Long-time followers will know that I am a sucker for a boat cruise. I grew up by the water in New York, lived just off the Thames in London, and now live just a few blocks from the water in West Palm Beach. So I will always say yes to a cruise. But while large cruise ships have their time and place, I really love a small ship experience. Let me introduce you to a few of my favorite small ship cruise lines. With personalized service, intimate settings, and access to unique destinations, these cruises redefine luxury travel.

1. Seabourn: Renowned for its ultra-luxury small ship cruises, Seabourn sets the bar high. With vessels carrying between 450 and 600 passengers, Seabourn offers an intimate atmosphere and a high crew-to-guest ratio for personalized attention. As a Virtuoso partner, Seabourn provides exclusive amenities such as shipboard credits, private transfers, and unique shore excursions. Here are two sample itineraries: Glaciers & The Alaskan Inside Passage | Greek Isles & Ephesus

2. Crystal Cruises: Yes, they’re back! And they are rolling out the incentives to convince you to try them. Crystal Cruises presents an exceptional fleet of small ocean vessels that strike the perfect balance between elegance and intimacy. With a passenger capacity of 980, their ships provide a spacious environment and attentive service. As a Virtuoso partner, Crystal Cruises offers unparalleled amenities such as shipboard credits, private transfers, and exclusive shore experiences. Here are two sample itineraries: Marseille to Lisbon | Roundtrip Reykjavík

3. Azamara Cruises: Azamara is a fantastic choice for clients seeking an intimate and luxurious small ship sailing experience. With a maximum capacity of around 700 passengers, Azamara offers a more personalized and exclusive atmosphere compared to larger cruise lines. Their ships are meticulously designed, featuring elegant decor and spacious cabins. What truly sets Azamara apart is their focus on destination immersion. They offer longer stays in ports, allowing passengers to fully explore and experience each destination. Additionally, Azamara's itineraries often include off-the-beaten-path ports that larger ships cannot reach, providing unique and authentic travel experiences.

4. Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection: Prospective travelers seeking unparalleled luxury and remarkable experiences should look no further than the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection for their next cruise adventure. From the moment you step on board, you will be immersed in personalized service and unparalleled comfort. Indulge in spacious suites, amazing dining, and carefully curated itineraries to enchanting destinations. Here are two sample itineraries. Fort Lauderdale to San Juan | Venice to Rome

5. Atlas Voyages: Atlas is another exceptional option for clients looking for a small ship sailing adventure. With a maximum capacity of approximately 200 passengers, Atlas Voyages offers an intimate and comfortable setting. Their ships are designed with a sleek and modern aesthetic, creating a stylish and upscale ambiance. Clients can expect exceptional service and attention to detail throughout their journey. Atlas Voyages prides itself on creating unique itineraries that cater to discerning travelers. Here are two sample itineraries: Israel Intensive Voyage | Amalfi & Dalmatia

6. Emerald: Emerald Cruises' yacht collection is a haven for luxury travelers seeking an extraordinary yachting experience. With the stunning Emerald Azzurra at its helm, accommodating just 100 guests, this collection offers an intimate and personalized journey through captivating coastal destinations. From the Mediterranean to the Red Sea, guests can expect spacious suites, exceptional service, and immersive shore excursions, Here are two sample itineraries: Coastal Adventures: Costa Rica & Panama | Discover Western Mediterranean & Morocco

7. Windstar: Windstar combines the best of both worlds with their unique small ship sailing experiences. Their fleet of sleek sailing yachts and motorized ships, each carrying between 148 and 342 guests, offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. As a Virtuoso partner, Windstar offers exclusive benefits such as shipboard credits, private events, and customized shore excursions. Enjoy the thrill of hoisting the sails and cruising to hidden harbors and secluded coves, creating unforgettable memories. Here are two sample itineraries: Lovely Leewards | Panama Canal, Cartagena, San Blas Islands, and More

8. Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Regent Seven Seas Cruises stands out as an all-inclusive luxury brand, offering a truly indulgent experience. Their mid-sized ships carry between 490 and 750 passengers, ensuring a spacious environment and attentive service. As a Virtuoso partner, Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers exclusive amenities like shipboard credits, complimentary excursions, and personalized pre-cruise experiences. Here are two sample itineraries: Under the Tahitian Moon, Papeete to Papeete | Beauty of Bruges & Bustling Berlin, London to Copenhagen

9. Silversea: Silversea epitomizes elegance and all-inclusive luxury. Their fleet of intimate ships accommodates between 100 and 600 passengers, allowing for unparalleled access to off-the-beaten-path destinations. As a Virtuoso partner, Silversea offers exclusive benefits like complimentary shore excursions, onboard credits, and dedicated concierge services. Embark on unforgettable journeys that combine adventure, culture, and refined luxury. Here are two sample itineraries: Tokyo to Tokyo | Galapagos

With these small ship cruise lines, you have an impressive array of small ship ocean cruising options to offer your clients. From the ultra-luxury experiences of Seabourn and Silversea to the boutique expeditions of Ponant and the tropical allure of Paul Gauguin Cruises, each brand promises unforgettable journeys filled with personalized service, exclusive amenities, and access to the world's most captivating destinations. Ready to book? Please reach out for your complimentary travel consultation.

About Krista: I’m a Notre Dame grad (Go Irish!) and a Chicago Booth MBA. I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England, selling financial data. I moved to South Florida 4 years ago to be closer to my elderly mom, who has Parkinson’s Disease. Instead of selling financial data, these days, I sell travel!

After visiting more than 78 countries, I love talking travel and organizing amazing vacations for my clients. Please do not hesitate to reach out for your complimentary travel consultation.