Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Embark on this refurbished 88-small ship, the Legacy. Emulating an earlyl victorian steamer, this charming vessel carries guests on small ship cruises to Alaska, Columbia River cruises, and historic Northwest exploration. History comes alive with lecturer

Silver Origin is the height of experiential travel in the Galapagos. This 100-passenger destination-specific ship offers an extraordinary voyage for extraordinary people sailing to Galapagos.

The (formally RMS) St. Helena, originally built to serve a remote community, is a British-built, 2022-refurbished vessel with a rich legacy. Now part of the Terra Nova fleet, she offers adventure-filled Antarctica voyages that are uniquely capable and character-rich small expedition ship delivering value and purpose in every journey.

The Tip Top II was built in 2008 and redesigned in 2015-2016 to offer the highest level of comfort and the best experience in the Galapagos Islands.

The MS La Boheme sails along the romantic Rhine and blue Danube. Built in 1995 and recently refurbished, the La Boheme is an oasis of comfort as you sail the rivers of Europe.

The enchanting Jahan captivates and transports guests back in time with an aura evoking the glory of former British India. Named after the celebrated 16th-century Indian emperor and a great patron of the arts, Shah Jahan, Heritage Line designed this regal craft with fine artworks and outfitting sourced from India.

RV Bassac Pandaw is a 4-deck luxury Mekong river cruise ship with 30 identical cabins. RV Bassac Pandaw riverboat was built in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) and launched in 2012.

Emerald Liberté offers its 136-passengers a sophisticated experience while sailing the Rhône and Saône Rivers. The suites, staterooms and public spaces are set across four beautifully-appointed decks, providing an endless scope for relaxation and enjoyment whilst cruising. Utilize the world-class facilities and amenities on board, such as the sun deck, heated pool, bar, lounge, and authentic fine dining experience.

The MS Leonard Da Vinci is a comfortable and friendly ship that sails on the Rhine and its tributaries. It includes pleasant facilities such as a lounge bar and dance floor, restaurant, small library, gift shop, and spacious sun deck.

Emerald Harmony, the newest Emerald Star-Ship launched by Emerald Cruises, was designed to take up to 84 passengers and this watercraft is designed specifically to navigate the waters of the Mekong.

Polar Athena is a purpose-built polar vessel with the highest 1A Super ice-class rating, carrying just 42 guests for an intimate, flexible Antarctica experience. Originally a research ship, she combines authentic expedition spirit with modern comfort, featuring stabilizers for a smoother ride, five Zodiacs for swift landings, and elevated viewing platforms for wildlife and photography. Guests enjoy welcoming lounges, an intimate restaurant, and a wellness area with a sauna and hot tub. Accommodations range from twin cabins to spacious suites, including a single cabin for solo travelers, all designed for comfort and practicality.

ARANOA is a mixed passenger and freighter ship that sails in French Polynesia, mainly the Austral Islands. It offers 91 cabins, including suites with balconies and dormitory-style options, and can host up to 198 passengers. The ship combines reliable transport with comfortable accommodations for inter-island travel.

Immerse yourself in the hearth of the European culture on board the intimate and comfortable 100-passengers MS Mona Lisa. Experience a unique European cruise and let yourself dazzle by the romantic Rhine, Havel and Elbe River, and enjoy the best of French and European cuisine as you cruise along the most charming cities and towns.

Explore Europe's legendary waterways on the luxurious small ship MS Amadara. It boasts a capacity of 124 passengers, a wide range of facilities, and a wide range of ports of call.

The Sea Lion, sister ship of the Sea Bird, can reach places inaccessible to larger ships due to its small size, yet it comfortably accommodates 62 guests in 31 outside cabins with windows, private facilities, and climate controls.

The stunning Galaxy Orion is a fully-equipped liveaboard yacht that gives a unique experience for diving lovers. It is totally rebuilt in 2022 and provides leisurely excursions, optimal comfort, attentive guides, and redesigned cabins and social areas. With a capacity for just 14 passengers in 8 well-appointed cabins, this is an ideal vessel for your Galapagos cruise.

The Origin, Theory & Evolve combines modern sophistication and a high level of comfort and service, with quality guided land excursions in small groups, gastronomical experiences, physical activities and science lectures.

Launched in Galápagos in 2022, the sleek National Geographic Islander II sails year-round in the islands. A best-in-class expedition ship, expertly refitted to facilitate the active exploration at the heart of the Lindblad experience, and has the spirit and soul of a private yacht.