Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

MS Fridtjof Nansen is the latest addition to HX Expeditions' fleet of custom-built ships – and the next generation expedition ship. The ship explores some of the most spectacular corners of the globe.

The Avalon Tapestry II is a true haven on the river - two full decks of Panorama Suites with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air Balcony.

Launched in August 2016, the Danubio Azul is a tourist-class diving yacht authorized by the Galapagos National Park for both diving and naturalist cruises. This voyage offers an intimate and unforgettable way to explore one of the world's most stunning destinations, Galapagos.

Travel aboard the 152-passenger S.S. Antoinette, a rare pearl on the Rhine River, and capture the moment of seeing Germany on one side and France on the other, while enjoying the sites from the Sun Deck.

Travel aboard the luxurious 128-passenger S.S. Joie de Vivre, while cruising along the waterways of Seine River, and enjoy the ship's original artwork, antiques and design inspired by 20th-century Parisian design from the Golden Twenties.

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.

Experience the Galapagos Islands on the National Geographic Delfina, launching in early 2025. This luxurious catamaran offers refined and stable cruising, accommodating 16 guests in eight spacious, air-conditioned staterooms. Enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air Observation Deck, a whirlpool hot tub, and al fresco dining on the Upper Deck.

Bask in the unparalleled scenery of the Danube on an Avalon View river cruise. It?s the newest Suite Ship by Avalon Waterways, offering passengers a top-notch cruise experience with award-winning Panorama Suites and masterfully designed common areas.

Marvel at the beauty of Danube River on an Avalon Envision cruise. An impressive addition to the Avalon Waterways Suite Ship fleet, this river cruise ship has 67 luxury accommodations for up to 164 passengers exploring Europe.

The Avalon Expression, launched in 2013, is a 164-passenger ship that is almost identical to the Avalon Panorama and Avalon Vista. It offers cruises on the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers.

The stunning AmaDahlia is an inviting 72-passenger ship offering 36 standard staterooms, including 16 magnificent suites with a wealth of amenities that will surprise and delight you.

Oberoi Philae is a ship of elegance and graciousness, with ideal size. It was built in 1996 and was extensively reconfigured in 2015 with just 22 cabins that can accommodate up to 42 guests. It has achieved an ideal design of a ship that could give you both adventure and relaxation.