These days cruise ships are floating resorts. Surfing, ice skating, rock climbing, Broadways shows and more give you action packed days where you don’t ever need to leave the ship, but what if sailing with 3,000 to 5,000 people is not for you? What if you like the waiter and bartender to get to know you by first name and know exactly what cocktail or wine you like to start with each evening? If you prefer personalized service in a relaxing atmosphere, then small ship cruising is the right choice.
Here are a few of our favorite small cruise ships.
Paul Gauguin Cruises are designed to match the splendor and idyllic beauty of French Polynesia. Cruising among palm-fringed islands in the turquoise seas of the South Pacific, the 332-guest m/s Paul Gauguin offers luxury and adventure, relaxation and rejuvenation. Watersports are a highlight of the Polynesian experience, and the m/s Paul Gauguin is constructed to take full advantage. All-inclusive fares and a generous menu of activities, onboard experts and amenities allow guests to experience this island paradise in splendor and spacious comfort.
Three of the world’s largest and tallest sailing vessels, Star Clippers cruises sail the seas of the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Costa Rica. With the intimacy, service and atmosphere of a private yacht, the five-mast, full-rigged, 227-guest Royal Clipper combines traditional comfort and grandeur with state-of-the-art navigation. The 170-guest Star Clipper and Star Flyer are true clipper ships, modern and luxurious in every way, yet reminiscent of the romance of the era of great sailing ships. Seadream Yacht Club twin mega-yachts, SEADREAM I and SEADREAM II, set the standard for the ultra-luxury yachting experience. Sailing the Mediterranean, Transatlantic, Caribbean and Amazon, these are yachts that reflect a passion for style, quality and casual perfection. Each yacht carries a maximum of 112 guests, “splendidly spoiled” by a crew of 95, on truly memorable inclusive-fare yachting adventures.
The small, sleek yachts of the award-winning Windstar cruises fleet transport lucky guests to Italy, the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Costa Rica, Panama, the Baltics and across the Atlantic. The Wind Spirit and Wind Star sail with just 148 pampered guests, while the Wind Surf, the world’s largest sailing yacht, caters to every desire of its 312 guests. These gorgeous ships combine the refinement of a sophisticated hotel and adventure of sailing on a private yacht.
If you want both a small ship and a luxury all inclusive experience, then Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas or Silversea Cruises would be the best choices. If you are going to Europe this year, check around for specials or consult a travel agent because there are some good deals out there. For example, a 7 night luxury cruise in the Mediterranean is currently going for as little as $1,999 pp and includes all of your meals, drinks and gratuities.
