Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Launched in 2008, the AmaDante is part of the newest, state-of-the-art fleet of river cruise vessels in Europe.

Launching in 2018, Ventus Australis (Southern Winds) is a new state-of-the-art ship carrying up to 210 passengers in 100 cabins. Join Ventus Australis on a journey through the narrow fjords and channels of Patagonia and step ashore at fabled Cape Horn. The ship features multiple options of well-appointed cabins, spacious decks, and a dining area.

Embark on the brand new Stella Australis, launched in 2010 for Patagonia cruising. Part of the Australis fleet, the Stella has 100 cabins each feature picture windows, private facilities & satellite phone.

Walk the lands that inspired famous artists like Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin with the 159-passenger S.S. Catherine cruising along the waterways of Saone and Rhone Rivers and enjoy a culinary-focused French cruise.

The ship's art, decor, and colors are inspired by the northern lights, creating a unique ambiance. MS Nordlys is comfortable, and passengers can relax in the lounges after a day of activities.

Aranui 5 is a new custom-built, dual-purpose passenger/freighter that sails in French Polynesia on a 14-day all-inclusive cruise. Aranui 5 accommodates approximately 254 passengers in 103 cabins.

Scenic Sapphire boasts all luxury amenities, as well as a handful of new and innovative features. From the vitality pool and updated wellness area to the bespoke cooking suite, guests can enjoy a raft of extravagant features when cruising along French waterways aboard Scenic Sapphire.

Scenic Gem sails the beautiful Seine River. Enjoy private butler service, spacious suites, a wealth of dining options, including L'Amour fine dining restaurant. Attentively designed to negotiate the magical waters of the Seine, Scenic Gem has set a new precedent in luxury river travel since being built in 2014.

Introducing with pride the newest member of the Elixir family, "GEMAYA." The Gemaya is unique, expertly fusing her military background with exquisite design. The yacht configuration is perfect for socializing or retreating to privacy. Guests experience personal service, fine dining, and attention to detail while discovering the Greek islands in impeccable style and comfort.

Rosa is an old Dutch "Clipper" barge, built in 1907 as a cargo on the waterways of Holland. After its full renovation in 2010, it is now an elegant hotel barge that navigates through a colorful, captivating part of southwest France.

The MV La Belle des Océans is a maritime vessel that transports passengers in comfort and style to delightful destinations all around the world, from the Mediterranean to Southeast Asia to the mighty St. Lawrence river.

The Avalon Panorama first set sail in 2011 as a brand new kind of ship for Avalon Waterways, taking inspired design to a whole new level. It was the first of its kind, a Suite Ship with two full decks of suites featuring wall-to-wall panoramic windows that transform the living space into a unique open-air balcony.