Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

The latest addition to the Discovery Yacht fleet, Scenic Eclipse II, stands proudly as a sister ship to Scenic Eclipse. It boasts enhanced wellness experiences at the luxurious Senses Spa, a stunning new Sky Bar, and a refreshing Vitality pool on Deck 10. This remarkable vessel explores the captivating southern hemisphere, including the uncharted territories of East Antarctica, Australia, the South Pacific, and Asia.

Updated as recently as 2014, the 200-passenger ice class Ocean Endeavor explores the most remote areas in comfort and style. With several decks and lounges, 20 zodiacs, and even a swimming pool, sauna, and hot tub, this is the perfect ship for Arctic exploration.

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.

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.

The sleek Chichagof Dream was recently renovated and makes its inaugural voyage in 2016. Accommodating up to 74 passengers in 37 cabins, the ship features expansive viewing areas, new carpets and furnishings, and a commanding hull design.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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 National Geographic Quest is a state-of-the-art expedition ship accommodating 100 guests in 5 different categories of fully equipped cabins. It is fully stabilized for cruising unique polar passages and wonderful tropical landscapes while providing comfort and adventure in every journey.

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.

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.

Ocean Explorer, purpose-built for polar exploration, is a striking vessel accommodating 138 passengers. This modern and elegant ship boasts state-of-the-art technologies, including the innovative ULSTEIN X-BOW® for a smooth and stable ride in challenging seas. Enjoy panoramic ocean views in the two-story bow library, and experience modern Scandinavian-designed cabins with verandas for most. The ship offers a spacious gym, sauna, two outdoor Jacuzzis for relaxation, ample outdoor viewing areas, and multi-height outer decks. With 15 Zodiacs for off-ship adventures and sustainability features like fuel-efficient Rolls Royce engines, Ocean Explorer is an eco-friendly choice for polar exploration.