Whether you love cruises or avoid them altogether, there’s a side to cruising you need to know about: small-vessel journeys. From active-adventure expeditions to small-ship tours to hard-to-reach destinations, exploring the world aboard a much smaller vessel is the way to go. It’s especially perfect for travelers who make luxury experiential travel a priority.

Here, we’ll introduce you to the concept of small-ship expeditions. We’ll also explain the advantages of journeying on a smaller scale, and we’ll share with you some of our favorite destinations for small-vessel explorations.

Keep reading to discover why we adore small-ship expeditions—and why you will, too.

What is an Expedition or Small-Ship Cruise?

Small-ship cruising is a completely unique and delightful class of sailing. It encompasses everything from yachts with a handful of passengers to ships carrying as many as 1,300 guests. Regardless of ship size, these expeditions afford travelers a level of exclusivity, luxury, and access that mega-ships simply cannot.

Small-ship Expeditions give travelers the ability to reach small more ports and interesting destinations, some of which are easiest to access in this way

Small ships can generally be classified as follows:

Small Yachts: up to 110 passengers
Large Yachts: 140 to 400 passengers
Ultra-Small Ships: 450 to 625 passengers
Small Ships: 650 to 1,300 passengers

Small ships are uniquely equipped to reach smaller ports and more interesting destinations than their mega-ship counterparts. Travelers are encouraged to focus on the experience of the journey and destination itself versus the bells and whistles of the ship. Bear in mind, though, that this doesn’t mean you need to give up your creature comforts. The sorts of ships we’re talking about here have everything you could ask for—and then some—in terms of excellent services, delicious meals, and ample comforts. In fact, some of the ships are truly luxe. There’s always a ship to match your tastes and preferences.

What are the Advantages of Journeying on a Small Vessel?

There are plenty of advantages to small-vessel explorations. Here are just a few:

Lower passenger counts mean smoother embarkations and typically a virtual absence of queues.
Itineraries typically feature remote, bucket list-worthy destinations in lesser-traveled regions of the world you simply can’t get to on larger cruising vessels.
While some journeys are centered around exploring on water, others can involve land-based adventures, too.
Small-ship expeditions often focus on natural beauty, wildlife, and—in some destinations—an aspect of local culture to give you a deeper understanding of the place you’re visiting.
These journeys are fantastic if you’re interested in active, adventure-driven travel. (But if you’d prefer something more laid-back, you can have that, too.)
Maybe you’re really keen on the active-adventure aspect. Depending on your goals, there are expeditions that cater to various fitness levels, so you can enjoy a fun challenge while taking in the sites (and sights!).
Small-vessel voyages cater to lovers of experiential travel. You’ll be right there in the environment, experiencing your surroundings through your activities, whether by zodiac, on foot, or even by helicopter.
These journeys afford travelers absolute luxury and exclusivity. Depending on the cruise line and itinerary you choose, you may enjoy:
- Private executive transfers from your doorstep to your destination and back;
- All-inclusive benefits and options like included international round-trip flights and business class upgrades;
- Butler service in every suite and staff-to-guest ratios of nearly one to one;
- Complimentary beverages in both your suite and public bars;
- Gourmet dining for a culinary immersion experience you won’t soon forget;
- Excursions and onboard lectures, often with specialists like professors, naturalists, geologists, and photographers;
- And so much more.

What are the Best Destinations for Small-Ship Expeditions?

Look Beyond The Polar Regions

When it comes to small-ship journeys and expedition cruises, most people think of polar expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctica. While these are certainly incredible small-ship experiences that should certainly be considered by any seasoned traveler, there’s also much more to this type of travel between the earth’s polar regions. Here, we’ll focus on non-polar destinations that deserve a place on your experiential travel wish list.

For more on polar expeditions, check out This is Why You’ll Be Amazed by an Expedition to the Arctic and 9 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Antarctica.

Our Favorite Small-Ship Destinations

The Galapagos Islands is a “living museum” of intriguing wildlife and untouched scenery. Exploring by small ship is a perfect way to experience this destination.

From intimate river voyages along the Zambezi and luxury yachts in Indonesia to expedition cruises through the fjords and ice fields of Patagonia and Chile, there’s a whole world to explore between the two poles. Small-ship voyages provide travelers undeniable luxury and unparalleled access to areas unreachable by larger ships. Here are a few of our must-see destinations if a cruising adventure is in your future.

The Americas

600 miles off the coast of mainland Ecuador, The Galápagos Islands offer travelers an embarrassment of natural wonders to explore: incredible wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and an environment largely untouched by the modern world. The experiences on land and at sea are perfect for everyone from solo travelers to multi-generational family groups.

If you’ve seen the Galápagos and are looking for something with a similar feel, consider Mexico’s Baja Peninsula. Just a stone’s throw south of California, Baja is home to an astonishing marine reserve encompassing over 57,000 square miles around the Revillagigedo Archipelago. It’s a dream for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts, avid birders, and whale watchers.

A journey along the Amazon River might seem like the stuff of childhood fantasies, but an immersive, luxurious cruising experience is yours for the taking. Explore the Amazon’s massive ecosystem, brimming with rich culture, fascinating natural history, and more wildlife than you can even imagine. Explore places like Manaus, a Brazilian city enveloped by the rainforest, and Guyana’s stunning Kaieteur Falls, the world’s largest single-drop waterfall. Or consider a luxury, five-star Peruvian Amazon cruise from Iquitos. You’ll explore the headwaters of the Amazon and Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve aboard an intimate vessel that accommodates just 32 passengers. You’ll love the floor-to-ceiling windows, the all-inclusive amenities, and the immersive experience with expert naturalist guides.

Exploring by small ship is an ideal way to see the remote area of Western Australia, **The Kimberley**.

For a rugged, end-of-the-world expedition experience, consider a small-vessel cruise in Patagonia or the Chilean Fjords. From ice fields and glaciers to Chile’s vast network of fjords and channels, there’s ample opportunity to explore the stark beauty of some of Earth’s most dramatic landscapes. Keep an eye out for elephant seals, penguins, orcas, humpback whales, and much more. When you’re ready to stretch your legs, hike Patagonia’s pristine forests or trek across a glacier. The end of the world is your oyster!

Oceania & Southeast Asia

Love exploring ancient lands with rich cultural and natural histories? Look no further than Western Australia’s Kimberley Region. This gorgeous corner of the world was originally explored by Europeans after 1881, but the history of the region dates back over 60,000 years. Here, the region’s Aboriginal heritage is largely intact, and the experience of it all is truly invigorating, from ancient Aboriginal rock art to a rich oral history passed down for generations. Explore Matakus Island, the King George River (and Falls), the Buccaneer Archipelago (some of Australia’s most remote islands), and much more.

A luxury small-vessel cruise through the South Pacific Islands will blow away any preconceived notions you have about the South Pacific. With destinations like Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands, you’ll be treated to far more than just a white-sand beach experience. Hike through jungles, swim with humpback whales, soak in hot springs, revel in world-class snorkeling, and enjoy cultural encounters with authentic local villages.

Raja Ampat in Indonesia is one of the premier diving destinations in the world due to the diversity of marine life and can be accessed by small ship.

Perhaps one of the most luxurious of all sea explorations, consider a private yacht or small ship expedition in Indonesia’s Coral Triangle. This tiny region of the world covers just 1.6% of the world’s oceanic area, but its biodiversity is nothing short of astonishing with 600 species of coral and over 3000 species of fish. Plus, if you’re a fan of sea turtles in particular, six of the world’s seven species call the Triangle home. One archipelago, in particular, has stolen our hearts: Raja Ampat. This vibrant slice of paradise comprises over 1,500 islands, cays, and shoals. It’s often referred to as the “Amazon of the Sea” and was recently named the world’s #1 snorkeling destination by CNN Travel. This is one of the premier scuba diving destinations in the world.

If Southeast Asia is on your list, you’ll love cruising in style with itineraries that take you from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Ha Long Bay to Hong Kong. (Or opt for an even grander tour beginning or ending in Japan or Australia!) Vietnam, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. It’s a destination where the people are truly as lovely and inspiring as the breathtaking landscapes (a journey through the iconic Ha Long Bay is a must).

Europe

While Northern Europe and the British Isles may not strike you as uncharted territory quite like some of these other destinations, don’t underestimate the magic and beauty still to be discovered on a small-vessel expedition through this dramatic, adventure-worthy corner of the world. Norway, in particular, is a favorite destination of ours, but itineraries here can include stops in places like Reykjavik, Bergen, Oslo, Copenhagen, Lerwick (in Scotland’s remote Shetland Islands), Edinburgh, Liverpool, Ålesund (a Norwegian port town with panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago and fjords), and much more. From charming seaside towns to ancient cities and windswept islands, you’ll discover new things to love about the places you know and have access to incredible, hard-to-reach places unknown to you. Prepare for plenty of delightful surprises. There are also interesting itineraries that will have you exploring lesser known reaches of the isles and coastline of the British Isles and France, places that you may not readily travel to otherwise.

Africa

Small ship cruising can take you to unexpected destinations, including the Seychelles, with its renowned rock formations, crystalline water, sandy beaches, and rich marine life.

Explore much of Africa’s eastern coastline on a breathtaking expedition from Cape Town to Zanzibar that encompasses Mozambique, Madagascar, and the Seychelles. (Avid snorkelers and divers will discover some of the most incredible sea life on Earth throughout this region!)

For a more inland experience of Africa, consider a voyage along the Nile River. Or perhaps a cruise on the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers with incredible wildlife sightings and views of Victoria Falls is more your style. Whatever your preferences, luxury river cruises in Africa are an absolute delight.

Traditional Itineraries

Does the idea of sailing on a small ship appeal to you but you are keen on more of a traditional itinerary? Small ships are a wonderful option for traditional destinations such as the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and even Alaska as well. This can take a cruising experience to a different level with the intimate settings, level of service, and exciting itineraries that small ship cruising can provide. While we focused here on the expedition style of travel, small ships are a wonderful way to explore the tried and true favorites as well.

Start Dreaming Today

Now is an ideal time to begin dreaming about all the hard-to-reach places you’ll get to see on your own small-vessel luxury expedition. You’ll be amazed at the level of service, customization, and sophistication you’ll enjoy while seeing new and exciting corners of the world in total comfort.

When you’re ready to make your cruising dreams a reality, schedule a complimentary discovery session to learn more about my process.

And for more travel insights and inspiration, join the Wandermust Journeys Travel Community. Your subscription gives you access to periodic electronic communication from us, including our e-newsletter.

Your once-in-a-lifetime small-ship expedition awaits. Let the dreaming begin.