Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Arriving in early 2023, SH Diana will be the largest ship in our fleet, providing elegant and spacious 5-star accommodation for 192 guests in 96 spacious staterooms and suites, the vast majority with large balconies. Operated by an onboard team of 140 she will provide the highest levels of personal service and take Swan Hellenic back to its roots when she launches, exploring the Mediterranean and its famous sites of antiquity. Now sit back, relax and take a moment to get to know this amazing new ship, purpose-designed for our unique cultural expedition cruises.

These twin motor yachts will take you on an authentic Galapagos adventure in comfort and style. Panoramic windows, a sun deck, and a shadow deck allow you to experience the Islands in the most intimate way possible. Guests enjoy air- conditioned cabins with private bathrooms.

With four decks, this cruise ship is one of the biggest boats in the Galapagos, offering plenty of amenities and features onboard, but still managing to balance that with a feeling of intimacy and proximity to the natural charms of the Islands. Guests enjoy a casual atmosphere, with only the highest standards of comfort and service.

The Seaman Journey is a first class catamaran offering luxurious cruises of the Galapagos. With superior comfort, style and stability, her 16 guests will enjoy the numerous on board amenities in addition to the exploration of these islands.

Alya catamaran offers luxury cruises to the Galapagos Islands. Accommodating just 16 passengers, the Alya boasts 9 spacious cabins with private facilities and a private balcony in each. Inside are the library, lounge, and dining areas, and outside guests can enjoy an ample sun deck and Jacuzzi.

Indulge in an intimate cruise with the opportunity to visit an ever-expanding choice of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service. Authenticity and a love of travel are the focal points of this opulent setting.

Grand Majestic is the only modern mega-yacht cruising the Galapagos. This elegantly sporty yacht is the fastest in the Islands and offers high-quality service, a Master Suite, and luxurious social areas to make your trip a once in a lifetime experience.

The 58-passenger Admiralty Dream is a small ship with a shallow draft and stately pace of cruising so that nothing will be missed in the narrow channels, bays & islands of Alaska's Inner Passage. Experience warm yacht-style cruising with a knowledgeable & friendly crew, in the comfort of the ship's lounge, sun deck, and well-appointed cabins.

The Ocean Nova (previously called Sarpik Ittuk) was built in 1992 at the Ørskov Shipyard in Frederikshavn, Denmark, to navigate the ice-choked waters off Western Greenland. The ship was upgraded in 2000 and significantly refurbished once again in 2006.

Combining luxury, amenities, and many social areas, the recently remodeled 90-passenger Santa Cruz II reigns in the Galapagos as one of the most comfortable large cruise ships in the archipelago. Featuring all new a fitness room, gift shop, al fresco BBQ area, restaurant, bar, & lounge, as well as other social areas to get to know your fellow passengers.

Exceeding every prospect the Infinity Luxury Yacht offers high performance, unrivaled comfort, respect for the environment and stunning style to make your cruise unforgettable. Sail through the Galapagos Islands and delight your senses with one of the world´s most desired destinations.

The creation of the National Geographic Orion in 2003 heralds a new breed of expedition ship: a state-of-the-art vessel which combines the latest advances in ship design and communication technology with all the style and comfort of a luxury cruise ship.

Cruise the Galapagos Islands aboard the M/C Endemic, a glamorous catamaran that provides guests the style and comfort they need to have an adventure of a lifetime! The outer design is sleek, streamlined and attractive: the gentle curves of the hull and decks of the Endemic mimic the unique Galapagos ecosystem.

Hermes Mega Catamaran defines the future of Galapagos’ luxury cruising through a perfect balance of comfort, unparalleled service, and memorable experiences aboard, on land, and in the water. It challenges the notion that you must compromise comfort on a large cruise ship for intimacy on a small vessel.

The 40-passenger Alaskan Dream carriers guests on a variety of cruises exploring narrow channels, stunning landscapes, spotting wildlife and experiencing traditional cultures of Alaska. All cabins have extra large windows for spotting wildlife, while top-notch cuisine and knowledgeable naturalist guides help you understand Alaska's wilderness.

Perhaps the most luxurious small yacht in the Galapagos, the new Galapagos Elite set sail in Summer 2019. It has reinvented luxury, comfort and class in the Galapagos!

The Aria Amazon is a true luxury cruise ship on the northern Amazon River in Peru. Combining the best of eco-tourism with luxury, the Aria Amazon offers an extraordinary level of comfort for her 32 guests.

The sleek, intimate Le Lyrial sails under the French flag and entrances her passengers with her contemporary decor, comfortable suites, and refined ambiance. Her elegant design allows her to be an ideal sailing vessel.