Small ship cruising is the new big thing. From uber luxe river ships in Europe, the US, Asia and Egypt to super chic yachts sailing to desirable destinations around the world, there’s an array of choice for the discerning traveller
When high-end hotel brands start launching superyachts and river cruise companies report that bookings are exceeding pre-pandemic levels, you know there’s an enormous (and growing) demand for small ship cruising.
Sophisticated travellers are seeking ever more exclusive and immersive experiences in destinations where there are fewer tourists. Oceangoing superyachts and river ships that accommodate limited numbers of guests can take you to tiny ports, secluded beaches and to the heart of villages or cities in a style that would be very challenging to organise independently.
The Ritz-Carlton group launched its first superyacht, Evrima, in October 2022; the sleek, 298-guest ship is due to be joined by two slightly larger sisters, Ilma and Luminara in the next two years, for Caribbean and Mediterranean cruises. Four Seasons Hotels and Aman are both building superyachts to be launched in 2025, while luxe hospitality company Belmond has been in the boutique hotel barge business on France’s waterways since 2004.
Talking about river cruising, whether it’s for four or 140 guests, there’s more choice afloat than ever before. New river cruise line Riverside Luxury Cruises has taken over Crystal Cruises’ fleet of five ships in Europe, and Tauck, a US family-owned company renowned for its exclusive tours and events on European river cruises, is finding a new audience among Australian river cruise aficionados. Cruises on the Nile and Mekong rivers continue to attract return visitors and first-timers in big numbers, while many avid cruisers are now discovering America’s waterways.
Several cruise lines specialise in ultra-luxe ocean cruising for 750 or fewer guests — among them, Seabourn, Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, SeaDream and Crystal Cruises — but there are a few lines that go even more boutique.
For example, Ecoventura operates three 20-guest vessels in the Galapagos Islands, partnering with Relais & Chateaux; Tasmania’s On Board Expedition’s newest ship caters for just 12 guests; and for those who enjoy cruising on ships with real sails, Ponant’s original yacht Le Ponant, the Star Clippers’ fleet and Windstar’s motor yachts offer wonderful itineraries in the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Asia. Here’s our selection of small ship and river cruises to inspire your next waterborne escape.
River cruising
Uniworld
Where Uniworld cruises
Europe, Southeast Asia, Egypt, India, Peru.
The fleet Uniworld operates
12 ships in Europe, two in Egypt, and one each on the Mekong, Ganges, Nile and Amazon.
Life on board
Each ship is individually designed and accommodates an average of 120 guests. The 1 to 2.4 crew-to-guest ratio is one of the highest in river cruising.
Signature experiences
Suites feature dedicated butler service, large marble bathrooms, Asprey body products, handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, a fully stocked bar and more.
Design, technology, sustainability
Uniworld is committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Guests can buy carbon offsets to cancel out emissions produced by their travel.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
India’s Golden Triangle & the Sacred Ganges, 13 days from New Delhi to Kolkata, including a seven-night Ganges cruise onboard Ganges Voyager II, departing 11 January 2024.
Scenic River Cruises
Where Scenic cruises
Europe, Southeast Asia.
The fleet Scenic operates
12 Space-Ships in Europe, including the 96-guest Scenic Azure in Portugal’s Douro River, plus the 68-guest Scenic Spirit on the Mekong.
Life on board
They’re called ‘Space-Ships’ because each ship accommodates a maximum of 163 guests; suites and public spaces are exceptionally spacious.
Signature experiences
Health and wellness facilities include ultra-modern gyms, fitness and yoga classes, a salt therapy lounge on most Space-Ships and the use of e-bikes. In Europe, the Scenic Tailormade App allows you to explore on your own in more than 140 locations.
Design, technology, sustainability
Single-use plastics have been eliminated on all Scenic’s river and ocean vessels and its Cherish the Planet program was launched in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Scenic Azure, eight-day Porto round-trip, departing 1 June 2024.
Viking River Cruises
Where Viking cruises
Europe, Egypt, Southeast Asia, USA.
The fleet
The 82-guest Viking Aton is set to debut in August 2023 for cruises on the Nile, bringing the total fleet to 71.
Life on board
Renowned for their streamlined Scandinavian-style design, Viking’s Longships feature the indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, well-stocked libraries, floor-to-ceiling windows in public spaces, and staterooms that include two-room suites and full-size verandas. Viking Mississippi is one of the newest ships on America’s famous river and accommodates up to 386 guests.
Signature experiences
As on its oceangoing and expedition vessels, Viking river ships are for over-18s only — ‘no kids, no casinos’.
Design, technology, sustainability
The ships’ environmentally friendly features include solar panels, onboard organic herb gardens and energy-efficient hybrid engines.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Viking Mississippi, 22-day Grand Mississippi Voyage from New Orleans to St Paul, departing 22 June 2024.
Tauck
Where Tauck cruises
Europe.
The fleet
Nine ships ranging in guest capacity from 84 (MS Andorinha, on the Douro) to 130 (on the Destination Fleet).
Life on board
Elegant, understated ships, chartered from Swiss family company Scylla, have a high crew-to-guest ratio, and provide a range of accommodation options. Tauck is renowned for its solo traveller offers as well as its family-friendly itineraries during school holidays.
Signature experiences
All cruises have three or more Tauck Directors onboard — highly experienced, multi-lingual experts whose local contacts make ‘insider’ tours and events truly exceptional.
Design, technology, sustainability
As part of its new Our Planet program, Tauck is rolling out conservation initiatives to eliminate single-use plastics and buying cleaner-burning GTL fuel to reduce its impact on the environment.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
MS Grace, eight-day Netherlands inland waterways, Amsterdam round-trip, departing 22 May 2024.
Avalon Waterways
Where Avalon cruises
Europe, Asia, Africa, Peru, Galapagos Islands.
The fleet
In 2024, Avalon Alegria, purpose-built for Portugal’s Douro, will join 14 Suite Ships in Europe, two on the Amazon, and one each in India, Africa and Southeast Asia.
Life on board
Ships accommodate an average of 150 guests and the ambience is ‘relaxed luxury’. Panorama Suites feature wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that also function as balconies, and beds that face the passing views.
Signature experiences
Avalon’s Active & Discovery portfolio offers tailored activities and itineraries to suit all interests. The line’s Storyteller cruises are hosted by celebrity authors, artists and musicians and book up quickly.
Design, technology, sustainability
Avalon contributes to The Ocean CleanUP and Trees4Travel and is recognised for high safety and environmental standards by Europe’s Green Award.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Avalon Saigon, 18-day Siem Reap, Cambodia to Hanoi, Vietnam, departing 4 November 2024.
Hotel barges
European Waterways
Where European Waterways cruises
France, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, Scotland, England, Ireland.
The fleet 17 vessels accommodating from 6 to 20 guests.
Life on board
Fares cover all meals onboard and ashore, selected regional wines, an open bar, all excursions and admittance fees and local transfers. Your crew includes a barge-master captain, chef, hosts and a deckhand.
Signature experiences
European Waterways is known for exclusive insider experiences on its excursions. Guests can book individual cabins or if you’re booking a full charter, you can tailor the cruise to themes such as wine appreciation, golf and opera.
Design, technology, sustainability
Because the luxury barges take very small numbers of guests, European Waterways has a minimal footprint on the environment and contributes to local businesses through its long-standing relationships with owner-operators.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
La Bella Vita, seven-day Venetian Lagoon and Po Valley, Venice to Mantua, departing 26 May 2024.
Belmond
Where Les Bateaux Belmond cruises
France: Burgundy, Canal du Midi, Camargue, Champagne, Provence.
The fleet
Seven luxury hotel barges accommodating between four and 12 guests.
Life on board Each vessel is different, but all offer spacious staterooms, ensuite bathrooms and beautifully appointed indoor and outdoor living areas. Some have heated pools, and one has a grand piano.
Signature experiences
The barges are available for weekly charter (except Napoleon, which can be booked by cabin) and come with a captain, chef and hosts. Fine dining and superb local wines feature onboard and in France’s best wine regions, along with individually tailored experiences ashore.
Design, technology, sustainability
In 2021, Belmond partnered with EarthCheck, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking, certification and advisory group for travel and tourism.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Pivoine, seven-day Sète to Avignon, departing 7 July 2024.
Superyachting
Emerald Cruises
Where Emerald yachts cruise
Mediterranean, Adriatic, Red Sea, Caribbean, Central America.
The fleet
Emerald Sakara is the second luxury yacht to join Emerald Cruises’ fleet, following 2022’s identical sister Emerald Azzurra.
Life on board
A maximum of 100 guests are looked after by 72 crew members on the ultra-modern vessels. The marina platform is a watersports paradise with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, a sea trampoline and SeaBobs.
Signature experiences
Exploring ashore, whether independently or with included EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE or optional DiscoverMORE programs.
Design, technology, sustainability
Recycled energy is used to heat water onboard; advanced sewerage treatment complies with the latest regulations; and the company has earned a Green Passport from the EU for its recycling efforts.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Emerald Sakara, 15-day Discover the Caribbean In-Depth, St John to San Juan, departing 10 February 2024.
Small ship yachting & cruising
Aranui Cruises
Where Aranui cruises
Marquesas, Tuamotu and Southern Austral islands, plus non-freight ‘special discovery’ voyages to Pitcairn.
The fleet
Aranui 5 is a 125m mixed freight and passenger vessel.
Life on board
With local crew, cuisine and culture, Aranui 5 offers the most authentic way to explore French Polynesia. Facilities include a restaurant, bars, lounges, a library, boutique, pool, gym and spa.
Signature experiences
Cruises include shore excursions such as hikes, 4WD tours, visits to archaeological sites and local feasts. Throughout the cruise, crew mingle with guests and share insights into their home and culture.
Design, technology, sustainability
Offering a regular, small flow of tourists year-round for almost 40 years, Aranui’s presence in the Marquesas is a case study in sustainable tourism.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Aranui 5, 12-day itinerary to the Austral Islands, departing Papeete 30 March 2024.
On Board Expeditions
Where On Board Expeditions cruises
Tasmania’s east coast and southwest Wilderness World Heritage Area.
The fleet
Odalisque III, Tasmania-built catamaran accommodating up to 12 guests, launched in January 2023.
Life on board
It doesn’t get much more boutique than this. On every voyage the skipper, guide, chef and host provide a personalised, all-inclusive experience, onboard and ashore. The spacious vessel features two lounge areas, two outdoor dining spaces and a sun deck.
Signature experiences
Daily guided walks, tender excursions, birdwatching; On Board knows Tasmania like nobody else.
Design, technology, sustainability
From tinted windows (reducing the reliance on air conditioning) to the large lithium-ion battery bank, sustainability is at the centre of Odalisque III’s design.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Odalisque III sails four- and six-night itineraries in Port Davey with flights departing Hobart from December to May, and four-night itineraries from Hobart to Freycinet, June to November.
Windstar Cruises
Where Windstar cruises
Europe, Australia & New Zealand, Alaska, Asia, Canada & New England, Caribbean, Mexico, Panama & Costa Rica, South Pacific.
The fleet
The 312-guest Star Pride, Star Breeze and Star Legend, 148-guest motor-sailing ships Wind Star and Wind Spirit and 342-guest Wind Surf.
Life on board
Windstar Cruises boasts a high 1:1.5 staff-to-guest ratio. Guests can choose to add a USD$89 daily package that includes Wi-Fi, unlimited beer, wine, cocktails and gratuities.
Signature experiences
Windstar has upped its onboard dining game with an array of seasonal ingredients sourced from local ports. It also offers a variety of culinary and market tours.
Design, technology, sustainability
Windstar has ISO 14001 certification, and when Wind-class ships sail in tandem with engine power, fuel consumption is greatly reduced.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Star Legend, Wonders of Arabia, 18 days from Athens, Greece, to Dubai, UAE, departing 6 November 2024.
Swan Hellenic
Where Swan Hellenic cruises
Worldwide.
The fleet
Three new luxury expedition ships, the identical 152-guest SH Vega and SH Minerva, and the 192-guest SH Diana.
Life on board
Swan Hellenic is an established, owner-operated heritage brand with more than 70 years of expertise in adventure travel. The ships combine Polar Class 5 classification with Scandi-chic interiors and provide unfussy service.
Signature experiences
Maris gourmet dining, in partnership with JRE-Jeunes Restaurateurs; specialised lecture programs; kayaking, snorkelling, snowshoeing and hiking.
Design, technology, sustainability
The ships have the latest diesel engines with catalytic converters to reduce pollution and can operate under battery power in port and marine sanctuaries.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
SH Diana, Extraordinary Southern Africa, eight-day Maputo, Mozambique to Cape Town, departing 14 November 2023.
Paul Gauguin Cruises
Where Paul Gauguin cruises
French Polynesia, Cook Islands, Fiji.
The fleet
The 330-guest Le Paul Gauguin joined the Ponant fleet in 2019 and is celebrating its 25th birthday this year.
Life on board
The ship’s 165 staterooms and suites all have balconies or an outside view, and the watersports marina is stocked with water toys. Onboard Polynesian hosts, Les Gauguines and Gauguins, are renowned entertainers and storytellers.
Signature experiences
A day or two spent on Motu Mahana, Paul Gauguin Cruises’ private island, is always a highlight.
Design, technology, sustainability
In 2019, the line switched from heavy fuel oil to the much cleaner LS MGO (low-sulphur marine gas oil) and committed to offsetting 150 per cent of its carbon emissions.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Le Paul Gauguin, 12-day Society Islands and Cook Islands, round-trip Papeete, departing 18 May 2024.
Ponant
Where Ponant cruises
Worldwide.
The fleet
Four 244 to 264-guest Sisterships, six 184-guest Explorers, 245-guest luxury icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot, 332-guest Le Paul Gauguin, 32-guest motor-sailing ship Le Ponant.
Life on board
Whether you choose an expedition, themed or ‘culture and relaxation’ cruise, the long-established French company provides superb dining and friendly, professional service from bilingual French-English crew on super-stylish small ships that exude a private yacht ambience.
Signature experiences
Ponant offers a wide choice of land excursions that focus on cultural value and historic interest. Its dedicated travel consultants can tailor your cruise and pre- and post-cruise stages of your trip to suit.
Design, technology, sustainability
Ponant is the only international cruise company to be awarded Green Marine Europe certification.
Our pick of upcoming itineraries
Le Jacques-Cartier, eight-day Japanese sub-tropical islands, Naha, Okinawa to Keelung, Taiwan, departing 16 March 2024.