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Penguins and cruise ship in Antarctica

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No matter where you want to go in the world, we have a small ship cruise perfect for you! If you've never taken a small ship cruise before, you might be wondering why you should consider this alternative to the big resort vacations or major cruise liners, and we think the cruises speak for themselves - with capacity for between 12 and under 200 passengers, you are guaranteed a more intimate atmosphere onboard, which makes for better service from the crew, faster boarding and de-boarding time at each destination, and a friendlier feeling between you and the other guests. Our small ship cruises visit all of our enchanting destinations, including the Galapagos Islands, AlaskaNorth America, Canadian Maritimes, the Arctic and Antarctica, the Mediterranean & Adriatic Seas, the rivers of Europe, and the rivers, seas, and islands of Asia, the South Pacific, and the Middle EastLet us know when you're ready to start planning your small ship adventure

Top 10 Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025

Top 16 Destinations for Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025

10 Best Antarctic Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Classic Antarctica Air Cruise$159958Dec 6, 2024Embark on this 8-day Antarctic cruise on the Magellan Explorer. Fly over the Drake Passage round-trip from Punta Arenas to King George Island where …
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Antarctica - Basecamp$990013Dec 25, 2024Take your Antarctic expedition to the next level! This 13-day Antarctic Peninsula Basecamp voyage aboard MV Plancius is packed full of adventures …
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Antarctic Small Ship Expedition$699510Nov 14, 2024Embark on this 10-day Antarctic adventure with Magellan Explorer. Sail the Beagle Channel from Ushuaia and across the Drake Passage to the western …
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Classic Antarctica Air Cruise$114958Dec 2, 2024Embark on this 8-day Antarctic adventure with Ocean Nova Air Cruises. Fly over the Drake Passage from Punta Arenas to King George Island where you …
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Antarctica - Basecamp$910013Nov 23, 2024Embark on MV Hondius for an adventure of a lifetime. This 13-day expedition cruise of the Antarctic Peninsula is packed full of adventure with hiking …
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South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula$899510Jan 20, 2025Board Ocean Victory on this 10-day cruise to the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula. Set foot on the Antarctic continent as well as …
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Antarctica Express Air Cruise$49956Nov 29, 2024The fastest possible trip to Antarctica, and one of most economical is this 6-day cruise/flight starting in Ushuaia. Sail the Beagle Channel, Cape …
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Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent$1139511Nov 14, 2024On this 11-day adventure to the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula you'll cruise through sea ice, witness penguins building their …
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Antarctic Peninsula: Fly the Drake - Fly/Fly Expedition$2379512Feb 8, 2026Get a chance to observe seals and penguins in their natural habitat. Spend 12 days aboard the Sylvia Earle exploring Antarctica's huge white …
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Epic Antarctica: Crossing the Circle via Falklands & South Georgia$3849523Dec 16, 2024From the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) to South Georgia to the Antarctic Peninsula, you will have countless unforgettable moments on this …
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Antarctica Small Ship Cruise Video

Top 10 Arctic Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Svalbard Encounter Expedition Micro Cruise$109258May 12, 2025Join the 8-day summer cruise through Svalbard aboard the MV Vikingfjord and discover the breathtaking wilderness, glaciers, and natural beauty of …
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Wild Landscapes of West Greenland$2169515Aug 15, 2025Join the 15-day expedition cruise aboard the Sylvia Earle, beginning in Nuuk, Greenland's northern capital. Beyond Nuuk, sparse settlements line the …
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Svalbard Odyssey$1679512Jul 2, 2025Join a 12-day expedition aboard the Greg Mortimer roundtrip Oslo, discovering the marvels of Svalbard's perpetual daylight. Encounter polar bears and …
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Spitsbergen - Northeast Greenland - Aurora Borealis, Including Long Hikes$745014Aug 23, 2025This 14-day Spitsbergen and Northeast Greenland cruise sails waters filled with breath-taking scenery. The expedition passes through areas that are …
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Norway's Fjords and Arctic Svalbard (Northbound)$2497216May 28, 2025Cruise across Norway's fjords and Arctic Svalbard on a 16-day expedition aboard the National Geographic Resolution, and explore the wilderness, …
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Arctic Sights and Northern Lights$819512Sep 15, 2025On this 12-day tour, Sea Spirit takes you to the breathtaking fjords, beaches, and islands of the Arctic, as well as the beautiful dancing waves of …
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East Greenland Explorer$1246510Sep 15, 2025Embark on an 10-day expedition cruise with MV Vikingfjord to East Greenland's Scoresby Sund, filled with pristine wilderness, icebergs, fjords, and …
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Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard and the Northern Fjords$1725012Apr 25, 2026This 10-day Arctic expedition on National Geographic Resolution takes you to the remote islands and fjords of northern Norway such as Sørøya Island …
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Northeast Greenland's Unexplored Sea Ice$2603015May 24, 2025This 15-day cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore Greenland's northeast coast, one of the most remote regions in the Far North. Take the time …
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Ring Around Iceland$98998Jun 19, 2025Embark on an 8-day Reykjavik roundtrip cruise aboard World Traveller and explore Iceland's captivating landscapes. Spot puffins along the shoreline …
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10 Best Europe River Cruises for 2024-2025

Europe River Cruise Travel Guide

Top 10 Small Ship Cruises of the Mediterranean for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Jewels of the Cyclades$25008Apr 25, 2025Experience the Aegean Islands on an 8-day cruise on the Galileo from Athens. Visit famous spots like Santorini and Mykonos, as well as lesser-known …
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Mediterranean Enchantments$119908Nov 16, 2024Join this 8-day Eastern Mediterranean cruise aboard Emerald Azzurra and explore the wealth of beauty that Greece has to offer. Visit Sarandë on the …
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Croatia and Montenegro$27738Jul 10, 2025Discover Mediterranean charm on this 8-day cruise aboard the MV La Belle de L'Adriatique. Start and end in the historical city of Dubrovnik. Explore …
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Capri to Croatia: Rome to Dubrovnik$74997 Discover the best of Italy and Croatia on this 7-day luxury Mediterranean cruise. From an overnight in legendary Capri off the Amalfi Coast to a …
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Dubrovnik to Split$17908Apr 26, 2025On this 8-day Adriatic cruise, sail from Dubrovnik to Split and discover the beauty of enchanting Croatia. The M/S Mama Marija takes you on this …
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Croatia & Slovenia$9604Jun 25, 2025The Royal Clipper invites you on this 4-day cruise from Croatia to Slovenia. Starting and ending in Venice, Italy and exploring the towns of Rovinj …
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Croatia & Montenegro$21908Jul 19, 2025Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard Royal Clipper. Visit the Croatian towns of Hvar and Vis before returning to Venice. The journey is your destination …
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The Hidden Pearls of the Aegean Sea$1028010Jun 26, 2025Embark on a 10-day Greek cruise aboard Sea Cloud, starting in Athens and exploring iconic landmarks like the Parthenon. Sail to Nauplio, Monemvasia, …
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Aegean Escape$49858May 9, 2025Experience an 8-day Aegean Sea voyage through the Cyclades, from renowned Santorini to hidden treasures like Milos. Aboard Gemaya and delight in the …
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Saronic Gems$49858Apr 25, 2025Experience the charm of Greece's Saronic Gems on an unforgettable 8-day voyage aboard the Gemaya. Explore pristine beaches, enchanting islands, and …
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Top 8 Small Ship Cruises of the Canadian Maritimes for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Fall Foliage on the St. Lawrence: Québec to the Canadian Maritimes – with Smithsonian Journeys$1450015Oct 1, 2025On this 15-day Fall Foliage cruise from Toronto to Boston aboard Le Champlain, explore the stunning coastlines of eastern Canada and northern New …
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New England and Canada$739912Apr 16, 2025Experience a 12-day cruise from Portland to Toronto aboard Victory I and explore historic cities, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures. From …
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Canadian Arctic & Northern Lights$2058017Sep 14, 2025Join the SH Vega for a 17-day Northern Canada Discovery cruise to learn the cultures, art, and wildlife of the magical Arctic while exploring its …
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New England and Canada$739912Oct 3, 2025Embark on a 12-day cruise from Toronto to Portland aboard Victory II, experiencing vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich maritime …
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Canadian Discovery$849513Apr 11, 2025Set sail on a 13-day Viking voyage from New York City to Toronto. Explore iconic landmarks, sail the Atlantic, experience the historic charm of …
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Montreal to Portland$499910Oct 29, 2025Set sail on a 10-day cruise from Montreal to Portland aboard the Voyager I. Experience Montreal’s European charm and explore Quebec City’s …
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Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes – with Smithsonian Journeys$1204012 Join a 12-day journey with Smithsonian Journeys aboard Le Champlain from Québec to the Canadian Maritimes. Explore Montréal, historic Québec City, …
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The Canadian Maritimes and Newfoundland$1108810Aug 31, 2025Embark on the National Geographic Explorer on this 10-day cruise and sail into eastern Canada's breathtaking natural beauty. Discover Newfoundland's …
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10 Best Small Ship North & South America Cruises for 2024-2025

North & South America Small Ship Cruises Travel Guide

10 Best Central America & Mexico Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Wild Costa Rica Escape$41906Nov 18, 2024Discover the treasures of one of Costa Rica’s richest regions, Guanacaste, on a 6-day voyage aboard National Geographic Quest. As you venture from …
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Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America – with Smithsonian Journeys$64208Feb 19, 2026Join this 8-day cruise aboard Le Champlain to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage of Panama and Costa Rica, including the white sands …
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Baja California: Among the Great Whales - Eastbound$69818Jan 5, 2025Enter the California gray whale birthing lagoons of Bahia Magdalena for close encounters with these gentle giants, a rare privilege in the natural …
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Secrets of Central America$709011Feb 3, 2025Embark on an 11-day expedition cruise from Colon to Puntarenas aboard the Le Bellot. Journey around the isthmus of Panama, a biodiversity hotspot …
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Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America – with Smithsonian Journeys$60548Jan 6, 2025This magnificent 8-day voyage onboard Le Bellot explores Panama and Costa Rica's vast natural splendors. Among the highlights of this trip are …
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Costa Rica & Panama Canal$1129512Apr 19, 2025Embark on a 12-day Costa Rica & Panama Canal Cruise with travel photographer Richard I'Anson. Explore Costa Rica's rainforests, and Panama's coral …
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Costa Rica & Panama$16408Jan 11, 2025Embark on an 8-day cruise exploring Costa Rica and Panama's natural beauty and rich history. Land at Puerto Caldera and discover the tropical …
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Costa Rica and the Panama Canal$66018Nov 23, 2024Discover Costa Rica & Panama on this wonderful 8-day expedition cruise aboard the National Geographic Quest. Venture into remote wilderness: hike …
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Secrets of Central America$782011Jan 19, 2026Join this 11-day Secrets of Central America cruise and explore Panama and Costa Rica, starting at San Lorenzo’s Fort and traveling from the …
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Baja California: A Remarkable Journey$1272615Mar 4, 2025Join a comprehensive 15-day photo expedition exploring both the Pacific side of Baja California and the islands in the Sea of Cortez. Venture into …
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10 Best Small Ship Cruises of the South Pacific for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Tahiti & the Society Islands$29908Nov 23, 2024On this 8-day cruise through Polynesian paradise, explore the best of the South Pacific from aboard the Paul Gauguin, with stops in the …
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Society Islands, Cook Islands, Tonga & Fiji$859016Jan 4, 2025Discover the South Pacific's most storied, beautiful, and culturally vibrant islands, towns, and cities during this 15-day cruise on the luxury ship, …
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Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands$770015Jan 17, 2026Set sail on a 15-day voyage with the Paul Gauguin, starting in Tahiti. Immerse yourself in Tahitian traditions, explore Fakarava and Fatu Hiva, and …
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Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands$859014May 1, 2025Embark on this 14-night journey across four South Seas archipelagos, this adventure offers insight into diverse cultures and landscapes. Experience …
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Society Islands & Tuamotus$605012May 2, 2026The Society Islands and the Tuamotu Archipelago beckon on this 12-day South Pacific cruise aboard Paul Gauguin. Explore lush rainforests and …
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Crossing Melanesia: Australia To Fiji$700017Apr 15, 2025Set sail on this 17-day cruise Crossing Melanesia from Australia to Fiji, exploring remote islands and cultures. Highlights include Papua New Guinea, …
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Tahiti & the Pearls of French Polynesia$439012 Embark on a 12-day cruise from Papeete, Tahiti, aboard the Panorama II, explore Moorea, Rangiroa, Tikehau, and more, experiencing snorkeling, …
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Tahiti, the Society & Tuamotu Islands$409011Nov 19, 2024Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Panorama II, exploring the captivating Society Islands and Tuamotu archipelago. Encounter ancient temples in …
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Tahiti & Islands of French Polynesia$27508Nov 29, 2024Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the Panorama II through the enchanting islands of French Polynesia, including Tahiti and Bora Bora, renowned for …
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Cape York & Arnhem Land$875012Apr 1, 2025Join Coral Discoverer on its 12-day expedition that sails across the top of Northern Australia to explore the remote islands and ancient cultures …
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Top 10 Small Ship Cruises of the Caribbean for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Grenadine Islands$17008Dec 7, 2024On this 8-day expedition cruise, the Royal Clipper explores the Grenadine Islands. Enjoy blissful, laid-back beach days and appreciate the beauty of …
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Classic Yachtsman Caribbean$17008Nov 30, 2024Royal Clipper offers the ultimate sea-going experience as you travel to the beautiful beaches and landscapes of the Caribbean. This 8-day sailing …
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Enjoy Caribbean Rhythms at the Turn of the Year$1159515Dec 20, 2024Explore the best of the Caribbean on this cruise aboard the Sea Cloud. From the Dutch Colonial port town of Philipsburg, sail to the British Virgin …
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Western Antilles$28808Oct 6, 2025Explore the Caribbean in this 8-day itinerary. Start in Philipsburg, Sint Maarten, Gustavia, Saint-Barthelemy, Deshaies in Guadeloupe, Saint-Pierre, …
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Pearls of the Caribbean$66209Dec 29, 2024Join the Le Champlain on its 9-day sailing expedition to explore the enchanting islands in the Caribbean Sea visiting Port Elizabeth, Bequia Island …
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Windward Islands$17008Dec 14, 2024Board the luxurious Royal Clipper sailing ship for this 8-day roundtrip cruise of the Caribbean, departing from Bridgetown, Barbados to St. Lucia, …
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Treasure Islands$16408Dec 7, 2024Don't miss the opportunity to relax on one of the beaches and enjoy the tropical sun's warmth. Soak up the sun in one of the world's most gorgeous …
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Cruising the Leeward Islands$102708Nov 30, 2024Embark on an 8-day Cruising the Leeward Islands aboard Emerald Sakara from Marigot roundtrip. Explore Anguilla, Virgin Gorda, and other stunning …
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A Colorful Caribbean Time-Out$75008Jan 10, 2025Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard Sea Cloud Spirit sailing to explore Old San Juan's historic charm. Wander streets lined with colorful facades and …
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Pearls of the Caribbean$52009Dec 12, 2025Join Le Bellot on its 9-day sailing expedition roundtrip from Fort-de-France and explore the enchanting islands in the Caribbean Sea visiting Port …
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Top 10 Small Ship Cruises of Asia for 2024-2025

10 Best Africa Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Classic Egypt Tour$21448Nov 14, 2024Join this 8-day Egyptian journey, starting in Cairo with visits to the Giza Pyramids. Fly to Luxor to explore its temples and tombs before setting …
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Nile River Explorer$581610Nov 14, 2024Cruise the Nile aboard a luxuriously-outfitted riverboat and visit some of the world's greatest archaeological sites. The Pyramids of Giza are the …
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Treasures of Egypt$930013Nov 14, 2024Discover the world's greatest concentration of ancient treasures, including pyramids, tombs, and temples, on this 13-day cruise on the magnificent …
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Islands of Cape Verde Archipelago$30908Nov 22, 2025Set sail on this 8-day cruise from Palmeira aboard Harmony V. Explore Cape Verde's diverse landscapes and rich blend of African-Portuguese heritage.
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Cruises in the Garden of Eden$26908Nov 16, 2024Explore the stunning Seychelles Islands on this unique 8-day cruise in the garden of Eden from aboard the small ship Pegasos. Swim in the refreshing …
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Luxor to Aswan$12405Nov 17, 2024Explore this historic region of Egypt on a 5-day Nile River cruise from Luxor to Aswan. Aboard the Sanctuary Sun Boat IV, discover the legendary …
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Cruises in the Garden of Eden$19505Nov 16, 2024Discover the Seychelles as they were meant to be seen: by small ship! Hop from island to island on this 5-day Seychelles cruise aboard Pegasus as you …
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Cruises in the Garden of Eden$15504Nov 20, 2024Embark the Pegasus and discover Seychelles by small ship on this 4-day cruise. Explore this unspoiled paradise with frequent trips ashore to snorkel, …
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Rivers & Rails of Africa$1499513Mar 7, 2025This 13-day tour combines a stay in Cape Town, a Chobe River cruise aboard the comfortable Zambezi Queen, a safari in Chobe National Park, and a stay …
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Rivers of West Africa - Dakar to Dakar$29908Jan 11, 2025Learn about Africa's vegetation, fauna and history as you sail through Senegal and Gambia's rivers. Harmony g invites you on a spectacular 8-day trip …
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Top 1 Middle Eastern Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Cruising the Arabian Coast – with Smithsonian Journeys$75159Jan 16, 2025Discover the Persian Gulf’s vibrant cities on a 9-day cruise with Le Bougainville and Smithsonian Journeys. Explore iconic landmarks in Dubai, …
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