Small Ship Cruises Worldwide

Kayaking during a small-ship Alaska cruise in the Inside Passage

Nile Adventurer on an Egyptian cruise

Photo by Terri Dion on her trip to Antarctica

Antarctic Dream off loading zodiacs during an Antarctic Cruise

The luxurious Atmosphere - nature and fly fishing cruises in Chile

Legendary wildlife in the Galapagos Islands

What is an Expedition Cruise?

There are many different ways to explore the world – many different means of travel. But there are very few options that combine the excitement, intimacy and the ease of an expedition cruise. Learn more about what an expedition cruise has to offer and why it is such a popular choice for some of the world’s most savvy travelers.

Remote Locations

The size and skill of expedition vessels allow access to some of the world’s most remote locations — some of which are only accessible by sea. Ships accommodate anywhere from 16 to 200 passengers. Unlike the larger cruiseliners, expedition vessels are uniquely designed with the strength to handle the seas’ powerful passageways, and are small enough to manipulate into isolated locations that are out of reach to larger ships. Nearly all vessels are equipped with zodiacs, and allow daily excursions to secluded shorelines and up-close interaction with marine wildlife.

World Travel

Our world is connected by waterways. Unlike any other form of travel, an expedition cruise opens the world to exploration, providing journeys from the ancient marvels of the Mediterranean to mystifying Easter Island. Destinations are chosen for their natural beauty and their rich culture. Icebreakers traverse the frozen waters of the Antarctic and Arctic. Research vessels cruise the lush coastlines of Vietnam and China’s vibrant Hong Kong. Luxury yachts follow Africa’s Cape Verde to the Canary Islands. The destination is up to you – an expedition cruise provides you with the means to turn ordinary travel into a world adventure.

Excitement

While itineraries are designed to explore the best of each region, they allow room for the unpredictable and unexpected surprises that make each trip, each destination, unique. It is impossible to plan for a humpback whale gracing the underbelly of your zodiac. Or a cultural exchange with a Peruvian woman in the Azapa valley. Or a fiery sunset over the Niger River. Or a howler-monkey lingering in the surrounding jungles of Tikal’s ancient Maya ruins. Possibilities are as exciting as they are endless.

Ease and Safety

Expedition vessels combine the convenience of guided travel with the freedom and flexibility of a small-group. Enjoy the company of like-minded travelers from around the world.  Expert guides and knowledgeable crew enhance your experiences off and on board. Vessels also carry naturalists and lecturers who eagerly share their insight of each region, and help prepare you for the daily land excursions.

To learn more about small ship cruises to specific destinations, follow the links below:

Africa Cruises
Alaska Cruises
Arctic Cruises
Asia Cruises
Caribbean Cruises
Central America Cruises
European Cruises
Galapagos Cruises
Mediterranean Cruises
North America Cruises
South America Cruises
South Pacific Cruises