Diamant - 10 Guests (Caribbean)
Lyra - 8 Guests (Greece)
Vela - 26 Guests (Caribbean)
Authentic Sailing Experience
• Feel the wind and waves firsthand as you harness the power of traditional sails, fostering a genuine connection with the sea that motorized vessels can’t replicate.
• Participate (if desired) in raising and trimming sails, navigating, or simply observing the crew—immersing you in maritime heritage and skills.
Intimate, Boutique Atmosphere
• Masted sailing ships typically carry fewer than 250 guests, creating a cozy, yacht-like environment where personalized service and familiar faces are the norm.
• Smaller passenger counts mean shorter lines, faster boarding of tenders or shore excursions, and the opportunity to build camaraderie with fellow travelers and crew.
Access to Off-the-Beaten-Path Ports
• With a shallow draft and flexible anchoring, sailing ships can visit secluded coves, tiny islands, and smaller harbors that larger ships cannot, offering unique cultural encounters.
• You’ll often dock closer to town centers or historic piers, minimizing tender transfers and maximizing time ashore in authentic local communities.
Unplugged & Mindful Travel Pace
• The gentle sway of a sailing vessel and absence of engine noise invite relaxation, mindfulness, and a slower tempo—perfect for travelers seeking to disconnect from busy routines.
• Days at sea become moments to stargaze on an open deck, read a book in a shaded net lounge, or simply listen to wind chorus—hallmarks of a true “escape.”
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Cruising
• By relying on wind power, masted ships reduce fuel consumption, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and minimize their carbon footprint compared to larger motorized cruise liners.
• Many operators construct and maintain their vessels with sustainable materials and practices, reinforcing a commitment to protecting fragile marine ecosystems.
Historic Charm & Timeless Elegance
• Sail on beautifully restored “tall ships” or modern masted yachts designed to evoke classic maritime aesthetics—wooden decks, polished brass fittings, and hand-crafted rigging.
• Every voyage feels like stepping back in time, with crew dressed in nautical apparel, traditional signal flags, and authentic onboard décor that celebrates sailing’s storied past.
Engaging Crew & Educational Enrichment
• Crewmembers are often passionate sailors, eager to share their knowledge of seamanship, navigation, and local lore—creating a more hands-on, educational journey.
• Guest lectures and informal Q&A sessions about marine biology, local history, or sailing techniques enhance your understanding of the regions you visit.
Sense of Adventure & Connection to Nature
• The unpredictability of wind and weather transforms each day into an adventure—charting course changes, dropping anchor in sheltered bays, or seeking the next best breeze.
• Masted sailing emphasizes the elements—wind, sun, sea spray—so you’re fully immersed in the natural world, with opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, or simply drifting in a quiet lagoon.
Contact Us Today for More Information on Small Ship Luxury, Expedition & Adventure Itineraries.
Intimate, Personalized Atmosphere
• Small ships typically carry fewer than 300–500 guests, enabling a high crew-to-guest ratio and genuinely attentive service.
• With fewer fellow travelers onboard, you’ll quickly get to know crew and guests alike, fostering a friendly, social environment.
Access to Hidden Gems & Remote Ports
• Shallow drafts and compact designs allow small ships to dock at ports and anchor in bays that larger vessels cannot reach—whether it’s a quiet fishing village in the Mediterranean or a secluded bay in the Caribbean.
• Direct access to town centers and locally owned piers minimizes tender transfers and maximizes your time exploring onshore.
Flexible, Destination-Focused Itineraries
• Small ship operators can adapt routes on short notice—navigating around weather or following wildlife sightings—so you experience the destinations at their best.
• Itineraries often focus on immersive experiences: cultural homestays, off-the-beaten-path hikes, guided nature tours, and local community visits.
Deep Cultural Immersion
• With fewer passengers, shore excursions are typically small-group or even private, allowing more authentic interactions with local guides, artisans, and community leaders.
• You’ll sample regional cuisines at family-run farms, visit lesser-known archaeological sites, and participate in traditional ceremonies that larger cruise lines cannot accommodate.
Educational & Enrichment Opportunities
• Many small ships employ onboard specialists—naturalists, historians, marine biologists, or local scholars—who offer daily lectures, workshops, and guided excursions.
• Whether it’s a hands-on wildlife lecture in Papua New Guinea or a cooking demonstration on Crete, these expert-led activities deepen your understanding of each region’s ecology and heritage.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Practices
• Smaller vessels generally consume less fuel and produce fewer emissions, and many lines adhere to rigorous sustainability guidelines (e.g., supporting local economies and practicing responsible waste management).
• Eco-focused itineraries often include opportunities to participate in conservation projects—like beach clean-ups in the Caribbean or coral reef monitoring in the South Pacific.
Smooth & Comfortable Cruising
• Small ships navigate less crowded routes and can choose calmer sea corridors, reducing seasickness risks and allowing smoother passages.
• Cabins tend to be cozier yet thoughtfully designed, and communal spaces (lounges, dining rooms, sun decks) are scaled for comfort, not overcrowding.
Sense of Adventure with Safety & Comfort
• Small ship travelers get a true “expedition” feel—whether zodiac cruising alongside dolphins, snorkeling in pristine atolls, or traversing the Amazon River—with all the onboard comforts of a boutique hotel.
• Advanced safety equipment and well-trained expedition teams ensure you can explore remote landscapes confidently, knowing expert support is always close at hand.
AmaWaterways offers a luxurious and immersive river cruising experience, perfect for travelers seeking to explore the heart of iconic destinations with ease and elegance. Renowned for its award-winning ships, AmaWaterways combines world-class service, stylish accommodations, and exceptional cuisine inspired by regional flavors. Guests enjoy thoughtfully curated itineraries along Europe’s Danube and Rhine, Asia’s Mekong, and Africa’s Chobe River, with daily excursions tailored to suit different interests, including guided city tours, wine tastings, and active options like biking or hiking. Onboard, travelers can unwind with enriching cultural programs, wellness activities, and panoramic views from their spacious staterooms or the inviting sundeck. Ideal for couples, solo adventurers, or groups, AmaWaterways provides a seamless blend of relaxation, exploration, and personalized luxury, making every journey unforgettable.
Aqua Expeditions offers a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience, perfect for those seeking the ultimate combination of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion. Renowned for its boutique small-ship journeys, Aqua Expeditions takes guests to some of the world’s most extraordinary and remote destinations, including the Amazon, Mekong River, and the pristine seas of Indonesia. Aboard their elegantly designed vessels, travelers are treated to five-star service, luxurious suites with panoramic views, and world-class cuisine crafted by renowned chefs. Daily excursions led by expert naturalists and guides bring each destination to life, offering activities such as wildlife spotting, village visits, kayaking, and snorkeling in untouched waters. With a strong focus on sustainability and intimate group sizes, Aqua Expeditions creates an exclusive and transformative travel experience, ideal for those who want to explore the world’s hidden wonders without compromising on comfort or style.
A National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition Cruise offers an unparalleled journey for curious and adventurous travelers seeking to explore the world’s most extraordinary destinations while gaining a deeper understanding of their natural and cultural significance. With itineraries that span from Antarctica’s icy landscapes to the vibrant reefs of the Galápagos and the remote beauty of Alaska, each voyage is designed to provide intimate encounters with nature and local cultures. Guests are accompanied by expert naturalists, photographers, and National Geographic-certified specialists who enrich the experience with insightful lectures, wildlife spotting, and hands-on workshops. Onboard, travelers enjoy luxurious amenities, gourmet dining, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages connection and discovery. Perfect for families, solo adventurers, and lifelong learners, National Geographic-Lindblad Expedition cruises blend comfort, education, and exploration, making every trip a transformative and unforgettable experience.
Paul Gauguin Cruises offers an exclusive and luxurious way to explore the breathtaking beauty of French Polynesia and the South Pacific. Known for its intimate, small-ship experiences, Paul Gauguin takes travelers to some of the world’s most remote and pristine destinations, including Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, and the Marquesas Islands. With an all-inclusive experience that features gourmet dining, fine wines, and exceptional service, guests enjoy an unparalleled level of comfort while immersing themselves in the local culture. Shore excursions are designed to showcase the natural wonders and rich Polynesian heritage of the islands, with opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, cultural tours, and visits to traditional villages. Whether you're seeking relaxation on powder-soft beaches or a deeper connection to the islands’ traditions, Paul Gauguin Cruises offers an unforgettable journey through the South Pacific in the utmost luxury.
Ponant Explorations offers an elegant and immersive travel experience, perfect for discerning travelers seeking to explore the world’s most remote and culturally rich destinations in luxurious comfort. With its fleet of small, eco-friendly yachts, Ponant provides access to destinations that larger ships cannot reach, from the icy realms of Antarctica to the idyllic islands of the Mediterranean and the exotic cultures of Asia. Onboard, guests are treated to refined French-inspired cuisine, personalized service, and sophisticated accommodations that exude modern luxury. Ponant’s itineraries emphasize cultural enrichment and discovery, featuring expert-led excursions, intimate shore experiences, and opportunities to connect with local traditions. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or cruising pristine tropical waters, Ponant blends adventure and elegance, offering a truly unique and unforgettable journey.
Windstar Cruises offers an exceptional and intimate way to explore the world’s most scenic destinations aboard elegant, small ships that combine the luxury of a private yacht with the charm of a traditional sailing experience. With a fleet of sleek sailing vessels and power yachts, Windstar cruises offer access to hidden harbors, secluded beaches, and off-the-beaten-path ports that larger ships can’t reach. Travelers can enjoy personalized service, gourmet dining, and spacious accommodations in an atmosphere that is both relaxed and refined. Whether cruising through the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, exploring the Mediterranean’s rich history, navigating the wild beauty of Alaska, or a mesmerizing journey through French Polynesia, Windstar’s intimate voyages are designed for those who value both adventure and luxury. Windstar also offers a wide array of exciting shore excursions, from cultural experiences to water sports and hiking, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to blend exploration, relaxation, and a touch of elegance on their journey.