Small Ship European Cruises

Designed for low-impact voyages featuring a fuel-efficient Ulstein X-Bow®, reduced air emissions and light pollution, and virtual anchoring for protection of the sea floor. The ship honors the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle. This ship will channel her marine-conservation ethos into a fully immersive on-board guest experience, not only in the Polar regions but in other destinations as the ship sails between the Arctic and the Antarctic.

With only 132 passengers on board, Greg Mortimer reimagines Arctic expedition, tropical, and European cruises for the future. Modern, comfortable, and designed with guests in mind, this ship represents a significant increase in sailing capability.

Star Clipper is a 170-passenger vessel designed to provide a unique traveling experience unlike any other cruise vacation. Step aboard and discover a new age of sailing, where the traditions of the past are happily married to the comforts and amenities of the present day.

The Royal Clipper is the largest full-rigged sailing ship in the world, carrying just 227 privileged guests aboard. She offers the ultimate tall ship sailing experience, balancing the grandeur, adventure, and tradition of sailing with the superb service, amenities, and accommodations of the finest modern yacht. .

The Star Flyer is a stylish vessel designed to accommodate 170 passengers in an intimate and comfortable atmosphere. This true clipper ship reflects its proud heritage in every inch of its polished brass and gleaming brightwork. The décor of Star Flyer is reminiscent of the grand age of sail with spacious accommodations and expansive teak decks.

Introducing the Douglas Mawson, Aurora Expeditions' latest small ship for global exploration. With sustainability features and luxurious amenities, it accommodates up to 154 adventurers, offering unique itineraries including East Antarctica and Subantarctic Islands explorations.

Built in 1976 and reconstructed in 2008, the MV Plancius is fully equipped for polar expedition cruises to the Arctic and Antarctica, and accommodates 112 passengers in 54 comfortable cabins.

Explore polar regions in style and comfort aboard the all-suite Sea Spirit. Providing spacious accommodations for a maximum of 114 passengers, the Sea Spirit also features the maneuverability and friendly atmosphere of a small ship.

5-star elegant Scandi-design boutique ship offers you an intimate setting from which you will be fully immersed in all the sights and scenery of your voyage.

The Ultramarine is designed with an ice rating of 1A+, PC6, making it one of the most capable polar exploring vessels on the planet. Equipped with two twin-engine helicopters, Ultramarine offers the most robust portfolio of adventure activities in the industry, the most spacious suites in its category, breathtaking public spaces, and more outdoor wildlife viewing spaces than other expedition ships its size.

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.

The MV Hondius is designed to sail to the polar regions while impacting them as little as possible, accommodating 174 passengers cruising to Antarctica.

The L'Austral, sister ship to the Le Boreal, is the fruit of Italian expertise and French sophistication. A superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins, the L'Austral links tradition and innovation, cruising to worldwide destinations in luxury.

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 ice-strengthened vessel Ortelius is an excellent ship for polar expedition cruises in the Arctic and Antarctica, providing us with possibilities to adventure to remote locations such as the Ross Sea in the Antarctic and Franz Josef Land in the Arctic.

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.

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.

Experience the luxurious settings that Le Laperouse offers while you enjoy the authenticity and passion for travel on each itinerary. Its contemporary decor and comfortable, fully equipped suites make it the ideal small cruise ship for exploring the Arctic, Mediterranean and even the Seychelles Islands.