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If you’re looking for a sailing vacation ruled by the sun, moon, and tides, you’ve found it!

Island Windjammers offers six, ten, and twelve-night sailings aboard our classic clipper ship Vela, schooner Diamant, and sailing yacht Lyra! Vela hosts twenty-six guests, Diamant accommodates ten guests, while our new addition Lyra has room for eight. This is small ship cruising at its finest.

Our Island Girls are fully-crewed and feature air-conditioned cabins, private bathrooms, portholes, and all modern comforts.

Your Captain sets the course. Each day is a new adventure. Free your mind from schedules, and savor each moment as the crew hoists the sails, the trade winds fill the canvas, and you set off to your next secret island destination.

There’s no rush. You’ll have plenty of time ashore to explore vibrant villages, sip rum at quirky beach bars, or laze the days away on pristine beaches.

Even the nights are magical. Shipmates gather on deck to dance, share a joke or tell tales of the day’s adventures. Lean on the rail, and steal a kiss under a canopy of stars.

Live in the now, and breathe it all in. This is island life--and you’re living it!

ALWAYS ON ISLAND TIME

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This Beloved Luxury Cruise Ship Is Back on the Water — With a Nobu at Sea, a Gorgeous Pool Deck, and a Slate of Epic Itineraries

Beloved brand Crystal Cruises came to an ignominious end during the pandemic. Now, new leadership has revived the line and aims to make it better than ever.

Bars and Restaurants

Where serenity sails, shore excursions, amenities and entertainment, family-friendly offerings, accessibility.

Spending a week on Crystal Serenity feels like staying at a resort that families have been visiting for 20 years. On a July cruise in the Mediterranean Sea, most of the passengers I met had sailed on Serenity many times before. Veteran Crystal cruiser Keith Steiner regaled me with stories of the paddle tennis tournament he plays in every year, alongside the crew, on the line’s world cruises. Linda Glenn, who has been on 130 Crystal cruises, promised to show me the beautiful ring her husband, Stanley, commissioned from the jeweler who supplies Serenity ’s boutique. And the Glenns' grandson, Tate, has been sailing on Crystal Serenity since he was two. He’s 19 now.

What’s strange about all this is I met these folks on Crystal Serenity ’s inaugural journey. 

Crystal Serenity

• Crystal Cruises has the only Nobu restaurants at sea. On Serenity, Umi Uma, a Japanese-Peruvian spot by chef Nobu Matsuhisa is one of the best restaurants on board.
• The 740-passenger ship has all ocean-view rooms — and most have balconies — plus 24/7 butler service.
• Crystal Cruises is known for its exceptional world cruises, and Serenity embarks on its first around-the-world tour in 2024.

Here’s what happened: Crystal Serenity first launched in 2003. To put a time stamp on that, Julie Andrews was named the godmother of Serenity , and “The Princess Diaries” had come out two years before. Fast forward 19 years and Crystal went bankrupt in fairly spectacular fashion in early 2022. Seventeen months later, the brand is known simply as Crystal and is a part of A&K Travel Group, the holding company backed by travel luminaries Geoffrey Kent, of Abercrombie & Kent, and Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, the onetime chairman of Silversea. Since taking the helm, A&K has invested $150 million in Crystal, giving Serenity and sibling ship Crystal Symphony stem-to-stern overhauls. Both ships returned to service in the summer of 2023.

Courtesy of Crystal Cruises

“It’s Crystal enhanced,” Steiner told me, as we sailed from Corsica to Barcelona on a particularly rocky day on the Mediterranean. The retired telecom executive has been on 120 Crystal cruises with his wife, Anne Marie. “Every person we've spoken to would say, from the moment they came on, it feels, it looks, it smells like Crystal. It is Crystal.”

That’s largely because 80 percent of the Crystal Serenity ’s crew is back on board. My butler, Jijo, who had been with Crystal for 17 years before the bankruptcy, knew every one of his guests on that first sailing — I was his only newcomer. Jijo unpacked my suitcase, handled my laundry and my airport transfer, routinely surprised me with an afternoon iced tea, and accompanied me to the IT office when my Wi-Fi went out. When I wasn’t feeling well, he brought me several rounds of chicken consumé, toast, and mint tea as I watched “Top Gun: Maverick” while hiding under Jesurum 1870 bedding. It was, due respect to my husband, even better care than I would’ve gotten back home. 

Here, everything you need to know about the new and improved Crystal Serenity — and what it was like to be one of the first on board.

My 430-square-foot Sapphire Veranda Suite — where I enjoyed my daily iced teas on the balcony, slept phenomenally well on the custom Jesurum 1870 bedding, and reveled in the spaciousness of the shower — was gutted in 2023 and completely redone by cruise ship designer GEM. But A&K, committed to keeping the returning guests happy, left some Sapphire Veranda Suites as they were — including the room Linda Glenn has booked since 2009.

There are no inside accommodations on the 545-room Crystal Serenity — even the entry-level offering has an ocean view. The smallest rooms, at 215 square feet, are the doubles with an ocean view, singles with an ocean view, and doubles with a veranda. Every accommodation comes with 24/7 butler service.

The most luxurious of Serenity' s 377 suites is the 1,275-square-foot Crystal Penthouse. The bathroom — with a full peachflower marble tub — is exquisite, as is the plentiful balcony space. And while most guests get only one reservation at each of the specialty restaurants, Umi Uma and Osteria d’Ovidio, reservations for the penthouse guests are unlimited, and they can order from both directly to their room.

Linda, like most Crystal die-hards, still accidentally calls the Italian restaurant, Osteria D’Ovidio, by its old name, but says the space, overhauled by Tillberg of Sweden, feels completely different. "I think the food's even better," Stanley adds. Umi Uma — one of two Nobus at sea, the other on Crystal Symphony — has brand-new interiors, too. The Umi Uma menu hasn’t changed, which is a relief, because it turns out nothing bonds two people on a ship quite like a shared affinity for Nobu’s black-miso cod and decadent sashimi.

Maya Kachroo-Levine/Travel + Leisure 

With one coveted culinary name already, Cristina Levis, A&K and Crystal Cruises CEO, told me she’s working to “bring home another celebrity chef” for Osteria. (Though, even without a Michelin-touted chef at the helm of Osteria, I loved the lobster acquasale and gnocchi blanketed in porcini mushroom ragout.) The best Italian export on board, however, is served six decks above Osteria at the gelato bar, Scoops. Levis is from a family of gelato makers, and it shows; the stracciatella and coffee gelato I savored on a poolside couch as we sailed from Portofino, Italy, was better than the cone I had in port. 

I also grew very attached to the buffet at Marketplace — it is truly next-level, with a carving station, a great salad bar, some excellent Indian food (who knew you could find phenomenal butter chicken on an Italian-owned ship?), and fresh seafood. I had terrific moules-frites one afternoon, with Rotterdam-sourced mussels in a delicate, garlicky cream sauce, seated outside in the sun, with a beautiful view of Cannes. This is not your average buffet. There’s also the main dining room, Waterside, open for three meals a day; Tastes Kitchen & Bar, with a lovely indoor-outdoor terrace that makes you feel like you’re on the corner of a charming European street; and a grill that does burgers and sandwiches for lunch — and excellent pancakes in the morning.

As for bars, I was partial to the Avenue Saloon — where Joel Spire plays piano every night and there’s a great Manhattan menu. Worth noting, there’s also an extensive non-alcoholic and low-ABV cocktail menu at Avenue Saloon, for those looking for booze-free nightlife.

In 2023, Serenity will sail in North America, along the New England coast in the fall and into Canada, exploring Quebec’s Saint Lawrence River. In the winter, the ship will cruise the Caribbean, stopping in ports like St. Thomas, Grand Cayman, and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Looking ahead to 2024, the ship will begin a five-continent world cruise — the first since A&K bought Crystal — cruising French Polynesia, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Africa, South America, and in Europe, winding up in the Mediterranean Sea again next summer. The 2025 lineup was just announced, too; learn more about the sailings here .

As Crystal becomes more ingrained in the A&K family, “we will bring to Crystal what A&K does best, which is the excursions,” Levis said. Starting in 2025, the cruise line intends to roll out packages that let travelers leave the ship for a few days, knock out a once-in-a-lifetime tour, and then hop back on board.

While I had slight FOMO just hearing about travelers slipping off to Machu Picchu for an A&K adventure before rejoining the cruise in Lima, my travel envy dissipated as soon as I went on my first excursion. When we docked in Livorno, Italy, I joined a small group on a truffle-hunting excursion, following a sweet pup, Bianca, through a cluster of oak trees at Vialto Farms, a 1,000-year-old farmhouse in Tuscany. After glasses of cold vermentino, we dug into pasta in a light cream sauce topped with freshly grated truffles, followed by a truffle-covered fried egg. A few days later, on Corsica, a bus whisked a group of us to Domaine Orsini, for a wine tasting and a relaxing stint on the covered patio overlooking the island. And before I disembarked the ship in Barcelona, I crashed an evening excursion to the trendy El Born neighborhood, where our 10-person group shared a barrage of Spanish tortilla, patatas bravas , and croquetas at Tapeo.

The pool deck — in close proximity to the gelato bar – on deck 12 feels like a relaxed, exclusive Mediterranean beach club. One deck up, there’s a fitness center with Technogym equipment and workout classes, plus pickle ball and paddle tennis courts close by. The spa has a gorgeous, light-wood sauna with a picture window — perhaps my favorite place to watch the world go by — and an extensive treatment menu. I was extremely impressed with my dynamic biotech resurfacing facial and noticed the effects of the healing LED blue-light mask, which dissolves dead skin, for a full week after the treatment.

As for the entertainment, while I didn’t stray much from Pete’s piano in the Avenue Saloon, there are standup comedy and musical theater shows at the Stardust Club, Galaxy Lounge, and the Hollywood Theater. Crystal Cove bar is a great spot to catch live music (classical, jazz, piano, and even the occasional rock moment).

Also of note are the educational seminars, held daily, with guest speakers who lecture on upcoming destinations and give in-depth talks into their industries — whether that’s sports, media, or “even the occasional astronaut,” per Crystal’s website.

There is certainly a kids’ club on Serenity and children are welcome. In fact, children grow up on this ship, coming on the holiday cruise every year, and making lifelong friends — as I learned from my friend Tate. Waves and Fantasia are the kids’- and teens’-only spaces on board. Personally, though, I would come on Crystal with a spouse, longterm travel partner, grown-up family members, close friends, or even solo. 

There are eight ADA rooms on Crystal Serenity — some aquamarine veranda suites and some aquamarine ocean-view suites. According to a Crystal spokesperson, the ADA suites "are designed to accommodate guests with additional needs or who are wheelchair bound. The furniture can accommodate a wheelchair or scooter, there is extra space between beds, more room in the living area for easy movement, and the bathroom is larger with a roll-in shower, fold-down shower bench, and easy-to-reach shower head and sink faucet. Additional equipment is available upon request, such as rubber shower mats, shower stools, and a shower bench."

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Here’s What It Is Like to Sail on MSC, The World’s Third Largest Cruise Line

More than 35 million travelers will cruise this year, and many of them are sailing with MSC Cruises around the world. Relatively new to the American vacationer, this family-owned line started offering U.S. cruises in 1998 but has become more popular in North America in the past couple of years.

So, this Spring Break, my daughter and I took a 3-night cruise from Cape Canaveral Florida to the Caribbean to see for ourselves why so many Americans are hitting the sea for vacation, and increasingly with MSC Cruises.

Why Are So Many People Cruising?

So many of our friends and family rave about cruising and repeatedly choose to vacation this way. As a non-cruising family, we’ve been intrigued by their stories of exploration and family fun and were excited to try it out for ourselves.

“Our data shows that the top things that Americans associate with cruising is having fun, being entertained, and relaxing. Being able to experience a new destination with new experiences nearly every day adds to the attractiveness of cruises,” shares Ben Harrell, Managing Director, U.S. at Booking.com . “Not surprisingly, almost one-quarter (22%) of Americans surveyed plan to take a cruise in 2024, which is nearly double the global average, and an increase from 2023.”

A Cruise is an Easy Button in a Busy World

A OnePoll survey reveals that 60% of surveyed Americans don’t believe there are enough hours in the day to get everything done, let alone plan a vacation. Once you’ve booked your cruise, you can look forward to the fun, not another to-do list of meal and activity reservations. And due to the all-inclusive nature, you won’t have to stress about going over budget either.

“Beyond the strong value of a cruise – with accommodations, meals and entertainment all included in the cost – cruises are also a highly convenient vacation type. Travelers are not only looking to get away, but they’re looking to escape their everyday stresses,” explains Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic. “ Once you’re onboard your cruise, most of the planning and arrangements are handled for you. You don’t have to worry about packing and unpacking, and there’s no need to spend time navigating various forms of transportation. The cruise line takes care of all of that for you.”

When the Cost of Everything Goes Up, Cruises Look Even More Attractive

“The value of a cruise has never been more evident – especially as travelers are eager to book vacations but are looking to dodge increasing costs. And that goes for the more budget-friendly mainstream lines and luxury and river lines that include more amenities and offerings in their higher base fares. Whatever your budget, you’re sure to find a cruise to fit your needs and expectations – and the value is so much greater at sea than many land-based options,” continues McDaniel.

What Does MSC Cruises Offer?

MSC Cruises travels to 240 destinations in over 85 countries. They have 22 ships currently with three new ones launching in 2025, 2026 and 2027. MSC sails five ships from three U.S. ports with Galveston and Miami itineraries starting in 2025.

They can be described as a contemporary, modern cruise line that combines the company’s European heritage with a sophisticated, international flare while remaining big on fun.

Who Is MSC a Match For?

If you’re looking for a family vacation with kids, are budget-conscious, and seek higher-end experiences, then take a serious look at MSC Cruises.

“It’s a budget-friendly line with competitive fares. Its ships are likely to be among the lowest-priced you’ll see when you’re searching for a cruise. Most of MSC’s ships in the U.S. are relatively new having launched within the past five years, and built specifically for the American market. So while there’s certainly a European flair onboard, you’ll still have all the creature comforts of home,” adds McDaniel.

How Does MSC Differ From Other Cruise Lines?

“MSC has a loyal fanbase, who love the more European vibe they get onboard and the experience as a whole. For those who have never cruised with MSC but have cruised with other cruise lines, you may notice some differences.”

“Notably, you might notice a difference in the kids clubs, which feel very international, and in some of the entertainment, which could include opera or shows in multiple languages. Many announcements onboard are made in multiple languages as well,” she explains.

Surprising Restaurant Offerings

We were surprised with the upscale and luxe dining options for a non-luxury brand. Our ship had three main restaurants, a spa restaurant, a Marketplace buffet, and five specialty restaurants.

For non-cruisers like us, it was surprising that the restaurants on board aren’t solely large formal dining rooms and buffets but also exciting offerings like sushi on a conveyor belt, my daughter’s top three experiences from our cruise. Available even to those not on a premium dining plan, you can pay a la carte at the restaurant or enjoy a 45-minute all-you-can-eat meal for $39 a person.

Want Great Nightlife? MSC’s Got It

If you enjoy vibrant nightlife, you’ll enjoy a vacation on MSC. Its award-winning nightlife stands out from other cruise lines.

“There aren’t many lines where, when the clubs and bars wind down, the party continues deep into the night. MSC has mastered the fun nightlife. Whether it’s a 70s theme night with the entertainment team dressed like the Village People, live DJs in the main promenade, or a White Night Party with live music on the main pool deck, there is always something going on an MSC ship,” explains Cruise Critic Editors.

Even Parents Can Enjoy The Nightlife While Kids Enjoy The Kids Club

MSC provides free childcare for kids until 11 pm or midnight for tweens and teens. With eight different kids club rooms, each is designed for specific age groups. My seven-year-old daughter had a blast in the Juniors Club, asked to return day after day, and wanted to stay longer to play with other kids her age. After learning that their goal is to make the kids happy, surprise them, and not just be the best but be unique, I guess I shouldn’t have been surprised by how much she loved it.

“When people ask us why MSC Cruises has become internationally awarded as “Best Cruise Line for Families” over the years, the answer is simple: we listen to our young guests and build their loyalty,” shared Matteo Mancini, Senior Manager Youth Entertainment, MSC Cruises .

What Do They Do in The Kids Club?

“We see over 600,000 children and teenagers sailing on our cruises fleetwide each year, making it important that we provide the best family programming and childcare. Our kids and teens clubs cater to a variety of children’s interests with innovative, high-tech and interactive activities like a drone flying academy, gameshows including MasterChef at sea Juniors, Guinness World Record Family Quiz and various originals, continued Mancini.  

 “We also have 3D printing classes available for kids and teens. We are especially excited about the family offerings that will be on our newest ship, MSC World America, with the largest kids’ area in the entire fleet including the Harbor, a new outdoor park within the Family Aventura District.”

Cruising Today Means Private Island Adventures

As non-cruises, we didn’t know that most of the large cruise lines now have private islands. According to The Point Guy’s 2024 Travel Trends report, they are often the highest-rated part of people’s cruise. It was one of the top highlights of our trip, and we’ve dreamed of another day (or two!) at MSC’s Ocean Cay.

It’s a Secluded Oasis Surrounded by Turquoise Sea

Our first glimpse of their stunning 100-acre Marine Reserve island in Bimini, Bahamas, showed exactly why it has won Gold in the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards. You can enjoy yourself even more, knowing that it’s not just an otherworldly oasis island and 64 square miles of protected waters but a Mission Blue ‘Hope Spot’ that MSC is committed to conserving and protecting.

So, just like when visiting Hawaii, it is critical, important and asked to keep shells or other nature items on the island and not in your bag as a keepsake.

MSC Also Offers an Elevated Cruising Experience That Many Say Is the Best in the Industry

“Their onboard Yacht Club, which is a more VIP experience with private restaurants, pools and more. This private enclave, or a ship within a ship, has won Cruise Critic’s Editor’s Picks awards and is a hit among our members,” says McDaniel.

We met many in the Yacht Club restaurants who really enjoyed the premier room service at any hour amenity as well.

Peak Travel Week or a Crowded Cruise? You’d Never Know in The Yacht Club

Our invitation to sail on MSC for the first time included a stay in The Seashore’s Yacht Club. We loved having access to both all the regular dining, entertainment and amenities onboard, along with the option to retreat to a private restaurants and outdoor spaces during the popular Spring Break time period.

It’s a Wonderful, Exclusive Experience

As first-time cruisers, we had so much to take in, experience, and figure out. But with The Yacht Club priority embarkation and disembarkation, a personal concierge team who escorted us to most places we wanted to go, and dedicated 24/7 butler service, we didn’t need to worry about anything. The concierge team and personal butler elevate the cruise experience by securing any reservations and VIP seating for entertainment, even with little notice.

It Extends Off Ship As Well

Additionally, MSC Yacht Club guests sailing to private island destinations such as Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Sir Bani Yas are treated to upgraded on-island experiences, such as exclusive access to private beaches with more than enough chairs and umbrellas and elevated or private dining options. My three-course lunch, including a delicious lobster roll, was fantastic, and my daughter was pleasantly surprised with the Yacht Club’s private restaurant’s kids’ meal selections.

Having the option to take a golf cart transportation to the private Yacht Club area at Ocean Cay was an added bonus, especially with younger kids who don’t like to walk far in warm weather.

Yacht Club Might Be Closer Than You Think

According to Cruise Critic’s editors, “MSC’s gorgeous MSC Yacht Club is proof that not all luxury suite complexes are created equal. This private enclave boasts all the requisite perks you might expect, from lavish suites to grand lounges and private dining areas. MSC sets itself apart by making that complex more accessible than ever before, thanks to the line’s value-priced MSC Yacht Club Inside Staterooms that provide a lot of luxe for a little dough.”

Additionally, we meet multiple Yacht Club-ers who used their bid upgrade feature to secure a room. As the cruise date gets closer, you can log-in and set an amount you’d be willing to pay to upgrade your reservation to The Yacht Club. They shared with me that this approach can mean paying significantly less for the luxe experience.

When’s the Best Time To Book a MSC Cruise?

As a non-cruising family, I wasn’t familiar with Wave Season, typically from January to March. It is when cruise lines offer some of their best deals of the year. Last Wave Season, MSC offered deals worth $1,000 for shorter cruises and $2,000 for 7 days cruises for a family of four.

However, sign up for the cruise line’s email list to be notified of mid-year offers, as you never know what sale you can catch. In early April, I received some very tempting email offers. We enjoyed ourselves on MSC so much that I just might take them up on one of them and book a longer trip. It looks like we’re cruisers now.

A Guide to Alaskan Cruises Including Ports of Call and What to Pack

An Alaskan Cruise is the best way to explore a truly unique state. The ship will take you to various cities in this gorgeous region while you make the most of your vacation without ever having to switch hotel rooms. Cruise season in Alaska is from late spring to early fall, so there are plenty of options for you to embark on a truly memorable trip.

But how do you pick one for this once-in-a-lifetime vacation?

No Money for a Vacation? Here’s How To Find $5,000 You Didn’t Know You Had

There’s that vacation we all are dreaming of. But how can you afford it with sky-high childcare payments, increasing home prices, higher food costs, and a never-ending pile of rising bills? Well, what if I told you that with just three realistic changes to your everyday spending, that vacation can be a reality?

Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live a financially savvy life so they can travel and explore our beautiful world no matter their budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro Area trips and activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com.

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16 of the Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendations in 2024!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » 16 of the Absolute Best Halong Bay Cruise Recommendations in 2024!

Are you looking for the best Halong Bay cruise recommendation for your next holiday in Vietnam?

Join in with thousands of happy travelers on a trip of a lifetime to Halong Bay on the best Halong Bay tour in Vietnam !

The best way to see Halong Bay is on an overnight cruise.

There are so many Halong Bay tours to choose from, that it can be daunting to figure out which Vietnam Halong Bay cruise will be the perfect fit for you.

In order to make your planning that much easier, we have compiled a list of 15 of the best Halong Bay cruises.

But for those in a hurry here is our personal favorite cruise.

>>> Click Here to See the Best Selling Halong Bay Cruise  

Best Halong Bay Cruises & Our Halong Bay Cruise Reviews

In this Ha Long Bay cruise buying guide, we suggest you check out our comparison chart of Halong Bay's best cruises and then read our Halong Bay's best cruise review that best suit your requirements.  

10 Best Halong Bay Cruise 2024 Comparison Chart

Below is a helpful list of the top 10 Halong Bay cruise recommendations, which are mentioned in this article.

You can then read my reviews below featuring Halong Bay's best cruise in 2019.

Please scroll right to see full table on mobile.

Tips to Help you Choose the Best Cruise for Halong Bay

Let's face it!  There are SO MANY Halong cruises to choose from that it can get totally overwhelming.

To help you, I'm going to outline all the criteria that I was looking for when I chose my first Halong Bay Cruise and then I will share some recommended Halong Bay tours with you.

1. How Long Should the Cruise be?

Halong Bay Day Trip: If you are short on time, you might only be able to enjoy a day cruise on Halong Bay.

Be prepared for a hectic day if you are planning to travel from Hanoi (around 3.5 hour journey one-way).

You can find transfer info here .

Halong Bay Overnight Cruises: You can choose from either a 1 night or 2 night cruise.

The Halong Bay 2 night cruise option is the most popular as it allows you time to enjoy some activities, travel deeper into the quieter areas of the bay, as well as enjoy some down-time.

2. Traditional Halong Bay Junk Boat or Newer Boat?

Next question is whether you prefer to enjoy the older traditional junk boats or if you love newer and more lux boats.

The Junk Boats are gorgeous, but you need to be prepared for older style boats and smaller rooms.  

Our favorite Halong Bay Junk Boat Overnight Cruise is the Indochina Sails Cruise .

If you prefer newer boats with more luxurious spacious rooms that offer terraces and balconies, you might prefer researching a company such as Signature Royal Cruises .

3. Size of Boat and Number of Rooms on Board

Your next consideration is to look at the number of rooms on board. 

If you are young and love to party, you will most likely enjoy the larger boats with more people.  

But for most of us after relaxation, it would be wise to book a room on a smaller boat.

Our second best selling cruise, the  Aphrodite Cruise  is a nice sized boat with only 17 cabins.

For a much more intimate cruise experience, L Azalee has a 4 person boat available.

4. Included Activities

Look out for 'cheaper' boats that might come across as a bargain, but then charge an arm-and-leg for any activities.  

We prefer cruises that offer free water activities such as kayaking. 

5. Itineraries

Most itineraries of the cruise companies are pretty much the same.  

You will typically visit a Pearl Farm, a Fishing Village, a Cave, as well as get the opportunity to climb to the top of TiTov Island and enjoy a bit of swim (typical 2-night itinerary).  

The difference in the itinerary is when a cruise company makes the effort to avoid the crowds from the other companies.

Indochina Sails might be an older style boat and rooms might be small, but we always arrived at our sights before and after the crowds.  

We were the only group exploring the Cave, we were the only ones in sight kayaking and we enjoyed TiTov island with only a small group of other travellers.

I really appreciated the fact that they went out of their way to give us a more relaxed and peaceful experience.

6. Destinations Included

Everyone knows about Halong Bay, and it is no surprise that over the years this beautiful heritage site has become pretty polluted and littered with trash.

Many travellers leave disappointed after experiencing dirty water and masses of crowds.

Look for a cruise that ventures into both Halong Bay as well as Bai Tu Long Bay.  

There are only a few cruise companies that head towards Bai Tu Long Bay, which means that this part of the Heritage Site is still pristine and much less crowded.

I know that both  Indochina Sails  as well as Bhaya Cruises  include both Bays in their itineraries, but you better book way ahead of time as they sell out very quickly!

7.  Which Cruise Company do we Personally Prefer?

I'll be honest with you, our best selling cruises by our readers are both the Pelican Cruises and the Aphrodite Cruises .

They are both great cruises, but we personally love Indochina Sails .  

The trick is to find availability on the Indochina Sails Cruise as they are typically booked out way ahead of time.

Watch our video of our time on our Indochina Sails Cruise .

>>> Check Prices and Availability for Indochina Sails.

Reviews of the 15 Best Overnight Halong Bay Cruises 

In order to make your Halong Bay cruise planning a little easier, I’m going to give you all the information I’ve collected on the top Halong Bay cruises.  

Please find below both the positives and the negatives of these popular Ha Long Bay cruises.

1. Pelican Cruise Halong Bay Review 

* BEST SELLER *

From $210+ p/n 

This Pelican Halong Bay Cruise is by far our best selling cruise .

The combination of a 5 star luxury boat, together with the affordable price tag makes this cruise hard to resist!

The boat is an older style boat (which is why the price is so fabulous!), but the rooms are lovely, the food is yummy and the itinerary is full of included excursions and activities.

The boat is also brilliant for families, as it is one of the few boats that caters for families with their gorgeous 2 bedroom deluxe room.

Many travelers argue that Pelican Cruises is the best cruise on Halong Bay!

Length: 1 or 2 Night Cruises Available

Transfer from Hanoi Included: No

Activities Included:

• Sunrise Tai Chi Class
• Cooking Class
• Local rowing boat

Rooms Available: They have standard deluxe rooms, some truly beautiful suites, as well as a stunning 2 bedroom family deluxe room.

Star Rating: 5

Click the the button below to check the rates and availability:

2. Aphrodite Cruise Halong Bay Review

From $275+ p/n 

Aphrodite Cruise Halong Bay is our second most popular cruise and definately belongs on the list of best cruises in Halong Bay. This cruise also sells like hotcakes! 

It is more expensive than the Pelican Cruise, but you can often find this cruise marked down to much more affordable prices.

Aphrodite Cruises provides you with a 5 star experience and all the bells and whistles that you would expect from a luxury junk boat. It has an exceptional review rating from past travellers.

This cruise is one of the best Ha Long Bay cruise options if you are after a relaxed and laid-back itinerary (but probably not the best pick if you prefer to stay active with loads of activities due to the extra charges)!

Length: 1 or 2 Night Options

• Sampan boat trip
• Tai Chi session
• Kayaking (at extra cost)

Rooms Available: Standard rooms, luxury rooms with balconies. triple rooms for small families and a family suite for families of 4. 

3. Bhaya Cruises Halong Bay Review

From $245+ p/n 

Bhaya Cruise Halong Bay offers 2-day Halong Bay tours for travellers who wish to experience the natural wonder of this World Heritage site.

What we love about this company is that it ventures out into both Halong Bay as well as Bai Tu Long Bay (less touristy but equally beautiful - and much cleaner).

We definitely recommend you choose a cruise that includes Bai Tu Long Bay!

Not only is this cruise cheaper than Aphrodite Cruises, but the activities are all included with your room fee.

Bhaya Cruise Vietnam offers a variety of Halong Bhaya cruise options. These include Bhaya Classic Cruise Halong Bay, Bhaya Premium Cruise (Bhaya Classic Premium) as well as a luxury The Au Co Cruise and a private Bhaya Legend Cruise.

Length: 1 or 2 Nights

• Morning Tai Chi
• MasterChef Competition
• Visit to a Fishing Village by Rowing Boat

Rooms Available: Standard deluxe rooms, rooms with balconies or terrace suite.  Rooms can accommodate 2 pax max.

Star Rating: 5 Stars

4. Signature Royal Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $615+ p/n 

The Signature Royal Cruise is the perfect cruise for those of you after something extra special. It might just be the most luxurious Halong Bay cruise in 2019! 

True 5 star quality with rooms that offer a touch of royalty, together with ample space. These suites are to die for!!

This Halong luxury cruise is absolutely brilliant for honeymooners or couples celebrating a special occasion. It is also the best Halong Bay cruise for family travellers due to their spacious family rooms together with their baby sitting services!

The only negative? Not only are these beautiful rooms pretty highly priced, but you will also need to pay extra if you wish to enjoy water activities such as kayaking.

• Kayaking, Swimming and Snorkeling Equipment (at extra cost)
• Cooking Demonstration (bad weather only)
• Tai Chi Session
• Entertainment Activities and Happy Hour
• Movie Nights, Board Games and Squid Fishing

Rooms Available: Executive rooms, beautiful suites, family connecting rooms or a family suite, rooms with terraces & jacuzzi suite.

5. Royal Palace Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $200+ p/n 

If you are after a really affordable option to explore Halong Bay, then the Royal Palace Cruise is for you!  

This boat is an older style boat and some aspects of it might be in need for a bit of a refurbishment. But we often find that traditional architecture often adds to the atmosphere of a cultural experience.

The boat is great for those after an affordable option. It also has a large room that can fit families of 4.

We only wish that there were a few more activities and excursions included with this cruise.

Rooms Available: Deluxe rooms, suites, family rooms

Star Rating: 4 Stars

6. Silversea Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $180+ p/n 

Halong Silversea Cruises are a great super affordable option for your cruises on Halong Bay. Not only are the rooms really affordable but your activities are free and included with your room price.  

You will love the spacious rooms, the delicious food and the sunset drinks. The boat is great for couples as well as families.

• A cooking class
• A sunset party
• Leisure time (karaoke, dancing, card games)
• Squid fishing

Rooms Available: Deluxe rooms, premium rooms, suites & family rooms

Star Rating: 4.5 Stars

7. Alisa Halong Bay Cruise Review

From $500+ p/n 

The Alisa Halong Bay Cruise Boat is a really popular cruise. The boat is newer than the traditional junk boats, so the rooms are lux and spacious.

The price is a bit steep, but if you are after rooms with their own balcony and really large windows, then this is the cruise for you.

The cruise includes a lot of activities and sightseeing destinations. Be prepared though for crowds as the boat tends to arrive with all the other masses of tourists.

The boat is great for couples as well as for families.

• Te Top Island Visit
• Visit to a Pearl Farm
• Visit to Suprise Cave

Rooms Available: Suites, Suites with Balconies, Family Suites & Family Connecting Rooms

8. Paradise Cruise Halong Bay Review

From $250+ p/n 

From the classic wooden interiors down to the touch of modern conveniences, the Paradise Cruise Halong Bay collection is already a destination in itself waiting to be discovered. A premium experience that’s incomparable to any other.

With a fleet of 7 vessels, Paradise luxury cruise Halong Bay offers 3 different cruises to explore Halong Bay.

These include Paradise Luxury Halong Bay Cruise , Paradise Halong Bay Elegance Cruise and Peak Paradise Halong Bay Cruise.

Whilst they are all fabulous cruises Paradise Luxury cruise is the one most loved by our readers here at Wanderlust storytellers.

Length: 2 Days - 3 Days

Rooms Available: Depending on the Ship, whether you choose to go on a Paradise Luxury Cruise, Paradise Elegance Cruise or Paradise Peak Cruise, the accommodation slightly varies.

Majority of the rooms can accommodate 2 adults and 1 child on additional bed, when requested. If you are travelling with a large family, you can book two rooms next to each other.

9. Indochina Sails Halong Bay Review

- EDITOR’S CHOICE - 

This is my pick for the best cruise in Halong Bay!

From $320+ p/n 

Indochina Sails Cruise to Bai Tu Long Bay takes you to a less visited and very beautiful part of Halong Bay.

The fleet of ships includes Dragon Legend Cruise, Red Dragon Junk, Dragon's Pearl Junk, Princess Junk as well as Prince Junk.

Indochina Junk Cruise is our top pick and the best way to see Halong Bay.

This is the cruise that we have experienced first hand and we absolutely loved every minute of it! You can read more about our Halong Bay trip with Indochina Sails here !

If you are after the best Halong Bay overnight cruise, best luxury cruise Halong Bay has to offer or even the best one day Halong Bay tour, then Indochina junk cruise has got you covered!

Length: 2 Day - 3 Day

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Yes

• Visit to Pearl Farm
• Visit to a Cave
• Visit to a Fishing Village
• Visit to Ti Top Island
• Squid Fishing

Rooms Available: Indochina Halong Bay ships are predominantly designed for couples. However some of the ships accommodate 2 adults and one child in one room.

Alternatively, it is best to book two rooms next to each other, for when travelling with large families.

When we were on our Indochina Cruise Halong Bay, we were on a parent only getaway and we chose to stay with Indochina Sails.

Our room was very much luxurious and included all the bells and whistles! Loved it! This was the best Halong Bay Cruise ever!

10. Rosa Cruise Halong Bay Review

From $150+ p/n 

The Rosa Cruise Halong Bay proudly offers the new premier cruise experiences in Halong Bay which combines the most modern and greatest comfort.

Wishing to provide customers the best culinary and premium cruise experiences.

Rosa Cruise are proud to bring visitors the most exciting experiences in Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay with many unique destination attractions such as: Pearl Farm Village, Amazing Cave, Dark Cave and Bright Cave.

• On Board Activities

Rooms Available: Perfect for couples and romantic getaways. If you are travelling as a family you can choose to book two rooms with connecting doors.

Star Rating: 3.5

11. Oasis Cruise Halong Bay Review

The Oasis Cruise Halong Bay offers you a selection of One Day Tour or Two Day Tour options. This is a great cruise to discover Halong Bay, one of the World Heritage sites.

Oasis Halong Bay Tour also offers a wonderful day cruise. If your time is limited, then the Oasis Bay Cruise Halong Bay is the best choice for you.

That way you can venture out a get a feel for the famous bay, relax with a cocktail or two and spend a great couple of hours with your significant other.

This cruise is also known for its Oasis party cruise Halong Bay and the Oasis Bay Classic Cruise Halong Bay .

• Cooking Demonstration

Rooms Available: Varies

Star Rating: 4

12. Indochina Junk Dragon Legend Cruise Review

Venture out on a Dragon Legend Cruise Halong Bay into the beauty of Bai Tu Long Bay.

This is the less crowded of areas of Halong Bay. Here you can check out the stunning World Natural Heritage site and experience relaxation like never before.

Dragon Legend Halong Bay is regarded as one of the best Halong Bay luxury cruise options.

This is an experience of the highest standard and comes with tones of satisfied and happy Halong Bay cruise reviews.

Dragon cruise Halong Bay is one of the best value Halong Bay cruise and best Halong Bay cruise for couples.

• Cave Exploring

Rooms Available: Dragon Cruise Halong Bay accommodation includes 24 luxurious and very spacious cabins. Only two of the cabins have connecting rooms for families with kids. We would strongly advise to make sure and reserve those rooms well in advance.

13. V Spirit Cruise Halong Bay Review

A day cruise with V Spirit Cruise Halong Bay is the best choice for you to experience the magnificent Halong Bay with our ‘all-in-one’ itinerary for those with a limited time schedule.

You will not only explore one of the most beautiful caves in Halong Bay, but will also have the chance to go kayaking or bamboo boat rowing, as well as visiting and interacting with people at a local fishing village.

Holiday with V Spirit Halong Bay is a great option for travelling with a family.

Activities Included: The V Spirit Classic Cruise Halong Bay has plenty activities on offer for all young and mature kids.

Rooms Available: V Spirit Cruise ships are perfect for all travelers, singles, couples and families.

14. L Azalee Cruise Halong Bay Review

L Azalee Cruise Halong Bay is a smaller and a more boutique Halong Bay cruise company.

You can choose from 3 different types of cruises, including L Azalee Classic Cruise (day tour boat, no private rooms), L Azalee Deluxe Cruise (larger couples rooms available) and the L Azalee Premium Cruise (a more private 4-person boat for a more luxurious experience).

Length: 1 - 3 Nights

Rooms Available: L’Azalee Deluxe Cruise has rooms suitable for couples. If you are travelling as a family or a group, you can book two or more rooms next to each other.

15. The Au Co Cruise Halong Bay Review

The Au Co Cruise Halong Bay is the first and only luxury cruise operator offering unique day cruises and overnight voyages through world-renowned Halong Bay, Cat Ba Island and the Gulf of Tonkin.

The Au Co Halong Bay ship features the very latest safety standards and represents Vietnamese and Oriental culture at its best.

Each of her 32 spaciously-designed private cabins boasts luxurious bathrooms and panoramic balconies.

Length: The Au Co Day Cruises or Overnight

Rooms Available: One of 32 private cabins with balconies and luxurious bathrooms. Best for couples. Alternatively book two rooms to accommodate larger families.

16. Orchid Cruises Halong Bay Review

The Orchid Cruises on Halong Bay offer a super-luxurious experience and a 5-star relaxation and treatment. 

Make sure to check out the variety of amazing cabins, including the Exclusive Suite with private terrace, so that you can take a more educate choice of which cabin to stay at.

This cruise boat is perfect for either couples or families. There are plenty of choices of cabins (36 in total) sleeping two, three and even four passengers in each. 

Length: The   Orchid Cruises offer 2-Night Stays or Overnight

Transfer from Hanoi Included: Available

• On Board Activities & Spa

Rooms Available: One of 36 private cabins with balconies and luxurious bathrooms. Best for couples and perfect for families. There are 2 Exclusive Suites with private terraces.

The Best Halong Bay Day Tour 

Short on time and trying to find the best day cruise on Halong Bay? Find below the best company to make the most out of your short time at Halong Bay.

Alova Cruises Halong Bay Review

If you are looking for a perfect one day cruise on the Halong Bay, then Alova Cruise Halong Bay are your specialists in the area. These guys are here to indulge you with all the yummy drinks, whilst you enjoy the unforgettable cruising around the beautiful Heritage Site.

This cruise is ranking on many review websites as the best way to visit Halong Bay and the best Halong Bay 1 day tour.

Length: 1 Day (Best Halong Bay Day Tour and one of the Best Halong Bay Tours for Backpackers!)

Activities included:

Rooms Available: Halong Alova Cruise is a day tour and there are no rooms available.

FAQ about Halong Bay Cruises

1. what are the best prices for halong bay cruise.

Prices for Halong Bay cruises vary greatly, and although you can get some for very cheap, more often than not you’ll get what you pay for.

This is why you will want to make sure that you take a cruise that has a great reputation, and has been proven to be safe while also providing an enjoyable experience for the whole family.

2. What to know before going for a Halong Bay cruise?

The best way to prepare yourself for the trip to Halong Bay is to check out what available Halong Bay cruises there are, how to get there, and when is the best time to go.

In this post, you will find all the necessary information and more!

3. How to choose the best cruise in Halong Bay?

Since most of the Halong Bay cruises have the same kind of events and activities, you will want to choose the cruise that is right for you and your family on other criteria besides the events.

The best way to find the most suitable cruise for you is to look into the Star Rating, Price Point and Size of the Rooms. In our reviews, you will find all the necessary information.

To check out the prices and the cruises in more detail, please click the links in the Halong Bay Cruise you like the most.

4. What is the best time to go to Halong Bay?

The best time to go to Halong Bay is in Spring ( February to April) and in autumn ( August to October).

We ventured out to Vietnam and the amazing Halong Bay in September and the weather was sunny and beautiful. The temperatures are pleasant and there is not much rain.

However, if you would like to ensure that you visit Halong Bay in the lowest rain season, then you should book your adventure between March and April.

5. Which airport is closest to Halong Bay?

The closest airport to Halong Bay is the Hai Phong Airport.

6. What is the best way to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi?

One of the best ways of how to get to Halong Bay is by bus. You can take a Mini Bus from Gia Lam (Hanoi) to Bai Chay ( Ha Long ) which will cost about $ 6 USD and it will take around 4-5 hours.

We have a full post on how to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay which you can read here .

7. Is it safe to go to Vietnam?

Vietnam is a very safe country to travel in.

Although it is an extremely safe country for holidaymakers, you can expect some degree of hustling by the shop or street vendors.

This is a usual way of sales in the area and it is especially noticeable in large cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Nha Trang.

We have traveled throughout the country with ease and we have never felt in danger or otherwise uncomfortable. You can read our full guide on what you should know before traveling to Vietnam here .

8. Can you swim in Halong Bay?

You can definitely swim in Halong Bay, however, the water in the main parts of the bay is pretty polluted.

We did enjoy kayaking and swimming in the clear water of Bai Tu Long Bay (only some cruise boats go here so the water is less polluted – check the reviews above to find a cruise company that ventures into this area).

We also swam in the beach off one of the islands in the bay. The water was definitely murkier there, but it might be due to the rainy weather we had.

9. What is there to do in Halong Bay?

There are loads of things to do in Halong Bay . From caves to explore, kayaking to try out, swimming and hiking. You can also visit a floating fishing village as well as a pearl farm.

We loved climbing up millions of stairs to get a lookout over the area as well.

The cruises also offer classes such as squid fishing, cooking, tai chi and more.

Tip: Check out the best places to travel in Vietnam here.

Andrzej Ejmont

13 thoughts on “16 of the absolute best halong bay cruise recommendations in 2024”.

Hi. Nice article. Just one correction. The closest airport to Halong Bay is Hai Phong.

Thanks for the update! 🙂

Thank you so much for sharing Halong Bay. Halong is a must when traveller visit Hanoi. Overnight cruises are good but if you do not have much time so the day trip will be fine. Besides that Ninh Binh will be a good place to visit, being a local i really recommend it.

Yes, I think 2 nights is the perfect length! Ninh Binh is gorgeous too, but also quickly becoming touristy.

For the day cruise, Incredible Asia Journeys Cruise must be a good option with good reviews.

Thanks for the tip Tony 🙂

Now more and more people visit Lan Ha Bay as it is less touristic. Escape Sails Lan Ha Bay Luxury will be good as they use the expressway and Limousine bus/van so travellers have more time on the cruise and less time on bus.

Hi, Which is a goodd cruise for a family of 5 (kids 17, 15 and 11) Thanks

If you have 1 day you can take Escape Sails Luxury Cruise. If you have more than 1 day you can take Vspirit Premier or Perla Dawn Sails. They are all good cruises in Lan Ha Bay – The new trend from 2019 as it is less touristy part of Halong Bay.

We are planning on taking a cruise next February and were thinking of choosing a cruise boat that goes to Bai Tu Long Bay as we have read that it is just as beautiful and interesting as Halong Bay and is less crowded. When I wrote to the cruise company they said that the Bai Tu Long Bay route is now considered to be the more crowded route and they are now directing customers to their Halong Bay route. Have anyone else heard this?

Halong Bay Cruise is the best option for vacation. I like the beauty of Vietnam. It looks so peaceful; everyone must consider this option, especially the rates are very affordable for a two days trip. Anyone, please guide me regarding the starting destination of the next trip and how to reserve a room? Thanks!

Amazing! Thank you for your share. Unluckily, Most of cruises @ Halong now are getting in big trouble due to Covid :((

Yes, it is really heart breaking to see a lot of businesses on pause these days.

Comments are closed.

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10 Best Used Cruising Sailboats

• By John Kretschmer
• Updated: May 24, 2024

The appeal of offshore voyaging is difficult to explain to land people who can’t imagine life without basic human rights like copious quantities of hot water and unlimited data. It can even be challenging to explain to fellow sailors who think the notion of spending days or weeks at sea is a form of water­boarding, some kind of self-inflicted torture.

But for those of us who understand, who relish intimacy with the untamed wilderness that is the ocean and embrace self-­reliance and individual expression while accepting the ­dispassionate whims of Neptune, this is the good life.

There are two essential truths about this life: One, money does not matter. Cruising budgets and lifestyles reflect bank accounts with variously positioned commas; it’s the passages and landfalls that add up, not your investment portfolio. And two, a good bluewater sailboat — not necessarily an expensive boat, but a well-­designed, solidly built, imminently seaworthy boat that is only limited by your moxie and imagination — is the key to successful bluewater passagemaking.

– LEARN THE NAVIGATION RULES – Know the “Rules of the Road” that govern all boat traffic. Be courteous and never assume other boaters can see you. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

So, to that second point, I’ve compiled a list of interesting and affordable cruising sailboats for serious voyaging. A list of 10 sailboats for any purpose, much less world cruising, is sure to evoke outrage from strong-minded sailors, who by nature tend to be a bit opinionated. Stand by before hurling insults my way, and let me explain. I have decided to stay away from the sailboats we know by heart, the iconic old boats that usually populate a list like this: the Westsail 32, Tayana 37, Shannon 38 and Valiant 40 (the last of which, with a bit of searching, can still be found at or just below $100,000).

My list of some of the best liveaboard sailboats is eclectic and includes a mix of well-known and obscure manufacturers, but all the boats are linked in three ways: All are top-quality vessels capable of crossing oceans. They’re affordable, although in a few cases you have to look for older models in less-than-stellar condition to stay below $100,000. Indeed, in some ways, this list of used sailboats is a function of age; most of the boats were priced at more than $100,000 when new but have dipped below our self-imposed threshold in middle age. And finally, they’re all boats that I have encountered in the past few years in far-flung cruising destinations .

Island Packet 35

Love them or loathe them, Island Packets are everywhere. To some, the beamy, full-keel, high-freeboard hull designs seem quaint, to put it charitably. To others, the robust construction standards, roomy interiors and overall user-friendliness make them the ideal cruising boat. More than most, sailing vessels are compromises, and Bob Johnson and his crew at Island Packet were brilliant in prioritizing the needs of sailors. The IP 35 was introduced in 1988 and features a huge cockpit, an easy-to-handle cutter rig with a jib boom, and a clever, comfortable interior with the volume of many 40-footers. It might not be the fastest boat upwind, but the long waterline translates to good performance off the breeze, meaning the IP 35 finds its stride in the trade winds. In all, 188 boats were built before production stopped in 1994.

Don’t confuse the IP 35 with the IP 350, which was launched in 1997 and included a stern swim step. You won’t find a 350 for less than $100,000, but you will have a choice among 35s, especially those built before 1990. With two nice staterooms, the 35 is ideal for family cruising. I know of a couple of 35s that have completed the classic Atlantic Circle passage. It’s perfect for a sabbatical cruise because it holds its value and there’s a ready market when it comes time to sell.

Prout Snowgoose 37

There’s no room for discussion: Catamarans are crossing oceans, and many sailors are choosing cats for world cruising. My last visits to the Azores and Canary Islands, the classic Atlantic waypoints, proved the point. I’m not much of a statistician, but by my count, at least a quarter and maybe a third of the boats I saw were catamarans. There would be more on this list, but they are just too expensive. Finding a quality catamaran for less than $100,000 is tough. One boat to consider is the classic workhorse multihull, the Prout Snowgoose 37.

When the Snowgoose 37 was launched in 1983, English builder Prout & Sons had already been in business for nearly 50 years. The 37 was an updated version of the Snowgoose 35, one of the most successful cruising cats ever. In 1986, the 37 was updated again; the Snowgoose Elite model included more beam and interior upgrades. These models are challenging to find for under $100,000, but it’s possible. A quick glance at yachtworld.com shows several of both models available for less than $100,000. Again, the strong dollar makes European boats an excellent value.

The Snowgoose 37 is not sexy like go-fast cats, and not roomy like modern cruising cats. It is, however, seaworthy. Of the 500 built, many have circumnavigated. Older boats have solid fiberglass hulls, and more recent models are solid glass from the waterline down and cored above. The cockpit is rather compact by catamaran standards, and the bridgedeck is solid (no tramp). Many 37s and all Elites were rigged with staysails, a big plus in heavy weather. The masthead-­rigged Snowgoose 37 can be sailed like a monohull offshore, and it’s quite nice not having a huge, roachy mainsail to wrestle with in a storm. With a 15-foot-3-inch beam for the 37 and a 16-foot-3-inch beam for the Elite, it’s easy to find affordable dockage and yards for haulouts. Most boats have three double cabins, making the Snowgoose 37 an ideal family cruiser.

The Corbin 39 is not as well known as it should be. It’s a capable bluewater sailboat cruiser with many impressive voyages logged. My Quetzal spent several weeks moored alongside a handsome 39 in Corfu that had sailed around the world, and I also spent a winter in Malta in the same boatyard as another 39 that had recently crossed the Atlantic. A canoe-stern, flush-deck pilothouse cutter, the 39 was offered with either an aft or center cockpit. Designed by Michael Dufour and constructed by Corbin les Bateaux in Canada, hull number one was launched in 1977. Built in various locations in Quebec, 129 boats were launched before a fire destroyed the deck tooling in 1982. A new deck with a larger cockpit was designed, and 70 more boats were laid up before production ceased in 1990.

The rub on the Corbin 39 is that the majority of boats were sold as kits with owner-­finished interiors. Kits varied from just hull-and-deck to “sailaway,” with everything fitted except the interior. Only 15 boats were finished at the factory. Not surprisingly, the interior quality is unpredictable, from rough-hewn lumberyard specials to beautifully handcrafted gems finished by marine professionals. The difference is reflected in the price. A nicely finished, well-equipped model from the mid-’80s typically sells for between $60,000 and $80,000.

The hull shape features a long fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder. The hulls are heavily laid up and include Airex coring. Early decks were plywood-cored, but most boats have Airex in the deck as well. Ballast is 9,000 pounds of internal lead, translating to a 40 percent ballast-to-displacement ratio. The wide flush deck is spacious, and the sleek pilothouse usually includes inside steering. Massive double anchor rollers are incorporated into the bowsprit in later models. Most boats include a double-­spreader spar, and almost all were set up as cutters. There’s plenty of freeboard, which becomes obvious below. While interior arrangements vary considerably, there’s a lot of room to work with. I prefer the post-1982 aft-cockpit 39s; they’re generally of a higher quality than earlier boats.

– CARRY A BEACON – Satellite beacons such as EPIRBs or PLBs allow boaters to transmit distress signals and their exact coordinates from anywhere on the planet, no cell service required. It may be the best $400 you ever spend. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Cabo Rico 38

“The Cabo Rico 38 hull shape is the one in which everything came together best,” wrote Bill Crealock in his design notes. He might have changed his mind later in life, considering that the Cabo Rico was introduced in 1977 and he designed many boats after that, but few will dispute that this 38-foot cutter, built in Costa Rica, is flat-out beautiful. From the clipper bow to the sweet sheer to the abundance of honey-colored teak, the Cabo Rico 38 is a boat to inspire the most practical among us to quit their job, buy this vessel, and head for the South Pacific.

Not surprisingly, many people have done just that. Cabo Rico built 200 full-keeled 38s, with most of the production occurring in the 1980s. There’s always a selection of boats for sale for less than $100,000. Cabo Rico was an outlier among manufacturers of the time, building serious cruising boats in Central America instead of Taiwan, but quality control was always excellent. The full keel is slightly cutaway, and the rudder is attached to the trailing edge. The prop is in an aperture and totally protected, but not well suited to backing into a slip. Full-keel boats may make some younger sailors cringe, but the CR 38 has a very soft ride in rough seas and heaves to effectively. It also has a solid fiberglass hull with a layer of balsa for insulation. Sometimes it’s noted that the hull is balsa-cored, but it’s not. After about hull number 40, lead was used instead of iron for internal ballast. The deck is balsa-cored, however, and there’s a substantial bulwark. Items to be wary of are the teak decks (most 38s have them) and the fittings supporting the bobstay.

A true cutter rig, the 38 has just under 1,000 square feet of working sail area and performs better than most people suspect. The staysail was originally set on a boom that cluttered the foredeck and limited sail shape. Many boats have been converted with furling staysails sans the boom — a nice upgrade. When the wind pipes up, the 38 tracks nicely with a reefed main and staysail. I encounter 38s all over the Caribbean. They’re easy to spot; they’re the beautiful boats in the anchorage.

Tayana Vancouver 42

Ta Yang, builder of Tayana sailboats, has been building capable cruising boats forever, it seems. The Robert Harris-designed Tayana Vancouver 42 has been a mainstay of the serious cruising fleet since the day it was launched in 1979, and is still in demand today. The company built 200 boats, mostly in the ’80s and early ’90s, although a few V42s were built into the 2000s. With a bit of digging and some haggling, you can find boats for less than $100,000, but they’re likely to be older models. As of this writing, yachtworld.com has eight V42s listed, with three asking less than $100,000.

I’ve encountered the V42 all over the world, and in my yacht-delivery days, I had the pleasure of delivering a couple of 42s up the East Coast and down to the Caribbean. The double-ended hull shape with a fin-skeg underbody is stiff and seaworthy, if not wickedly fast. Considering the rugged construction, with a solid fiberglass hull and balsa-cored deck, nobody has ever accused Ta Yang of going light on its boats. Ballast is internal iron, a massive single casting that weighs in at 11,800 pounds. Ta Yang has evolved as a builder, and later models included upgrades like vinylester resin and larger Yanmar diesels.

A true cutter, the V42 has a double-spreader rig and is heavily stayed. The seagoing deck is cambered to shed water. Teak decks, with all their virtues and vices, were common; I’d look for a boat that’s been de-teaked. Like the Corbin 39, the V42 came with either a center or aft cockpit, although most boats were aft-cockpit models. The aft cockpit is deep and secure, if a bit tight due to volume sacrificed by the canoe stern. The center cockpit is cramped but offers excellent visibility. The interior is lovely, with exquisite Taiwanese joinery. Although interior arrangements vary because Ta Yang encouraged owner input, across the board, this is a friendly boat for living aboard. The aft-cockpit model includes one head and a traditional layout with excellent light and ventilation. The center-­cockpit model features a large owner’s stateroom aft.

Wauquiez Pretorien 35

The Pretorien 35 does not pay homage to tradition. The Euro-style low-slung wedge deck and flattish lines were thoroughly modern when the Pretorien was launched in 1979. Sure, there are IOR influences in this well-proven Holman & Pye design, including a slightly pinched stern, cramped cockpit, and a high-aspect, short-boom mainsail that results in a large fore­triangle. But a small main is easy to handle offshore, especially in squally conditions, and a large poled-out furling genoa provides a low-stress way to cross oceans. The test of a design is revealed long after the launch, and the Pretorien has aged brilliantly. It’s often mistaken for a Swan or Baltic. Famed voyager and author Hal Roth chose a Pretorien for his last boat.

Below the water, which is what really matters at sea, the Pretorien pushes the right buttons for serious sailing. A fine entry provides enough of a forefoot to prevent pounding in lumpy conditions, and as on the Valiant 40, the fin keel incorporates a stub to which the external ballast is fastened. The rudder is mounted well aft for excellent steering control, especially on a deep reach, and is tucked behind a narrow but full-length skeg. The Pretorien displaces 13,000 pounds, of which 6,000 pounds is ballast, translating to a stiff, seakindly boat.

The construction is superb. The solid fiberglass hull includes longitudinal stringers that stiffen the panels and encapsulate the bulkheads. Tabbing and fiberglass work is first-rate throughout. Wauquiez was one of the first builders to use solid laminate beneath high-load deck fittings. The side decks are wide and, with the chainplates well inboard, easy to navigate. The interior arrangement is conventional, but ample beam amidships helps create a surprisingly spacious feel below.

There were 212 Pretoriens built during a seven-year production run, so there’s usually a good selection of boats on the used market. Today’s strong dollar makes European Pretoriens an excellent value.

– SHOW THEM HOW MUCH YOU CARE – Nothing says ‘I love you’ like making sure the kids’ life jackets are snugged up and properly buckled. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard

Gulfstar 44

Gulfstar had a terrible reputation in the early ’70s: It was infamous for producing wide-body motorsailers with tiny rigs and chintzy Formica interiors. Company founder Vince Lazzara was adept at reading market trends and upped his game in the late ’70s and ’80s. Lazzara, who also founded Columbia Yachts, was a veteran of the production-­sailboat wars and realized that buyers were demanding high-quality boats that sailed well. The Gulfstar 44 was launched in 1978, and 105 were sold before the company started producing the Hirsh 45 in 1985.

Some mistake the G44 for a Bristol, and it has a similar profile, right down to the teak toerail and raked cabin trunk. A sleek center-­cockpit design, the hull shape features a 5-foot-6-inch fin keel, a skeg-hung rudder and moderate proportions. I know the boat well, having delivered one from Bermuda to Annapolis and another from Fort Lauderdale to Boston. It has a nice ride in lumpy seas and powers up when the big genoa is drawing on a reach. The construction is typical of the time, with solid fiberglass hulls and cored decks. Gulfstars were known to blister, and it’s likely that any 44 you find will have had an epoxy bottom job along the way — and if it hasn’t, it will need one. The keel-stepped spar has an air draft of 55 feet. Some owners have modified the sloop rig with a staysail. The cockpit is roomy, especially for a center-cockpit design, although there’s not much of a bridgedeck. All sail controls are led aft. Lazzara was an early proponent of this feature, and the boat is user-friendly overall.

The interior sells the boat. It’s nicely finished in teak, and the layout is made for living aboard. The aft cabin includes an enormous double berth with an en suite head and stall shower. The main saloon is spacious and well ventilated, although beware of the plastic opening portlights. If you are looking for a comfortable, well-built center-cockpit cruiser but can’t find one that you can afford, track down a Gulfstar 44; you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Any list of bluewater cruising sailboats must include a Robert Perry design. I could have easily put together nine Perry boats for this list. The Nordic 40 may surprise some, especially because 40 feet is an iconic length, bringing to mind such boats as the Valiant 40, Hinckley Bermuda 40, Bristol 40, Pacific Seacraft 40, Passport 40 and others. The trick is finding a 40-footer for less than $100,000. Nonetheless, the Nordic 40 and its larger sister ship, the 44, are among my favorite boats.

Based in Bellingham, Washington, Nordic produced world-class yachts during its brief production run in the 1980s. Only 40 Nordic 40s were launched between 1982 and 1987, but they’re worth seeking out on the used-boat market. The 40 features the classic double-ended Perry hull shape, with a fine entry, a deep and powerful fin keel, a skeg-mounted rudder positioned well aft, and a reverse transom. Freeboard is moderate and the sheer line is subtle, but to my eye, with its double-spreader rig and gently sloping deck line, the boat is poetry in the water.

The hull is solid fiberglass and the deck is balsa-cored, with solid laminates below loaded-up deck fittings. Original boats came with Navtec rod rigging and a hydraulic backstay, but many have been upgraded by now. Sail-control lines are led aft to the compact but functional T-shaped cockpit. The traveler is forward of the companionway, allowing for a cockpit dodger. The Nordic 40 is nimble in light to moderate breeze but can also stand up in a blow and heave to decently.

The interior is well suited to a cruising couple. It’s really a two-person boat, with a V-berth forward and large C-shaped galley aft, with plenty of counter space and a huge fridge. It includes the normal deft Perry touches — excellent sea berths, a separate stall shower and generous tankage. If you do find a Nordic 40 on the used market, be sure to take a hard look at the Westerbeke diesel and the V-drive transmission.

Pacific Seacraft 34

A handsome, nimble and capable double-ender by legendary designer Bill Crealock, the Pacific Seacraft 34 is well proven, with scores of ocean crossings in its wake.

After the boat was first launched as the Crealock 34 in 1979, Pacific Seacraft introduced a fifth model years later, a scaled-down version of the popular PS 37. Though expensive at the time, the 34 was another success story for one of America’s premier builders, and hundreds of boats were built in the company’s yard in Santa Ana, California. There is always a good selection of used boats available for less than $100,000. Another nice perk for used-boat buyers is that the 34 is back in production at the reincarnated Pacific Seacraft yard in Washington, North Carolina, providing an outlet for parts and advice. The company is now owned and operated by marine archaeologist Stephen Brodie and his father, Reid.

The 34 blends traditional values above the waterline with what was then a more modern underbody, with a long fin keel and skeg-hung rudder. A bit hefty at 13,500 pounds of displacement, the design otherwise is a study in moderation, and drawn with a keen eye toward providing a soft ride in a seaway and staying on good terms with Neptune in a blow.

The hull is solid fiberglass, and early decks were plywood-­cored before Pacific switched to end-grain balsa. The hull-to-deck joint incorporates a molded bulwark that offers added security when you’re moving about on deck, and a vertical surface for mounting stanchions.

Most 34s are cutter-rigged for versatility but carry moderate-­size genoas instead of high-cut yankees for more horsepower off the wind. Down below, the layout is traditional, but the 6-foot-4-inch headroom is a pleasant surprise. The Pacific Seacraft 34 is perfect for a cruising couple.

John Kretschmer is a delivery captain, adventurer and writer, whose own boat Quetzal , a 1987 Kaufman 47, has seen a refit or two over the years. His latest book is Sailing a Serious Ocean: Sailboats, Storms, Stories and Lessons Learned from 30 Years at Sea , also available on his website .

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Pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska

As I walked the streets in Wrangell, Alaska, I was thrilled not to have to share the town with thousands, or even just hundreds, of other cruisers.

Except for the welcoming locals, who were happy to talk about life in small-town Alaska, the only people I encountered were a few fellow passengers from American Queen Voyages' 186-passenger expedition ship Ocean Victory .

My sailing aboard this small cruise ship in Alaska was a welcome change from my previous big ship experience in the region, where the shops and restaurants were crowded with other tourists and passengers were subjected to sold-out or large-group tours.

The in-port experience wasn't the only positive of seeking out a small ship in this huge state. Here are some of the pros and cons of small-ship cruising in Alaska, so you can decide if a little ship will make a big difference in your vacation enjoyment.

Pro: No lines or long waits

I knew my first big ship experience, a 2,000-passenger cruise to Alaska , would likely be my last when I arrived at the docks in Vancouver, British Columbia, at the same time as thousands of others eager to board the multiple giant ships in port. Once on board, I waited in another nightmare queue for dinner, as most passengers had not yet figured out the reservation system for dining venues.

On small cruise ships like Ocean Victory, the dining room opens at a set time and passengers can generally file in and out at their leisure, with no wait for a table.

Although we embarked in Vancouver, our smaller ship left late in the day, after the crowds for the big ships had cleared the terminal. Getting on and off during a port day was a breeze because tour groups were small and left at staggered times. The only time I had to wait to get on or off the ship was when the crew had to change the gangplank to a different level due to the rising tide.

Pro: Intimate ships

Figuring out the right size cruise – or any group travel experience – can be challenging. To me, small ships that carry between 70 to 200 passengers, like many in Alaska, are the perfect middle ground.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

These ships are small enough for you to connect with fellow travelers and find like-minded shipmates while offering enough room for you to seek out quiet space when necessary. The more intimate setting also means more personal engagements with staff, who quickly learn your name and your individual tastes. That generally translates to more personal, attentive service.

On Ocean Victory, the expedition team and onboard scientists are encouraged to eat with the passengers so you can get to know them and tap into their expertise about the Last Frontier.

For travelers comfortable going even smaller, UnCruise has ships carrying between 22 and 86 passengers. Alaskan Dream's fleet carries from 10 to 76 passengers, while Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic Alaska cruises carry up to 100 people.

Con: Fewer dining options

If your idea of vacation is to sample as many restaurants as possible, small cruise ships aren't for you.

Ocean Victory, for example, has only two dining venues — the main dining room and a more casual bistro-style area with indoor and outdoor seating on the top deck. The menus vary daily, serving a wide range of options at every meal, and I certainly never lacked for food I enjoyed.

However, if you prefer variety, the ship has no room for specialty venues or bonus shops like ice cream or hamburger stands. On the flip side, you avoid the up-charges and scrambles to secure reservations that go along with additional onboard restaurant options.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Pro: Casual ambiance on board

As with many small cruise ships in Alaska, Ocean Victory's onboard experience was relaxed and casual. As one travel advisor noted, it was "not for people who want to get dressed up and bring out the jewels."

While some cruisers love to get glammed up for formal nights on their big-ship sailings, I'd bet the majority of travelers would rather leave the cocktail dresses and suits at home and stick to comfortable clothing for their vacation.

Related: Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

Con: Minimal entertainment on board

If you choose to sail a small cruise ship in Alaska, forget about nightlife. Intimate ships like Ocean Victory do not provide casinos, musical shows or specialty bars for your entertainment.

The extent of evening entertainment on my sailing was a few nighttime stories from expedition team naturalists over after-dinner cocktails and late-night tunes from the onboard pianist.

You can also forget about waterslides , expansive spas, kids clubs and the like. Ocean Victory did have a tiny spa and gym. But most of the small lines who sail Alaska are bare-bones, focused on adventure rather than amenities.

Related: The best Alaska cruise for every type of traveler

Pro: Authentic experiences in Alaskan ports

In Alaska, smaller adventure ships can sail through narrower passages and stop in less-visited towns, which offer a much more personal and authentic look at the real Alaska and its people.

For instance, between Vancouver and Alaska, Ocean Victory ventured out of the main part of the Canadian Inside Passage, sailing through a narrow maze of channels and passages to give an up-close view of the shorelines and wildlife of remote places like Queen Charlotte Sound and the Fjordland Conservation Area.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

Except for a stop in the popular port of Ketchikan, we visited smaller ports like Wrangell, Petersburg and Kake, getting a glimpse of everyday life and warm interactions at locally owned businesses rather than chain jewelry and souvenir ships.

These smaller towns also offered easy access to places such as the Tongass National Rainforest, LaConte Glacier and Sitkine river, which are off the better-traveled routes of the big ships.

Mixed: Limited shopping options in small towns

The flip side of getting off the beaten path is you won't find the same shopping options in small ports that you would in the major cruise ports of Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway. This could be a plus or minus depending on your point of view.

Most cities on major cruise line routes are known for their endless rows of jewelry, souvenir and specialty shops — many of which are not locally owned. If you love to spend hours looking for deals and gifts to bring home, you'll find the most variety in the big-ship ports.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

The smaller ports take a different approach to souvenirs. In Wrangell, there were only about a half dozen stores, including a grocery store, drug store and a few stores that offered essentials, like swimsuits, flip-flops, T-shirts and sweatshirts. One was more of a traditional store than souvenir shop, and the other, the Compass Line Gift Shop, offered high-quality T-shirts, hats hand-designed by the owner, candles and handmade soaps.

"We purposely don't carry items that other shops may carry on the island," the shop's website says. "We like our neighbor shops, so why compete with them."

In Kake, population 500, I didn't come across any souvenir stores at all. Instead, a few locals sold handmade jewelry, postcards and other odds and ends in the community center before the town's children performed local dances for the cruise passengers.

Pro: More adventure

Instead of just sailing between ports, small cruise ships in Alaska offer expedition days. The ships sit anchored, completely alone, and expedition teams lead passengers in the exploration of rugged coastlines via onboard kayaks and Zodiacs.

That to me is the biggest plus of small ship cruising. You don't need to sign up for excursions, disembark, then travel somewhere else to launch your adventure. On my cruise, we simply walked to the Deck 4 mudroom to suit up in life jackets and rain gear (when needed), then boarded the kayaks and Zodiacs right from the side doors and a rear platform that folded out from the ship.

While all Alaska cruises offer stunning views day in and out, there's nothing quite like skimming the coastline from your own kayak, watching for wildlife in the water and on land. We watched sea otters carrying their babies, floated among chunks of glacial ice, and viewed starfish nestled on the sea floor below and mountain goats on the cliffs above. A few lucky passengers even watched a moose take a swim.

The highlight: feeling at one with Alaska's majestic outdoors.

Con: Fewer excursion options

Because the smaller ships have fewer passengers looking to book tours, and the smaller ports have fewer companies offering day trips, shore excursion options are limited. You will get a greater variety of excursion choices on big ships.

For instance, most big ships in Alaska offer shore excursions ranging from helicopter rides to glaciers and small plane excursions to known bear habitats to scenic train trips, zip-line adventures, salmon bakes and city tours by bus or on foot.

Other than pre- and post-cruise city tours in Sitka and Vancouver, our 10-day sailing on Ocean Victory only had three days with excursion options. Each included one free basic highlights tour of the port and a few premium experiences, including sport fishing, a nature walk and two different jet boat tours.

If you like planned activities and want a larger choice of tours, the small-ship experience is not for you. But for me, the ability to wander the streets of the less tourist-oriented towns was better than any group tour. In Wrangell, a few of us stopped in the Totem Bar, where bartender Drew Eyon gave us a more interesting and real take on life on this island of 2,500 than any official tour guide ever could.

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The 157-foot, 49-guest Galileo is a classic steel-hull motorsailer cruising the Greek Isles, offering the best of the Mediterranean: sun, sea, sand and history. This stunning vessel was built with the most stringent safety regulations. First launched in 1992, she was fully rebuilt in 2007 and most recently renovated in 2016. Significant upgrades to the guest accommodations, indoor and outdoor public areas make her a delightful motorsailer for cruising the Mediterranean.

Why Sail Aboard M/S Galileo

The Galileo is one of our most popular small ships cruising the Mediterranean, and for many reasons. Although she is a motorsailer, she has the charm of a historic Mediterranean sailing vessel. She primarily cruises under power, with sails raised occasionally when weather and route allow. Being Greek-owned and operated since 1992, she brings a lot of history and a connected, authentic crew. Her itineraries focus solely on the best of the Greek Islands. At only 157 feet, she can dock right downtown in small ports that are off limits to big cruise ships. And she’s small enough to visit authentic small ports like Folegandros, Paros and Syros that highlight Greece’s archeological treasures and fascinating culture. Further, her operator offsets her carbon emissions.

Consult this page for a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our expedition cruise experts have been aboard the Galileo firsthand. Read our  Galileo cruise ship review , or let us help you compare this ship with other small cruise ships  that offer  small ship Mediterranean cruises and Greek Island small ship cruises .

Common Areas Aboard Galileo

During the day, life on board centers around the indoor lounge area and dining room, as well as the outdoor areas at the Main, Upper and Sun Decks. Renovated in 2016, the Main Deck lounge area with an American bar leads into a warm and elegant dining room finished with wood and carpet flooring, and beautiful soft fabrics.

The indoor lounge is air conditioned for hot days and the outdoor lounge provides excellent views, especially when under sail. Guests on Galileo very much enjoy the shaded outdoor area with an outdoor bar where they can relax enjoying the most breathtaking sea views. In the evening, guests watch the sunset and enjoy a drink under the stars. 

Dining Aboard Galileo

The spacious dining room seats all passengers in a single, unassigned seating and allows for spectacular views while dining in an elegant environment. Food is served at the table or presented on the state-of-the-art hot & cold buffet, which also includes an “a la minute cooking” section. Menus are a mix of traditional Greek dishes and international fare. Expect offerings that include meat, chicken or fish, but special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.

Special dining events include a captain’s dinner, deckside BBQ lunch and Greek Night featuring traditional recipes like moussaka, dolma, spanakopita and souvlaki. And most cruise routes are half-board, meaning you’ll dine on your own at port for half the meals.

Activities Aboard Galileo

The captain will drop anchor at secluded bays and beautiful uninhabited islands where, weather permitting, guests may enjoy swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The stern’s classic wooden ladder invites a dip at regular intervals. Back on the ship, board games help entertain between exciting activity stops.

The Greek crew of 16-18 ensure excellent customer service and insight. Aboard Galileo you’ll arrive early and stay late avoiding the big ship crowds. Optional tours are small and intimate with exceptional local guides. And your cruise director will customize each experience based on conditions and have access to skip the lines museums and archeological sites.

Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Galileo

The M/S Galileo’s 24 outside guest cabins are located on Upper and Lower Decks, all with portholes. Elegantly decorated, they have either two twin or one double bed and bathrooms with showers en suite. All cabins are fully air-conditioned and offer storage space, mini safes, mini fridges, hair dryers, radio music controls and telephones (for internal use). Limited laundry service is available.

The 3 Category C cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have two smaller portholes. Choose from 1 double or 2 lower beds. Approximately 102.6-119 square feet.

The 12 Category B cabins are located on the Lower Deck and have two smaller portholes. Choose from 1 double or 2 lower beds. Approximately 119-151 square feet.

The 9 Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck and have one large porthole. Choose from 1 double or 2 lower beds. Triple occupancy available. Approximately 130-140.4 square feet.

Hear It from Our Passengers Aboard Galileo

We wanted to revisit the experience from our Greece honeymoon 21 years earlier. The run up to our departure was marked by informative emails, setting and managing expectations. No complaints, all very smooth.

The staff was wonderful! The children love them.

I liked the itinerary and the ship when I saw it in your promotional materials. It sounded unique, educational and fun. And it was!

40 people of different ages, from different parts of the world. We loved the diversity of the people on the ship. Everyone seemed to enjoy everyone. A small ship allowed us to meet and become friends with everyone on the boat. Truly a great experience.

It was exactly what I was hoping for. The crew were experienced, friendly, and safety conscience. Plus everyone had a great time. I would like to check out the other destinations that variety cruises offer. They have been in business since 1949, and they know what works and what does not work, Greece is a beautiful country with centuries of history.

My husband and I had never been on a cruise or to Greece and wanted to experience something very different. I am also interested in history...this trip exceeded our expectations.

We wanted to revisit the experience from our honeymoon 21 years earlier. The Galileo has been carefully refurbished since we sailed with her in 1997. The food was even better and the itinerary was fine tuned. The planned swims off the boat were also well-received. We enjoyed Paros and Folegandros, both for their small size and accessibility. Delos for the mind-boggling history. We least enjoyed Santorini and Mykonos, one and done. But they are each the 'brand name' islands and seemingly must be visited. 

Accommodations Review

The staterooms were clean, airy, cool and well-appointed.

Meals Review

The meal plan was very smart: breakfast each day, and either lunch or dinner each day. That left a very good blend of being able to explore on the islands. The fish was generally superb. I don't recall any dishes that were sub-par.

Crew & Guides Review

Joseph was very good. A cruise director is part guide, ombudsman, comedian, ring leader. Joseph blends all components very well. I particularly liked his admonition to not advise vendors or restaurants of our boat, so that he would not be spiffed for recommending one spot over another.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Very good preparatory materials. The run up to our departure was marked by informative emails, setting and managing expectations. A very nice touch was the reading suggestions, which I leveraged to immense enjoyment. Packing tips were well-received. No complaints, all very smooth.

Traveler Advice

Read a couple of the suggested books beforehand and en route, do the Delos tour and when landing at Myknos and Santorini, get as far away from that port as possible.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Jewels of the Cyclades

The Galileo was very clean and functional. The staff was wonderful! The children love them. The chef was able to accomodate dietary restrictions easily. The food was wonderful! We liked the swim stops. We enjoyed the tours of the islands. Least enjoyed: It rained and the long trip back to Athens on the rough sea was LONG. We were grateful that the weather was beautiful for the rest of the trip.

I liked the itinerary and the ship when I saw it in your promotional materials. It sounded unique, educational and fun. And it was! Weather conditions forced this trip to run in reverse. That did not seem to negatively affect the itinerary in any way. The group was international, well-traveled, congenial, curious and just like us!!! The crew was consistently pleasant and competent. Everyone tried hard to please. The itinerary was unique in that popular tourist sites were visited by ship. The pace was comfortable. We appreciated the opportunity to explore on our own at the end of each excursion.

[I  most enjoyed the] Ancient theater at Epidaurus, Olympia and Delphi. These are amazing ancient places that I'd heard about for a long time. They were beautiful in the springtime with blossoming trees and wildflowers all about. Sailing through the Corinth Canal was a nice experience too. [I least enjoyed] Monemvasia. This wasn't described on the original itinerary, so I wasn't prepared to know what to look for here. Apparently, the ship passes here in the night when the itinerary is followed the other way around the Peloponnese. Activities seemed to be shopping (never interesting for more than a few minutes) and hiking to the top of the rock. (This would probably have been fine, if I'd been prepared with hiking boots and a walking stick, but not knowing what to expect, I wasn't).

It was mostly an older crowd with a few younger couples thrown in. They came from a variety of English-speaking countries. One evening at dinner we noted that no two couples were from the same place. We had US, Scotland, Canada, England and Australia represented. We love that! They were well-traveled and used to being part of a group like this. Everyone was on time, enthusiastic, and congenial. We enjoyed them!

I don't think you would choose to travel on a motor sailor if you want absolutely luxurious accommodations. That being said, our cabin (on the top deck) was spacious enough with full bath. Everything was very clean and comfortable. We appreciated the small safe. Hair dryer, tissues, shampoo, soap and shower gel were provided along with plenty of clean towels.

There were only two negatives: 1) Since we were all on the same schedule, we tended to want to shower at the same time. There was never enough hot water to go around.  2) The boat does not have stabilizers. So, when it was rocky it was impossible to move about. We needed to wear our seasickness patches throughout the trip.

The food gets 5 stars! It was truly outstanding, especially for a group of this size. There were always choices; food was plentiful and varied. What was supposed to be hot was hot; what was supposed to be cold was cold. No one lost any weight on this trip! The only problem was a buffet meal served when the boat was underway in turbulent water. It was impossible to walk with food, even though the staff tried hard to help. Lots of people (not me!) skipped that meal.

Joseph was on the ball and had everything under control. He was personable and I think he really believes in this itinerary and wants it to succeed. Jenny was charming and knows her stuff. She gave some good lectures in addition to leading most excursions. She was not visible when she was not providing a scheduled presentation and she was not available to be introduced at our initial meeting. That caused me to take a little longer to warm to her and to appreciate her knowledge.

Andrew always does a great job for us. He is excited about travel and he is always prompt and responsive. I was worried about making connections after this tour and he contacted the ship's folks several times to allay my worries. And sure enough, as soon as I boarded the ship they knew exactly what I needed. It all worked out perfectly! We recommend you all the time.

At this season [April], be prepared for all kinds of weather. Bring layers, from short-sleeved shirts to a down jacket. And definitely don't forget the rain gear. Hiking boots were generally not necessary. Good walking/hiking shoes typically did the trick. Read some Greek mythology and history before you go. Spring is surprisingly beautiful. There are wildflowers everywhere and the trees are in bloom.

• Antiquity to Byzantium

They were clean and well maintained.  But this isn’t a Class A boat with 5 star accommodations, so “excellent” doesn’t enter into the description.

Glad we were able to have a lunch or dinner on shore. This allowed us time to truly enjoy each place we visited. Breakfast buffets were very good. Lunch’s good. The “Greek night” dinner was very good, but the 2 others were just average.

Itinerary Review

We loved Folegandros & Paros. Both provided a more laid-back experience. Beautiful places with excellent shopping & restaurants. We loved the adjustment’s the captain made to allow us more time to swim and snorkel. This pleased everyone on the ship. We also loved the diversity of the people on the ship and the fact that everyone enjoyed everyone. The fact that this was a small ship allowed us to meet and become friends with everyone on the boat. Truly a great experience.

[We least enjoyed] Santorini & Mykonos. You can leave these 2 famous places for the large number of cruise ships that frequent the shores. Very crowded and not much fun...though we imagine they might be very nice when not overflowing with people. But we’re equally sure there are a lot more islands in the Cyclades that would be even more enjoyable to visit.

The cruise director, Viki, was very nice and professional. But sometimes our communication wasn’t great. The captain was a very nice man and seemed to go out of his way to accommodate the desires of the guests on his ship. We’d rate him as excellent and would definitely sail with him again. Local guides: we only did 1 on-shore guided tour on Santorini. We didn’t enjoy it, so chose to not do any others. Other fellow travelers felt the same, although those that did choose to do the guided tour of the heritage site of Delo’s found it very interesting and informative.

All information was great. The only item we weren’t expecting was the high temps (mid 90’s) of August. This was a last minute trip for us. We feel fortunate that everything worked as planned.

If possible, avoid traveling to this area in August. Very crowded and hot...We learned that August is not the time to do this trip. Way to many cruise ships. Way too hot this time of year (mid 90’s with high humidity). These 2 items did affect the overall enjoyment of the trip.

Very nice. I believe our cabins were cleaned twice a day. It was always clean. Actually the whole ship was spotless.

The ship had excellent food preparation and it was delicious. I like the variety of a buffet, with Greek cuisine, therefore, giving me the opportunity to try foods I would not normally eat. The welcome dinner and the captains dinner was excellent. Also enjoyed having the chance to try out the local restaurants, and local wine and beer.

I enjoyed enjoyed all of the islands, especially swimming, exploring off the ship and small coves. The water is so clear. I also enjoyed the tours, with knowledgeable tour guides, explaining the history of the islands and the many ruins. [We least enjoyed]...Mykonos. Too crowded, over priced restaurants, and poor service. Santorini was beautiful, and the captain made sure we arrived before the crowds of people. Three cruise ships arrived, with thousands of passengers, it was like Disney World. An hour wait, to take the cable car back down. We only had to experience that for a short time.

Most or maybe all the leaders of the tours, had local experience, education in their field of expertise, with multiple university degree's in Archeology, and related fields, and friendly. Some times it was difficult to understand. The use of whisperers was very helpful.

Fellow Passengers Review

 It was nice meeting people from all over world, with like minded interest.

Very good information, put together, regarding where I was going, about the ship, and what to expect.

Per fellow travelers, June and September are the best times to visit. The summers can get very hot, and very windy, We just happened to have rainy weather., in September, But it did not effect the overall trip.

• Variety Cruises

The boat itself was wonderful...the cabin was very comfortable and well set up.

Enjoyed the meals on board and those arranged near attractions. The chef was excellent, everything was very fresh and they were very accommodating. Great mixture of local dishes and more global ones.

The places were all memorable and felt unique and personal to us: Delphi, Monvasa and Olympia were especially interesting. The visit to the caves was unexpected in its beauty.

It may be helpful to prepare by reading a little about the sites, pack a few snacks for those long to lunch time days and enjoy.

Very enthusiastic, professional and combined local love of places with facts. All of the crew worked well together and seemed to gel well. Even the simple things like carrying our bags up to where the taxis met us, explaining clearly the plans, adjusting for the weather worked very well. The crew seemed to enjoy what they did and working together.

Enjoyed meeting like minded people. This was not an objective but really enjoyed that aspect of it. We did benefit from the end of season in that it was not crowded and one group on the boat had their own guide but mingled very well.

AdventureSmith was excellent and very helpful.

Get Aboard this Greece Sailboat

Enjoy an 8-day cruise to all the Jewels of the Cyclades. Sail round-trip from Athens, Greece, stopping at Santorini, Delos, Mykonos, the old Greece atmosphere of Folegandros, and more. Swim in secluded bays right from your small ship.

On this 8-day Athens, Greece cruise, circumnavigate the Peloponnese Peninsula, discovering treasures such as the Amphitheater of Epidaurus, the ancient tombs at Mycenae, the birthplace of the Olympic Games and the spectacular Oracle of Delphi.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Learn More About Sailing Aboard Galileo & Other Greece Yachts

What’s it like aboard Galileo? This ship is among a greater fleet of Greece-flagged ships that sail worldwide under the Variety Cruises brand. These yachts will have similar amenities, cabin categories, meals and other services. Read on for our traveler insights about this ship and contact us to compare them all, browse other operators and get aboard. Galileo and her sister ships are perfect options to book solo, as a couple, family, group or even as a charter. Our experts are standing by with unbiased advice, personalized to you.

Contact Us - Galileo

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13 Best Cruising Sailboats in 2023 & Why They're Better

If you're interested in long-distance exploration at sea, cruising sailboats are a popular choice. The best cruising sailboats are designed to provide comfort, durability, and seaworthiness. From high-performance cruisers with heirloom-quality materials to versatile boats, there's something in this lineup for your skill level and preference. These boats have raised the bar and are set to provide memorable sailing experiences.

The best cruising sailboats are:

Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 54

Jeanneau sun odyssey 490, x-yachts x49, dufour grand large 460, hallberg-rassy 340, tartan 4300, island packet 420, fountaine pajot saona 47, lagoon 450f, bavaria cruiser 46.

One aspect that sets these sailboats apart is their focus on innovation and performance. Let's take a closer look at the 13 best cruising sailboats of 2023 and explore what makes them stand out from the rest.

• These cruising sailboats feature spacious interiors, sturdy hulls, and versatile sail configurations.
• These sailboats are equipped with navigation and communication systems, as well as additional features such as watermakers, generators, and refrigeration systems.
• You can buy these boats for anything between $250,000 and $1.4 million or more.
• A cruiser is a type of sailboat that is generally larger and more comfortable than a racing sailboat.

On this page:

Best cruising sailboats, why these sailboats are better, the most popular cruising sailboat.

In this section, we'll explore the 13 best cruising sailboats of 2023, highlighting their unique features and reasons why they stand out in the market.

Comfortable living space : A cruising sailboat should have a comfortable living space that can accommodate the crew for an extended period of time. This includes a spacious cabin, galley, head, and berths.

Seaworthiness : A cruising sailboat should be able to handle rough seas and adverse weather conditions. It should have a sturdy hull, a well-designed keel, and a balanced rigging system.

Sailing performance : A cruising sailboat should have good sailing performance, which includes speed, stability, and ease of handling. It should be able to sail efficiently in different wind conditions.

Safety features : A cruising sailboat should have safety features such as a reliable navigation system, adequate safety equipment, and a strong anchoring system.

Storage space : A cruising sailboat should have enough storage space for provisions, equipment, and personal belongings. This includes storage lockers, shelves, and compartments.

Energy efficiency : A cruising sailboat should have an energy-efficient system that can provide power for lighting, electronics, and other equipment without relying on shore power.

Durability : A cruising sailboat should be built to last and withstand the wear and tear of extended cruising. This includes using high-quality materials and construction techniques.

The Amel 50 is known for its luxurious and comfortable accommodations, and excellent seaworthiness. Its unique features include a spacious interior with modern design, an innovative cockpit layout, and a powerful yet easy-to-handle sailing system.

The Amel 50 has a unique feature called the "Amel Easy Docking" system, which allows for easy and precise maneuvering in tight spaces. It also has a unique "Amel Silent Block" system, which reduces noise and vibration for a more comfortable ride.

The Oyster 565 is known for its high-quality construction, attention to detail, and luxurious accommodations, as well as its excellent safety features. It provides you with exceptional performance and comfort. Its sleek hull design offers fast, stable sailing, while the spacious, high-quality interior ensures you'll enjoy your time onboard.

The Oyster 565 has a unique feature called the "Oyster Deck Saloon," which provides 360-degree views and adequate natural light in the living space. It also has a unique "Oyster DNA" system, which allows for customization of the boat to suit the owner's preferences.

With its cutting-edge design and performance, the Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 54 lets you sail in style. Its chined hull, twin rudders, and easy handling make it a pleasure to sail, while the spacious, modern interior ensures your comfort on longer voyages.

The Beneteau Oceanis Yacht 54 has a unique feature called the "Dock & Go" system, which allows for easy and precise maneuvering in tight spaces. It also has a unique "Beneteau Smart Sailing" system, which includes a suite of electronic and navigational tools for easy and safe sailing.

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 490 is known for its hard chine design, and excellent performance and stability. It offers innovative design and functionality. Its walk-around decks, unique cockpit layout, and high-quality interior make it ideal for cruising in comfort.

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 490 has a unique feature called the "Walk-Around Deck," which allows for easy and safe movement around the boat. It also has a unique "Jeanneau Sun Loft" system, which provides a flexible and customizable living space.

The X-Yachts X49 combines performance, luxury, and comfort. It is known for its high-performance hull design, excellent speed and stability. With its fast hull, advanced sailing systems, and plush interior, the X49 is perfect for both racing and cruising.

The X-Yachts X49 has a unique feature called the "X-Yachts Pure X" system, which includes a suite of performance-enhancing features such as a carbon fiber mast and boom, a racing-inspired sail plan, and a deep lead keel.

The Dufour Grand Large 460 provides you with both comfort and performance. It is known for its innovative design, featuring a self-tacking jib and retractable bow thruster for easy handling. Its spacious interior, ergonomic deck layout, and powerful sailing capabilities make it an excellent choice for long-distance cruising.

The Dufour Grand Large 460 has a unique feature called the "Dufour Easy" system, which includes a suite of tools for easy and safe sailing, such as a self-tacking jib and retractable bow thruster. It also has a unique "Dufour Grand Large Lounge" system, which provides a flexible and customizable living space.

Experience easy handling and modern style with the Hanse 458. It is known for its sleek and modern design, self-tacking jib, large swim platform. Its innovative self-tacking jib, efficient deck layout, and comfortable accommodation make it perfect for family cruising.

The Hanse 458 has a unique feature called the "Hanse Easy Sailing" system, which includes a suite of tools for easy and safe sailing, such as a self-tacking jib and retractable bow thruster. It also has a unique "Hanse Individual Cabin Concept" system, which allows for customization of the living space to suit the owner's preferences.

Known for its quality and craftsmanship, the Hallberg-Rassy 340 offers you comfort and performance in a compact package. It is known for its classic design, long waterline, spacious cockpit, and comfortable and practical accommodations. With its stable hull, efficient sailplan, and well-designed interior, it's ideal for long-range cruising on a smaller scale.

The Hallberg-Rassy 340 has a unique feature called the "Hallberg-Rassy Hardtop," which provides protection from the elements and a spacious cockpit area. It also has a unique "Hallberg-Rassy Quality Concept" system, which includes high-quality construction materials and techniques for durability and longevity.

The Tartan 4300 delivers a perfect balance of performance and comfort. It is known for its high-quality construction, cored hull and deck for added strength and durability. Its epoxy-infused hull provides lightweight strength, while the spacious, beautifully crafted interior ensures a luxurious cruising experience.

The Tartan 4300 has a unique feature called the "Tartan Infusion Molding Process," which allows for precise and consistent construction of the hull and deck for added strength and durability. It also has a unique "Tartan Smart Sailing" system, which includes a suite of electronic and navigational tools for easy and safe sailing.

For those who value comfort and classic design, the Island Packet 420 won't disappoint. It is known for its full keel design, excellent stability and seaworthiness. Its spacious, well-appointed interior and solid construction make it a reliable choice for long voyages.

The Island Packet 420 has a unique feature called the "Island Packet Full Foil Keel," which provides excellent stability and seaworthiness. It also has a unique "Island Packet Anchoring System," which includes a powerful windlass and a custom-designed anchor roller for easy and safe anchoring.

The Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 catamaran offers you the perfect combination of speed, stability, and space. Its sleek hulls and spacious, well-designed living areas make it an excellent choice for cruising with friends and family.

The Fountaine Pajot Saona 47 has a unique feature called the "Fountaine Pajot Helmsman's Position," which provides excellent visibility and control of the boat. It also has a unique "Fountaine Pajot Lounge Deck" system, which provides a spacious and comfortable living space.

Cruise in style on the Lagoon 450F, known for its spacious accommodations and excellent performance under sail. With its distinctive flybridge, comfortable cabins, and efficient sailing system, it's ideal for multi-day getaways.

The Lagoon 450F has a unique feature called the "Lagoon Flybridge," which provides excellent visibility and control of the boat. It also has a unique "Lagoon Spacious Cockpit" system, which provides a comfortable and practical living space.

The Bavaria Cruiser 46 is a versatile and stylish cruiser that offers excellent performance and comfort. It is known for its innovative design, featuring a drop-down transom for easy access to the water. Its user-friendly sailing systems, attractive interior, and practical deck layout make it an ideal choice for a wide range of cruising adventures.

The Bavaria Cruiser 46 has a unique feature called the "Bavaria Hybrid Propulsion System," which allows for energy-efficient sailing and propulsion. It also has a unique "Bavaria Smart Storage" system, which provides enough storage space for gear and supplies. Additionally, the Bavaria Cruiser 46 has a unique "Bavaria Vision" design concept, which includes a spacious and comfortable living space with plenty of natural light and ventilation.

Cruising Gear Essentials

Key features to look for

Versatile hull design.

This allows your sailboat to navigate in various conditions, making it ideal for long-distance cruising.

Efficient sail plan

By having a well-designed sail layout, your boat provides better control, handling, and propulsion.

High-quality construction

Top-quality materials and craftsmanship not only increase the boat's durability, but also enhance its performance.

Comfortable accommodations

When you spend extended periods at sea, you want your sailboat to feel like home, with adequate living space and modern amenities. For an extended sailing trip, you are going to need these 41 sailboat cruising essentials .

How they improve sailing experience

Easier boat handling.

Advanced rigging systems, self-tacking jibs, and other innovative technologies make it easier for you to manage your boat, allowing for more time spent enjoying the sea.

Increased safety

State-of-the-art navigation equipment and weather forecasting systems help you anticipate environmental changes, ensuring a safe voyage.

Sustainable power options

Many sailboats in 2023 come with solar panels, hydro generators, or hybrid propulsion options, reducing your environmental impact and providing more sustainable choices while out at sea.

Integrated connectivity

These boats boast digital systems that allow you to stay connected, monitor your journey, and update your friends and family with your adventures.

Their advantages over others

Better performance.

These boats have been designed with speed, stability, and maneuverability in mind, ensuring top-notch sailing experiences.

Longevity and value

Since they're built with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship, these boats are certain to last, making them a wise investment.

Customization options

Many of these sailboats offer customizable features, allowing you to tailor the boat to your specific needs and preferences.

Award-winning designs

Several of these boats have received prestigious awards for their innovative features and performance, making them the ultimate cruising sailboats for any passionate sailor.

The Island Packet 420 and Lagoon 450F are the two most popular cruising sailboats known for their comfort, seaworthiness, and versatility.

The Island Packet 420 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat that has a loyal following. It is known for its spacious interior, comfortable accommodations, and good sailing performance.

The Island Packet 420 features a full keel and a cutter rig, which makes it a stable and seaworthy vessel that can handle a variety of weather conditions. The sailboat has a large master cabin, a well-equipped galley, and a comfortable salon area, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy extended periods of time at sea.

The Lagoon 450F is a popular choice for those who want to explore the world by boat. It is known for its spacious interior, stable platform, and good sailing performance.

The Lagoon 450F features a catamaran hull design, which provides a stable and comfortable platform that is ideal for long-distance cruising. The sailboat has a spacious cockpit, multiple sleeping quarters, and a well-equipped galley, making it a popular choice for those who want to travel with family or friends.

The best size cruising sailboat

The best size cruising sailboat is in the range of 40 to 50 feet. Sailboats in this size range are large enough to provide comfortable accommodations for an extended period of time at sea, yet small enough to be easily handled by a small crew or even single-handed.

Sailboats that are too small may lack the necessary amenities and space for long-distance cruising, while sailboats that are too large may be difficult to handle and require a larger crew. Ultimately, the best size cruising sailboat will depend on individual preferences, needs, and intended use, and it's important to consider factors such as comfort, safety, and ease of handling when choosing a cruising sailboat.

The safest cruising sailboat

Hallberg-Rassy 340, and Island Packet 420 are considered among the safest cruising sailboats. These sailboats are known for their sturdy construction, well-designed hulls, and reliable systems. They are also known for their ability to handle a variety of weather conditions and their comfortable accommodations. However, safety can also depend on the boat maintenance, and the skill and experience of the crew.

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