Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Farah Nile Cruise is a 5-star deluxe ship sailing the Nile in style. Built in 2011 and refurbished in 2019, it offers 56 cabins and 2 suites with modern comforts, Wi-Fi, and 24h service. Onboard amenities include a restaurant, lounge bar, gym, sauna, library, massage room, and sun deck with Nile views.

Cruise the Nile on Farouz El Nil I, a Dahabiya-class ship built in 2018 and updated in 2023. This classic vessel combines vintage charm with modern comfort, offering personalized service, scenic views, and a relaxed small-ship experience—perfect for exploring Egypt’s culture and history at a slower pace.

The MS Royal Elite Nile Cruise is a 5-star deluxe ship sailing year-round between Luxor and Aswan. Built in 2005 and refurbished in 2020, it features 72 air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Onboard highlights include a sun deck with pool, lounge bar, restaurant, spa, and evening entertainment. Flagged in Egypt.

Step aboard Icebird, an ice-strengthened expedition yacht built for serious polar adventure. Designed for Antarctica’s challenging conditions, Icebird offers rare access to remote areas larger vessels can’t reach. Wind-driven and expedition-proven, this vessel delivers an intimate, hands-on experience for travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary.

MV Freya is a classic expedition ship built with the highest 1A ice-class rating, carrying just 12 guests for an intimate Arctic experience. Once a lighthouse-building vessel, she combines rugged strength with modern comfort, offering spacious cabins, multiple viewing decks, and a welcoming onboard atmosphere. With two Zodiacs, a sauna, and an open-bridge policy, Freya delivers authentic small-ship exploration with character and charm.

Experience ultra-luxury travel on Scenic Ikon across Europe, the Mediterranean, and Antarctica. Enjoy indulgent suites, 15 dining venues, wellness and fitness facilities, curated excursions, and exclusive helicopter and submersible experiences.

The elegant 152-passenger AmaSofia, debuting in Spring 2026, introduces a new era of river cruising along the Rhine and Danube. This contemporary ship offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with ample space for relaxation. Enjoy panoramic views and fresh air from spacious balcony staterooms, featuring both comfort and modern design.

Swan Cruise Halong is a traditional wooden cruise ship sailing Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. This small ship offers an intimate cruising experience in the Gulf of Tonkin, combining classic design with essential onboard comforts for scenic overnight cruises.