Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

Embark on an unforgettable journey aboard Le Bougainville, a luxurious expedition vessel crafted for intimate exploration. Exclusively chartered by Abercrombie & Kent, this elegant ship welcomes just 148 guests, ensuring a personalized and refined experience.

Cruise the Nile on Farouz El Nil I, a Dahabiya-class ship built in 2018 and updated in 2023. This classic vessel combines vintage charm with modern comfort, offering personalized service, scenic views, and a relaxed small-ship experience—perfect for exploring Egypt’s culture and history at a slower pace.

The MS Royal Elite Nile Cruise is a 5-star deluxe ship sailing year-round between Luxor and Aswan. Built in 2005 and refurbished in 2020, it features 72 air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Onboard highlights include a sun deck with pool, lounge bar, restaurant, spa, and evening entertainment. Flagged in Egypt.

Step aboard Icebird, an ice-strengthened expedition yacht built for serious polar adventure. Designed for Antarctica’s challenging conditions, Icebird offers rare access to remote areas larger vessels can’t reach. Wind-driven and expedition-proven, this vessel delivers an intimate, hands-on experience for travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary.

Experience ultra-luxury travel on Scenic Ikon across Europe, the Mediterranean, and Antarctica. Enjoy indulgent suites, 15 dining venues, wellness and fitness facilities, curated excursions, and exclusive helicopter and submersible experiences.

Swan Cruise Halong is a traditional wooden cruise ship sailing Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. This small ship offers an intimate cruising experience in the Gulf of Tonkin, combining classic design with essential onboard comforts for scenic overnight cruises.

Embark on the Galaxy Stella and explore the breathtaking Galápagos Islands. Discover a yacht designed for up to 12 guests, creating a more personal and immersive journey. Experience close connections with nature as gentle ocean sounds and shifting light shape every moment onboard.