Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Named for Darwin's famous theory, the Evolution is a comfortable motor yacht ideal for families or travelers hoping to get in some diving on their Galapagos vacation. The itineraries focus on the natural experience and give you engaging ways to experience what the Islands' first explorers did centuries ago.

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

The Ocean Nova is a nimble and sturdy expedition ship designed for intimate Antarctic adventures, accommodating just 80 guests. Its compact size allows access to remote coves and close wildlife encounters, while cozy cabins feature large windows and the Panoramic Lounge offers 200-degree views and insightful presentations.

The S.S. Victoria, sister ship to the S.S. Elisabeth, brings contemporary luxury to the 2024 European fleet, featuring the largest suites on Europe's rivers.

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 Panache is a classic Dutch barge that offers a spacious size unusual on a hotel vessel. Her well-designed interior and contemporary style makes it the perfect ship to appreciate the very best of the region, passing storybook villages along the way, visiting places such as Strasbourg, admiring their Baroque and Romanesque architecture.

Discover the rich history of Portugal and Spain as you journey through the Douro River Valley aboard the incredible MS Amalia Rodrigues, the newest ship cruising the Douro River.

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.

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.

MV Skorpios III was built in 1995 at the Skorpios shipyard in Chile. Her cabins and hotel infrastructure were remodeled in 2012. The ship is 70 meters long, has a 10-meter beam, and a 3.30-meter draft, displacing 1,600 tons.

An intimate river yacht, the Sanctuary Sun Boat III represents the ultimate in luxury and relaxation on the Nile. Discover the essence of tranquility and elegance in 18 beautifully designed cabins and suites.