Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Launched in 2014, the beautiful Avalon Illumination, a sister to the Avalon Expression, cruises along the legendary Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers.

These Dahabiya Cruise ships are a type of wooden sailboat built on a steel hull and contain cabins for travelers' accommodation. It is a large and comfortable sailing boat of simple but elegant form. Relax under the sun and experience life like an Egyptian aristocrat. Pass through the green valley, villages, and off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Measuring 443 feet in length and carrying just 163 passengers, the luxury vessel, Scenic Jade marries space and intimacy with a sense of exclusivity not regularly found on Europe's waters. Couple this with a 1:3 crew to passenger ratio and guests can expect attentive service from the minute they step aboard these illustrious river cruise liners.

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.

Experience a smooth river cruise experience on board the MS Elbe Princesse, a ship built in 2016, with the capacity to accommodate 80 passengers in 40 cabins. Explore the treasures of the Elbe as you relax and enjoy the amenities offered by the ship's professional and friendly crew.

Embark on a polar adventure aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the first luxury hybrid electric icebreaker. With 123 suites featuring private balconies, Swarovski binoculars, and Riedel crystal glasses, this ship offers unparalleled luxury. Dine at Nuna for gastronomic delights or Sila for a more relaxed atmosphere. Sustainable features include a spa with the Blue Lagoon pool heated by the ship's energy system.

Jaz Crown Prince offers a luxurious cruising experience on the Nile with spacious cabins featuring large windows for mesmerizing views. Guests can enjoy local storytelling sessions, nightly performances, and enjoy both local and international cuisines. With 76 double cabins, 4 single cabins, a main restaurant, a poolside bar, and a lounge bar.

Sail the famous River Nile in luxurious style on-board the famous MS Royal Viking. This ship sets sail from Luxor Port every week and is one of the most magnificent floating hotels on the River Nile. Indulge your senses and explore the magic of the Land of Pharaohs.

Experience sophisticated design, innovative sailing technology, and the finest expedition staff from aboard the comfortable and sophisticated 199-passenger L' Austral.

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

The refurbished, 335-passenger MS Spitsbergen is named after the island of Spitsbergen in the Svalbard archipelago, the Arctic crown of Norway.