Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

The American Independence, accommodating 90 guests, explores the East Coast of the U.S. Built-in 2010 by Chesapeake Shipbuilding, it features spacious lounges with panoramic views and delicious regional menu that changes daily. Staterooms are over 250 square feet, and some have private balconies. Amenities include a sun deck and a library.

Discover the Columbia and Snake Rivers on the iconic paddlewheeler American Pride, where the intimate setting of just 150 guests ensures unparalleled personalized service and hospitality.

American Serenade, inaugurated in 2023, offers panoramic views through its four-story glass atrium. The 91 spacious staterooms, ranging from 250 to 650 square feet, feature full-size bathrooms, roomy closets, and private balconies. The ship, with a guest capacity of 180, also includes an onboard fitness center and six common areas for relaxation.

Embark on a luxurious river cruise aboard the Avalon Artistry II, an Avalon Waterways Suite Ship famed for spacious staterooms, panoramic views, and unique river tours in Europe and Asia.

The beautiful MV Seagull, which was reconstructed in 2014, is now cruising the Croatian coastline in style and relaxation.

Cruceros Marpatag's Maria Turquesa catamaran offers comfort and stunning glacier views. The main deck hosts 180 guests with a children’s area, while the exclusive premium deck seats 16. Enjoy four exterior decks, gourmet dining options, beverages, air-conditioned interiors, and bilingual guides for an unforgettable Patagonia experience.

Designed for Nile River cruises, the Nile Adventurer features a sun deck with heated swimming pool, a lower shaded deck with bar, air-conditioning throughout, a gymnasium, internet access, gourmet meals, and an exclusive entertainment program.

Launched in 1996 and fully refurbished in 2006, Sanctuary Sun Boat IV offers a Nile River cruise experience unlike any other - with private docks in Luxor and Aswan, her own feluccas, and uniquely tailored sightseeing to help avoid the crowds.

American Song leads the American River Cruise Revolution with pioneering innovations. Featuring contemporary styling and modern design, this flagship vessel offers panoramic views from lounges soaring 40 feet above water. With spacious suites including private balconies, indulge in unparalleled comfort.

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.

Discover the famous Bordeaux wine regions of France on the newly refurbished 124-passenger S.S. Bon Voyage, designed to immerse guests in French culture, art, wine and lovers of all things French.

S.S São Gabriel is the newest ship on the Douro river, which is designed to embody the beautiful Douro River Valley region, offers more lavishly appointed suites than Queen Isabel, and brings the destination to life through its decor and delectable food and wine.