It’s about achieving your bucket-list travel goals without sacrificing your experience to save a few dollars. Browse our selection of  small ship cruise deals , then talk to our team about the best value for your particular needs. Our deals are continually refreshed with the best cruise discounts, offers and sales on small ship voyages worldwide. Our team will help you plan right from the start, so you get both the best price and the best adventure cruise experience.

Our Founder Is an Industry Pioneer

Our Founder, Todd Smith , helped pioneer the first adventure cruises on Alaska small ship cruise itineraries to include off-vessel activities in wilderness locations. And he’s now a Conde Nast Traveler -awarded top travel specialist. View 12 more reasons to book with AdventureSmith .

Trust Us. We’ve Been Aboard

What are small boat cruise cabins like? How calm are the seas? Which cabin should you book? Read our many small ship cruise reviews to get insider specifics on your cruise, ship or destination of interest.

QUESTIONS? TALK TO A SPECIALIST.

Sign up to stay in the loop on small ship cruising.

VIEW ALL CRUISES & SHIPS

Find rates & dates, and view our selection of ships, with an average of 40 guests aboard worldwide.

Small Ship Cruise FAQ

Whether you are new to small boat cruising or a small-ship veteran seeking to just learn more, we’ve compiled our most frequently asked questions here to inform and inspire as you explore this incredible way to travel. Read this small ship cruise FAQ to find out if your burning question is a common one, or contact one of our adventure cruise specialists anytime to ask an expert direct about cruises on small ships.

For us, the sweet spot for a small ship cruise is around 8 to 250 passengers to maintain what we feel is the true hallmark of small ship cruising: active, immersive, off-the-ship, off-the-grid travel.

Depends on who you ask, and who is traveling. We sure think so since small ships connect you with the destination better than larger ships. To learn more and find out what size ship is best for you, read our Big Ship vs. Small Ship: What Is the Difference?

Since word “best” is entirely subjective to each individual traveler’s style, amenity needs, travel group and activity level, let our experts help you narrow down the many small cruise ships sailing today. Any ship you see on the AdventureSmith Explorations website has been vetted and tested, and our team is adept at matchmaking travelers to their own “best” ship. If you want some suggestions, see our curated pages for luxury ships: Galapagos luxury cruises , Alaska luxury cruises and Antarctica luxury cruises .

Unlike larger ship cruise lines that sail worldwide, many small ship cruise lines have carved out a niche in their destination. Each of the small ship cruise lines has its own style of travel that’s best for different travelers. For instance, UnCruise Adventures offers more active adventure than most, while Lindblad Expeditions has a reputation for superior expedition leaders, many affiliated with National Geographic. Quark Expeditions has a long history of polar expeditions and Quasar Expeditions has a penchant for historic yachts in the Galapagos Islands. We work with many of the biggest and best companies in small ship cruising, as well as many smaller family-owned-and-operated vessels that are off the radar of most travelers. View our selection of the best small ship cruise lines hand picked by our experts. We pride ourselves on suggesting the best small ship cruise lines for you.

Small ship cruise travelers are interesting, engaged, active and educated people seeking meaningful up-close encounters with the wonders of nature and culture, just like you. From couples to families to solo travelers, small cruise passengers are savvy travelers who have done the research and are seeking to escape the mass tourism market for something more sustainable and rooted in a destination. They want to experience a place, not just see it!

Most likely not. We have found over the years that travelers who find and book cruises on small ships tend to be likeminded. You’ve done a lot of research to get to this point, dismissing large ships, amusement parks and resort hotels. Most other travelers have done similar research and ended up at the same conclusion: that small boat cruises suit them. Guest compatibility typically comes naturally, and you’re off the ship much more than a larger cruise ship itinerary.

Absolutely! The level of family friendliness depends on the vessel, destination and small ship cruise line, but there are lots of options to cruise with children and teenagers worldwide. We generally suggest adventure cruises for kids age six or older. Read more about our family cruises , including testimonials from our family travelers and further resources for booking a family adventure cruise.

Nearly all small ship cruise lines we partner with have at least one naturalist guide aboard, but guide counts will naturally increase with the passenger count. If you have a particular learning topic of interest, look for themed departures that bring aboard guest hosts and special programming on photography, history, marine biology, food/wine or wellness. Or look to National Geographic branded ships that bring aboard professors, authors, scientists, researchers, photographers and expedition crew that are experts in their fields.

While most small ship cruises travel close to shore or in protected waters where seasickness is not an issue, some ocean-going expedition cruises can encounter rough seas. Ocean conditions vary widely depending on the destination, season, weather, type of ship, route and many other factors. AdventureSmith’s unbiased staff experts can help you to determine if a particular small cruise itinerary is right for you, and savvy travelers can educate themselves on ways to combat seasickness by reading our comprehensive guide on How to Prevent & Treat Seasickness . Enjoying the ocean view with your eye on the horizon is one of the best tips!

Yes! We agree that the best type of small ship cruise review is a personal referral. Ask us to put you in touch with someone who has traveled to your destination with similar interests as you, or aboard the small boat cruise you are inquiring about. You can also read reviews on our trip pages; simply look for the Testimonials and Expert Review sections.

The best time to take cruises on small ships all depends on where in the world you want to go! Our team has compiled a Small Ship Cruise Calendar to assist travelers in seeing the bigger timing picture for some of our most popular destinations. If your travel dates are flexible, consider a region’s seasonality. Prices can vary considerably from the peak season, so look at early or late seasons for the most affordable pricing. River cruises can often have high- and low-water seasons you can consider. Or you may choose based on particular interest like the best time to view whales, when baby penguins are hatching or to align with the warmest water temperatures for snorkeling and swimming. View our Small Ship Cruise Guide resources for more information and inspiration by destination.

All small ship adventure cruises include off-vessel excursions with a focus on exploring the environment up close and viewing wildlife. Many of our cruise itineraries include guided light hiking and easy sea kayaking or snorkeling, and sometimes alternative activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, camping, scuba diving, skiing and even river rafting. Each and every activity is optional, and the naturalist/guides aboard every ship will help passengers to determine if an activity or excursion is right for them. A fun part of the AdventureSmith booking process is that we take your activity level into consideration before you go; our team will assess your activity interests and match you with the best adventure cruise for your travel style.

Yes, similar to traditional larger-ship cruises, you can simply book an individual cabin aboard a small ship. In fact, 75% of our travelers choose to book individual cabins this way: on a set departure. We also connect travelers in groups as small as 8 guests with charter cruises . Choose this charter option to book the entire ship and help set its route and onboard programming for the duration of your trip. Our most popular destinations for chartering your own ship include Galapagos Islands yacht charters , Mediterranean yacht charters and Alaska yacht charters .

In general, small ship cruises cost more than their big-ship cruise counterparts, but the experience is so inclusive and immersive that the dividends to you are much greater and the total costs can end up being comparable. Ultimately, how much a small cruise costs all depends on where you want to go, the size of the vessel you are on and its amenities. All cruise and land tour pricing listed on the AdventureSmith Explorations website is the cost per person , in USD, and our rates depending on the destination start at around $200-$500 per day. This price often varies based on how many persons are sharing the cabin, transfer or tour, as well as any small ship cruise deals to factor in.

Just like a hotel room, you can expect to pay more to book a cabin as a single traveler. But there are exceptions. Some small ships offer dedicated single cabins, but most ships instead have double-occupancy cabins that can be booked for dedicated single-use with a single supplement charge. This supplement is essentially a a discount on paying for the full double-occupancy cabin. In many destinations, there is the possibility of waiving the single supplement by agreeing to a “cabin share,” wherein you are paired with a fellow traveler of the same gender in a cabin. This is especially popular on Antarctica cruises , where you will often find many cabin and pricing options for single travelers.

Common inclusions with a small cruise cabin fare are onboard meals and guided activities during the itinerary. Common exclusions from the cabin fare are airfare (international or domestic), gratuities, alcoholic beverages and insurance of any kind. But there are exceptions to each of these. For example, many of our small boat cruises have included alcoholic beverages, and some of our Mediterranean cruises have nights free at ports of call so you can dine on your own off-ship. Included and excluded services vary from cruise to cruise, and are always listed in the “DETAILS” section of each itinerary listed on our website. These can be discussed further with your AdventureSmith Specialist upon booking.

Start exploring

Where Will You Choose to Small Ship Cruise?

From the Americas, Asia and the Pacific, to Europe and the polar regions, the expedition cruise destinations offered by AdventureSmith are unmatched by any other travel company. Are you ready to actively explore away from tourist crowds, without sacrificing comfort, safety or the environment? Learn about small boat cruising destinations below or head straight to find a cruise .

North America

Alaska Glacier Bay Baja California Canada East Coast Hawaii Pacific Northwest

Central America

Belize Caribbean Costa Rica Panama

South America

Amazon Chile Ecuador Galapagos Islands Patagonia Peru

Polar Regions

Antarctica Arctic Greenland Iceland North Pole Svalbard

Croatia Greek Islands Northern Europe Mediterranean

Asia / Pacific

Australia Indonesia New Zealand Pacific Islands Southeast Asia

Hear About Small Cruises from Our Travelers

We loved the small ship experience, with onboard staff accommodating our group's differing ages and needs. We booked our trip through AdventureSmith after reading online evaluations. So glad we did.

Everything more than met expectations - the boat was wonderful, the wildlife was abundant, the naturalists and crew were friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw penguins swimming, calling, and even mating!

That was easily one of the best vacations I've ever had. Seeing wildlife was really cool. We enjoyed seeing Sawyer Glacier, Baird Glacier, hiking and many things we would never have seen on a big cruise ship.

We loved everything about our trip. Opatija was our favorite. Every island on the cruise was amazing. We loved them all. We've always wanted to experience Croatia. This was a perfect way to see some much of it.

We most enjoyed flying over the Drake Passage - left more time to enjoy Antarctica. We chose a small vessel with only 68 passengers. It was an amazing experience, and I really liked being on a smaller vessel.

The trip was awesome. When I started looking at cruises, I couldn't get the idea of the small boat and personal service out of my mind. It was well worth the extra money. So glad we didn't go on a big ship.

Please note: The primary ship(s) operating the mentioned itinerary can change from year to year, so the ship this guest cruised on may no longer be sailing this exact route.

We booked our trip through AdventureSmith after reading online evaluations. So glad we did. This was our first cruise and we wondered about booking directly through an operator versus involving an additional layer with AdventureSmith. We would do it again, as we found AdventureSmith to be definitely value added in every way. Our Adventure Specialist was endlessly helpful and patient, booking the cruise for 8 people ages 6 to 73, coming from 3 different locations, and required vegetarian and gluten free menus for several. 

We loved the small ship experience, with onboard staff accommodating our group's differing ages and needs. Glaciers, Zodiacs among sea lions and eagles, whale viewing, pilot whales and great naturalists all were special.

Our fellow passengers were personable and well matched. I think the nature of the trip, with Nat Geo, attracts passengers with similar interests very well, so the group was simpatico. There were also several other children in the mix which was good for the kids in our group.

Accommodations Review

The Sea Bird is a small ship, so naturally accommodations were small, but we enjoyed the limited number of passengers and ability to know crew and staff.

Meals Review

Good variety and accommodation for special food needs of the vegetarians, small child and gluten free passengers in our group. 

Crew & Guides Review

Rab, the group leader, was engaging, knowledgeable and always enthusiastic. He also was excellent at addressing individual requests. We enjoyed Kyle, the bartender, who was always welcoming and especially attentive to the 6 and 8-year-olds on our trip. The naturalists Andy and Jared were outstanding both in their expertise and their willingness to socialize with guests and answer all questions.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Our Adventure Specialist was exceptionally helpful during our rather more complicated preparations involving travelers from 3 locations and various ages and special needs. She was always available for any questions. She also successfully managed to have a lost item returned to us after the cruise. Any travel issues prior to departure were addressed by AdventureSmith expeditiously and knowledgeably. An A plus experience. 

Traveler Advice

No kidding, you really do need the rubber boots! It is a temperate rain forest environment, so just bring the wet gear and know that rain or shine it will be a fabulous destination.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Exploring Alaska's Coastal Wilderness
• National Geographic Sea Bird

I brought my 11-year-old son on this trip because he had a rough year with his parents splitting up, and he has always had an obsession with penguins. Everything more than met expectations - the boat was wonderful, the wildlife was abundant, the naturalists and crew were friendly and knowledgeable, and we saw penguins swimming, calling, and even mating! My son has never learned to swim due to a severe fear of putting his face in the water, but he was so enamored of the islands that he was able to overcome his fear and learn to snorkel. Genovesa Island was a miracle of wildlife. Sea kayaking along the cliffs was wonderful, as we could see all the animals and the cliffs themselves were beautiful. Snorkeling with penguins, sea turtles, and sharks was amazing. 

La Pinta was the perfect size and very comfortable. We chose La Pinta because of the size of the ship (not too big or too small), the itinerary (north islands), planned activities for kids, and the availability of a glass-bottom boat. Not a big fan of Quito, but that was a necessary stop. The recommended hotel in the old town area was wonderful.

Lots of options, all of them excellent. Staff worked very hard to accommodate my picky son's whims and were extremely respectful of my choice to be vegetarian.

The naturalists aboard La Pinta could not have been more professional or knowledgeable. We appreciated Paul sitting with us at lunch and getting to know us personally, and Dennis's enthusiasm about Charles Darwin was contagious. We enjoyed having several guides with different perspectives, but they were all phenomenal.

Nick M. was friendly, attentive, communicative, and very helpful. I handled much of it myself (transportation), but the portion handled by AdventureSmith all ran very smoothly, which was much appreciated.

Don't put it off - everyone tells me it's on their bucket list. My son wanted to see penguins, and I was not willing to travel to Antarctica so the Galapagos was the next best option. 

• La Pinta Galapagos Cruises

That was easily one of the best vacations I've ever had. Seeing wildlife was really cool. We enjoyed seeing Sawyer Glacier, Baird Glacier, hiking and many things we would never have seen on a big cruise ship. Snorkeling was a little disappointing, especially because we had to pay more for it. The visibility was not great and we really didn't see that much.

The rooms were really small but that was to be expected. The beds were comfortable and the rooms were clean.

The meals were excellent. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner were all included and we never left the table hungry.

Every crew member was professional, informative and fun. They were so knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions. They payed attention to what people wanted out of the trip. Bethany, Chris the bartender, Phil, Sarah and Paul took good care of us especially. Tucker who drove our skiff boat, the captain and the first mate were very informative as well.

Very informative. AdventureSmith helped us know what to expect and what we needed (and didn't need) to bring. Great trip and overall experience, I would recommend AdventureSmith to anyone looking for a vacation.

• Alaska Fjords & Glaciers
• Wilderness Discoverer

The ship was beautiful. Very comfortable. We loved being on a small ship. A small group and everyone just connected. We loved everyone on our ship.

Food was awesome. The only thing we think we'd liked to have improved, is more variety at breakfast. Maybe add some smoked salmon.

Josaphina was amazing. Great attitude, easy to understand and very knowledgeable.

Transportation Review

Picked as scheduled.

They gave us everything we needed to be prepared for our trip. Very helpful. Thank you for an awesome vacation.

We most enjoyed flying over the Drake Passage - left more time to enjoy Antarctica. Loved the colours of the ice, the penguins (not the smell!!), seals, whales and birds. We chose a small vessel with only 68 passengers. We chose the kayaking option, which was brilliant. It was an amazing experience, and I really liked being on a smaller vessel.

Comfortable 3 person cabin. Very clean.

Buffet style breakfast, lunch. Dinner served, 3 choices.

All staff on the boat were friendly, knowledgable, and helpful. All the other passengers were interesting and polite. Great fun!

Good advice was well presented. Any questions were answered promptly.

• Antarctica Air Cruise
• Magellan Explorer

The trip was awesome. [The experience we enjoyed the most was] the day we started seeing whales spouting in the distance and the captain stopped the boat for a few hours while we watched at least 2 dozen whales. One of the whales seemed to be putting a show on for us with dives and multiple tale waves over and over. This was a sunny day in Alaska, and they brought the happy hour out to the sundeck while we watched the whales.

Alaska has been somewhere we wanted to go for some time. When I started looking at cruises, I couldn't get the idea of the small boat and personal service out of my mind. It was well worth the extra money. So glad we didn't go on a big ship.

Our room was above the engine. We didn't let it bother us, but there was some noise. We chose the least expensive of cabins, so it is understandable. The accommodations are small in the cheaper cabins, but they cleaned them every day; we weren't in the rooms except to sleep. The vessel was awesome.

Nothing could be improved, the meals were awesome.

The enthusiasm, knowledge, and professionalism of the guides were all top notch.

• Wilderness Explorer

The Largest Selection of Small Boat Cruises

Ready to get aboard? AdventureSmith Explorations offers small ship cruises, expedition cruises and adventure cruises worldwide, aboard ships carrying 8 to 250 guests. Start exploring our most popular small boat cruise itineraries, then let our Adventure Specialists be your ultimate guide to selecting and booking your route. Our team is known for our personalized service, unbiased knowledge and personal experience on smaller ship cruises. Come explore with us!

This 8-day cruise between Juneau and Ketchikan, Alaska, features a visit to Misty Fjords National Monument and many opportunities to explore the back passages and narrow waterways of the most remote areas of Southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage. Board 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer to view massive glaciers and fjords and experience true Alaskan wilderness.

A life-enriching adventure that redefines luxury expedition cruising. Part of the esteemed Relais & Chateaux collection, the prestigious 20-passenger sister ships Origin, Theory & Evolve provide an intimate voyage with exceptional itineraries and refined gastronomy in the Galapagos Islands.

This 10- or 11-day Classic Antarctica expedition cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands boasts more time on land for guests thanks to accommodation aboard the 88-guest Ushuaia, one of the smallest ships operating in Antarctica.

Contact Us - Small Ship Cruises

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Small Ship Cruising

A collection of treasures... our small ship cruises feature cultural journeys and expeditionary cruises that explore the world's most intriguing ports of call, with exclusive travel experiences ashore that take you the heart and soul of the world's most amazing destinations.

• Expeditions
• Cultural Journeys

• ITINERARIES

Welcome to Small Ship Cruising

Small is big aboard our small ship cruises. Experience uncommon access that gets right to the heart and soul of a destination... sail to some of the world's most beautiful ports of call as you seek out hidden harbors and island getaways where big ships don't go... and delight in moments both at sea and ashore as you experience rich cultures and indescribable exotic lands.

Small ship cultural journeys are a gateway to a collection of treasures..., culturally inspired cruising fuels the imagination....

Cultural journeys aboard our small ship cruises evoke golden sand beaches, vineyards bucolic with lemon trees, olives and vines, lavender fields fragrant from afar, limestone caves and rocky mounts, sculpted in time... Past is present in architectural artistry, fortified towns and terra cotta tableaus that play out in palaces and promenades steeped in history... in places immortalized with nature's colorful brush, where masterfully crafted wines were made to sip and savor, traditions toasted and tales fondly shared... where you become part of the stories, past and present, that make your cruise memories last lifetimes.

Expeditionary Cruises: Exhilarating adventures in unseen worlds...

Expeditionary cruises to exotic locations, from the sea to the shore....

The first maritime expeditions date back millennia when explorers in dugout canoes and sailing boats plied the seas to untraveled destinations. While the expeditionary ships you'll sail aboard with Tauck are modern in every way, the remote ports where you will cast anchor are timeless still. Imagine setting foot on an equatorial beach teeming with wildlife found nowhere else in the world. Or navigating ice floes to stand on the ethereal seventh continent. Come aboard our expeditionary cruises and get ready to check off bucket list experiences other travelers only dream of.

Treasures of the Mediterranean Isles

Designed to inspire

Cruise the azure waters of the Mediterranean, where we launched our first small ship cruise in 1993

And 30 years later, a new voyage of cultural exploration as you chart a course through the Mediterranean Isles on a thoughtfully reimagined itinerary that sets the standard for a new era aboard a Ponant ship designed for intimate cruising. Explore Elba, steeped in Napoleonic tales; cast anchor off of Corsica, a jet-setter's paradise; step ashore in two different ports of call in Sicily, enticing with antiquities and stunning vistas; experience Sardinia, culturally rich with prehistoric sites; and make history in Malta where the Knights of Malta left a living legacy gilded in gold and silver.

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Small is Big... onboard and ashore

Smaller ships mean bigger experiences. Our small ships are big on individualized service, special touches and comfort, making you feel like a welcomed guest the moment you come aboard. Intimate spaces invite conversation or quiet contemplation as you like. Whether you're inside your cabin or out on your deck, ocean views beckon with adventures yet to come.

Because of the size of our ships, we're not restricted to commercial routes or large ports. We're free to follow the fish, not the fleets. We dock in places where you can get lost in the moment and not in a crowd. We delight in sharing spontaneous moments, up-close discoveries, personal connections and unforgettable treasures, making each moment memorable and uniquely yours. At Tauck, small is big... and the best way to make your cruise so much more than you ever expected.

Guest Favorites in Small Ship Cruising

Explore the world aboard our cultural journeys and expeditionary cruises; discover the windswept landscapes of the Shetland and Orkney archipelagos, Alaska's spectacular glacial treasures, the dramatic scenery of the volcanic island of Iceland, and timeless secrets along the Adriatic Coast. Share spontaneous moments, up-close discoveries, personal connections and unforgettable treasures – making each moment memorable and uniquely yours.

Venice & the dalmatian coast, legendary scottish isles, edinburgh & glasgow, iceland: land of fire and ice, alaska's inside passage, traveling with tauck, uncommon access.

Enjoy exclusive, personal travel experiences that help you discover the true essence of your destination

Sophisticated Intimate Ambiance

A warm welcome and intimate ambiance awaits aboard Tauck's family of small ship partners

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Travel with Tauck Directors who take every moment of your vacation personally

All-Inclusive Cruising

Everything you need to experience the best of land and sea with Tauck is included...

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Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

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Each of Windstar Cruises yachts accommodates between 148 to 342 guests. This intimacy provides you with the luxuries of time, space, and freedom to immerse yourself in both the journey and the destination - in ways you may never have imagined possible.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

5 Best Small Ship Cruise Lines

• Best Of Travel
• Best Of Travel Awards: 2022
• Cruises and Sailing
• News and Tips
• Types of Travel

Cruises are amazing, but sometimes mega cruise ships can leave you feeling like cattle being herded through long lines at the buffet and at port debarkation. Smaller ship cruising is where it’s at — if you can afford it, that is. More intimate ships not only translate to fewer fellow passengers, but it also means you can visit lesser-known ports. Plus, you’re less likely to get lost on the way back to your room.

As part of our Best of Travel Awards, TravelAwaits readers nominated and voted on their favorite small ship cruise lines. Here are the results!

1. Viking Cruises (Winner)

Viking Cruises is quite popular with our readers. Not only did the line top this category, but it also took home the gold for best Mediterranean cruise line . There’s plenty to love about this small ship cruise line. Viking does not allow kids under 18, does not have casinos or umbrella drinks, does not allow smoking on board, and doesn’t have formal nights to get gussied up for.

What Viking does offer is an  onshore excursion  in every port,  regional cuisine , and Wi-Fi. Luxe accommodations feature king-size beds, large showers, heated bathroom floors, private verandas, 24-hour room service, and more.

Touted as the “thinking person’s cruise line,” Viking also offers  culturally enriching  programs such as guest lecturers, resident historians, regional performance arts such as traditional Greek dancing, an onboard cooking school, and more.

“The team at Viking Cruises will make your stay so wonderful you won’t want to go home. Guests are often so pleased with their trips that they use their onboard discount to book a future Viking Cruise before they depart,” says  TravelAwaits  writer Judy Freeman. Read more about why she loves this cruise line in her article,  How To Make The Most Of Your Viking Cruise Vacation . And if you decide to book a Viking cruise, here are  five important things to do to prepare for it .

2. Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises is pretty pricey, but veteran cruiser Melody Pittman says it is worth it . Windstar small cruise ships host anywhere from 148 to 342 guests, allowing them to reach ports you may not see on other itineraries, including Tahiti, Kobe, Bordeaux, and  Honfleur .

Plus, Windstar is the official cruise line of the  James Beard Foundation , so you know you’re in for a culinary treat. Many of the high-end foods are locally sourced and specialty restaurants are included in your cruise fare. Read about Pittman’s favorite dishes from her voyage on the Star Legend . There’s also 24-hour room service and unlimited ice cream!

From scuba diving to visiting private islands, a wide range of shore excursions are available. Windstar also offers custom tours which can range from a solo trip to a carefully curated excursion for your group to see the sights with your own English-speaking guide. There are also culinary shore excursions!

3. Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises’ 12 main vessels carry about 2,000-3,000 passengers each, but they are still much smaller than, say, a Royal Caribbean cruise liner. Generally, the bigger the Celebrity ship, the newer it is and the more amenities it will have. Its older Millennium Class ships are more intimate.

A few tiny ships, which carry 16 to 100 passengers apiece, are based in the Galápagos, including the Celebrity Flora . This luxury mega-yacht features all-suite accommodations, two chef-inspired restaurants, and an optional glamping experience where you can sleep under the stars.

4. Silversea Cruises

Known for award-winning entertainment, butler service, and 24-hour gourmet dining, Silversea Cruises goes above and beyond all-inclusive and chauffeurs guests from their house to the airport and back. Airfare and pre-and post-cruise hotel nights are included, too!

In addition to iconic destinations, Silversea goes to off-the-beaten-track ports that only small ships can reach. Enjoy a complimentary shore excursion every day or customize your own. Silversea also offers expeditions to remote regions like Antarctica.

Enjoy butler service in every suite and a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly one to one. Champagne, wine, beer, and premium spirits are on the house, and tips are included, too!

5. Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Cruise Line’s young, modern fleet boasts of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the industry. Intimate ships mean Seabourn can visit everything from marquee ports to hidden harbors where larger ships cannot go. Plus, with nearly one staff member per guest, the crew is able to remember guests’ names. All of the luxuriously appointed suites are oceanfront and come with a Personal Suite Host and Suite Attendant who can do anything from drawing you a bubble bath to assisting in arranging an in-suite cocktail party. Tipping is not required or expected and premium wine, champagne, and spirits, are included.

Related Reading:

• 7 Best Caribbean Cruise Lines Our Readers Love
• 7 Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines Our Readers Love
• My 6 All-Time Favorite Cruises From A Self-Proclaimed Cruise Fanatic

It’s imperative to feel comfortable and safe while traveling. Medjet provides premier air medical transport, travel security, and crisis response memberships, providing peace of mind for an affordable price.

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.

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• World's Best

Our Readers' Favorite Small-ship Ocean Cruise Lines in 2022

The best cruise lines for small ships, according to Travel + Leisure readers, are the ones that develop a sense of camaraderie onboard.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite small-ship ocean cruise lines.

Cruise lovers couldn't wait to get back out on the sea, and Travel + Leisure readers who prefer compact vessels have been delighted to find that the voyages have only gotten better. This year, T+L adjusted the World's Best Awards cruise categories to reflect the industry and traveler experience. The ships in the small-ship ocean cruise lines category are now those with 150 to 299 cabins, while smaller ships (with fewer than 150 cabins) are in an all-new intimate-ship category.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in six categories, including river cruising.

In the No. 2 spot is Windstar Cruises. The line's 148- to 342-passenger sailing ships and 312-passenger, all-suite motor yachts received praise from voters. "It was great to be on such a small ship with a high ratio of staff to guests," said a reader who sailed on the 312-passenger Star Legend .

Ultra-luxury line Seabourn is recognized in this category for its 225-suite Seabourn Odyssey, Seabourn Quest, and Seabourn Sojourn . Said one reader who sailed on the Odyssey : "This was my first Seabourn cruise and I really loved it — the size of the suites, the attentive service, the wonderful food, and the surprisingly terrific variety of entertainment."

But it was Paul Gauguin Cruises, now owned by French cruise company Ponant, that emerged as the reader favorite among the best cruise lines for small ships. Below, find out what sets it apart.

1. Paul Gauguin Cruises

On the Paul Gauguin, a sense of place permeates everything from the Polynesian-influenced décor and color palette to the local cuisine travelers sample onboard. Resident performers, known as Les Gauguines, share Polynesian culture through dance, music, and storytelling. In the spa, guests can indulge in a massage based on Tahitian techniques. Passengers explore island history and enjoy watersports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, including from the beaches of two private motu. "Everything about this cruise was excellent," said one T+L reader. "Ship staff was exceptional and always made you feel at home."

Score: 96.59

More information: pgcruises.com

2. Windstar Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 94.14

More information: windstarcruises.com

3. Seabourn

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 93.70

More information: seabourn.com

Related Articles

The best small ship cruises

Try a boutique cruise holiday on a ship designed for an intimate experience

As much as the mega liners of the world are tempting for the all-singing, all-dancing, resort-at-sea type of holidays, the best small ship cruises, which typically carry fewer than 500 passengers, are all about exclusivity, individuality, and personal service.

In fact, some of our firm favourites host significantly less guests and are considered more yacht-like than ships, including Uniworld 's beautiful S.S Venezia and S.S Maria Theresa , where you'll be among only around 150 guests.

We think the best small ship cruises are those that are a little out of the ordinary. Perhaps it’s a cruise that follows an unusual itinerary around tiny, lesser-explored islands, like Scotland's Western Isles . Or maybe the ship itself is extraordinary because it is more akin to a sailing boat, such as the stylish MS Galileo . We love small ship cruises when something special happens onboard too, such as a celebrity guest appearance .

When searching for the best small ship cruises, you'll want to make sure they match the experiences you're after. For a friendly atmosphere where guests get to know each other over dinner, a European river cruise along the Douro or Danube can offer plenty of shared experiences and opportunities to meet new people. For something that will give you plenty to talk about when you get home, expedition cruises to far-flung places like Antarctica are thrilling and intrepid without sacrificing comfort.

For more ideas, we’ve rounded up the best small ship cruises to help you pick the perfect nautical holiday.

A regal voyage around Scottish islands

Exploring a region by cruise often means you can cover more ground in less time. On a small ship, there’s the opportunity to tuck into ports and waterways that big cruise liners can’t. The elegant Lord of the Glens, hosting just 54 guests, investigates the inland waters of the Caledonian Canal and hidden Scottish sea lochs. Unlike some ocean cruises where you enjoy endless views of the horizon, on a Scottish cruise, there are landmarks and landscapes to admire from the deck almost all the time, including Urquhart Castle, the waterway of Laggan Avenue that’s lined with Scots pines, and the looming Ben Nevis.

Lord of the Glens is a one-of-a-kind ship with a design inspired by the Royal Family's former floating palace, The Royal Yacht Britannia. There’s a feeling of warmth and comfort throughout the ship, where dinner is created from locally sourced ingredients, and drinks are served in crystal glasses by attentive staff as you look out at the Scottish scenery through enormous picture windows.

You can join a very special departure on Lord of the Glens in May 2023 hosted by TV weather presenter, Carol Kirkwood.

You'll hear Carol reminisce about her life growing up in Morar and more about her grandfather’s role in building the incredible Glenfinnan Viaduct — which you'll also have a chance to cross on a journey on the West Highland Railway included in the trip.

FIND OUT MORE

A taste of Venice on a foodie cruise

Take an oh-so-stylish cruise on S.S LA Venezia, an opulent river ship swathed in fine fabrics and finished with gilded accents and plenty of iconic Murano glass (she’s sailing to and from Venice, after all).

While the ship alone is enough to tempt, an October 2024 voyage from Venice to Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello includes a talk, Q&A and book-signing session with celebrity chef James Martin . In addition, the much-loved Saturday Morning host will cook a delectable gala dinner one evening onboard, too.

You’ll be in the company of just 125 other guests, so attentive service is assured. But just because it’s a small ship, that doesn’t mean it’s light on choices: S.S La Venezia has three dining venues, including an Italian kitchen on the upper deck.

This cruise offers exclusive access to some of the city's most treasured buildings, like St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace — perfect if you're keen to learn more about Venice's art and architecture.

An unforgettable Antartica expedition

A cruise to Antarctica really is nothing short of extraordinary. And to do it right, you need to join an accomplished crew who know how this wonderland works. In 2020, expedition cruise experts Hurtigruten introduced MS Fridtjof Nansen to its fleet and it fast became one of our favourite small vessels to explore Antarctic waters.

Hosting just 500 guests, it's not the smallest ship exploring the region. But in this instance, being a little larger means you get some extra facilities including a choice of restaurants (a definite plus on an 11-night cruise), a large science centre, and a fabulous outdoor swimming pool (which, yes, is heated so you can take a dip in as you gaze across the monochromatic landscape).

A wine-themed sailing on the Douro River

River cruises are ideal for seeing the diversity of a region, and there’s plenty to see hopping from place to place along the Douro River in Portugal. A-ROSA ALVA is a small river boat that promises plenty of variety on an itinerary that starts in the colourful city of Porto before sailing into the wine-growing valleys.

Guests have the chance to disembark and take part in the traditional grape harvest, but that’s not the only reason it’s the perfect cruise for wine lovers. There are also plenty of opportunities to taste the local port wine at the Quinta da Roseda estate near Pinhão and sip from the ship’s selection as you look out at the passing scenery from ALVA’s Panorama Lounge.

A breath-taking tour of Croatia's Dalmatian coast

Croatia's Dalmatian Coast is home to some of the country's most spectacular locations, like the charming city of Spilt, historic Dubrovnik and the sleek island resort of Hvar. Set sail with us on a boutique, Supreme category ship for a voyage that takes you through these wonderful waters.

Highlights of the itinerary include stop offs in Mljet, home to verdant Mljet National Park, the peaceful and picturesque island of Brac, the stylish resort island of Hvar, and the popular city of Dubrovnik, with its stunning Old Town.

For this idyllic Croatia cruise, you'll be sailing on board a Supreme category ship, which has a maximum of 41 passengers. You'll get to enjoy spectacular coastal views while lounging on the sun deck, wine and dine in the elegant restaurant and bar, and relax in the onboard jacuzzi, too.

A sailing around the stunning Cyclades

Set sail around Greece's Cyclades islands on Star Clipper, a four-masted ship that carries just 166 guests. A reconstruction of a 19th century four-masted Barquentine, Star Clipper has 81 spacious staterooms, all with traditional, elegant decor, and open-air bar hosting live music, two saltwater splash pools, an inviting sun deck with loungers, a peaceful library, and an enticing restaurant.

You'll board Star Clipper in Athens before heading to Kusadasi in Turkey. After that, the ship will call at the islands of Patmos, home to the ancient Monastery of the Apocalypse; Amorgos, with it's rugged landscape and great hiking spots; Spetses, with white-washed villas and an abundance of pretty coves; and the ever-popular island of Mykonos, which is packed with happening bars, boutique shops, sandy beaches, and its traditional windmills.

A scenic route along the Danube River

Enjoy an eight-day sailing along the Danube River, the second-longest river in Europe, with Good Housekeeping in 2024.

Departing in July and October, you'll have the choice of seeing Europe's most picturesque cities in either summer and autumn, but can enjoy the luxury, intimacy and grandeur of S.S Maria Theresa whatever time of year you sail. Accommodating no more than 150 guests, S.S Maria Theresa is a small cruise ship that boasts a opulent staterooms, lounges and bars, a Viennese café, a spa, peaceful sun deck, swimming pool and cinema room.

As part of your sailing, you'll visit Budapest; Vienna, where you'll attend a private classical music concert as part of your fare; the quaint town of Dürnstein in Austria; and the beautiful German city of Passau. You'll also have the chance to soak up views of Austria's glorious Wachau Valley as you cruise through it, too.

A luxurious cruise around the best of Bordeaux

Combine fantastic French food and wine with pure luxury on this cruise around Bordeaux in July 2024.

On this exclusive, eight-day Good Housekeeping sailing, travel on France's newest and most luxurious river cruise ship, S.S Bon Voyage. Accommodating up to 124 guests, S.S Bon Voyage is designed to fully immerse guests in French culture, art, and wine. Onboard, you'll find a choice of five-star restaurants, an infinity pool and relaxing sun deck, a fitness centre and the Serenity River Spa.

Departing from Bordeaux, you'll discover the wine culture and fascinating history of this romantic French region by visiting the UNESCO-listed citadel in Blaye, with its magnificent historic fortress, as well as the vineyards and châteaux of Cussac Fort Médoc, Cadillac, and Saint-Émilion.

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 best small cruise ships, according to readers

Best Small Cruise Ship (2023) March 24, 2023

While large ships come with certain advantages (rock climbing at sea, anyone?), some cruisers prefer the intimacy, personalized service and destination-focused itineraries of a smaller vessel. These 10 cruise ships and yachts voted as the best by readers – each with a passenger capacity of under 1,000 – can get to smaller ports inaccessible to larger ships and offer a more social atmosphere where it’s easier to get to know your fellow guests.

No. 10: Seabourn Ovation - Seabourn Cruise Line

The 600-passenger Seabourn Ovation, sister ship to Seabourn Encore, attracts passengers with its inclusive cruise fares that even include unlimited caviar. Dining options abound, including alfresco dining at Earth & Ocean at The Patio. The ship also comes outfitted with high-speed internet.

No. 9: Emerald Azzurra - Emerald Cruises

The 100-passenger Emerald Azzurra, an ocean-sailing yacht from Emerald Cruises, is small enough to tuck into small ports, so passengers can be in town straight away when docked. Cruisers appreciate the beautiful infinity pool, sun decks and water toys, like kayaks and snorkeling equipment that lend a private yacht vibe. Expect Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, generously poured wine at lunch and dinner and a nicer price tag for a cruise on the Azzurra than on comparable ships.

No. 8: Viking Jupiter - Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Jupiter accommodates only 930 guests. Like her popular Viking sister ships, Jupiter features a spacious spa, several dining venues, an intimate jazz lounge, two cinemas, a pool with retractable roof and a sports deck.

No. 7: Viking Orion - Viking Ocean Cruises

The 930-guest Viking Orion offers all-veranda staterooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and heated bathroom floors. It’s also the first ship in the fleet to feature a high-tech planetarium in a 26-seat dome theater.

No. 6: Viking Sky - Viking Ocean Cruises

The 930-passenger Viking Sky feels more like a resort than a cruise ship, thanks to its all-veranda staterooms, tasteful decorations and elegant public spaces for reading, relaxing or socializing. Little extras, like numerous USB ports, ocean-facing lounge chairs on the pool deck and floor-to-ceiling windows in most venues, make for a comfortable sailing experience.

No. 5: Viking Star - Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Star was Viking’s first oceangoing vessel and remains one of the world’s best small ships. While you won’t find casinos or amenities for young children, you will find a Nordic spa with a “snow grotto” at sea, several dining options, and onboard extras like free Wi-Fi and complimentary wine and beer at mealtime.

No. 4: Seabourn Encore - Seabourn Cruise Line

The ultra-luxury Seabourn Encore features 300 suites for 600 passengers with all the amenities of Seabourn’s Odyssey-class ships. Additions to Encore include a VIP area on the top deck, a wellness program and two restaurants, The Grill by Thomas Keller and Sushi.

No. 3: American Constitution - American Cruise Lines

Carrying just 17 passengers, the American Constitution was designed to navigate the U.S. East Coast’s inland coastal waterways. The vessel offers large staterooms, spacious lounges, observation decks and private balconies in many cabins. Complimentary Wi-Fi, a fitness room, a grand dining room, a sun deck, and a putting green are some of the many amenities available.

No. 2: Royal Clipper - Star Clippers

Designed after the tall ship Preussen, the Royal Clipper is the world’s largest full-rigged sailing ship, complete with 42 sails. The vessel carries just 227 guests with luxurious accommodations and modern amenities like three swimming pools, relaxed dining and a marina platform for water sports. Passengers can even don a harness and climb the mast to a crow's nest.

No. 1: SeaDream II

There's "cruising" and there's "yachting" – small ships that dock in harbors and ports inaccessible to larger ships. SeaDream offers 7- to 15-day voyages with a maximum of 56 couples and a 95-person crew, so service and attention to detail are highlights. Guests aboard SeaDream II (twin of SeaDream I) appreciate international menus that incorporate local flavors and ingredients of the region; an open bar and daily selection of wine pairings at lunch and dinner; a Thai-certified SeaDream Spa; onboard golf simulator; fitness center; and the ability to enjoy water sports right off the back of the yacht.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Danielle fear.

Danielle Fear is one of the UK’s most recognized...   Read More

Danielle Fear is one of the UK’s most recognized and trusted cruise bloggers and is better known to her audience as CruiseMiss. As well as maintaining an award-winning cruise blog, she also works as a freelance writer, content manager and social media professional covering all aspects of sea travel. Having embarked on more than 75 sailings, including 2 world cruises, it’s fair to say that Danielle knows a thing or two about cruising.  

Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert...   Read More

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert with more than 140 sailings under his belt and a fresh, millennial perspective on the industry. He has been cruising since before he was two years old, thanks to his parents' shared passion for traveling and their desire to experience all journeys together as a family. Now, he regularly sails and writes "he said, she said" cruise columns with his wife Heidi. He is the founding editor of Popular Cruising , producer of the successful Popular Cruising YouTube channel and Cruise Editor for TravelAge West.

Ming Tappin

Residing in New Brunswick, Canada, Ming has been...   Read More

Residing in New Brunswick, Canada, Ming has been in the cruise industry since 1994. Ming spent over 20 years in the retail travel sector, working with travel agencies in marketing initiatives, cruise training, and promoting cruise vacations to their clients. In 2015, Ming created  Your Cruise Coach  and transitioned into travel writing, preaching the merits of cruising via her partnerships with Canadian and American travel trade publications as well as consumer media outlets. An avid cruiser since 1991, Ming has sailed on over 70 cruises and has experienced over 25 ocean, river, and expedition cruise lines combined.

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Expert and Award Eligibility...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Expert and Award Eligibility Coordinator for the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, has a special interest in health and wellness, family travel, women's solo travel and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of Her Bags Were Packed where she focuses on helping women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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Escape the Masses on These New Small-Ship Expedition, Luxury, and Sailing Cruises

With fewer crowds, excellent service, and the ability to get to remote destinations, small-ship cruising—on vessels that can only accommodate up to 500 passengers—might truly be the best way to explore by sea..

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Book a terrace suite on the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s newest vessel, Ilma , launching in 2024.

Photo by Jack Hardy/Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Authentic. It was Merriam Webster’s top searched word for 2023 and one that has dominated the travel vernacular in recent years. And while many would not necessarily associate the word with ocean cruising , the growth in popularity of small-ship cruises—particularly sailings with 500 guests or fewer—indicates that in the cruising world, passengers are seeking a more intimate, less crowded, and yes, arguably more authentic sailing experience.

Take expedition cruising , for example. As the number of adventure-focused ships and yachts has exploded in recent years, these cruises are no longer just about extreme voyages in polar regions. They are also about offering a deeper look into the culture, food, history, and environmental fragility of remote wonders of the world.

Although there isn’t a huge number of new small ships being introduced, there are a few notable vessels that have either recently launched or are launching this year with a focus on the idea that smaller is not just better, but more sustainable, too. These new small-ship cruises bring with them some exciting and more immersive new itineraries to destinations both warm and wintry that have us ready to pack our bags and sail away.

On Sea Cloud Spirit , passengers benefit from both age-old seafaring techniques and modern comforts.

Courtesy of Sea Cloud Cruises

Sea Cloud Cruises’ ” Sea Cloud Spirit”

• Suggested itinerary: Reset your mind and body on an eight-night sailing through Spain’s Canary Islands and on to Morocco on a special cruise featuring experts in restorative health. Pricing starts at $4,895 per person.

What’s more authentic—and sustainable—than setting sail on a tall ship where the sails are hoisted up each day by hand? Although not technically new (it was launched in 2021), the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit and its two sister ships, Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II , are upping their game in a push to introduce Sea Cloud Cruises’ unique product to North American travelers. The German company has traditionally catered to German and British passengers. As part of its effort to expand its reach and appeal, Sea Cloud is adding wellness programs with daily onboard yoga and guest fitness gurus, in addition to special food- and wine-focused sailings with well-known chefs making appearances. Sea Cloud Spirit , the largest of the three-ship fleet with 69 cabins, was meticulously designed to pay homage to the original Sea Cloud , which was the world’s largest private sailing yacht when Wall Street broker Edward Francis Hutton had it built in 1931 for his wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post.

The Sea Cloud Spirit combines the experience of decades of traditional seamanship with the modern-day luxuries of a private yacht. Cabins range from 172-square-foot single cabins to 300-square-foot balcony suites with soaking tubs. There’s a large fitness center and spa, which has a steam room, sauna, and thermal area for two; indoor and outdoor lounges; and a main dining area, plus a more casual bistro. The action, however, is out on deck, where passengers can stargaze at night or simply gaze in awe at the impressive sails blowing in the wind.

Luxury expedition cruising comes with priceless views when sailing with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ ” World Voyager”

• Suggested itinerary: Go searching for Arctic wildlife on a 12-night cruise from Reykjavík, which sails along the eastern coast of Greenland and to Longyearbyen in the Svalbard archipelago, one of the world’s northernmost inhabited areas and home to polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes, and other Nordic wildlife. Pricing starts at $6,499 per person.

World Voyager , which sailed its maiden voyage in Antarctica this past November, is the third vessel to join the fleet of one of the newest players in small-ship expedition cruising, Atlas Ocean Voyages. The company’s 100-cabin expedition yachts are almost identical and provide a hybrid of sorts between traditional expedition and luxury cruising. Cabins are spacious, almost all with balconies, desks, and seating areas. The bathrooms have glass-mosaic tiled showers with rain showerheads, wall jets, and even benches.

Everything on the ship—including the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows—is designed to provide maximum views. The ships also have spacious pool decks with two hot tubs, a fitness center overlooking the sea, a spa, and water toys like kayaks and paddleboards. There’s even extreme camping gear for those willing to brave an overnight under the stars in Antarctica. During North American winters, all three of Atlas’s expedition yachts sail in Antarctica. With the addition of World Voyager , the company is launching more Arctic Circle cruises during the North American summers while also adding a host of new epicurean and cultural expeditions in South America, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and northern Europe this year.

Joining its sister ship Evrima (pictured), the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma is launching in 2024.

Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s “ Ilma”

• Suggested itinerary: Spend a little extra time in port on a 10-day sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon, which has three overnight stays, in Palma de Mallorca and Malaga in Spain, and in Lisbon, Portugal, one of Europe’s oldest cities. Pricing starts at $10,600 per person.

Another newcomer to luxury small-ship cruising is the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, which debuts its second ship, the Ilma , this year. With 224 suites, the ship is larger than the original Ritz-Carlton yacht, the 149-suite Evrima , which launched in October 2022. On the Ilma , all the suites will have private terraces, including a two-story suite with soaking tub; the coveted, 1,000-square-foot owner’s suite has a private outdoor whirlpool. Even the smallest suites are not all that small, at 300 square feet, and come with a personal concierge and 24-hour room service. The yacht boasts what Ritz-Carlton says is the highest ratio of space per guest at sea.

And you can expect to find the same meticulous service standards that you would find at Ritz-Carlton resorts throughout the world as the line aims to impress hotel guests seeking a luxury hotel experience at sea. Onboard are five dining venues, including S.E.A., a European tasting experience designed by chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany; Talaat Nam, featuring Southeast Asian cuisine and a sushi bar; and Mistral, a casual come-as-you-are alfresco grill with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Light bites are served at the marina at the aft of the ship, where you can also hop on a borrowed paddleboard. Oh, and did we mention there are two outdoor pools, too?

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Croatia Yacht Cruise with the Small Cruise Ship Collection — An Expert Review of a Cruise in the Adriatic Between Split and Dubrovnik

Sep 15, 2024 | 0

Croatia Yacht Cruise

By Alison Abbott

I must be one of the few visitors to Croatia without Game of Thrones on my mind. No, I was there for the pull of the pearls in the Adriatic’s azure waters.

Being an island girl from way back, the names of Vis, Hvar, and Korčula were calling; I’ve never met an atoll that didn’t seduce me in one way or another. After all, we are talking about the birthplace of Marco Polo — the ultimate adventure traveler!

Franciscan monastery and Church of St. Jerome on Prirovo peninsula — site location from the film Mama Mia 2 on Vis. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Croatia presents a mesmerizing blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Embarking on a small-ship cruise to explore the Croatian islands offers a unique and intimate experience that larger vessels simply cannot match.

With over a thousand islands scattered along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia’s stunning archipelago is best appreciated from the deck of a smaller vessel, where you can enjoy unparalleled access to secluded bays, charming coastal towns, and pristine beaches.

Unlike larger ships, small cruises can navigate closer to shore, allowing for more flexible itineraries and spontaneous stops at hidden gems that are often overlooked by mainstream tourism.

This personalized approach not only provides a more relaxed and leisurely pace but also fosters deeper connections with local culture, cuisine, and history. Whether it’s savoring fresh seafood at a quaint village tavern or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of a remote cove, a small-ship cruise offers an immersive and unforgettable way to experience the enchanting beauty of the Croatian islands.

Swimming in the Adriatic. * Photo: Alison Abbott

RELATED: Writer Susan R Pollack reviews her Croatia yacht cruise with Katarina Line.

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How Many Shades of Blue

I was traveling with my college roommate, and The Wonders of Croatia itinerary offered by the Small Cruise Ship Collection combined our islands of interest with the luxurious comfort in a relaxed setting we love.

I’m a firm believer in the benefits of unpacking once and moving from port to port happily aboard your floating hotel, especially when it’s on a small quirky yacht that gives you a boutique experience.

Leaving from Split and disembarking in Dubrovnik, this 7-night small ship cruise allows plenty of time for exploring.

Recharge, refresh and dig deep into the land of cuttlefish, castles, Cipidrag and cerulean seas.

Are you ready to come aboard?

The handsome Nautilus. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Croatia’s Coastline

There are over 1,244 natural formations in the Croatian archipelago, of which 78 are islands. Along this section of the Adriatic Sea, visitors will also find an additional 1,166 islets, cliffs and reefs. A scant 49 of the islands are inhabited and luckily, relatively close to the Croatian coastline making them easy to visit.

A comprehensive ferry system and numerous cruising agencies make it easy to visit. The most complicated piece of the puzzle is choosing where you want to go.

Joining the Small Ship Nautilus

When joining the ship in Split, guests will find a very active and busy port. Don’t be surprised if locating the boat is a challenge. It’s best to find the travel company’s dockside booth and ask where you might find the yacht.

Unfortunately, when we arrived, the information booth for our yacht was closed. Our situation might have been a fluke, but as a backup, I would recommend downloading either the marinetraffic.com or the vesselfinder.com app and experiment with it before your departure. Some fellow passengers we spoke to later also had trouble finding our ship as well, so definitely more complete instructions would have been helpful.

Also make sure to preload the phone number of the local representative in your phone from the joining instructions.

While we struggled to get our bearings, a kindly crew member from another boat company quickly opened the app, plugged in the name of the ship and Voila!

Nautilus was hidden behind a group of five other similar boats. Without his generous assistance, we would have been rolling our suitcases up and down the esplanade for far too long in the heat.

Luckily, Nautilus was not leaving Split until the following morning. We didn’t have the additional pressure of a specific boarding time. Not a great way to start, but problem solved!

Jane & Alison … finally on board! * Photo: Alison Abbott

Who is the Small Cruise Ship Collection?

Small cruising yachts are an unbeatable way to explore the Dalmatian coastline.

The Small Cruise Ship Collection is a travel agency who works with over 100 ships that sail in most parts of the world, connecting travelers like you with the many private yachts cruising all of the world. Their emphasis is on experiential itineraries on expedition and small ships, with the majority ranging from 8 to 150 passengers. When booking a Croatia yacht cruise, you’re dealing with the folks who run Small Cruise Ship Collection, not the individual yacht owners.

Our ship, M/V Nautilus , was built in 2019 and offers 19 en-suite, air-conditioned cabins, accommodating a total of 38 passengers. She is a luxury yacht, 157 ft. long and 28 ft. wide with a cruising speed of nine knots.

Throughout the boat is a gleaming white décor with classic turquoise accents reflecting the crystal-clear Adriatic. Activity on the boat takes place on four different levels.

The upper 500 sq. foot sun deck has an expansive covered area with lounge chairs and further space in the sun.

The Sun Deck of the Nautilus. * Photo: Alison Abbott

It’s an ideal spot to spend time watching the world go by as the yacht makes its way between islands. This is where we spent most of our time — watching the sun set, having cocktails and relaxing during the sailing.

A large jacuzzi is rear of the loungers. In the shaded part of the lounge there are tables and chairs. There’s also plenty of space for a mat should you like to stretch or do some yoga.

Down a short flight of aft stairs is an exterior seating area with small cocktail tables. The interior salon has panoramic windows exposing an all-around view of our journey when seated for dining. Tables of eight encourage mixing and getting to know the other guests.

The Nautilus’s elegant dining room. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Forward is a small lounge area with the bar, coffee and filtered water. Two cabins are located forward on this level.

The Lower Level has a swim deck with ladder for direct access to the water. The are also two bathrooms and a shower nearby. Snorkeling masks, noodles and paddleboards are included in the fares.

The stern of Nautilus provides easy access for swimming. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Staterooms and Suites on Nautilus

All but three of the cabins are found on either the main deck or the lower deck. I was on the lower deck in a spacious room with port holes. Accessed internally, the well-appointed cabin had a queen bed, couch, desk area, wardrobe, TV, hair dryer and large ensuite bathroom with shower.

Alison’s lower deck cabin. * Photo: Alison Abbott

There was also a small safe in the wardrobe. It was one of the “largest” rooms I have had on a small-ship cruise. It was accented with turquoise accessories, bringing even more of the Adriatic aesthetic into the interior.

For the Small Cruise Ship Collection’s “Deluxe superior ships” like Nautilus , slippers and a bathrobe are provided. My carry-on hard-shell suitcase fit comfortably under the bed.

Food and Beverage on Nautilus

Our cruise included two meals a day, plus a welcome drink and dinner our first night on board.

A buffet breakfast offered the basics: cereal, toast, several pastries and some type of egg and meat, along with fruit. Juices, tea and coffee were included.

The chef offered several traditional dishes at lunch such as cuttlefish. And as a pescatarian, I was offered sea bass (rather than pork) for the welcome dinner. Fish was available at all of the other lunches along with salad and an appetizer.

Seabass and squash on served for the welcome dinner. * Photo: Alison Abbott

During lunch in Korčula we had an onboard wine tasting from Rizman and Jakovac vineyards. The tasting was followed by a delicious tuna pate and a cuttlefish with chickpeas selection.

The Cuttlefish dish. * Photo: Alison Abbott

I loved the fact that the cruise did not include dinner meals, as it gave us the opportunity to sample local restaurants and stroll the marina area in each port. We found it the perfect way to taste the regional culture and end each day.

The Other Passengers on Our Croatia Yacht Cruise

One of the first questions asked when I talk about cruising on a small ship is “but what about the other passengers? Suppose you don’t get along.”

This trip was small ship cruise #14 for me and I have never found that to be the case.

Over the years, I’ve discovered I have a lot in common with guests who choose small-ship cruising. They are usually active and educated people seeking meaningful up-close encounters with nature and culture.

Of course, you are not always going to have the same world views with everyone, but a love of travel is a great equalizer and helps you to find a common denominator. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be here in the first place.

This trip of 36 passengers had several groups of friends on board, and in all cases, this was not their first time traveling together.

A family of eight arrived from South Africa, several couples were from Australia and Texas, a well-traveled couple from Ohio and the girlfriends from New England (us) rounded out the passengers. Ages ranged from early 40’s to late 70’s.

Highlights of Our Croatian Islands Itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik

The marina in Split is quite near Diocletian’s Palace, a perfect location for exploring this living architectural piece of Croatian history. After joining the group, we had a wonderful guided tour of the palace and marina area.

The Diocletianus Palace. * Photo: Alison Abbott

The advantage of cruising on Nautilus is the ship’s ability to visit islands which larger cruises cannot.

These lesser-known destinations included small coves for water activities as well as the islands of:

• Slano, Mljet (mainland)
• Ending in Dubrovnik (mainland)

Every day offered a scheduled walking tour and/or activity with a knowledgeable local guide (included in the fares). Headphones were provided for the length of the trip. Each day, usually late morning, there was an informational meeting by the host, with an overview of the day ahead.

Map of the Wonders of Croatia itinerary from Small Cruise Ship Collection.

As for swimming and water sports, it was still chilly in the water on our June cruise; though Nautilus anchored for swims twice. I think once it warms up, there would be more swimming on the trip.

Four of my Favorite Island Experiences on the Wonders of Croatia Cruise

Bol, our arrival location on the island, is perhaps best known for the nearby Zlatni Rat, or the Golden Horn . This unique, pebbly beach extends into the sea and changes shape with the tides and currents. This beach is not only one of Croatia’s most iconic images but also a paradise for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. Windsurfing and kite surfing are particularly popular here, thanks to the favorable winds.

Charming Brač. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Photos depict a long, hooked white sandy beach surrounded by turquoise waters. In reality, we passed it at high tide, so much of the landscape was underwater. Alas, Mother Nature doesn’t always reflect Instagram’s land of perfection.

After rounding the infamous Golden Horn, Nautilus anchored in Bol, the picturesque town located on the southern coast of Brač Island. With a population of around 1,600, Bol maintains a charming small-town vibe while offering a variety of activities and attractions.

Golden Horn. * Photo: Alison Abbott

The town’s history dates back to Roman times and its rich past is evident in its architecture and cultural landmarks. One notable historical site is the Dominican Monastery, founded in the 15th century. This monastery not only houses a museum with religious artifacts but also offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.

We spent several hours perusing the waterfront promenade, diving into unique boutiques and walking out to the Golden Horn.  Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, it offers a delightful atmosphere where you can savor local delicacies such as fresh seafood, olive oil, and the renowned Brač wines. Bol’s blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and lively ambiance made it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a less explored Croatian experience.

Romantic Vis

This enchanting island is a hidden gem with a rich history and a tranquil ambiance. The island’s population of around 3,500 people offers a warm welcome to visitors eager to explore its unique attractions and stunning landscapes.

Walking the bougainvillea filled alleyways of Vis. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Vis has a fascinating history, having been a strategic military base for various empires, including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and even the British. During World War II, it served as a significant hideout for Yugoslav partisans, and many remnants of its military past, such as tunnels and bunkers, can still be explored today.

Vis opened for tourism in 1991 for the first time in decades, and thus remains under the radar to visitors. Fans of the film Mama Mia 2 might recognize the island as the film “double” for the beautiful Greek island of Kalokari.

Franciscan monastery and Church of St. Jerome on Prirovo peninsula — site location from the film Mama Mia 2. * Photo: Alison Abbott

One of the island’s popular attractions is the Blue Cave on the nearby islet of Biševo. This natural wonder is renowned for its mesmerizing blue light, created when sunlight passes through an underwater opening, illuminating the cave’s interior. We were scheduled to visit in the morning, but sadly, the rough sea and tides prevented our trip. Disappointing yes, but looking on the bright side it gave us more time to spend exploring other parts of this magical place.

Jane and I spent several hours hiking the extensive waterfront path that followed the harbor in Vis town. The nooks and crannies up and down the cobbled streets and staircases were lined with overflowing bougainvillea.

Within a few blocks, I was instantly trying to figure out how to return for a longer stay! Tiny shops offering one-of-a-kind creations of jewelry, dress and crafts were hidden down enchanting alleyways. Time got away from us before we realized we had missed lunch, but the charming Frutarija Vis more than made up for it with a delicious meal and waterfront view.

View of Frutarija Vis restaurant. * Photo: Alison Abbott

In the late afternoon our group walked up a hill past overgrown barracks being reclaimed by the jungle. Our destination, Lipanovic winery , has the unique designation of being the only cellar in the world located in a military tunnel.

Who knew that the location provided the ideal conditions for storing wine!? The island is thought by many to be the center of Croatian viticulture and drinking wine in this area of the Adriatic began on the former Greek island of Vis.

Our guide took us through the tasting selections of Vugava, Viški Opol and Plavac Mali. I particularly liked the Viški Opol , a rosy Dalmatian wine with a short maceration time. Perfect for a hot summer day. Accompanied by small tapas of fish paté, salted anchovies, local cheeses, olives, caper berries, bread and Lipanović olive oil, it was truly a taste of land and sea.

Wine tasting at the Lipanovic winery. * Photo: Alison Abbott

The wines we tasted at Lipanovic. * Photo: Alison Abbott

And about that Cipidrag …still wondering what it is? Lipanovic Winery is the perfect place to find out. For years folks have been trying to trace the origin of Zinfandel. After much DNA testing, apparently the Tribidrag vine from Croatia made its way to California via Primitivo in Italy via Long Island and a name change to Cipidrag back in Craotia.

It’s a complicated, circuitous route and wine aficionados can taste the rounded, full bodied original right here from the alluvial terroir of Dalmatia’s Vis in southern Croatia .

Alison in the cave. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Historic Korčula

Korčula , a captivating island in the Adriatic Sea, is renowned for its lush landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. With a population of around 15,500 people, the island offers a welcoming atmosphere and a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore.

The history of Korčula is deeply intertwined with various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Venetians. Its most famous historical claim is as the reputed birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. The island’s strategic location made it an important maritime and trade center throughout history, leaving a legacy of stunning architecture and cultural heritage.

Lea, our knowledgeable guide in front of Marco Polo’s birthplace in Korčula. * Photo: Alison Abbott

We docked in the marina outside of Korčula Town, often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik” because of its medieval squares, churches, and palaces. After a brief history, our guide pointed out the main sites during a walk through the enchanting town. It’s authentic appeal made me feel like I was stepping back in time.

The town is a treasure trove of historical sites, including the 15th-century St. Mark’s Cathedral, which showcases exquisite Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Visitors can also explore the Marco Polo House, believed to be the birthplace of the legendary traveler, which offers insights into his life and adventures.

A Korčula walkway. * Photo: Alison Abbott

After a day of exploration, visitors can enjoy the island’s culinary delights in its charming restaurants. There is a promenade with lofty seaviews, the perfect spot for a meal. Fresh seafood, local wines, and traditional Dalmatian dishes offer a true taste of Korčula’s gastronomic traditions.

With its blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, Korčula lived up to the promise of an unforgettable experience.

Hip Hvar & Dinner at Leporini

Although we were caught in the rain and got drenched in Hvar, I would be remiss if I didn’t share my favorite dining experience off the boat. After warming up and regrouping when Nautilus returned to the dock, Jane and I were determined to find a great meal in town. The historic and inviting Leporini was calling our name.

Housed in a former palace with Gothic roots and a commitment to local ingredients, the meal did not disappoint. From the amuse-bouche which left us laughing with squid ink-stained lips, to the beetroot carpaccio with hazelnuts, goat curd and lavender cream to the tagliatelle swimming with truffles and sage, it was a true party with our tastebuds.

Truffle and tagliatelle at Leporini in Hvar. * Photo: Alison Abbott

We left with the rain-soaked memories evaporated and felt “Life Is Good” as we saw the island’s castle illuminated in the distance.

The 16th-century Fortica Fortress in Hvar. * Photo: Alison Abbott

Each of the islands we visited offered an opportunity to explore and take in the local culture. I liked the fact that we were off the yacht each night for dinner.

Is there a better way for a deep dive into the regional culture than tasting food at a small café or restaurant?

After an hour tour with a local and knowledgeable guide, we had plenty of time to explore on our own and depending on your interest could involve a museum, visiting historical sights, shopping or people watching in a charming waterside café.

I found it a nice balance of morning sail amongst the azure waters, a swim stop and then a dose of culture and culinary exploration in the evening. Coming back to Nautilus there was always the opportunity for a nightcap and/or hot tub under the moonlight.

Every night we were anchored at the dock. It was a nice balance of isolated locations and cultural opportunities. Motoring or sailing between islands usually took place after breakfast.

Additional Travel Before and After a Dalmatian Coast Cruise

Split and Dubrovnik are great arrival/departure cities for additional travel before or after this cruise. Everyone we spoke with on the yacht had further plans after their time at sea. Montenegro, inner Croatia, Slovenia, Spain and Italy were some of the destinations guests had in their plans.

My friend and I flew into Ljubljana, Slovenia pre-cruise and spent six days touring the country. We stayed in the AS Boutique Hotel, which we found very nice; it was a great location and had an excellent restaurant.

From there, we took a five-hour drive to Split with a stop in the middle to visit the gorgeous Plitvice Lakes.

Plitivice National Park is a UNESCO site in central Croatia. * Photo: Alison Abbott

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the most visited park in Croatia and should not be missed.

Insider Tip: Get there early (it opens at 7am ) and tickets can be purchased in advance.

After the cruise we booked four days in Dubrovnik and used the time to explore the city. Leading the agenda were some great farm-to-table restaurants — one of our faves was Posat, a short walk from the old city; we enjoyed excellent seafood on an outdoor terrace overlooking the water. Of course all the Game of Thrones sites (I had to take pics for my husband) were on our agenda and exploring the museum scene.

We averaged over17,000 steps a day! Make sure to pack great walking shoes, the stones in the 6th century Old City are slippery, and combined with the many stairs require good ankle support.

Last stop in Dubrovnik overlooking the Dalmatian Islands. * Photo: Alison Abbott

We stayed at the Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik,  a 20-minute walk from the Old City and perched high above the Adriatic with breathtaking views. There is beach access, an indoor pool, spa and lovely space for relaxing and exploring their extensive wine list. They also have an excellent Michelin recommended restaurant Vapor.

Dubrovnik is also a great base for exploring nearby Montenegro. Should you cruise in the other direction (Dubrovnik to Split), Split provides easy access to the greenest country of the world — Slovenia.

What’s Included on This Croatia Yacht Cruise

The inclusive fare covers:

• Breakfast and lunch along with the first evening’s welcome dinner
• Drinks including filtered water, juice, soda, and coffee during mealtimes
• Cabin service
• Use of snorkel gear along with tube floats and paddleboards
• Daily tour with a local guide waiting for us in port
• Additional events such as included wine and oyster tasting
• Services of a cruise director who is experienced with the destinations and happy to give overviews of island highlights. Each day there was a briefing on the port of call and discussion of the day’s activities
• Transfers to the boat from the airport were included

And what’s not included …

• Entry to any sites or museums is not included
• Hard liquor, beer and wine (it can be purchased at the bar, by the glass or you can buy a bottle at the bar and drink it throughout the cruise). The local house wine offered at the bar was very good and quite a bit cheaper than some of the bottles offered. (You cannot bring alcohol or food on board.)
• Tips for the crew were paid in cash
• Dinners off the boat each night (except the first evening)

Full Charters

The yacht can be fully chartered for families or a group of friends. Solo travelers can book a cabin for a supplemental fee.

When to Take a Croatia Yacht Cruise 

Croatia enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters with rain.

Croatia cruises are offered April through October. Consider the best dates for your travel.

Early season cruises, April-May-June, have less crowds, but the water is cooler and some of the shops on smaller islands are just getting ready for the high season. Many of the small cafes and shops are not open. Water is still cold for swimming.

High season July-August will be much more crowded.

We traveled in the beginning of June and already the temperatures were in the mid 80’s with cooler evenings warranting a sweater or wrap. The water was warm enough for swimming; I’d call it refreshingly chilled.

Temperatures in May-June range from 60° to 83°F, Jul-Aug 72° to 88°F, and Sept-Oct 65° to 78°F. The wettest month is November.

Fall season the waters are still sun kissed from the summer sun and many of the tourists have departed. Be aware, this part of Croatia is busy even in the shoulder season.

Things to Know Before You Go on a Croatia Yacht Cruise

• Passengers will fly in and out of either Split or Dubrovnik. Of course, both destinations can be reached by car as well.
• Consider the type of accommodations you would like onboard before settling on a date and make sure they are available on Nautilus (or the ship you are choosing).
• The itinerary for our cruise was in very calm waters. Sea sickness did not seem to be an issue for anyone on board, but if you have doubts, it’s always better to come prepared.
• Stairs are required to access the different levels of Nautilus . Often boats are tied together in the harbor and guests walk thru several boats to get to their own yacht.  While the staff on all the boats are helpful, the path does involve ups and downs and stretching between boats. Anyone with mobility issues should keep this in mind.
• There was decent Wifi on board.
• Electricity on board is 220V.

Packing Pointers:

• Shoes are allowed while walking round the yacht, but do leave the high heels at home. Cobblestone or rough streets are the norm in the island towns and a pair of shoes with good support and traction is essential for climbing the hills and stairs.
• Swimming gear — water shoes are a must for swimming on the rocky coastline.
• Dress is casual on board with no need to dress-up for dinner (except for the first, all dinners are off the ship). The atmosphere is informal and very relaxed.
• Pack a hat with a necktie (so it doesn’t blow off!) for sun and wind protection.
• Likewise for layers of clothing. I would also pack a light rain jacket that can ALWAYS be put in your daypack. In one of the ports our boat arrived before space was available on the dock. This meant we were dropped off, and the boat anchored away from the dock until a space became available several hours later. In Hvar we were not prepared for rain and had a miserable, wet hour waiting for the boat’s return.

Interested in This Croatia Yacht Cruise from Split to Dubrovnik?

Fares for the 7-night Wonders of Croatia itinerary start at about $2,250 per person for the 2024/2025 seasons.

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© This article is protected by copyright, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the author. All Rights Reserved. QuirkyCruise.com.

About The Author

Alison Abbott

Alison Abbott is a freelance writer and digital influencer living in Boston. With a focus on sustainable travel, she provides authentic destination information, reviews and travel tips. Alison specializes in small ship cruises, luxury, food and wine and responsible adventure travel. She is the founder and editor behind the website Green With Renvy and a local expert for AFAR Media.

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Small Ship Cruises

Small ship cruises offer you the opportunity to enjoy cruising in ways you cannot experience on a large ship. Small ships may have as few as 20 passengers and rarely more than 150. These ships are able to navigate in waters where large ships cannot go and can take you to places that you cannot otherwise visit. The atmosphere is generally more informal and you have the opportunity to get to know the crew and your fellow passengers. What you will not find are huge buffets, swimming pools, casinos or cabaret reviews. What you will find is staff with superior expertise in the history and nature of the places you want to visit. Most of these ships focus on the local nature and wildlife and pride themselves on their sensitivity to the environment.

Scantours offers small ship cruises to many destinations. There are trips to the Arctic, the Antarctic, Scandinavia, through rivers and fjords, around Svalbard (Spitsbergen), in the Mediterranean and the Adriatic Seas. There are also three spectactular trips available on the Noorderlicht, a three masted sailing schooner.

If you are looking for an adventure that you will never forget and that others can only envy, please puruse the many options available.

Gota Canal 4 Day Cruise, Gothenburg to Stockholm

Russian waterways cruise - moscow to st. petersburg, taste of the coast, geiranger & trondheim, gota canal 6 day cruise from gothenburg to stockholm, gota canal 6 day cruise stockholm - gothenburg, visa free cruise stockholm to st. petersburg, gota canal 2 day cruise from motala, gota canal 2 day cruise from soderkoping.

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Moscow to Saint Petersburg

13 days – 12 nights

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Gold, Platinum  Airport transfer / Check-in at centrally located Marriott Aurora***** or Ararat Park Hyatt*****

Imperial : Private airport transfer / Check-in at the luxurious Four Seasons Moscow***** only a minute from the Kremlin and Red Square

Volga dream experience:

Gold: City Tour / Novodevichy Cemetery Imperial, Platinum:  City tour / Lunch in a Moscow City Skyscraper / Novodevichy Cemetery / Sparrow Hills

Meals: Breakfast

Platinum / Imperial

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Gold:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / GUM Department Store

Platinum:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / St. Basil’s Cathedral / GUM Department Store / Park Zaryadye

Gold:  Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Platinum:  Leo Tolstoy House-Museum in Hamovniki / Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gold, Platinum:  Town of Uglich / Church of St. Dmitri-on-the-Blood

Volga dream experience: Costumed Russian Tea Ceremony & Russian Cooking Class

Gold, Platinum:  Yaroslavl City Tour / Governor’s house 

Volga dream experience: Sun Deck Barbeque

Gold:  Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery  

Platinum:  Ferapontov Monastery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Russian Dinner with Vodka Tasting

Gold, Platinum: Kizhi Island / Lake Onega

Volga dream experience: Piano Concert – Compositions by Tchaikovsky and Rakhmaninov

Gold, Platinum:  Svirstroy village / Local resident’s home / Local primary school

Volga dream experience: Farewell Dinner, Captain’s cocktail

Gold:  City Tour / Peter and Paul Fortress

Platinum:  City Tour / St. Isaac’s Cathedral / Canal boat / Yusupov Palace

Gold:  The State Hermitage Museum / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Platinum:  The State Hermitage Museum (Early Entrance!) / Gold Room / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Gold:  Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Platinum:  Faberge Museum / Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Meals: Breakfast / Imperial

Gold, Platinum, Imperial: Check-out / Airport transfer

Volga dream experience: -

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All prices are per person based on double occupancy.

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Actual size of cabins can slightly differ within one category.

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Journey: Volga Dream

Price per person: not specified

The Ultimate Guide to Small Boats: What Are Your Options?

Small boats offer a unique way to enjoy the water, whether you’re an angler, a day cruiser, or a weekend adventurer. They provide affordable entry points into boating while delivering versatile and personalized experiences. In this guide, we will explore different types of small boats, their key features, price ranges, and specs to help you decide which option best suits your needs.

Why Choose a Small Boat?

Small boats are ideal for those looking to get into boating without the commitment or expense of a large vessel. Some key advantages include:

• Affordability : Small boats generally cost less to buy and maintain.
• Ease of Use : Many are simple to operate, requiring minimal skill or certification.
• Maneuverability : Their smaller size makes them easier to navigate through tight spaces and shallow waters.
• Portability : Many small boats can be trailered or even carried by hand.
• Versatility : Suitable for a range of activities, from fishing to watersports.

Types of Small Boats

1. jon boats.

Jon boats are lightweight, flat-bottomed boats typically made from aluminum or polyethylene. They are favored by anglers and hunters because of their stability in calm waters like lakes and rivers.

• Specs : Range in length from 10 to 18 feet. Most models have a shallow draft, allowing you to navigate very shallow waters.
• Engine : Often powered by small outboard motors, though some are manually rowed.
• Capacity : Seats 2 to 4 people comfortably.
• Price : $700 to $5,000 depending on size and material.
• Easy to maneuver and transport
• Great for fishing in shallow waters
• Limited in rough waters
• Basic design without many features

2. Dinghies

Dinghies are small, open boats that can be powered by oars, small outboard motors, or sails. They’re commonly used as tenders to larger boats or for short-distance transportation in calm waters.

• Specs : Typically between 6 to 12 feet in length.
• Engine : Often powered by a small outboard engine (2-15 hp) or manually rowed.
• Capacity : Seats 2 to 6 people, depending on the size.
• Price : $500 to $2,000 for basic inflatable or hard-shell models.
• Versatile for various water activities
• Easy to transport (especially inflatable models)
• Often small enough to carry
• Not ideal for long-distance travel
• Vulnerable to capsizing in rough conditions

3. Inflatable Boats

Inflatable boats are constructed from durable rubberized fabric and are designed to be lightweight and easy to store when not in use. These boats are excellent for families or recreational boaters who need something compact and portable.

• Specs : 6 to 18 feet in length.
• Engine : Can be equipped with a small outboard motor or paddled manually.
• Capacity : Can carry anywhere from 2 to 8 people.
• Price : $200 to $5,000 depending on size, material, and brand.
• Extremely portable and easy to store
• Versatile for different activities
• Stable and buoyant
• Limited speed and power compared to rigid hull boats
• Requires inflation and deflation with every use

4. Kayaks and Canoes

These human-powered vessels are ideal for solo adventurers or small groups looking to explore lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Kayaks are generally enclosed, while canoes are open-topped.

• Specs : Range from 8 to 17 feet for kayaks, and 12 to 20 feet for canoes.
• Engine : Paddled manually.
• Capacity : Kayaks are typically single or double-seaters; canoes can hold 2 to 4 people.
• Price : $300 to $2,500 depending on material and design.
• Perfect for exercise and exploration
• Low maintenance and affordable
• Suitable for quiet, peaceful waters
• Not ideal for open water or rough conditions
• Limited in speed and storage space

5. Jet Skis and Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Jet skis are small motorized vessels designed for high-speed thrills and are excellent for watersports enthusiasts. They offer a more adventurous experience compared to most small boats.

• Specs : Average length is 8 to 12 feet.
• Engine : Powered by an inboard jet drive with engine sizes ranging from 60 hp to over 300 hp.
• Capacity : Usually 1 to 3 riders.
• Price : $5,000 to $15,000 depending on the brand and engine power.
• Fun and fast; great for watersports
• Easy to tow on a trailer
• High maneuverability
• Limited storage space
• Not ideal for long trips or rough waters

6. Pontoon Boats (Small Models)

Pontoon boats are flat-decked boats that float on two or more aluminum tubes called pontoons. Smaller pontoon boats are great for families or groups who want a stable and comfortable ride on lakes or calm waters.

• Specs : Small models range from 12 to 20 feet.
• Engine : Outboard motors ranging from 25 hp to 90 hp.
• Capacity : Can comfortably accommodate 4 to 8 passengers.
• Price : $10,000 to $35,000 depending on size and features.
• Comfortable and spacious
• Great for family outings and relaxation
• Stable and safe
• Not suitable for rough waters
• Bulkier than other small boats

7. Center Console Boats (Small Models)

Center console boats are popular among anglers because of their 360-degree fishing capability and the central helm. Smaller versions provide versatility for both fishing and leisure.

• Specs : Typically 15 to 20 feet long.
• Engine : Outboard engines ranging from 60 hp to 150 hp.
• Capacity : Holds 4 to 6 people.
• Price : $15,000 to $40,000 depending on size and engine power.
• Excellent for fishing
• Good speed and power
• Limited in rough ocean conditions
• Not much shelter from the elements

How to Choose the Right Small Boat

When selecting a small boat , consider the following factors:

• Intended Use : Are you looking to fish, relax, or engage in watersports? Different boats serve different purposes.
• Water Type : Will you be boating in lakes, rivers, or the ocean? Choose a boat that’s designed for the conditions you’ll face.
• Budget : Small boats vary significantly in price. Determine how much you’re willing to spend, including maintenance, insurance, and storage costs.
• Storage and Transportation : Some boats can be easily trailered, while others may require a dock or mooring.
• Capacity : Consider how many people you’ll typically bring on board and make sure the boat can accommodate them safely.

Small boats offer a world of possibilities for boating enthusiasts, whether you’re after a leisurely cruise or a high-speed adventure. From affordable Jon boats to sporty jet skis, there’s an option for everyone. By understanding your needs and the specifications of each type, you can find the perfect small boat to get out on the water and enjoy the experience to the fullest.

Happy Boating!

Share   The Ultimate Guide to Small Boats: What Are Your Options? with your friends and leave a comment below with your thoughts.

Read The Top 10 Winter Boating Destinations to Visit This Winter until we meet in the next article. 

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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New study finds that the largest cruise ships are now eight times bigger than the Titanic: 'Today's cruisezillas make the Titanic look like a small fishing boat'

Though cruise ship travel took a heavy hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are cruising now than ever before .

As a result, cruise ships are getting increasingly larger.

As The Guardian reported , the world's largest cruise ships are twice as big as they were in 2000. Industry experts expect these "cruisezillas" to get even larger in the future — up to eight times larger than the Titanic by 2050.

What's happening?

Cruise travel is on the rise because of increasing wealth and clever marketing that moves beyond the baby boomer demographic and targets millennials with money to spend.

It is projected that 35 million people will take cruise ship vacations this year — a 6% increase from before the pandemic. There are also 20 times more cruise ships sailing the seas than in 1970.

"Today's cruisezillas make the Titanic look like a small fishing boat," said Inesa Ulichina, a sustainable shipping analyst for Transport and Environment.

Watch now: Solar-powered boats from the Honnold Foundation are making a difference in the Amazon

Why are larger cruise ships important.

The news about increasingly large cruise ships and heightened demand for this type of unsustainable travel is concerning because the industry significantly damages our oceans.

Cruise ships have an enormous carbon footprint and release lots of carbon dioxide and methane emissions during operation. Large cruise ships can generate over a ton of waste daily and have a bigger pollution footprint than 12,000 cars.

These vessels commonly dispose of untreated sewage in the ocean, putting marine habitats at risk while exposing passengers to toxic chemicals from dirty energy sources.

"Hardly any form of tourism is more energy-intensive than cruises — specifically in combination with a flight to the point of departure," Linnaeus University professor Stefan Gössling said .

What can I do to offset cruise ship travel?

As an individual, you can commit to traveling responsibly and sustainably, avoiding cruise ships at all costs.

Rather than booking a cruise, choose low-impact travel options , such as taking the scenic route via train or reserving an electric vehicle instead of a gas-guzzling rental car.

You can save money and reduce pollution by discovering cool vacation spots close to home . When you feel like exploring further away, choose eco-friendly travel destinations that prioritize sustainability.

It is also helpful to inform friends, family members, and neighbors about the negative impacts of cruise travel and discourage others from ignoring unsustainable cruise ship practices and contributing to the desecration of our natural resources. With better education about the devastating effects of cruise ships, fewer people may take cruise vacations.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips , and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

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