Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Sail through Portugal and Spain aboard the MS Vasco de Gama, a 142-passenger ship built in 2002 and refurbished in 2009. Let yourself dazzle by the romantic Douro River and enjoy the best of French and European cuisine as you cruise along the most charming cities and towns.

Designed for polar exploration, Silver Endeavour breaks the ice of luxury expedition travel. Travel to the ends of the Earth aboard Silver Endeavour. Sailing from pole to pole, the newest ship redefines the meaning of ultra-luxury expedition cruising.

Built in 2016, Champa Pandaw Cruise is a new addition to luxurious Laos River Cruises, winding its way along the dramatic Upper Mekong. Designed in colonial style and finished in teak, bright-colored wood, this traditional vessel just fits right into its surroundings in a clean and natural way.

This luxurious yacht redefines elegance, with a teak-panel interior, cozy lounge, and a fully stocked bar. There's also a photo & video film lab and plenty of space onboard to store dive gear. In addition to the social areas and engaging itineraries, the air conditioned cabins will give you the perfect place to rest after a full day of activities.

Explore the American Heritage, a modern paddlewheel riverboat, offering spacious staterooms, gourmet dining, and scenic cruises along the historic Mississippi River. Unwind in lounges, enjoy onboard activities, and savor local cuisine.

Delfin III is an elegant all-suite river ship sailing the Ucayali and Maranon rivers in Peru’s Upper Amazon, offering year-round voyages that explore remote tributaries and vibrant river communities while showcasing Amazonian-Peruvian cuisine and sustainable local design.

Measuring 443 feet in length and carrying just 163 passengers, the luxury vessel, Scenic Jewel 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.

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.

Sailing on the brand-new MV Rhapsody is sure to provide an unforgettable cruising experience through Croatia, especially when entering smaller ports of call.

Built in 2009 and began operations in Burma (Myanmar) in 2011. RV Indochina Pandaw was specifically designed to provide a superior river cruise experience and features two decks – an Observation Deck and a Promenade Deck – offering fantastic views of enchanting riverside scenery.

Sea Cloud II is a captivating sailing vessel designed for scenic voyages along Italy and Croatia's shores, delving into lesser-explored archipelagos and idyllic coves. This romantic tall ship seamlessly merges modern comforts with the grace of a traditional square rigger, reminiscent of the iconic 1930s yacht, Sea Cloud.

Step aboard the Jakare, a 2016 traditional South Celebes Phinisi-style sailing ship. The 35-meter-long vessel boasts modern amenities and stylish decor crafted from teak, ironwood, and merbau. Relax in spacious common areas, perfect for families or small groups.