Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

The luxurious ship Aqua Nera draws design inspiration from the Peruvian Amazon?s mystical blackwater lagoons and bears the hallmarks of contemporary style and generous interiors. Highlighting a cuisine by Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, one of Peru?s finest chefs, known for creating refined cuisine from native Amazonian produce.

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.

Designed to deliver a safe, comfortable and deeply immersive experience, Ocean Albatros offers an array of attractive onboard features and cabin choices – most with balconies, and even a large suite that can accommodate a family of five!

Cruising the Galapagos Islands is an unforgettable experience because of its unique up-close encounters with amazing wildlife. The cherry on top is to enjoy this privilege in a small more personalized cruise setting.

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the 'Grande Dame of Polar Exploration' due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland's Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.

The National Geographic Explorer is a state-of-the-art luxury expedition ship accommodating 148 guests in 81 outside cabins. It is fully stabilized, for cruising polar passages while providing comfort.

With ample deck space, signature twin or French balconies in most staterooms, and occupancy for 164 passengers, the MS Amaprima offers a modern and comfortable way to experience the Rhine River of central Europe. Reflective of classic ocean yachts, you'll even find a fitness room, a massage & hair salon, and a unique glass elevator.

Scenic Azure was specifically designed for sailing the Douro River. Enjoy an all-inclusive luxury experience with just 96 guests onboard. The intimate and relaxed atmosphere, providing safe, luxurious passage atop the glistening waters of the Douro, Scenic Azure has set a new precedent in luxury river travel since launching in 2016. 

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.

Cruise the polar regions in luxury aboard the Le Soleal. This small ship carries 224 passengers in luxurious accommodations with first class amenities.

The Galapagos Angel is a first-class private yacht with the highest navigation standards for the best sailing experience on the sea. Galapagos Angel accommodations are comfortably designed for 16 passengers, who can enjoy breathtaking views through the panoramic windows and top-notch service.

Anahí Catamaran Yacht offers a perfect Galapagos exploration with a 16-passenger capacity, personalized service, safety, and comfort in 8 cabins, including ocean-view suites, professional crew, jacuzzi, and scenic sunset sailing.

The Galaxy is a motor yacht that accommodates 16 passengers and cruises the Galapagos Islands. This yacht boasts beautiful woodwork, air conditioning and spacious cabins featuring exceptionally flexible cruises of 4, 6, 8, 10, 11 and 15-day itineraries touring the best of Galapagos.

Exquisitely appointed, the Safari Explorer carries 36 passengers on small ship cruising of Hawaii with luxury. She features an intimate wine library, spa area with complimentary massage, and luxurious staterooms.

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.

The newly refurbished expedition vessel Safari Endeavour's three decks provide ample outside viewing opportunities and relaxing public spaces for gathering with new found friends. A full-beam swim step makes launching a kayak and boarding the skiff easy.

Seaventure features a 1-A Super ice class rating — the highest ice class awarded to passenger vessels. This means that she can explore Antarctic coves, bays, and channels that would previously have been forbidden.