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Active & Luxury Southeast Asia Travel

From ancient traditions to contemporary culture, Southeast Asia is a region with a history and beauty unlike any other in the world—and it’s best explored by small ship. AdventureSmith Explorations’ selection of floating base camps offer ease, style and luxury in these remote lands. Take in 2,000 years of human history while biking through villages on a Mekong River cruise. Experience the bustle of local markets with an expert guide and taste the culinary

treats this region offers. Or snorkel in the bullseye of Indonesia’s Coral Triangle and kayak along stunning islands. Experienced, knowledgeable and ready to hone in on your own special interests, our trusted experts will help you select the right cruise, pack the right bags and help you expertly prepare for your exciting getaway. And, we will continue to act as a resource for the entirety of your cruise.

Experience Indonesia's whale sharks, corals & dragons round-trip from Flores aboard the 24-guest Ombak Putih or 12-guest Katharina. Encounter the famous Komodo dragon, swim with whale sharks, snorkel in pristine coral reef and explore beautiful deserted beaches.

Cruise Indonesia's stunning Raja Ampat in style aboard the 30-guest Aqua Blu luxury expedition yacht. This 8-day cruise explores the world's most biodiverse environments by snorkel and diving, with secluded beach visits along the way.

Embrace culture, nature and wildlife on this 8-day Spice Islands cruise aboard the 30-passenger luxury Indonesia yacht Aqua Blu, including regular dive opportunities.

Southeast Asia Small Ship Cruises

Dreaming of a unique adventure? Let AdventureSmith Explorations take you to some of the most coveted hot spots in the ancient world. From the fertile banks of the Mekong River and the temples of Angkor Wat to the Spice Islands and Indonesia, the landscapes and cultures of these spiritual regions are sure to astound. Venturing aboard a small ship provides unique access and an authentic exploration of these water-based cultures.

Adventure in style with daily off-the-boat exploration options. Bike into remote villages, kayak along incredible islands, paddleboard over sea turtles and visit historic places of interest. Each day is a new day for new experiences on a small ship cruise through Southeast Asia. Let our knowledgeable team of Adventure Specialists find the perfect Southeast Asia cruise for you.

Southeast Asia Cruises with AdventureSmith

AdventureSmith’s Southeast Asia cruises explore remote Indonesia and authentic Mekong River, including Ho Chi Minh City, Buddhist temples and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor Wat. Why book your Southeast Asia cruise with us?

Personalized

Work with your dedicated specialist to select, book & prepare for your Southeast Asia cruise.

Use our insight from traveling in the region to narrow down the best Asia cruises for you.

Bike, kayak, scuba dive, hike, fish, paddleboard & more on our small ship cruises in Southeast Asia.

Even the best luxury cruise in Asia can come with discounts—our experts will secure them.

Best Asia Cruises: A Mekong River Cruise

Our recommendation for the best Asia cruises? A Mekong River cruise. Sit beside monks at Buddhist temples, visit small rural villages, bike through charming landscapes, float flooded forests by skiff and see modern cities like Ho Chi Minh City. A Mekong River cruise from Cambodia to Vietnam includes a visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site Angkor Wat. Unsure what the best Asia cruises are for you? Ask our experts by phone, email or web form to provide a personalized recommendation from our curated collection of small ship cruises in Southeast Asia.

Best Luxury Cruise in Asia: A Vietnam River Cruise

Let AdventureSmith’s experts find the best luxury cruise in Asia for you. We often recommend a Vietnam River cruise, for riverboats with designer suites, elegant social areas, five-star regional culinary delights, devoted service, special access to Buddhist temples and top-level guides ready to share their expert knowledge. Travel in opulence on a Vietnam Ricer cruise but enjoy a casual atmosphere along the way. The best luxury cruise in Asia may even mean chartering a ship and/or going your own way with a custom trip —let our team craft a unique itinerary for your ideal group.

“Explore remote Indonesia and authentic Mekong River, including Ho Chi Minh City and Angkor Wat.”

Temperature & Rainfall

Year-Round Small Ship Cruises in Southeast Asia

Our handpicked selection of the best Asia cruises make small ship travel in Southeast Asia possible every month of the year. However, some itineraries take trade winds and weather patterns into account. Mekong River cruises operate year-round, ensuring that your Vietnam river cruise suits your timeline. Note that the climate data referenced above is for Siem Reap, Cambodia; small ship cruises in Southeast Asia along Indonesia’s open waters are likely to be slightly cooler.

How do You Plan For The Best Asia Cruises in 2024 or 2025?

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Small Ships Cruising through Southeast Asia

Leave it to the experts in small ship travel to help you differentiate between ships to find the best option for your interests, budget and style. Southeast Asia ship options range from complete luxury to more educationally based ships, plus traditionally-styled and long-range expedition ships. Each ship offers high-class guiding and off-ship exploration tools like kayaks and skiffs for in-depth excursions. Enjoy the comforts of ship travel, connect with fellow shipmates and get off the boat to explore!

Spacious and indulgent, yet intimate enough to feel entirely exclusive, the 40-guest Aqua Mekong incorporates relaxed yet refined lounging and dining areas, 20 luxury suites and modern navigation technologies to ensure smooth travel and safety while cruising the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.

The 48-guest riverboat Jahan offers by far the finest accommodations on the Mekong River. Nothing else can begin to compare with her outstanding staterooms, decor, service and food.

The 24-guest sailing vessel Ombak Putih combines traditional and modern design to bring authenticity and comfort to her itineraries in the Ring of Fire region stretching from Bali to the Philippines.

The Aqua Blu carries her 30 guests in high luxury, comfort and safety while sailing through Eastern Indonesia. Embrace history and luxury on this unique cruise ship.

Katharina is a 12-guest sailing vessel whose adventures explore the Ring of Fire, the string of volcanic islands that stretch out from Bali east to the Philippines.

Southeast Asia Cruise Reviews

Learn from the firsthand experiences of our travelers on what it is like to travel to Southeast Asia. What did they see? What were their highlights? Did they experience any difficulties? Read a more nuanced account of various routes within this region in these Southeast Asia cruise reviews.

An intimate look at island hopping in Indonesia between Bali and Flores. Learn why this trip is the perfect fit for AdventureSmith's style of cruising.

AdventureSmith's Director of Sales & Operations reviews his Raja Ampat cruise aboard the 24-guest Ombak Putih. Follow his adventures swimming with stingless jellyfish and seeking out the famed bird-of-paradise.

AdventureSmith sails Indonesia's most remote reaches, along the eastern coast of Sulawesi. Learn our insights on this trip and the highlights of a Sulawesi cruise.

Small Ship Southeast Asia Travel Guides

What are the essentials for small ship cruise travel? How do you find the best one for you? As seasoned vets of small ship cruising around the world, AdventureSmith experts have put together these cruise travel guides that will help you learn more about traveling via small ship, which seasons are the best to visit where and much more.

Small ship travel has gained popularity for convenience, adventure and to explore the remote places of the Earth. Learn all the unique possibilities an expedition ship can offer, and why you should get aboard.

Small ships position to take advantage of the best sailing seasons. Here's a calendar look at what's in season, where, for expedition cruising.

What Travelers Say About Their Southeast Asia Cruise

Absolutely fabulous. I’ve been recommending this trip to everyone. We had the most fabulous holiday. Superb food, great accommodations with a very comfortable bed. Great shower room. Extremely friendly crew who did more than enough for us to have a really good time. Just brilliant from start to finish.

National Geographic folks - the best. Crew on Jahan - super. They treat you so well. You expect the best and you get it.

The quality of the guide, the crew and the ship were far above our expectations. The itinerary was very enjoyable. The early trip to Komodo island was very rewarding and the timing and variety of snorkeling was excellent.

Fantastic boat with an amazing crew. What a great adventure exploring the small islands of Indonesia. The snorkeling was the best I've experienced anywhere in the world.

Great guides together with the very enthusiastic and helpful crew made it a great voyage. If you like small boat cruising and snorkeling, this is the trip for you with the unique Komodo Dragons as a special plus.

Accommodations Review

Great accommodations. Clean and comfortable beds, even the pillows were comfy. I always travel with two of my own pillows, but I didn’t need them. Being able to have your clothes washed daily was fabulous. I could have taken less clothes with me.

Meals Review

Could not fault anything. Perfect.

Crew & Guides Review

Every one of them were really good and knowledgeable. They all were excellent at there job and looked after us very well. The crew were very knowledgeable and we learnt a lot about where we were and the people who lived there and about the temples. So much entertainment for the whole time and lots of relaxing too.

Fellow Passengers Review

We all got on remarkably well and have made some lovely friends.

Itinerary Review

There was not a single thing we didn’t like. It was all perfect. We enjoyed everything from visiting the temples to shopping for souvenirs, we bought lots of silk scarves and silver.

Traveler Advice

Don’t pack loads of clothes, you don’t need them as you can buy beautiful clothes for an extremely affordable price. Maybe bring just one sparkly outfit in case you do want to get more dressy one evening. But smart casual is the order of the day. High heels and men’s evening shoes, don’t bother you won’t wear them. Cycling shorts and I like to wear gloves for kayaking and cycling. But not is necessary. A decent rain coat pack. Maybe one little cardigan or shawl, for the air condition. But jumpers etc. we did not need.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

I've already recommended AdventureSmith to friends and family. There are quite a few that are going to look into booking trips, from the UK and abroad.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Aqua Mekong River Cruise
• Aqua Mekong

National Geographic folks - the best. Crew on Jahan - super. Loved the little villages and the wonderful smiling people, especially the children. We least enjoyed Hue; group was tired, plane delays upon departure and one passenger said "I'm templed out." Overall, we learned a lot. These people are survivors!

They treat you so well. You expect the best and you get it.

This was a foodie trip. Endless wonderful food in interesting places. Truly an adventure, including the cooking class.

Jen was patient, warm and a wonderful listener. Michelle capably handled the unexpected, followed through on details.

You guys are always patient and helpful. Thanks for update on air changes. I had to tell expedition leader. You guys know from what you speak.

Be prepared for a different experience. Don't forget the antibiotics - different foods. Start with extension. This is a long, active trip, with lots of time in the air too. Plan time for rest when you get home.

• Vietnam & Cambodia: Along the Mekong River, Including Angkor & Saigon
• Lindblad Expeditions

The quality of the guide, the crew and the ship were far above our expectations. The itinerary was very enjoyable. The early trip to Komodo island was very rewarding and the timing and variety of snorkeling was excellent. Also really enjoyed the trip to the active volcano and exploring the local shipbuilding village there. The trip to Rinca was short, I thought we could have been given the option to spend some more time there.

The ship was beautiful and kept in excellent shape by the crew. A memorable experience to sail on Katharina. My only complaint was that the sails were not able to be put up.

The chef on Katharina was INCREDIBLE. Loved the food and the variety. Rotation of meals over the week was also highly enjoyable. 

Ari far exceeded our expectations. He knew so much about the local culture, the history of the area, the boat and the wildlife given his more than 20 years of experience. He also made sure that we had the best guides wherever we went. In addition, he was professional, friendly, approachable and organized.

We had excellent communication with our AdventureSmith contact Nick. He answered all of our questions in a timely fashion and we were well prepared for the trip.

• Sailing Indonesia: Whale Sharks, Corals & Komodo Dragons

Fantastic boat with an amazing crew. What a great adventure exploring the small islands of Indonesia. We most enjoyed Rinca to see Komodo dragons! The snorkeling was the best I've experienced anywhere in the world.

Great food and great crew!

Sea was a bit choppy the first couple of days, but not much you can do about that!

They helped us organize all our flights.  Even reached out to check in on us when there was an airport closure due to volcanic activity. 

Great guide together with the very enthusiastic and helpful crew made it a great voyage. The snorkeling was excellent; many fishes together with turtles, rays and manta rays. [We also enjoyed] seeing the Komodo dragons. The fellow travelers were a very nice diverse group who mixed well.

Cabins were small but quite adequate. Food was very good and the bar prices very reasonable.

The food was delicious and there was always a choice of fish, meat and non meat dishes.

Ari made the trip a great success. Very knowledgeable and experienced. Organized everything extremely well.

If you like small boat cruising and snorkeling, this is the trip for you with the unique Komodo Dragons as a special plus.

• Ombak Putih

Deals on Southeast Asia Small Ship Cruises

For special offers on Southeast Asia small ship cruises, contact the AdventureSmith experts. Our talented team can help you find the latest discounts, explain the ins-and-outs of the landscape and help you secure your top choice at the best rate. We can help you narrow down your choices and identify which cruise is the best fit for you.

Book your Southeast Asia cruise aboard Aqua Blu or Aqua Mekong to save 20-30% per person.

Solo travelers! Book your select 2024 or 2025 Southeast Asia cruise aboard Aqua Blu or Aqua Mekong and the single supplement fee will be waived.

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on a variety of 2024 or 2025 National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Save $500 per kid under 18 when you book your 2024 or 2025 departure from a variety of National Geographic expeditions worldwide.

Book the ultra-remote 10-day Ring of Fire alternative itinerary in 2024 and enjoy a free bar tab plus a complimentary hotel night on the eastbound route.

Book your select 2024, 2025 or 2026 departure of one the below-linked Southeast Asia cruises aboard Aqua Blue to save up to 20% per person or save up to 30% per person aboard Aqua Mekong.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Applicable on suites 201 and 203 on Aqua Blu and suites 101, 102, 103, 104, 105 and 106 on Aqua Mekong. See all cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Aqua Blu Raja Ampat Cruise
• Aqua Blu Ambon & Spice Islands Cruise
• Aqua Blu Komodo National Park Cruise

Solo travelers! Pay no single supplement fee when you book your select 2024 or 2025 departure of the below-linked Southeast Asia cruises aboard Aqua Blue or Aqua Mekong.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

Save 5% when traveling as a group of 8 or more on select 2024 and 2025 departures of the below-linked National Geographic expeditions.

Offer valid on new bookings only, for a limited time upon availability and may be combined with other select offers. Applicable on voyage fares only, not valid on extensions or airfare. Deposit, final payments, and cancellation policies for group travel vary from the standard policy. See all  cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Exploring Alaska’s Coastal Wilderness
• Treasures of the Inside Passage: Alaska & British Columbia
• Prince William Sound Cruise & Rail Adventure
• Great Bear Rainforest Cruise: The Land of the Spirit Bear
• A Remarkable Journey to Alaska, British Columbia & Haida Gwaii
• Wild Alaska Escape: Juneau & Ketchikan
• Wild Alaska Escape: Sitka & Juneau
• Northwest Passage: Greenland to Alaska
• High Arctic Archipelago: Canada & Greenland
• Coastal Wonders of Norway, the Faroe Islands & Iceland
• Norway’s Fjords & Arctic Svalbard
• Norwegian Discovery: Svalbard & The Northern Fjords Cruise
• National Geographic Land of the Ice Bears
• Svalbard, Iceland & Greenland’s East Coast Cruise
• A Circumnavigation of Iceland
• Iceland & Greenland: Edge of the Arctic Cruise
• Iceland’s Wild West Coast to East Greenland Cruise
• Baja California: Among The Great Whales
• Baja California: A Remarkable Journey
• A Southern Migration: From The Channel Islands to Baja California
• Wild California Escape: Channel Islands National Park
• Baja California Holiday Voyage: A Living Sea & Desert Isles
• The Canadian Maritimes & Newfoundland
• Fabled Lands of the North: Greenland to Newfoundland
• Panama & Colombia: Exploring The Caribbean Coast
• Sailing the Caribbean Aboard Sea Cloud
• National Geographic Endeavour II Galapagos Cruises
• National Geographic Wild Galapagos Escape Cruise
• Best of Chilean Patagonia: From Torres del Paine to Cape Horn
• Patagonia: Chilean Fjords & Argentina’s Staten Island
• Southern Patagonia: Glaciers, Fjords & Wildlife Cruise
• Costa Rica & The Panama Canal
• Mediterranean Gems: Southern Italy & Sicily Aboard Sea Cloud
• Sailing the Greek Isles Aboard Sea Cloud
• Isles of Antiquity: Malta, Sardinia & the Balearic Sea Aboard Sea Cloud
• Corsica & Sardinia Aboard Sea Cloud
• Sailing The Ancient Shores of Sicily & Malta
• Under Sail: Greece & The Dalmatian Coast Aboard Sea Cloud
• Scotland’s Highlands & Islands
• Pearls of the Pacific: Exploring The Society & Tuamotu Islands
• Rites & Relics: Fiji Firewalking, Vanuatu Volcanoes & Beyond
• Fiji & Tahiti Adventure: Vibrant Reefs & Cultural History
• Columbia & Snake Rivers Journey
• Exploring British Columbia & The San Juan Islands
• National Geographic Upper Amazon Cruise
• Vietnam & Cambodia: Along the Mekong River, Including Angkor & Saigon
• Wild Costa Rica Escape: Guanacaste Cruise
• National Geographic Antarctica, South Georgia & The Falklands
• National Geographic The White Continent
• National Geographic South Georgia & The Falklands
• Antarctica & Patagonia: Legendary Ice & Epic Fjords
• Coastal New Zealand: Scenic Fjords, Māori History & Abundant Wildlife
• Southern Odyssey: New Zealand & The Sub-Antarctic Islands
• Roots of the Pacific: Exploring New Zealand & Melanesia
• Kimberley Expedition: Northwest Australia & Indonesia
• Exploring Indonesia: Bali, Raja Ampat & Papua New Guinea
• Jewels of The Java Sea: An Exploration Between Bali & Singapore

Save $500 per kid under the age of 18 on select 2024 and 2025 departures of the below-linked National Geographic expeditions.

Offer valid on new bookings only, subject to availability, and may not be combined with other offers. See all  cruise deals  for a comprehensive list of current savings on these and other adventures.

• Wild Iceland Escape
• Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake

Book the 10-day Ring of Fire itinerary of Sailing Indonesia: Whale Sharks, Corals & Komodo Dragons in 2024 and enjoy a free bar tab for the duration of the cruise. Plus, a complimentary hotel night (in Alor or Kupang) is included on the June 3, 2024, eastbound Ring of Fire from Komodo to Alor.

Offer valid on new 2024 bookings only, subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. See all our small ship cruise deals for a comprehensive list of current savings on this and other adventures.

• Sailing Indonesia: Whale Sharks, Corals & Komodo Dragons

Let Our Experts Be Your Guide to a Southeast Asia Small Ship Cruise

Need help narrowing down all the Southeast Asia small ship cruise options? Our experts are just a phone call or email away to assist. Contact us to receive a personalized-to-you recommendation on the best Southeast Asia cruises for your travel style, budget and timing. Or do your own research by viewing all our Southeast Asia cruises .

Contact Us - Southeast Asia Small Ship Cruises

Travel is best planned one-on-one, and we’re here to help you with your specific needs.

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The 18 best small cruise ships sailing the world

In a world where gigantic megaships draw all the attention, I've always found small ships to be the best.

I've sailed on more than 125 cruise ships of all sizes, but my favorites have never been the big "floating resorts."

I'm drawn to the intimacy and instant community that develops between a small number of passengers and crew cruising together. I enjoy the serenity of small-ship cruising, with no lines to wait in or crowds to contend with on board.

I also gravitate to the off-beat itineraries small ships offer because they focus on unusual and remote places that only small vessels can access.

Who needs the bustling Caribbean when you can explore Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean; lesser-known Greek Islands like Skopelos and Skiathos; French Polynesia; or the Galapagos Islands?

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

People often ask me which are the best small ship cruises, and that question is difficult to answer.

The new high-tech expedition ships, outfitted with the latest hardware and design touches, are incredibly appealing. However, I also adore certain older small ships for their heritage and atmosphere.

Of course, the best small ship for you may depend on where you wish to sail and whether you're looking for a relaxing yacht-like experience or a rugged adventure.

If you're like me and find that bigger isn't always better, this list is for you. Here are 18 of the world's best ocean-going small cruise ships, both older and new. Each carries fewer than 400 passengers and all are ideal for your next intimately sized travel adventure.

Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Resolution and National Geographic Endurance

How small? 128 passengers. Best for: Gadget-loving adventurers.

Lindblad Expeditions has been a leader in small-ship expedition cruising since 1966 when company founder Lars-Eric Lindblad pioneered expeditions to Antarctica, Easter Island and the Galapagos.

Today, the line's fleet of small ships explores nearly the entire planet, always with an impressive lineup of experts and photographers along for the ride.

Lindblad's newest 128-passenger ships, National Geographic Resolution (2021) and National Geographic Endurance (2020), were built for hard-core exploration in the polar regions they call home.

They sport a striking X-bow design (an inverted ship bow design for fuel efficiency), a polar class rating of PC 5 Category A (a notch above most Antarctica cruise ships), and a dynamic positioning system that keeps the ships hovering quietly in place.

Passengers can utilize each ship's fleet of Zodiacs and kayaks and stash of snowshoes and cross-country skis that aid in exploration.

High-tech toys, such as a remotely operated vehicle and underwater video camera, hydrophone, remote-controlled aerial camera and video microscope, allow guests to view footage of undersea life wherever the ships may be.

The ships also feature a gym, yoga studio, spa, ocean-view saunas, library and two dining venues. On deck, two infinity hot tubs offer amazing views.

All cabins are outward-facing (and 12 are single cabins, a rarity) with an "expedition command center" that includes a tablet, multiple electrical and USB outlets, a TV, a barometer and a National Geographic Atlas.

Cruise fare covers wine and spirits, excursions and excursion gear.

Related: These are the best Antarctica cruise ships

SeaDream Yacht Club: SeaDream I and II

How small? 112 passengers. Best for: Yacht enthusiasts seeking the sun.

SeaDream Yacht Club 's 40-year-old ships may not be new, but they're still some of the prettiest classic luxury yachts afloat. Suites don't have balconies. However, they're spacious, recently refurbished, and feature wood details that evoke a classic nautical feel.

What the ships lack in modern touches, they make up for in experience and service. The food is excellent and served both on the romantic outdoor decks and inside the cozy restaurant.

The line's iconic weekly beach barbecue on a remote stretch of sand, complete with Champagne and caviar in the surf, is a cruise highlight on all itineraries. An open bar contributes to the social atmosphere on board, and watersports from a stern marina when conditions are right are a great perk for active travelers.

The SeaDream twins winter in the Caribbean and summer in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and Scandinavia.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Sea Cloud Cruises: Sea Cloud I

How small? 64 passengers. Best for: History buffs and sailing ship lovers.

The one-of-a-kind, four-masted Sea Cloud was originally commissioned as a private luxury yacht by multi-millionaire Wall Street titan E. F. Hutton in 1931. Hutton's extravagant heiress and businesswoman wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post, oversaw the ship's interior design, outfitting it in marble, mahogany and gold-plated fixtures.

After passing through various owners, Sea Cloud I has spent the last several decades offering casually elegant windjammer cruises to old-ship lovers from Europe and North America.

Passengers choose from 10 original cabins, including Post's own suite with its Louis XIV–style bed and nightstands, marble fireplace and bathroom, chandeliers and intricate moldings.

Sea Cloud winters in the Caribbean and summers in Mediterranean, visiting the Greek Islands, Italy and the Canary Islands.

Related: Big vs small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

UnCruise Adventures: Wilderness Legacy

How small? 90 passengers. Best for: Sporty cruisers who love quirky ships.

Constructed in 1983, UnCruise Adventures ' Wilderness Legacy is truly a one-of-a-kind quirky ship. Its throw-back style exterior harkens back to a 20th-century steamboat.

The ship attracts a loyal fan base thanks to its roomy size and cabins that open onto covered promenade decks (rather than a central interior corridor). It even features a hot tub on deck and an elevator, a rarity on older small adventure ships like this.

The portable, custom-made "sea dragon" platform at the stern makes for easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding and swimming, activities popular with UnCruise's sporty fans. The adventurous can also enjoy hiking, bushwhacking and cycling in some ports.

Fares include everything from wine, beer and spirits to daily excursions.

The largest ship in the UnCruise fleet and built for coastal cruising, Wilderness Legacy spends its time in Alaska's Inside Passage and Glacier Bay National Park, as well as on the Columbia and Snake rivers.

Related: The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

Star Clippers: Royal Clipper

How small? 227 passengers. Best for: Sailing enthusiasts with a penchant for the past.

Star Clippers' handsome five-masted tall ship Royal Clipper is considered the largest square rigger in service. Modeled after the great 1902 German clipper Preussen, the ship is a real throwback, with lots of wood and brass features and nautical-style elements.

Royal Clipper also has impressive modern niceties for a ship of its size, including three small pools and an aft marina for easy access to complimentary water sports. It also offers a small gym and spa.

In the winter, Royal Clipper island hops around the Caribbean, sailing round trip from Barbados to some of the lesser-known islands. During the summer, it cruises the Mediterranean along the French and Italian rivieras and explores the coast of Croatia and the Canary Islands.

Windstar Cruises: Wind Star and Wind Spirit

How small? 148 passengers. Best for: Romantics and foodies.

Windstar Cruises ' 148-passenger four-masted motorized yachts are beloved for their upscale yet casual sailing vibe and great food in partnership with the James Beard Foundation.

Standing on deck when the sails are unfurled is one of the more romantic moments you'll likely experience on any ship.

The expansive wooden sun decks on Wind Star and Wind Spirit make you want to be on topside as much as possible to enjoy the yachting life. Each has multiple dining options, both indoor and on deck, including a weekly barbecue on deck under the stars.

Both have a stern marina for easy access to water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding.

The cozy cabins aren't huge, but they are well-appointed with wood details and nautical flair. Suites are a combination of two cabins.

Windstar offers both cruise-only and all-inclusive fares. You can build an a la carte vacation or pay upfront for an easy trip that includes an open bar, unlimited Wi-Fi and included crew gratuities.

Wind Spirit is stationed in the islands of French Polynesia, sailing year-round out of Tahiti through February 2024. Wind Star is its globe-trotting sister, focusing mostly on the Greek Islands in the summer and Costa Rica and Panama in the winter.

Related: The 2 classes of Windstar ships, explained

Ponant: L'Austral

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 264 passengers (200 in Antarctica). Best for: Chic Francophile foodies.

Ponant has been busy launching six new ships in its impressive Explorers series. However, L'Austral (with sister ships Le Boreal, Le Soleal and Le Lyrial) is my favorite ship in the fleet.

Why? L'Austral is the ideal size for a small ship — intimate but still large enough for amenities such as a gym, spa and show lounge.

Its gorgeous tiered stern decks feature a lovely outdoor pool area at the back of Deck 6 with a perfect stretch of deck for sunbathing and scenery watching and an open-air bar above for stunning views.

With Ponant's French pedigree, it's not surprising that food is a cut above, especially the desserts, cheeses and wine. I had the best chocolate mousse of my life on L'Austral. Dine outdoors on the pool deck or in the elegant indoor restaurant. Enhance your evening with complimentary wine (mostly French), Charles Heidsieck Champagne, beer and spirits.

L'Austral explores both polar regions and spends time in the Mediterranean, cruising along the coast of Croatia and around the smaller, less touristy Greek Islands like Amorgos, Milos and Delos.

Emerald Cruises: Emerald Azzurra

How small? ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­100 passengers. Best for: Travelers seeking intimate luxury.

Emerald Cruises' new Emerald Azzurra (and soon-to-debut sister Emerald Sakara) is one of the smallest luxury cruise ships afloat and a good choice for travelers who want something more intimate than what Silversea or Seabourn offer.

The ship's six gleaming white-tiered decks sport a futuristic pyramid-like profile that turns heads when it arrives in port.

Emerald Azzurra features a watersports platform at the stern for convenient access to kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling and riding SEABOBs (electric underwater scooter-like jet skis). Inside, you can avail of a small gym and spa.

Choose from open-air and indoor dining for your meals. Wine and spirits are included, so take advantage of two impressive outdoor spots for a drink and stunning views — the Sky Bar at the top of the ship and the chic infinity pool at the stern of Deck 3, adjacent to a lounge and cafe.

Itineraries focus on the Mediterranean during the summer, with mostly one- to two-week cruises that call on ports along the coasts of Croatia, Albania, Italy, France, Turkey and the Greek Islands. It spends the winters in the Caribbean.

Explore these destinations in depth with included excursions.

Scenic Cruises: Scenic Eclipse

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 228 passengers (200 in polar regions). Best for: Design fans with wanderlust.

An impressively kitted-out expedition ship, Scenic Eclipse has an ice-strengthened hull with a C6 rating suited for polar cruising, including navigating the Northwest Passage. High-tech features include a GPS dynamic positioning system to maintain a location without dropping anchor.

The Australia-based line's debut into ocean cruising had Scenic Eclipse drawing attention with impressive additions like a pair of six-passenger helicopters and a five-passenger submarine (both offered at an additional cost), as well as kayaks, zodiacs and e-bikes. (Sister Scenic Eclipse II is set to debut soon.)

The ship's sleek angled silhouette makes for a handsome profile. The eye-catching interior is sophisticated, with a stark black, gray and beige color palette, lovely wood details, white Carrara marble surfaces and bold art.

Passengers can enjoy a relatively large spa and fitness area, plus multiple dining venues, including Asian, Japanese, French and Continental restaurants. Wine and spirits are included in the fare.

While small luxury ships typically have fancy owners' suites, the pair of top accommodations on Scenic Eclipse is on another level. Each measures over 2,000 square feet with a huge forward-facing teak-lined terrace, complete with a large whirlpool tub.

Scenic Eclipse cruises to nearly every corner of the world, including French Polynesia and the Pacific Islands, Australia, the Indonesian archipelago and Antarctica. The cruise fare includes excursions.

Related: These cruises cost $30,000 and have no set itinerary. Here's what to expect

Silversea Cruises: Silver Endeavour

How small? ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­200 passengers. Best for: Intrepid travelers who demand the utmost luxury.

Silversea Cruises is a pro at luxury small-ship cruising — the line has been at it for more than 30 years. With Silver Endeavour, it achieves the perfect mix of ultra-luxury surroundings with tough-as-nails expedition hardware for its focus on polar cruising.

On board, many rooms are veranda suites measuring 356 square feet (including a private balcony), all with marble baths. The largest Grand and Owner's suites are massive multi-room affairs with huge private verandas. The passenger-to-crew ratio is one-to-one; service is excellent.

For dining, there are four main restaurants, including an Italian and a French-inspired venue. The Grill is an eatery enclosed in floor-to-ceiling glass for the best views in the house.

There's an impressive spa, salon and gym with panoramic ocean views and several lounges for drinks (always included) and lectures.

Near the well-stocked library is the Expedition Study, where the 20-member expedition team is accessible for questions. Outdoor deck space includes the forward-facing bow area with an outdoor hot tub.

With its PC6 ice-class rating, Silver Endeavour spends November through April in Antarctica and the rest of the year in the Arctic, including Greenland, Arctic Canada, Iceland and Norway. Excursions are always complimentary.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Seabourn: Seabourn Venture

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 264 passengers. Best for: Travelers with high standards for luxury and special itineraries.

Seabourn 's new Seabourn Venture (and upcoming sister Seabourn Pursuit) are on par with Silver Endeavour and Scenic Eclipse when it comes to pairing top-of-the-line luxury and pampering with incredible itineraries.

Elegant interiors include a main restaurant, several lounges and bars where drinks are all included, a plush lecture hall, a cafe for coffee and snacks, and spacious balcony suites that start from 355 square feet (including the balcony).

The windowed fitness center and spa area includes an ocean-view sauna and the infinity pool at the back of Deck 5 boasts killer views.

Not just a pretty ship, Seabourn Venture is tough, built to PC6 Polar Class standards for a focus on expedition cruising in the polar regions. The ship carries two submarines, as well as a fleet of double sea kayaks and 24 Zodiacs that can accommodate all guests at once.

Seabourn's large expedition team leads daily complimentary excursions, such as Zodiac sightseeing tours, shore walks, hikes, snorkeling and kayak outings. Also, accomplished guest lecturers give onboard talks.

Like Silver Endeavour, Seabourn Venture will spend the year in the polar regions, with long repositioning cruises in between, such as a 51-day Antarctica, Atlantic and Northwest Africa voyage from Buenos Aires to Malaga, Spain.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Seabourn cruise ship

Atlas Ocean Voyages: World Navigator

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 196 passengers. Best for: Travelers craving luxury and lots of open deck space.

World Navigator is a deluxe expedition ship sporting a 1B Ice Class-certified hull and the latest technologies, such as a GPS-based dynamic position system to minimize movement and noise.

Multiple dining options include the main restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the ship's wake and a steakhouse on the Lido Deck. For cocktails, head to either of two piano bars, the Dome Observation Lounge or the Atlas Lounge, just outside the lecture theatre.

The Atlas Ocean Voyages ship has terrific outdoor spots for remarkable views (not hogged by a helipad or stern and aft suite balconies), including a close-to-the-water spot on Deck 5 forward and a "secret" arc of deck on Deck 6 aft.

You can also take in the scenery from the ship's shallow pool and two adjacent hot tubs.

Don't miss the spa, even if you don't book a massage. It features an appealing seating area facing the sea and an ocean-view sauna. Walkers and joggers keep fit on the top-of-ship track.

World Navigator's itineraries focus on the polar regions, but the ship visits Europe and the Canary Islands while repositioning.

Landings and Zodiac safaris are included on Antarctica cruises, but excursions are not included on other itineraries. All non-polar cruises offered from April through October are called Epicurean Expeditions (with one complimentary wine- or food-focused experience per cruise).

American Queen Voyages: Ocean Victory

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­How small? 186 passengers. Best for: In-depth Alaska cruises for nature lovers.

Newcomer Ocean Victory is large for a small cruise ship, which allows it to offer more on its Alaska expeditions.

Its sizable expedition team, which can number 18 on select voyages, comprises seasoned authorities in a wide range of fields, such as geology, whale communications and photography. Team members lead complimentary excursions on sea kayaks and 18 Zodiacs so passengers can experience glaciers, icebergs and wildlife up close.

In place of an observation bow with direct views of the water, as many similar ships offer, Victory has a pair of viewing platforms on each side of the ship, thanks to its distinctive X-bow design. These platforms are cantilevered directly over the water for great views of bergy bits and potential marine life.

The American Queen Voyages ship offers three dining venues, plus multiple bars and lounges (drinks are included in your fare).

Like any good expedition ship, Ocean Victory has one lounge dedicated to lectures with large flat screens to view presentations. You'll find an ocean-view fitness center, a small spa and an outdoor pool with two hot tubs.

Ocean Victory's 11- and 12-night Alaska cruises depart between May and September. The ship sails between Vancouver, British Columbia, and Sitka, Alaska. It visits destinations such as Frederick Sound, Endicott Arm, Tracy Arm, the Waterfall Coast (Gut Bay), Misty Fjords National Monument and Fiordland (Kynoch Inlet) in Canada's Inside Passage.

Your fare includes a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay.

In winter, Ocean Victory sails in Antarctica for Albatros Expeditions.

Related: Looking for nature and adventure on an Alaska cruise? Choose a smaller ship

Swan Hellenic: SH Vega

How small? 152 passengers. Best for: Cruisers looking for unique itineraries including Africa and South America.

Swan Hellenic's compact, well-laid-out SH Vega is built for expedition cruising with a PC5 ice-strengthened hull.

The interior has a contemporary, Scandinavian-inspired low-key design ethos. SH Vega is nearly identical to its younger sister, Minerva. The third, slightly larger sibling Diana is set to debut in May.

When returning from a frigid Antarctica excursion, you will appreciate the fireplaces (yes, that's right) built into the walls of all cabins. They're electric but quite realistic, with flames and crackling sounds.

When the weather's good, skip the main restaurant and eat at the buffet, which is set up at the back of Deck 7, adjacent to the attractive (and heated) infinity swimming pool. Vega also has a small gym and a spa with an ocean-view sauna.

The expansive Observation Lounge takes up most of Deck 7 and is the spot for expedition lectures. Thirteen Zodiacs and eight kayaks take guests on water adventures and ashore.

Don't miss the little observation point called the Swan's Nest all the way forward on Deck 6. You play out your Jack and Rose fantasies there.

SH Vega cruises the Arctic region (visiting Greenland, Iceland and northern Canada), South America, the coast of Africa (including South Africa, Namibia and Angola) and the Antarctic Peninsula.

Cruise fare includes a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay and one excursion in each port.

Viking Cruises: Viking Octantis

How small? 378 passengers. Best for: Expedition cruisers with an academic bent.

Among the larger ships on our list, Viking 's new 378-passenger Viking Octantis (along with sister Viking Polaris) was designed to explore the polar regions with some pretty cool features, including a large two-level garage called the Hangar.

Inside are not only Zodiacs and kayaks but a pair of six-passenger submarines and military-grade speed used to shuttle cruisers on excursions.

The ship is equipped for scientific inquiry with a remote-controlled underwater robot, baited underwater camera and a FerryBox system for collecting water samples, which you can view under a microscope in the ship's science lab. Weather balloons are released on every cruise to capture info on temperature, humidity and wind speed.

For decidedly less academic pursuits, Viking Octantis has a fitness center and a spa that includes a lovely indoor pool with sea views, plus a sauna, snow grotto (with snowflakes descending gently from the ceiling through chilled air) and outdoor spa tub.

Four dining options include Manfredi's Italian and several attractive lounges, such as the windowed Aula auditorium for lectures.

Viking Octantis spends part of the year in Antarctica and the rest of the year cruising the Great Lakes and Canada, with a handful of repositioning cruises in between.

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Sparkling Singapore is an exciting city that prides itself on its architectural beauty with a modern twist. With an abundance of green spaces and stunning landmarks, you’ll find no shortage of sites to discover during an Asia cruise that departs from Singapore. Take a stroll down the sprawling Singapore Botanic Gardens or marvel at the futuristic waterfront park of Gardens by the Bay. Soak in the city-wide views from the top of the Singapore Flyer Ferris wheel or walk along the Marina Bay and explore historic hotels and bars. Singapore has a little something for everyone, including outdoor adventure, a world-class dining scene, unrivaled shopping, and everything in between.

On cruises from Singapore, you’ll stop in stunning ports in Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan, along the way. Even better, on some itineraries, you’ll spend an overnight in Singapore, which will allow you to discover the city’s thrilling nightlife and breathtaking skyline views that come alive once the sun goes down.

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Discover ancient landmarks, bustling cities, and delicious cuisine in Vietnam, an alluring destination that fuses French colonial history with modern Asian influences. Make your way around Ho Chi Minh’s five-star restaurants and lively markets. Admire the towering Marble Mountains in Da Nang and the ancient ruins and temples in Hue. During a stop in Hanoi, discover the natural beauty of Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll be in awe of its towering limestone structures, hidden caves, and emerald waters.

Marvel at natural wonders, religious landmarks, and stunning landscapes during a Singapore cruise that stops in Japan. Stroll around tranquil Japanese gardens and admire the dazzling architecture in Kobe, a city also known for its famous mouthwatering beef. While at Mount Fuji, experience the wonder of Japan’s highest mountain, one of the country’s most sacred sites, and climb up to the top for unbeatable views of Shizuoka and Tokyo in the distance. 

Explore colorful destinations in Thailand during one of our cruises from Singapore. Most of our itineraries include an overnight stay in Bangkok, giving you a fantastic opportunity to discover the City of Angels. Spend two days visiting golden temples, admiring magnificent Buddhas, and scouring the floating markets, where you’re sure to find a variety of local treasures to bring back home.

Our Ship Cruising to Singapore

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Why Sail from Singapore with Celebrity Cruises

Experience the magic of a cruise from Singapore aboard one of our award-winning ships, where you’ll be surrounded by the utmost comfort and luxury throughout your journey. Travel to spectacular destinations in Asia, including ports in Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, and Hong Kong. All of our cruises from Singapore are open-jaw itineraries that depart and disembark in different ports, which allows you to discover more places in the region than ever before. 

Depending on the sailing, cruises from Singapore can include overnight stays in exciting cities like Singapore, Hong Kong, Hanoi, Manila, Bangkok, or Kobe. And on some cruises, you can even take advantage of overnight stays in two different cities, helping you maximize your time during your vacation around Asia.  

Spend your trip exploring fascinating ports of call and later unwind aboard a cutting-edge during days at sea. On your cruise, you’ll savor world-class cuisine that includes global-inspired menus crafted by a Michelin-starred chef. Throughout your vacation, you’ll also enjoy impeccable service from our team of concierges and butlers, as well as unlimited entertainment offerings at our visionary venues. 

Sip artisanal cocktails at an upscale bar or dance the night away in one of the lounges. Watch riveting performances in the theater and listen to live music at the open air Lawn Club, an alfresco area with more than a half-acre of real grass. Lounge under the sun at the outdoor pool or take a break at the serene indoor solarium. For a truly unforgettable vacation, book a stay at The Retreat, our luxury vacation experience that includes suite accommodations and access to a private restaurant, sun deck, and lounge. 

Whether you’re traveling alone, on your honeymoon, or with your entire family, you’ll find there’s no shortage of fun things to do while aboard a Celebrity Cruise.

Singapore Port Facilities & Location

Your Celebrity cruise from Singapore will be waiting for you at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore, or MBCCS. The cruise terminal is equipped with free wifi, souvenir shopping, and currency exchange. Plus, the Marina South Pier metro station is a short walk away, making it easy to get to or from your cruise ship to the city’s financial and business district. The city of Singapore has greatly invested in making its cruise facilities modern, luxurious, and state of the art.

Top Sights & Attractions for Cruises to Singapore

Gardens by the bay.

The Gardens by the Bay have become completely synonymous with Singapore. Here you’ll find sculptures in the shape of funky flowers lit up in bright colors. The garden is home to multiple greenhouses, like the Flower Dome, where the temperatures and the plant life are always in spring. In the Cloud Forest, a small mountain was built for visitors to scale, bringing a tropical mountain climate all the way to Singapore. Guided tours and shows happen daily, and there’s something for all ages here, including a children’s garden and a sculpture park.

Singapore Botanic Garden

This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the few places to see the island’s rarest vegetation and greenery, making it not only a paradise but also one of the most important preservation efforts in all of Asia. When you cruise Singapore, take a leisurely walk through the grounds, where you can literally stop and smell the flowers. The Orchid Garden offers the largest collection of orchids in the world, and imported swans float along Swan Lake for a romantic afternoon out.

Singapore Flyer

Take a ride on the incredible Singapore flyer, a massive Ferris wheel in the heart of Singapore. Rides last about 30 minutes and offer incredible, panoramic views of the city during the adventure. Watch the futuristic skyline on one side and the peaceful harbor as ships float in and out on the other. At night, the Flyer even lights up.

Night Safari

For a close look at some of Singapore’s most exotic wildlife, take an unforgettable night safari, where you’ll enjoy a tram ride through this nocturnal zoo in the heart of the rainforest while on your cruise to Singapore. Nearly 150 species call this ecosystem their home, and 38 of them are endangered. There are even shows like fire-twirling and dancing, and smaller group buggy rides through the park with an expert guide.

Learn More About Singapore Shore Excursions

Top things to do in singapore, go shopping on orchard road.

The definitive spot for shopping in Singapore is Orchard Road, the shopping district home to over 5,000 businesses. You can lose track of time here while on a cruise to Singapore, whether you’re looking to explore art galleries, try on new clothes, or browse for high-end goods. There’s even a rare whisky museum where you can enjoy whisky tastings. Orchard Road is also home to many bars and restaurants that add to Singapore’s gourmet scene.

Board a Bumboat

One of the best ways to admire the Singapore skyline is by taking a scenic bumboat cruise down the Singapore River. From the water, you’ll marvel at the historic Boat Quay, as well as the city’s more modern architectural sites, including the towering Marina Bay Sands and Helix Bridge. If you board a bumboat at night, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a thrilling laser show with music, light, and water that come together for a magnificent visual experience.

Walk Singapore’s Chinatown

When stopped before your cruise from Singapore, you’ll see the city has a vibrant energy that is infectious. Singapore’s Chinatown is a must-see for some of the cheapest, best street food in the city, shops featuring local artists and designers, and beautifully preserved temples. Walk the narrow streets, stop for a bite to eat, or tour the restored temple Thian Hock Keng.

Where should I eat in Singapore?

Imperial Treasure Super Peking Duck

Make a reservation for one of the top spots for dim sum and its namesake, peking duck, here. There’s a location very close to the shopping along Orchard Road. This cozy spot is ideal for lunch after a long stretch of boutique hopping. You’ll want to plan ahead. Advanced orders are required if you want to nosh on the Beijing-style roasted duck.

Tarts at Tarte by Cheryl Koh

Address: #01-12, 1 Scotts Road, Singapore

When you’re craving sweets, Tarts at Tarte bring you pretty much every variety of tart, cake, and truffle available. Here you’ll find 66% dark chocolate tarts, blood orange tarts, and light-as-air sponge cakes. Bring some back to the ship with you as you cruise Singapore. Coffee and tea are menu staples, too. 

Address: #01-03 Dorsett Residences, Singapore

The one Michelin-starred Candlenut frequently makes “best of” lists in Singapore for its gourmet takes on Peranakan cuisine. The menu changes based on seasonal and available produce, and also offers luxe a la carte options from baby squid to chicken curry. Chef Malcolm Lee brings an extravagance to recipes passed down through generations of family.

Park Bench Deli

Address: 179 Telok Ayer St., Singapore 068627

Unpretentious and styled like an American deli, Park Bench Deli is a place to hang out with a juicy sandwich and a cold beer. From a classic fried chicken sandwich to the more adventurous pastrami tater tots, head here for comfort food in the heart of Singapore.

What’s the culture and history of Singapore?

The island of Singapore was settled by the British in the early 19th century, who then built up the port and encouraged international trade to the area. Singapore gained independence in 1965 and quickly became one of the wealthiest and most expensive places in the world as investments in housing, education, and trade began to expand. Singapore’s culture is a melting pot, known for influences from both Asia and Europe, where you’ll hear residents speaking many languages from English to Mandarin to Tamil. Its warm climate year-round makes it a favorite for tropical weather lovers.

Where can I go shopping near the Singapore cruise port?

Find luxury brands and well-known names when you’re shopping at the Marina Bay Sands Mall, which is just a short 15-minute ride from the cruise center, particularly if you’re interested in high fashion and Singaporean designers. Singapore’s Chinatown is also a must-see for its energy, where vendors not only sell cheap eats at their stalls, but also offer fashion from independent and emerging designers and artists looking to support their craft. Because so many vendors also sell food, you can hop from boutique to boutique and stay close to some of the best food before your cruise from Singapore. 

How can I get around Singapore?  

Singapore’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system is comprehensive and easy to navigate, not to mention efficient and clean. Hop off at the Marina South Pier station, just a short walk from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre, after spending time in downtown Singapore and the city’s main sights. Of course, taxis are very common in Singapore, but only stop at designated stands to drop you off once you’re in the city to curb traffic and make the drop-off process smoother for the city. Singapore doesn’t host ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft currently. The city’s trishaws are mostly a tourist activity now, so be careful not to pay too much for one. 

What are the local currency and tipping customs?

The official currency of Singapore is the Singaporean dollar (S$). Tipping isn’t common practice in Singapore, and credit cards are considered the norm here. You can find currency exchange at banks and conveniently at the cruise port, called the Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore.

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Singapore: A Rich Cultural Hub for Asia Vacations

Asia vacations evoke images of far-off, exotic lands, and Singapore travel is no exception. A central hub of Southeast Asia and a potential home port for a number of round-trip cruises, this island city-state has plenty of hot spots and rich cultural experiences for you to enjoy. Visit Singapore on an Asia cruise and check out these attractions to learn more about the island and its unique history.

Thian Hock Keng Temple

One of the oldest, and perhaps the most important of Hokkien temples in Singapore, Thian Hock Keng was built in 1839, a detail you can learn about by reading the inscriptions on the granite tablets inside the entrance hall. As an ocean traveler yourself, you might consider giving thanks to Ma Zu, the Goddess of the Sea, to whom the main temple is dedicated.

The heart of Singapore is in Chinatown, which is made up of five distinct districts that each feature their own flavor and feel. The most iconic of these districts is Kreta Ayer. Located in the northern district of Chinatown, Kreta Ayer features traditional trades, markets, and street vendors. Other districts feature local and often upscale watering holes, hotels, and luxury restaurants for those looking for a night on the town.

Sri Mariamman Temple

While touring Chinatown, stop in at the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. Sri Mariamman Temple was built by immigrants from South India and was popularly known as Kling Street Temple. Its construction was spearheaded by a British clerk from the East India Company in 1827. Now, the temple celebrates the fire-walking ceremony called Thimithi, a tradition that began in South India that is held annually in October or November.

Little India

An essential stop during your Singapore trip is Little India, where you can peruse spice shops, ink up with henna tattoos, or drape yourself in ceremonial flowers. Make sure that you set aside time to get a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants that feature the best curries and masalas in Singapore.

Sultan Mosque

Built for Sultan Hussain Shah in 1824, the Sultan Mosque is located within the Kampong Glam district and is the focal point for Muslims in Singapore. The main prayer hall can house up to 5,000 worshipers, making the building one of the most iconic religious structures in the city. It is used daily for prayer and ceremonies and is considered a national monument in Singapore.

Visiting these sites will surely whet your appetite for even more Asia vacations and experiences — in which case you're in luck: Singapore travel is a great idea, as the island is the perfect home port and central location to sail off from on your next cruise through Southeast Asia. View Asia cruises .

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• Wander around the 120-plus acres of the Singapore Botanic Gardens where there is a rainforest, lake and many gardens where medicinal herbs and different types of ginger are grown. The National Orchid Garden is also in the vicinity of the Botanic Gardens.  
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• It is a must to visit the Chinatown Heritage Center which is a small museum that includes much of Singapore’s early history.   

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The small cruise ship experience.

28th January 2019 by Expat Living 7 Min Read

https://expatliving.sg/the-small-cruise-ship-experience/

When it comes to the size of the boat you’re on, big doesn’t necessarily mean best for a great getaway at sea, as HEIDI SARNA discovers. 

I’ve travelled on more giant cruise ships over the years than I can count, mingling with thousands of other passengers in sprawling buffet restaurants and multi-storey show lounges. Don’t get me wrong, my family and I have enjoyed the big ships and their climbing walls, water slides and ice-skating rinks. When they were younger, my children loved the playrooms and activities, my husband was impressed by the huge gyms and I loved the retro-style song and dance reviews, the pomp and circumstance of dinner, and the people-watching. There’s no denying that the mega cruise ships are fun and exciting places – destinations unto themselves – but the glitz and glamour come with a price: all those other people.

On a big-ship cruise, queuing takes up a fair part of each day. You’ve got to line up and wait your turn to make reservations for dining, to book a shore excursion, to ask a question at the front deck, and even to get off and on the ship in port.

Small ships avoid the nasty stuff associated with mass-market travel. Mini cruise ships carrying no more than a few hundred passengers are intimate, quirky and personal, like boutique hotels, and have a stronger focus on the ports – their size enables them to access river deltas, bays and coastal areas the big ships can’t squeeze into; there’s also less emphasis on entertainment. I’ve been on dozens, from sailing ships in the Greek Isles and the Indonesian archipelago to riverboats in Myanmar and oceangoing mini-vessels in the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. By far, these small-ship cruises have left the most indelible impression on my travel psyche.

Windstar Cruises and SeaDream Yacht Club are two small ship cruise lines with vessels carrying just a couple of hundred passengers each on casually elegant jaunts all over the world (though predominately in Europe and the Caribbean). Both have a no-jacket-required dress code and are geared to adults who appreciate the convenience and romance of travelling by ship, but who shun crowds and queuing. Their ships have mini-marinas at the stern for easy access to kayaking, sailing and swimming when at anchor in some ports, plus each has a small pool, fitness centre and spa – just enough diversions, and no more. I’ve cruised with both lines multiple times; here are accounts of two recent trips.

Windstar Cruises’ trio of 212-passenger Star-class ships: Star Pride, Star Breeze and Star Legend On a 10-night cruise aboard Star Pride from Hong Kong to Ho Chi Minh City with an old college friend, we set sail from the docks near Hong Kong’s famous old Star Ferry terminal, where only smaller ships can dock, and sipped champagne on the top deck as the ship glided past the famous skyline and into the South China Sea. It was chillier than we’d expected, but we were warmed by the alcohol and the thrill of watching one of the world’s most famous cities backlit against a smouldering sunset. Star Pride’s roving photographer snapped pictures of happy couples and groups of friends in holiday mode, and eventually everyone meandered back to their suites to get dressed for dinner.

Typical of small luxury ships, all of the Star-class ships’ cabins are mini-suites with a sitting area, a mini-bar, a walk-in closet and a bathroom with double sinks, a tub and a shower. The suites have either large windows or French balconies – sliding glass doors with a railing and small ledge you can stand on. The three 212-passenger Star ships formerly belonged to Seabourn Cruise Line and in 2014-2015 were folded into the Windstar fleet, joining its three motorised sailing yachts that carry between 148 and 310 passengers.

We had the choice of two restaurants, one buffet-style with indoor and outdoor seating, the other inside on a lower deck with a more formal feeling. Highlights included delicious seafood skewers and Portobello mushroom and lobster cappuccino appetisers. Before and after dinner, entertainment revolved mostly around cocktails and chats at several lounges, or in the tiny casino, with a singing duo providing the background sounds.

Most entertaining and enriching were the lectures. On sea days, Geoff Devito gave one or two presentations about Vietnam with slides and a witty and informative narrative. Armed with several degrees, including a Master’s in the anthropology of tourism, and years spent living abroad and working on ships, Geoff was a confident and engaging speaker. He talked about UNESCO World Heritage sites in Vietnam as well as how tourism affects the local culture, keeping our attention by injecting fun quips into his presentations. (“You may wonder why I have so much energy,” he joked. “It’s because I had a cup of Vietnamese coffee two weeks ago.”)

In each port, Geoff accompanied one of the ship’s shore excursions, including an interesting tour of Hanoi where he shared his insights from previous trips. He also mingled with passengers on deck, answering questions as we cruised into port or passed interesting places, such as the scenic limestone forest of Ha Long Bay. With such a small passenger contingent, it was easy to chat to Geoff around the ship. On huge vessels, if they have lectures (which they often do not), they are delivered in giant theatres or show lounges and it’s certainly not easy to fraternise with the speaker throughout the cruise.

The Windstar fleet sails all over the world, including Costa Rica and French Polynesia, but most of its itineraries are focused on Europe and the Caribbean. Pricing includes soft drinks and meals, and one free shore excursion on every cruise.

SeaDream Yacht Club’s pair of 112-passenger Dream Boats Like a shoe that fits just right, for me SeaDream Yacht Club’s 112-passenger mini cruise ships offer the ideal mix of sporty and adventurous with luxe touches like an open bar, great meals and a crew of charming ex-model waiters and bar staff who follow passengers around with trays of Prosecco.

On my last SeaDream Yacht Club cruise (with the same friend from college), we met a fun family that captured the SeaDream vibe so well. Worldly and well-travelled, yet unpretentious, they included a 60-something jet-setting mom and dad, their grown daughter and a family friend with the cool swagger of Mick Jagger. We dined with them many times and shared drinks on deck and at dinner, along with lots of laughs.

Built in the mid-1980s as the luxurious Sea Goddess I and II, the ships changed hands a few times and were extensively renovated and relaunched in 2002. They’re classics, with lovely brass fittings and lots of wood, from the decks to the cabins, furniture, doors and bar tops.

Breakfast and lunch are typically enjoyed in the alfresco Topside Restaurant, where you can sit by the railing with sea views and stroll back and forth to the generous buffet for tropical fruit and fresh-baked things, or order something hot off the menu. At lunch on my recent cruise, we filled our plates with shrimp, salad and more fruit, and sometimes ordered a yummy Indonesian noodle or seafood dish from the waiters, handsome Hawaiian-shirt-wearing pros who you could imagine as maîtred’s in a five-star hotel in Europe somewhere. Dinner highlights included homemade potato gnocchi, halibut, wonton soup and a vegan cheesecake.

With these fun-loving folks and the friendly but professional waiters and bartenders, the ship felt like a big private yacht, as though we had been invited to a party thrown by a rich uncle. This cruise took us from Singapore to Bali, while on an earlier SeaDream cruise in the Caribbean I sailed from Puerto Rico to St Thomas. One of the highlights of both was the line’s signature champagne and caviar splash, a young-at-heart free-for-all for where adults in bathing suits enjoy plastic glasses of champagne from waiters wading through the water with trays and serving dollops of caviar scooped out of a silver bowl floating on a surfboard

“A SeaDream cruise is all about being social and enjoying the casual vibe,” a very contented passenger told me as he took another swig of his wine.

Seeing the menacing giant lizards lumber about on our guided tour in Komodo National Park was memorable, and the beaches of St Barts were amazing, but mostly, the gist of a SeaDream cruise, no matter where it goes, is hanging out on the decks, reclining on a wide sunbed (and hoping the ash from the nearby funnel isn’t blowing the wrong way), soaking in the hot tub at the open stern deck or installed at the open-air Top of the Yacht Bar, sipping endless glasses of rosé and revelling in your good fortune. There are rarely enrichment lectures on a SeaDream cruise, though films are shown from time to time in the lounge – it’s all about relaxing on deck with the wind in your hair and a glass in hand.

To get ready for dinner each evening, we’d head down to our 195-square-foot foot cabin, a comfortable, bright room with blond wood panelling and a large window, a sitting area and long wooden credenza where the electronics and mini-bar resided. The bedding was plush (though the beds were narrow for anyone on the large side) and the bathrooms with showers were small but efficiently designed. Not over-done and not cookie-cutter St. Regis décor; the cabins are elegant in an old-world nautical way.

SeaDream’s rates include meals and all wines, spirits, soft drinks and tips.

windstarcruises.com seadream.com quirkycruise.com (Heidi’s new website dedicated to all kinds of cruise information)

This article first appeared in the June 2016 edition of Expat Living magazine Subscribe . Check out our Travel section for more.

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All On Board to 10 Best Cruises from Singapore!

10 best cruises from Singapore, based on reviews from Singaporean tourists.

Singapore is a country in Southeast Asia and one of the world's tourist destinations. Even though it's a small country, you can find various types of attractions in Singapore, including cruising.

For Southeast Asian tourists who want to enjoy a luxury cruising experience , they can visit Singapore. It is a popular activity in Singapore because this country has the largest port in Asia, with luxury cruises departing to various countries in Southeast Asia and Asia. If you want to cruise from Singapore , you can go to the Singapore Marina Bay Cruise Center or Singapore Cruise Center.

List of 10 Best Cruises from Singapore

1. royal caribbean.

Open hours: Varies by ship.

Recommended destinations: Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan

Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world. Royal Caribbean ships are very large and luxurious, in which there are many facilities that can be used by guests of all ages. In addition, many activities can be done. This is one of the most luxurious cruise ships sailing from Marina Bay Cruise Center Singapore.

Various facilities at the Royal Caribbean ship, such as an artificial swimming pool with a wave simulator for sailing, a rock climbing wall, a water park commonly used for children, an ice skating rink, and many others. Visitors will also get delicious food during the cruise and entertainment in their bar.

2. Resorts World Cruises

Open hours: Varies by ship

Recommended destinations: Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia

Resort World Cruise is a new cruise line with the best service. So, many people choose to sail with Resort World Cruise. This is one of the luxury cruise ships in Asia that presents various facilities and services. Resort World Cruise waiters are very friendly, and this cruise presents a variety of exciting entertainment.

Visitors can come to The Palace, a luxury ship within a ship located on the upper deck. There are 142 suites, an exclusive restaurant that presents delicious cuisine, a bar with all its entertainment and splendor, a spa, and a gym—sailings from Singapore on Resorts World Cruise feature round-trip journeys of two to five nights.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line

Recommended destinations: Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a cruise line that uses classic old ships. Even so, the facilities and services provided by Norwegian Cruise Line are very complete. After being renovated, the facilities provided by Norwegian Cruise Line include an indoor activity center, swimming pool, luxury cabins, and many others. This cruise is known for its relaxed atmosphere and wide range of sailing options. Their ships are home to some of the most popular entertainment in the cruise industry.

Norwegian Cruise Line, which sails from Singapore, uses the Singapore Dollar currency, with English being their official language. Visitors can also use credit cards as a payment method during transactions with Norwegian Cruise Line.

4. Celebrity Cruises

Recommended destinations: Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and India.

Celebrity Cruises is a favorite for many travelers as it features elegant ships with impeccable service. Celebrity Cruises are very popular in Southeast Asia; their ships are very luxurious, such as Celebrity Millennium, Constellation, Infinity, and Summit. On board, there are 9 lounges, multi-deck dining, and a variety of lively entertainment.

For an unforgettable experience, you can book The Retreat to get luxury facilities and private access to restaurants, sundecks, and lounges. Celebrity Cruises' activities are very fun, such as special workshops, cooking demonstrations, fitness classes, casinos, live performances at Vegas-themed bars, and many more. With all the facilities and activities in it, your vacation with Celebrity Cruises will be unforgettable.

5. Genting Dream

Recommended destinations: Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong

Genting Dream has a flagship ship, Genting Cruise Lines, one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world. On the ship, you can find various luxurious facilities. Genting Dream, previously named Star Cruises, presents a royal atmosphere; visitors will feel very pampered during the cruise.

Inside Genting Dream, make sure to visit The Palace, which is a luxury European-style cabin. Here, you can find private lounges, swimming pools, gourmet food service, refreshing handmade drinks, and more.

Some people choose Genting Dream for their honeymoon. They will provide various romantic facilities for couples at Genting Dream. So, you can get eternal joy and memories with your lover. A luxury vacation by sailing is the right choice to get a calm atmosphere.

6. Star Clipper

Recommended destinations: Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore.

The next recommendation for cruising from Singapore is with Star Clipper. Star Clipper is a cruise with a small line. The Star Clipper ship is designed to be very intimate and luxurious. The services provided are also unique; visitors will be taken to enjoy the beauty of Southeast Asia.

Vintage-style Star Clipper yachts with magnificent white sails selling on deck increase the attractiveness of the ship. The design of this yacht was inspired by 19th-century trading ships. However, simultaneously, you will feel very luxurious with complete facilities. Then, the activities provided are very diverse; there are water sports that all visitors can do, yoga classes, and music performances. This will give a pleasant and precious sailing experience.

7. Oceania Cruises

Recommended destinations: Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia.

Oceania Cruises is only for adults. This luxury cruise ship presents an intimate service with fun entertainment. Oceania Cruises is ready to take you on a long fun journey across Asia to Europe from Singapore.

There are various travel options to choose from. This is the best way to indulge yourself on a long vacation. You can get a beautiful view during a trip on the seas.

Oceania Cruises is suitable to be chosen because it offers the best quality cruise vacations, and there is no doubt about it. You can enjoy luxurious and delicious food by the sea, and feel the relaxed atmosphere of the club, which combines luxury for an extraordinary travel experience for guests.

8. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Recommended destinations: Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Australia

Regent Seven Seas Cruises serves more than 300 ports, one of which is Singapore. You can choose Regent Seven Seas Cruises for an unforgettable luxury cruising experience. The Regent Seven Sea Cruises ship has nine decks and 350 deluxe-type rooms. No. need to doubt, the rooms at Regent Seven Sea Cruises are equipped with complete pampering facilities.

One of the ships used by Regent Seven Seas Cruises from Singapore is the Seven Seas Voyager. The facilities presented by Regent Seven Seas Cruises are very complete. You will not feel bored during the cruise. Some recommended destinations are Hong Kong for visitors cruising for the first time. However, if you have experienced moving before, you can take a goal to Sydney.

Recommended destinations: Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia

Those who want to get a more traditional sailing experience can choose Maasdam, which is a classic cruise ship. These cruise ships feature luxurious and comfortable hotels, various dining options, entertainment, and more. For couples on their honeymoon, you can choose Maasdam as your vacation because it presents a romantic atmosphere.

Maasdam is a cruise service managed by Holland America Line—Maasdam's voyages across various destinations in the Indian Ocean. You can sail with Maasdam from Singapore to other countries in Southeast Asia to the whole world. Experience the life of several days aboard a luxury ship with the best service.

10. Costa Cruises

Recommended destinations: Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.

Last but not least, you can choose Costa Cruises with the best offers of activities and facilities for all ages. You can select Costa Cruises to bring your family on this luxury vacation. This is one of the affordable cruises from Singapore. The ship used by Costa Cruises is unique, inspired by an Italian steamer with a length of 893 feet.

On board, the Costa Cruises have various luxury facilities, such as swimming pools, 13 decks, saunas, theaters, and many others. You can use these facilities during the cruise to avoid boredom. The destinations offered also vary, and you can sail around Southeast Asia or the world.

That's the list of cruises from Singapore that can take you to countries in Southeast Asia to other countries around the world. Cruises in Singapore are one of the most comfortable and enjoyable attraction options. You can explore various exotic places with luxurious facilities offered. Beautiful scenery during the cruise greets you. You must try a fun sailing experience with friends or family at least once in a lifetime and get an unforgettable experience.

Use Traveloka to plan an itinerary for the holidays. This application can be used to book flights , book hotels , and order tickets for exciting activities during your vacation.

Explore even more inspiring travel ideas:

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Embark on an unforgettable journey to Singapore with a Carnival Cruise. Each cruise getaway begins or ends with the Singapore Harbour, a destination that every cruise lover should experience. The cruise showcases the elegance of Singapore, with highlights including the world-renowned Orchard Road, the awe-inspiring Marina Bay, and the tranquil Botanical Gardens. This Southeast Asia cruise package promises to leave you spellbound. But with Carnival Cruise Line, the journey is about more than just the destination. It's about immersing yourself in exciting onboard activities, savouring a variety of dining options, and diving into the thrilling adventures you've always dreamed of on the best cruise ship.

• Shop on the famous Orchard Road.
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• Marvel at Marina Bay Sands.
• Take in the famous Gardens by the Bay.
• Enjoy everything a Singapore cruise offers.

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"Normally, I don't feel like writing reviews, but I felt compelled to do it for Athens Insiders. I made the decision to travel to Athens in the summer of 2012 in order to avoid the commotion that was predicted to result from the Queen's jubilee. As usual, my work kept me busy right up to the last minute, so I ran out of time to do anything fun for my week-long trip. I learned about this young group of tour guides for Athens and its vicinity from a friend. I had a wonderful experience. I got in touch with Daphne, who gave me email recommendations for Athens attractions to see, inquired about my preferences for local cuisine, and then devised an itinerary for my trip. In addition to visiting the typical suspects in Athens (Acropolis, etc.), I also chose to travel to Delhi and spend a night at a campground there. And I had a great time, honestly. We visited the attractions when there were few visitors and spent the busiest times outside of Athens rather than being herded around like cattle. I was taken to incredible tiny eateries (the well-known tavernas), marketplaces, and other regional shops."

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• 9 Breakfast (B)
• 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
• 1 Regional Dinner (RD)
• 1 Be My Guest (BMG)
• Cardiff: Enjoy a hearty Be My Guest Welsh dinner with a farming family and their animals in the beautiful award-winning vineyards of Wales.

50 plus, Cultural, Education / Learning, Small Ship Cruise

"The Journey on the Civil Rights Trail was AMAZING! I loved all of the museums and locations. The local experts were PHENOMENAL. THey were alive during the fight for Civil RIghts and were able to give first hand accounts of their experiences at that time. Just fabulous! THe tour exceeded my expectations. I do wish that we had more time in Montgomery, Alabama -especially at the Equal Justice Initiative. Two and a half hours for viewing the museum, visiting the three external installments (Lynching Memorial, Boat Ride, and Sculpture Garden) as well as eating lunch was not enough time AT ALL. The food venues were fabulous. I loved the final farewell dinner at The Culinary Dropout in Atlanta. The hotels were beautiful. Most were Hiltons. The hotel just outside of Montgomery was very busy and new with lots of families. It was very different from the calm of the others, but I loved the fact that we were given vouchers for the free breakfast and dinner for the two night stay. We also received a drink card for three free drinks each night. That was so fun. The Marriott Marquis Hotel in Atlanta was also extremely busy and HUGE! Thankfully we were on the 4th floor out of 50. The bus driver Glenn was great. He was actually from my hometown! The guide Miles was kind and knowledgeable. I do wish that he viewed the museums with us. Since Miles had already done the tour twice he stayed in the lobby while we went through. It would have been nice to have him around -actually with us inside each museum. Overall, the tour exceeded my expectations. I would do it again if I could. I HIGHLY recommend this tour if you are interested in the history of America's south."

Best of Antarctica: Wildlife Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)

Antarctic Peninsula, Ushuaia

• Explore an unspoiled wilderness, uninhabited by man, where penguins, seals, whales and seabirds in their abundance are the true rulers.
• Emerging from winter, the density of wildlife is increasing, and penguin rookeries are at full capacity with penguin chicks beginning to hatch from mid-December.
• Seal and whale sightings become more frequent as minke, southern right and humpback whales return to Antarctic waters to feed, ensuring extraordinary wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Enjoy daily Zodiac excursions, onshore landings and take advantage of a range of adventure options during the voyage such as kayaking, camping, photography and snowshoeing.
• Benefit from a variety of onboard activities including educational lectures on history, geology, and ecology by the expedition team.

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Health Safety +

Glimpse Of Indochina In 15 Days

Bangkok , Chiang Mai, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap

• Enjoy an overnight cruise in the stunning Halong Bay
• Cycle around the villages of Vietnam and attend a cooking class
• Explore the biggest temples complex in the world, Angkor Wat
• See cascades waterfalls right in the middle of lush jungles

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

Antarctic Wildlife Adventure: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

Antarctic Peninsula, Buenos Aires, Falklands Islands, South Shetland Islands

• The greatest concentrations of seabirds and marine mammals on the planet.
• Astounding abundance of penguins at huge breeding colonies
• A rare view of albatross family life
• Fearless marine wildlife and scenery beyond belief on the Antarctic Peninsula.

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

Athens, Crete, Milos and Santorini Travel Package

Athens, Heraklion, Milos, Santorini

• Marvel the impressive Acropolis
• Explore Athens in a tasty way with your food guide
• Hike through the biggest gorge in Europe
• Leisure Stroll with tastings in the picturesque town along the Santorini cliff
• Unique sunset cruise around the volcano in Santorini

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Hiking & Walking, Small Ship Cruise, Photography

Treasures of Spain and Portugal (Barcelona)

• Seville: Enjoy a traditional Andalusian Be My Guest dinner and the charming company of the Morillo family. A welcome drink of sangria in their sun-dappled courtyard before learning how they produce olive oil.
• Porto: Savour the flavours of Portugal's centuries-old Port heritage and gain insights into its local production at a tasting in a Port cellar.
• Lisbon: Visit the Hieronymite Monastery, a former monastery of the Order of Saint Jerome and exquisite example of Manueline architecture.
• Madrid: Drive through central Madrid and see some of the city's famous features during an orientation with your Travel Director.
• Toledo: Explore this magnificent ancient city with your Local Specialist and visit the Church of Santo Tomé to see an El Greco masterpiece.

Best Small Ship & Expedition Cruises Tours by Duration

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Small ship & expedition cruises reviews & ratings, above our expectation.

It was a marvellous trip for us in Indochina. Everything was above our expectations except for the vegetarian food for my wife. The itinerary was perfectly organised...

Tour:   Glimpse Of Indochina In 15 Days

Good choice to South East Asia

I will HIGHLY recommend this tour to my family, friends and work colleagues who are thinking about travelling to Vietnam and South East Asia – and will personally re...

Fanstastic itinerary

Wow!  I couldn’t have asked for a better trip!  Thank you so much. The cities were fantastic as were the rural and water based adventures. The tours and gu...

Warmest greetings from Australia

We made it back to Australia and our home town safe and sound. It is a three hour drive to my home town from Brisbane and I didn’t think it was safe for me to make ...

Best travel consultant ever

All of the tour guides were brilliant – Tony in Hanoi and Sody in Cambodia were my personal faves. All the guides spoke very good English, were very friendly, court...

See all Small Ship & Expedition Cruises reviews

Small Ship & Expedition Cruises Tour Selection Trips

• Expect to meet and mingle with many or even most of your fellow passengers on small ships, which may carry anywhere from 12 to 200 passengers.
• Think about the activities you’d most like to enjoy during your small-ship cruise. Are you looking for wildlife viewing, culture, history, walking tours?
• Once you know what activities you’d like to accomplish during your small-ship cruise, this will narrow down your destinations.
• Then, once you have your small-ship cruise destination picked out, research what is the best time to visit that region. For example, if you want to see whales in Alaska , look for summer cruises. Hankering for a once-in-a-lifetime cruise to Antarctica ? The best time to cruise to the south pole is November to March.
• Consider your personal comfort needs aboard your small cruise ship. Expedition cruise ships are smaller and provide ample deck space and large accommodations, while mid-size cruise ships have an ambience more akin to a small yacht, while still offering considerable deck space and large rooms.
• If your small-ship cruise vessel is a modestly sized yacht or sailboat, expect only about 8 to 40 guests, smaller cabins, not as many public spaces and, in general, more time ashore.
• Consider how active you want to be during your small-ship cruise and ensure that the cruise line carries enough equipment and offers enough shore excursions to fit your interest and ability. Do they offer zodiacs for off-ship wildlife viewing ? Are there opportunities to snorkel or stand-up paddleboard in tropical waters? How many times a day are off-ship excursions offered, how long are the excursions and are there different levels of exertion?
• Without the economies of scale that large cruise ships can take advantage of, many small-ship cruises are more expensive than megaships.
• As with any cruise, find out what extras (gratuities, shore excursions, alcoholic beverages, etc.) are or are not included in the price.
• Depending on the activities you want to do during your small-ship cruise, find out who will be onboard with you in terms of guides, workshop leaders, naturalists and destination experts. Some small-ship cruise lines offer partnerships with the national parks you are visiting, ensuring that the guides receive ample training, or even with National Geographic.
• Think about who you are cruising with and ensure that your small ship has the appropriate accommodations styles to meet your needs.
• If you or your travel companions are prone to seasickness -- more common on small ships than large --  come prepared with some form of medication or other preventative measures

Additional details

Preparing for a Long Cruise

You’re headed out on that long-awaited small-ship cruise, thankful that, in large part, all the logistics of your cruise have been planned out for you, and that you’ll only have to unpack and repack one time.

To get the most of your small-ship cruise experience, particularly a cruise in the 7- to 10-day range, we offer the following suggestions to make sure you’ll fully prepared .

1. Pack prudently. Notice we didn’t say “lightly.” No one will fault you for bringing that extra warm layer if you’re cruising to Alaska or a spare pair of sunglasses if you’re small-ship sailing in the Mediterranean .

Simply pack prudently, keeping in mind that cruise ships have rooms that are typically smaller than hotel rooms - the upside of small-ship cruising, however, is that because the guest number is lower, the room sizes are often more spacious than you’ll find on a mega-ship. Still, pack what you need to stay comfortable, stay warm, not get sunburned, etc.

2. Check the weather in your cruise destination. Further to the packing suggestion, do be sure to consider the weather where you are sailing. Is it the rainy season? Particularly windy? Be sure to bring along a rain jacket, umbrella and sunblock - no matter where your small ship is sailing.

3. Ask about your small ship’s electrical specs . If you’re headed into international waters on your cruise, there may be alternate electrical standards than what US-based ships have. You’ll want to know this before you get on board … to avoid the severe disappointment of realizing you won’t be able to charge your phone.

4. Find out what costs extra . Most small-ship cruises are all-inclusive to avoid nickel-and-diming guests for every little thing. That being said, it’s a good idea to check on the prices for anything that might be deemed “extra,” e.g., shore excursions, watersports equipment rental, guide/driver services, beverages (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic) and spa treatments. It’s always a good idea to bring a little cash along.

5. List packing essentials . That extra pair of sunglasses we mentioned above isn’t necessarily essential, but there will be items needed on your small-ship cruise that it’s best to bring from home.

Everyday items - if forgotten - can be hard to find and expensive in foreign ports, especially the smaller places accessed by small cruise ships.

Think about and list items such as over-the-counter medication, insect repellent, batteries, feminine hygiene items, toothpaste, sunblock, etc. Ask about which toiletries are included in the cabin of your small ship.

6. Ask about accessibility on board your small ship cruise . Your small-ship cruise tour operator will be able to tell you about the layout of your ship and if there are narrow stairwells, steep gangways, uneven surfaces and more. If these are physically challenging for you, you can be prepared. Ask, also, about what active excursions are available and train for them as necessary.

7. Check in with your insurance company . Small-ship adventure cruises brings with it the opportunity for activities you don’t normally participate in - think kayaking, ice trekking, diving, biking). Give your health insurance company a call and find out what they cover while traveling; if you’re not satisfied, consider travel insurance, which may include emergency evacuation.

8. Plan for emergencies . OK, so it’s not the first thing we want to think of when we’re daydreaming about our much-anticipated small-ship cruise. Just in case you’re waylaid in a remote port, it’s a good idea to write down your cruise line’s main number, some information for local hotels in your ports of call, extra medication and a supply of snacks.

Packing for a Small-Ship Cruise

It’s almost time for your small-ship cruise … which means it’s time to pack! What at first may seem like a daunting task - because, after all, you’ll be at sea the majority of the time and when ashore, will be in small, more remote areas of your destination, so it won’t be easy to just go out and buy something you forgot.

Small-ship cruise operators can provide you with suggested packing lists and you’ll find plenty of suggestions online.

Here, a few essentials to start:

• Sensible shoes (sturdy sandals, water shoes, hiking boots/shoes, sneakers, slippers for onboard)
• Warm hat and sun hat
• Outerwear appropriate for your destination
• Passport or passport card
• Necessary electrical chargers and/or adaptors
• Detailed itinerary notes (and packing lists!) provided by your small-ship cruise company
• Vital medications
• Stainless-steel water bottle
• Hiking poles
• Snorkeling equipment
• Photographic equipment

Age Range on Small-Ship Cruises

Small-ship cruises hit all the right notes for the 20-something set . Newly minted in the workforce and possibly tight on vacation time, younger cruisers with an adventurous spirit can get more bang for their buck and sail in and out of tiny ports and up close to glaciers in wildlife, whether they’re sailing the Mediterranean or tackling Arctic seas.

Families with kids and parents in their 30s and 40s enjoy small-ship cruises because these expeditions are the whole package - self-contained, full of activity and rich with learning opportunities. The itineraries on small ships are often flexible and maybe even customizable and feature ports with far fewer crowds than the big ships.

It’s a lot easier to get on and off the boat, so families with young kids don’t have to wait endlessly in line to go ashore for the day’s excursion. In fact, much of the exploring from a small-ship cruise is done directly from the boat, via kayak or zodiac.

Your 40s and 50s - wild nightlife a thing of the past, let’s be honest - may also be a fantastic time to get more adventurous in your travels or try more unusual types of cruise - perhaps a masted ship in the Caribbean or a rugged icebreaker bound for Antarctica. Forego the flashy evening entertainment in favor of expert naturalist guides and historians who will enrich your cruise and the ability to sail in and out of interesting ports aboard your small ship.

Those in the 70-plus age range should research small-ship cruise companies carefully as many of the ships are, well, smaller and more unique in design, and use tenders to get cruises on and offshore for excursions. Mobility and accessibility can be an issue, so be sure to ask ahead about facilities on small-ship cruises.

Who Will Enjoy Small-Ship Cruises

Small-ship cruising might be for you if:

1. You like choices . Not only does the smaller, more nimble size of a small cruise ship make it possible to visit more remote destinations around the world, but once there, even your cruise itinerary may be flexible.

See a family of sea lions sunning on a rock in the Sea of Cortez? Ask the captain if he can pause of an hour or two while you and other guests venture out by sea kayak to take a closer look.

Follow a pod of whales off the coast of Norway ? Sit for hours under the Northern Lights? Once ashore from your small ship, there are ample choices as well, for difficulty level of hikes and walks to interests, from local museums to market shopping. Fewer people on the small ship makes it that much easier to customize excursions to personal interests.

2. You want to disconnect . Small-ship sailing usually means you’re in a more remote location than on a large cruise ship … which means you may have no choice but to disconnect given spotty cell service and WiFi. Take advantage of the down time to really disconnect and step away from devices, reconnecting instead with each other and the destination or wilderness you’re seeing, likely for the first time.

3. Want to make some new friends . Love to bond with birders ? Go back in time with other history buffs? Hike with mountain-lovers? Small-ship cruising means sailing, for the most part, with like-minded guests, those who have chosen this destination for the same reasons you have: wildlife sightings, wine country, culture, once-in-a-lifetime Arctic adventures and more. Shared experiences with these new friends will quickly become some of your favorite cruise memories.

4. Want to learn something new . From naturalists to historians to photographers, small-ship cruise companies employ regional and subject experts who get to know the guests intimated and can keep everyone, from kids to older travelers, engaged and educated about their destination.

Learn about conservation in the Galapagos , how to use an undersea camera when snorkeling, discover the geography of Greenland ’s ice cap and follow a wildlife photographer into the jungle to glimpse rhinos in Indonesia .

Coping with Seasickness on a Small-Ship Cruise

Mal de mer, which rolls off the tongue quite eloquently, is the dreaded squeamish feeling of seasickness. And it might be the sole reason you haven’t yet embarked on a small-ship cruises. Rest assured, if you have your sights set on sailing under the Northern Lights or diving into the Galapagos , there are remedies that can help you get where you’re dreaming of going. A few favorite seasickness tips and tricks:

• Pack common seasickness remedies. This includes ginger chews or gummies, wristbands, tablets and patches.
• See the cruise doc. If you’ve run out of remedies from home, pay a visit to the doctor on staff on your small-ship voyage. She will usually have plenty of seasickness medication to distribute to ailing guests.
• Stay above deck as much as possible. Try not to go below deck for any extended period of time. If you do, and want to look out at the scenery, look out a window or porthole with your gaze on the horizon.
• Cut short your binocular time. As much as you’ll want to stare for hours at those polar bears or waddling penguins, extended binocular use can bring on seasickness.

Stay hydrated and fed. Drink plenty of water and don’t go about on an empty stomach. Pack extra snacks from home (granola bars, dried fruit, nuts) so you’ll always have something to grab.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 1620 trips to Small Ship & Expedition Cruises and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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Indonesia - Bali & Komodo National Park Cruise

• Experience Pink Beach
• Observe Komodo dragons
• Enjoy the view of Sangeang volcano
• Encounter friendly whale sharks

Orangutans and Dragons

• Learn about Orangutans in Borneo
• Visit a Dayak community
• See volcanoes and Komodo dragons
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• Snorkel over vibrant coral reefs
• Spot Komodo dragons

Whale Sharks, Corals & Dragons

• Visit local communities
• Snorkel along vibrant coral reefs
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• Discover unique species

Immersive Indonesia: Singapore to Australia

• Visit Parai Beach and Surabaya
• Explore Singapore, Bali, and Darwin
• Discover the man-made \\\"Supertree
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Singapore to Bali

• Snorkel coral reefs
• Visit Borobudur Temple
• Explore the jungles of Bali
• Discover Singapore.

Indonesian Explorer: Raja Ampat to Papua New Guinea

• Visit Raja Ampat
• Lookout for the endemic birds
• Explore Komodo National Park
• Swim at Triton Bay

Crossing Oceania: Fiji To Bali

• Explore Port Vila, Efate
• Discover Alotau's beautiful beaches
• Visit Komodo National Park
• Enjoy an overnight in Bali

Exploring Indonesia: Bali, Raja Ampat & Papua New Guinea

• Relax on stunning beaches
• Search for Komodo dragons
• Encounter traditional ceremonies
• Learn about the region's history

Kimberley Expedition: Northwest Australia & Indonesia

• Explore King George river
• Discover the unique wildlife
• Visit the Komodo National Park
• Experience Indonesia

Tropical Odyssey: North-East Australia and Indonesia

• Discover the Asmat region
• Learn about local culture
• Explore the Malukus

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This Small-ship Cruise Line Just Announced 2 New All-suite Vessels Will Join Its Fleet

Windstar Cruises is scheduled to launch Star Seeker in 2025 and Star Explorer in 2026.

Boutique small-ship cruise line Windstar Cruises is growing its fleet, adding two 224-passenger vessels — both acquisitions from Mystic Cruises —  in the next two years. Star Seeker is slated to make its debut in December 2025 and Star Explorer is scheduled to follow a year later in December 2026. 

Star Seeker is under construction, while Star Explorer is currently sailing as Quark Expeditions' World Explorer. B oth ships will be reworked to include signature features of Windstar ships, from a watersports platform to Owners Suites with wraparound balconies to a whirlpool on the bow. 

Dining, in particular, will be a main focus on the ships, as Windstar has a partnership with the James Beard Foundation. The ships' dining options spaces will be expanded to include the on-deck Star Grill, the casual Yacht Club café and lounge, and a re-imagined Amphora main dining room, which will now have outdoor seating.

“Our goal was to ensure these ships are unmistakably Windstar, and a significant amount of effort has gone into achieving this,” Christopher Prelog, Windstar Cruises’ president, said in a statement provided to Travel + Leisure . “We are thrilled for this expansion, building on the success of our game-changing Star Class in small-ship cruising with guests and travel partners, while offering new experiences. This growth reflects the dedication of our incredible crew and team, allowing us to broaden our destination portfolio and even bring one of our Wind Class sail ships back to Tahiti.”

Though both ships have ice-strengthened hulls capable of sailing in the polar regions, Windstar doesn't currently operate such itineraries, focusing primarily on the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific Islands. But these new ships may open doors to adventures in the years to come.

“As part of our company’s expanding portfolio, Windstar Cruises is poised for remarkable growth and an exciting future ahead," Andrew N. Todd, president and CEO of parent company Xanterra Travel Collection, said in a statement. "We’re excited about the possibilities of where Windstar will sail and the opportunities it brings our officers, crew and staff, and our guests.”

Itineraries and booking information for Star Seeker will be announced in June 2024. You can sign up for updates at windstarcruises.com/newships .

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

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Belgium, Czech Republic seek sanctions for Russian interference in EU elections

Belgium and the Czech Republic have called for new European Union sanctions to counter Russian influence in the upcoming European elections after several countries discovered early interference, an open letter to the EU leadership showed.

A Tunisian court on Wednesday sentenced prominent journalist Mohamed Boughalleb, a fierce critic of President Kais Saied, to six months in prison on charges of insulting a public official, his lawyer told Reuters.