Butlers, helicopters & uncrowded ports: 6 best small ship cruise lines

Small ship cruises could well be the antidote for new cruisers who are put off by sailing on enormous vessels – or for those who have had enough of sailing alongside thousands of others.

And the good news is that there are plenty of small cruise ship lines out there, many of which promise pampering and the high life as you sail the seven seas.

Travel agent Iglu Cruise has a wealth of small ship itineraries to pick from, so we’ve rounded up some of the best-value trips and had a peek at the top cruise lines; simply pick the brand that suits you – from tall ships to expedition yachts – and get snapping up these great deals!

Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys small ship cruises

How many passengers are on Explora Journeys?

Explora ships have capacity for 922 passengers across 461 oceanfront suites.

Small ship cruising on Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys offers an intimate small luxury cruise ship experience. With a soon-to-be fleet of six state-of-the-art ships, this cruise line delivers opulence, privacy and personalised service. The smaller ships ensure high crew-to-guest ratios, allowing for impeccable service and attention to detail.

Small ship cruise line Explora Journeys boasts six distinct restaurants: from Italian dining at Anthology to the Mediterranean flavours of Med Yacht Club and the sophisticated European steakhouse at Marble & Co. Grill. Other dining options include Pan-Asian delights at Sakura and the casual, international Emporium Marketplace. Guests can also enjoy in-suite dining 24 hours a day.

Explora Journeys’ itineraries offer small ship Caribbean cruises as well as featuring destinations in Central America and the Mediterranean, with curated shore excursions and exclusive activities tailored to guests’ preferences. Onboard, passengers can unwind in the serene spa, swim in both indoor and outdoor pools, or work out in the state-of-the-art fitness centre.

For those who prefer relaxation with a cocktail in hand, the ships offer various lounges and bars, including the sophisticated Malt Whisky Bar, the all-day Astern Lounge, and the scenic Sky Bar.

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Emerald Yacht Cruises

Emerald Yacht Cruises boutique yachts

How many passengers are on Emerald Yacht Cruises?

Emerald yachts have a maximum capacity of just 100 guests.

Small ship cruising on Emerald Yacht Cruises

Emerald Yacht Cruises offers luxury small ship cruising on three boutique yachts: Emerald Azzurra, Emerald Sakara and Emerald Kaia. These intimate vessels serve up a bespoke experience, with a focus on low guest numbers and high-quality service. Guests can explore beautiful coastlines across destinations such as the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Caribbean and Central America.

Onboard, Emerald yachts offer the luxury and comfort of a top-tier hotel. Accommodations range from Oceanview Staterooms to the spacious Owner’s Suite, ensuring a variety of options to suit different tastes and budgets. The small size of the ships allows for a close-knit atmosphere and access to less crowded ports.

The small ships are equipped with premium amenities, including the Elements Spa, where guests can enjoy massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and an infrared sauna (additional costs may apply). For dining, guests can feast on locally sourced meals inspired by the regions they sail through, with options for both indoor and alfresco dining. Bars and lounges also provide spaces to unwind throughout the day.

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SeaDream Yacht Club

SeaDream Yacht Club luxury yachts

How many passengers are on SeaDream Yacht Club ships?

SeaDream Yacht Club ships have a maximum of 112 guests onboard.

Small ship cruising on SeaDream Yacht Club

The SeaDream Yacht Club fleet is home to two stylish vessels, SeaDream I and SeaDream II. With a capacity of just 112 guests and a dedicated crew of 95, these yachts offer a high level of service and attention.

The focus is on relaxation and high-quality amenities. Guests can enjoy ocean-view suites, sun decks, jacuzzis and Balinese dream beds for unwinding. For the more adventurous, water sports facilities and curated shore excursions provide activities such as exploring ancient sites like Pompeii or zip-lining through Caribbean treetops.

As for dining aboard SeaDream, award-winning cuisine is served in either an elegant indoor dining salon or outdoor dining areas. The resident sommelier is on hand to guide wine choices, and an all-day menu ensures that guests can tuck into gourmet dishes whenever they like, with surprises from the chef enhancing the dining experience.

SeaDream’s itineraries cover the Caribbean and Mediterranean, including exclusive access to lesser-visited destinations and private events like beach parties. With all-inclusive pricing covering gratuities and beverages, guests can fully immerse themselves in the experience without added costs.

SeaDream’s Mediterranean cruises now include such stops as Morocco, Albania, and Tunisia, along with overnight stays in famous ports including Monte Carlo and Santorini. Caribbean voyages continue to offer stunning coastal explorations. SeaDream also offers Norwegian fjord cruises and new Mediterranean routes, comprising the Spanish Riviera and Greek islands.

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Star Clippers

Star Clippers tall ship cruises

How many passengers are on Star Clippers ships?

There are 166 guests on Star Clippers ships.

Small ship cruising on Star Clippers

Star Clippers offers a distinctive sailing experience aboard its three tall ships: Star Clipper, Star Flyer and Royal Clipper — combining the charm of traditional sailing with modern comforts. Each ship accommodates a limited number of guests, with 166 on Star Clipper and Star Flyer, creating a chilled onboard atmosphere that evokes the feel of a private yacht.

With spacious teak decks, two swimming pools and elegant décor featuring mahogany and brass accents, the ships offer ample outdoor space and a welcoming environment. Guests enjoy open-seating dining, with international cuisine served in the stylish dining room. Royal Clipper’s three-level atrium adds grandeur, and guests can enjoy casual shore-side barbecues during select itineraries.

Star Clippers emphasises the authentic sailing experience, inviting guests to participate in hoisting sails, climbing the mast and learning navigation skills from the crew. Stargazing with the officers adds to the maritime feel. The ships also provide complimentary water sports, including snorkelling, kayaking, paddle boarding and windsurfing. Royal Clipper’s marina platform offers direct access to the water for these activities.

Itineraries explore the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Southeast Asia, visiting lesser-frequented ports and secluded beaches. With tenders and zodiacs for easy beach landings, guests can avoid crowded tourist spots and explore each destination at their own pace.

Accommodations range from outside cabins to suites, all designed with traditional yacht-like décor, featuring polished woods and marine prints. Many cabins offer convertible double beds, providing flexibility for different guest preferences.

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Crystal

Crystal small luxury ships

How many passengers are on Crystal ships?

There are 740 passengers on Crystal Serenity and 606 on Crystal Symphony.

Small ship cruising on Crystal

Crystal is a high-end cruise line offering a refined, all-inclusive experience aboard two ultra-luxury ships: Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Each vessel has been completely refurbished under new ownership by A&K Travel Group, with a contemporary yet classic design throughout.

All suites come with butler service, king-size beds, walk-in wardrobes, spacious bathrooms with double vanities and Etro amenities. Dining is a major highlight, with options including Umi Uma by Nobu Matsuhisa, Italian fine dining at Osteria d’Ovidio and elegant afternoon teas in the Palm Court.

Guests enjoy a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere with spacious pool decks, multiple lounges and bars, a redesigned spa and wellness centre and activities such as pickleball, bridge and enrichment lectures by renowned experts.

The line offers immersive itineraries to all seven continents, from the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia to Alaska, Africa and the Arctic, with overnight stays in key ports. Fares include premium spirits, wines, tips, excursions credit, unlimited Wi-Fi and all speciality dining — creating a seamless and indulgent experience.

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Scenic Discovery Yachts

Scenic Discovery Yachts expedition cruises

How many passengers are on Scenic Discovery Yachts?

There are up to 228 passengers on Scenic yachts.

Small ship cruising on Scenic Discovery Yachts

Last but not least, Scenic Discovery Yachts are among the best small cruise ships. They offer a revolutionary approach to ultra-luxury cruising, blending exploration with opulence. Their world-class vessel, Scenic Eclipse, is designed for unparalleled adventure, with a Polar Class 6 rating, reinforced hull and advanced GPS technology, allowing navigation through polar regions without harming delicate ecosystems. Equipped with two helicopters and a custom-built submarine, Scenic Eclipse goes where few other ships can, offering unique exploration opportunities.

All-inclusive travel is at the heart of the Scenic experience. Fares cover flights, transfers, tips, a pre-departure hotel stay, shore excursions, premium beverages, in-suite mini-bars and all dining. The onboard culinary journey showcases up to 10 dining venues, including French cuisine at Lumière and gourmet dishes at Elements restaurant.

Scenic Eclipse’s luxurious suites are spread across five decks, offering floor-to-ceiling windows, private verandahs, butler service and state-of-the-art amenities. The ship’s design puts comfort at the forefront, featuring spacious rooms, Egyptian cotton linens and an atmosphere of sophistication reminiscent of a six-star hotel.

For wellness, guests can relax in the Senses Spa or engage in invigorating shore excursions aimed at enhancing mind, body and soul. Scenic’s Freechoice activities provide flexibility, with expert-led adventures tailored to individual preferences. From kayaking and snorkelling to hiking the Arctic tundra, Scenic’s Discover Leaders guide guests through breathtaking, rarely accessed landscapes. Small ship Mediterranean cruises are also available for cruisers seeking something less adventurous.

Scenic Eclipse takes exploration further with a fleet of Zodiacs, kayaks, and submersibles, offering extraordinary underwater adventures up to 300 metres below the ocean.

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