Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Viking's purpose-built expedition ship is designed to explore the world's most remote destinations in comfort, immersing you in majestic, untamed regions. This 665-foot, Polar Class 6 vessel offers beautifully designed staterooms, from Nordic Balconies to spacious Explorer Suites, all reflecting Viking's understated elegance.

In 2020, the River Countess was completely redesigned and reintroduced as the S.S. La Venezia, offering guests a more luxurious experience inspired by Northern Italy. The new design showcases elegant Fortuny fabrics, Murano glass, gilded details, and intricate etched accents. These elements reflect the classic Venetian style of the early 20th century, creating a sophisticated and nostalgic atmosphere onboard.

The MV Avangard is a modern deluxe vessel, offering a luxurious cruising experience along the Croatian coast. Launched in 2017, this state-of-the-art ship is equipped with the latest technology and amenities to ensure maximum comfort.

The MV Maritimo is a spacious, modern ship, fully air-conditioned and featuring the latest state-of-the-art equipment and amenities.

Anouvong is a charming boutique luxury ship that expertly combines French-Colonial finesse with traditional Laotian ambiance and artwork. It is as imposing as the upper Mekong River in Laos. Travelers on this luxurious ship enjoy the most luxurious accommodations as they explore Laos' most stunning and remote regions along the meandering river.

The Galaxy Diver II is an exclusive yacht unveiling the wonders of the Galapagos Islands' most incredible diving sites. Dive into the hidden underwater galaxy, the expert team and cutting-edge equipment ensure a world-class experience with sharks, whales, manta rays, turtles, and more.

The M/S Quest, formerly the Sea Endurance, accommodates 53 passengers in 26 cabins outward-facing cabins with large sea view windows, making for an immersive cruise of polar Svalbard. A lounge, library, and open bridge inside complement the spacious observation deck outside, where you can enjoy the relaxed and informal social atmosphere onboard.

With the style of a classic luxury yacht, the 54-guest Lord of the Glens cruises through the inland waterways of Northern Europe that links Scotland's most famous lochs in spectacular style.

Comfortably accommodating 96 passengers, the National Geographic Endeavor II is a classic expedition vessel ideal for Galapagos exploration. Onboard areas include a global gallery of art, a gym, library, lounge and bar, and bridge. Zodiacs, a glass-bottom boat, snorkel gear, and kayaks are also available.

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.

The Victory II is an elegant intimate ship for 190 guests, offering cultured North American adventures. Intimate and agile, it can easily navigate oceans and lakes, canals and locks, tranquil bays, and hidden ports where larger ships cannot go. Amenities include dining venues, lounges, an observation deck, a 24-hour gym, and a Salon and Spa. All suites and staterooms feature elegant furnishings, a full bathroom, an armoire, and a hair dryer.

Experience sophisticated design, innovative sailing technology, all-balcony staterooms and suites, and the finest expedition staff from aboard the comfortable and sophisticated 199-passenger Le Lyrial.

Onboard Angkor, Pandaw passengers can truly immerse themselves in the culture and sights along the river. This extraordinary vessel was made by traditional craftsmen. It is hand finished in teak and brass, with colonial charm. Time onboard delivers a refreshing experience, as all of the staterooms open to the open-air lounge and the outside.

Launched in 2025, Connect is a modern European river ship designed for immersive journeys through Germany, France, The Netherlands, and beyond. This 120-guest vessel blends innovative sustainability with elegant comfort, offering a refined, regionally connected cruising experience.

The Victory I is an elegant small ship that welcomes up to 190 guests on sophisticated adventures across North America. With its intimate size and agility, it easily navigates oceans, lakes, canals, and hidden ports that larger ships cannot reach. Amenities include two dining venues, two lounges, an observation and sun deck, a 24-hour gym with classic fitness equipment, and a Salon and Spa. Choose from six cozy room categories. All suites and staterooms are equipped with a full bathroom with a shower, an armoire, a chest of drawers, and a hair dryer for your convenience.

Admire the breathtaking views of the Douro, the "river of gold", from the comfort of the MS Infante Don Henrique, a ship small enough to moor at a town or city port, but large enough to provide you every amenity. The capacity for 142 passengers allows a warm atmosphere on board, as well as the opportunity for privacy and independence.

The M/S Mama Marija ship will launch in 2018 in Split, Croatia, according to the newest European standards. With its latest state-of-the-art equipment, amenities, and its elegant 18 cabins this newly built yacht provides a comfortable cruise along the Adriatic Coast. 

Built with the latest state-of-the-art equipment and amenities, M/S Ambassador can surely guarantee its 40 passengers with comfort and safety while cruising along the Croatian Coast.