Our Favorite Small Expedition Cruise Ships

The newly refurbished Silver Cloud is the most spacious and comfortable ice class vessel in expedition cruising. Its large suites, destination itineraries, and unparalleled service make her truly special. A limited number of guests, just 200 in polar waters, mean that Silver Cloud has the highest space to guest and crew to guest ratios.

Board the classic Galileo, a motor sailer with occupancy for up to 49 passengers, as you explore the Cyclades of the Aegean Sea. Multiple social areas onboard the ship include a lounge, spacious sun deck, dining room, and outdoor deck and bar. There are also 3 cabin categories between the two decks, offering guests several options to choose from.

Embark on the brand new Stella Australis, launched in 2010 for Patagonia cruising. Part of the Australis fleet, the Stella has 100 cabins each feature picture windows, private facilities & satellite phone.

The twin-hulled Pegasos accommodates up to 44 guests in a relaxed, congenial atmosphere. On board enjoy magnificent sea views as you stroll the 2,550 square feet of open deck.

Launching in 2018, Ventus Australis (Southern Winds) is a new state-of-the-art ship carrying up to 210 passengers in 100 cabins. Join Ventus Australis on a journey through the narrow fjords and channels of Patagonia and step ashore at fabled Cape Horn. The ship features multiple options of well-appointed cabins, spacious decks, and a dining area.

The M/S Quest, formerly the Sea Endurance, accommodates 53 passengers in 26 cabins outward-facing cabins with large sea view windows, making for an immersive cruise of polar Svalbard. A lounge, library, and open bridge inside complement the spacious observation deck outside, where you can enjoy the relaxed and informal social atmosphere onboard.

The MV Ushuaia is a steel hulled, ice-strengthened vessel built originally for oceanographic research and recently converted for passenger voyages to Antarctica. Accommodating a maximum of 88 passengers in 46 comfortable cabins & suites, Ushuaia offers a dining room, bar, library, and observation lounge and inflatable watercraft to explore the ice.

Step aboard AmaWaterways' newly designed AmaMagdalena, a 60-passenger river cruise ship offering luxury, including a heated pool, fitness room, a restaurant, and al fresco dining. Enjoy stunning views of Colombia's Magdalena River from your amenity-filled twin-balcony stateroom.

Experience the world’s largest river — and biggest rainforest — on a voyage of discovery aboard the riverboat La Perla. The adventure includes an amazing array of flora and fauna, encounters with Peru’s indigenous peoples, and awesome outdoor activities.

The exquisite 156-passenger AmaSiena, sister ship to the award-winning AmaKristina, is a warm, friendly ship with plenty of space for guests to unwind. Take in panoramic views and lots of fresh air from our opulent twin-balcony bedrooms, which have both a French and an outside balcony.

Introducing with pride the newest member of the Elixir family, "GEMAYA." The Gemaya is unique, expertly fusing her military background with exquisite design. The yacht configuration is perfect for socializing or retreating to privacy. Guests experience personal service, fine dining, and attention to detail while discovering the Greek islands in impeccable style and comfort.

The RV Indochine II successfully combines colonial and modern styles. Built in 2016 with the finest material and start-of-the-art technology, this is an ideal ship for cruises along the waterways of Asia.

Explore the Galapagos in one of the most elegant yachts in the Islands. This boat lives up to its prestigious name with both comfort and service, featuring a sun deck with a Jacuzzi, delicious meals served either inside or in the al fresco dining area, comfortable staterooms, & even a kids' area. Plus, the itineraries highlight the best of nature.

Named for Darwin's famous theory, the Evolution is a comfortable motor yacht ideal for families or travelers hoping to get in some diving on their Galapagos vacation. The itineraries focus on the natural experience and give you engaging ways to experience what the Islands' first explorers did centuries ago.

The RV Indochine is an exotic ship which sails entirely on Asia's Mekong River. Built in 2008, she is made of local woods and decorated in a colonial style. The RV Indochine is an ideal ship for cruising the waterways of Asia.

Imagine a serene time when you feel peaceful and refreshed—feeling the ocean breeze, swimming in clear water, relaxing, doing morning yoga, enjoying tasty BBQ, and experiencing local life. Your journey on the Elysium will be extraordinary, unlike any other cruise you've been on.

The M/Y Callisto is furnished with rich fabrics, handsome woodwork, gleaming brass, rare antiques, and fine works of art for comfortable cruising. Because Callisto is a yacht, it can visit those unspoiled islets, pristine beaches, and intimate coves

Scenic Sapphire boasts all luxury amenities, as well as a handful of new and innovative features. From the vitality pool and updated wellness area to the bespoke cooking suite, guests can enjoy a raft of extravagant features when cruising along French waterways aboard Scenic Sapphire.