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9 of the best small ship cruises to the Caribbean

Published 2nd August 2023 in Cruise Advice By Claire Benktander /cruise-news/cruise-advice/best-small-ship-cruises-caribbean

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The Caribbean is one of the world's most appealing cruising destinations, renowned for its gorgeous beaches, balmy temperatures and easy-going island culture. Discover the tiny islands and secluded beaches that the big ships can't reach with our pick of the best small ship cruises to the Caribbean.

Yet we often hear people writing the Caribbean off, lumping all of the islands together based on bad past experiences or some horror story they've heard from a friend. As with so many preconceptions about cruising, this negative view of the Caribbean tends to come from the world of mainstream megaships.

The big ships are restricted to busy, overdeveloped islands where going ashore means running a gauntlet of hassle from street vendors, touts and taxi drivers. Often the main attractions are duty free shopping malls, and the chances of experiencing an authentic slice of Caribbean culture are minimal. Some of the big cruise lines even stop at their own private islands, a sanitised pastiche of the Caribbean that we find rather depressing.

A small ship cruise around the Caribbean is a completely different experience, allowing you to visit the smaller islands and secluded bays that the bigger ships can't reach. On sleepy islands like Bequia and Tobago you'll encounter none of the hassle that plagues the more mainstream islands, and you'll find idyllic beaches and lush rainforests still largely unsullied by mass tourism. Island-hopping around the Caribbean by small ship is a fantastic way to explore the region, giving you a taste of several different islands and their surprising diversity, from the natural wilderness of Dominica to the classic cars and communist murals of Cuba.

The most convenient Caribbean gateway for UK cruisers is Barbados, with regular direct flights from both Gatwick and Manchester. You can also fly direct to Miami and Fort Lauderdale, both of which serve as turnaround ports for many Caribbean cruises, though you will of course have to contend with the joys of US immigration. Other popular turnaround ports include San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Philipsburg (St Maarten), convenient for the US market but less so for the UK, with no direct flights. There are also occasional cruises departing from St Lucia, Antigua or Jamaica, as well as longer itineraries that visit the Caribbean en route to Central and South America.

Cruise ships generally head to the Caribbean as winter descends on Europe and North America, with high season running from December through to February. Temperatures rise and rain becomes more likely as you head towards the summer months, though downpours tend to be short and sharp. Hurricane season officially runs from 1 June to 30 November, and the peak usually comes in August and September, by which time you're unlikely to find many cruise ships in the Caribbean.

There is a huge amount of choice when it comes to ships, routings and ports of call, so here is our guide to eight of the best small ship cruise lines visiting the Caribbean:

1. SeaDream Yacht Club

SeaDream's laid-back, al fresco style is perfectly suited to tropical latitudes, and both of their 112-guest yachts winter in the Caribbean. Itineraries include Bridgetown round-trips focusing on the stunning Grenadines, a particularly attractive option for UK travellers, and cruises around the Virgin Islands from San Juan or St Thomas.

2. Windstar Cruises

Windstar's fleet of six small ships includes three sail-assisted yachts and three all-suite former Seabourn ships, giving you two different ways to cruise the Caribbean. Their 14-night Star Collector voyages out of Barbados are a great option if you're looking for a longer trip, and Windstar also have a handful of itineraries visiting the so-called 'ABC Islands' of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao.

3. Seabourn

Seabourn are another good choice for those seeking a more in-depth exploration of the Caribbean, with 14-night round-trip voyages from both Barbados and St Martin. Their fleet of seven ships is the most modern of all the ultra-luxury lines, with a refined yet relaxed ambience on board that is perfectly suited to cruising the Caribbean.

4. Silversea

Silversea's classic fleet, ranging in size from 298 to 728 guests, offers a number of Caribbean options, including a handful of Barbados round-trips. There are also various itineraries embarking or disembarking in Fort Lauderdale, and Silversea have some interesting voyages combining the islands of the Caribbean with either Bermuda or Central America.

The stylish yachts of French cruise line Ponant are a great choice for something a bit different. As you might expect , the French Caribbean features prominently in their programme, with unusual turnaround ports including the island of Martinique and Cayenne, capital of French Guiana. Their itineraries range from classic Caribbean routes to expedition-style voyages exploring Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula and the amazing dive sites of Belize.

6. Sea Cloud Cruises

The majestic tall ships of Sea Cloud offer a very different cruising experience, marrying the romance of travelling under sail with high standards of service on board. Watching the crew hoisting the sails by hand is a remarkable spectacle, and you'll be the envy of other cruisers as you set sail from ports including Bridgetown, Santo Domingo and Havana.

7. Star Clippers

Star Clippers is a more affordable option for tall ship enthusiasts, with the five-masted Royal Clipper and four-masted Star Flyer both wintering in the Caribbean. Royal Clipper focuses on the Grenadines and Windward Islands and operates out of Barbados, making it the most popular option for UK cruisers. Star Flyer is based in St Martin, visiting islands including Anguilla, St Barths and the British Virgin Islands.

8. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Just launched, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is an exciting new cruise line that promises to bring the Ritz-Carlton brand of luxury to the oceans for the first time. Three super-stylish yachts are perfectly suited to cruising in the sun-kissed Caribbean - the first, 298-guest Evrima, offers Bridgetown and San Juan round-trips between December to March, 456-guest Ilma and Luminara will arrive in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

9. Emerald Yacht Collection

Emerald Azzurra and Sakara are the first ships in the Emerald yacht fleet, carrying just 100 lucky travellers in sleek and stylish surroundings with a marina at the back of the yachts, allowing you to hop straight into the Caribbean waters with a host of water toys. Voyages between November and April include St John's round trips that visit Martinique, the Grenadines and St Lucia, as well as sailings to and from San Juan that call in at Saint Kitts and Nevis, the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and glamorous St Barths. There are also longer two-week voyages encompassing both the above regions, including round-trip Barbados sailings.

Claire is Marketing Manager at Mundy Cruising, having worked with the company for nearly a year and in travel for over 8 years. Most recently she's cruised on Seabourn and has also sailed with Ponant and Uniworld. Her favourite destination is Sweden however she's also enjoyed cruises in the the Galapagos, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, Greek Isles and the Far East. When she’s not travelling she loves weekends away in the countryside.

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Small ship cruises to the Caribbean

Star Collector: Fall Leaves & Caribbean Breezes

Windstar Cruises

12 Oct - 3 Nov 2024 (22 Nights)

From £6,088 pp

Westbound Atlantic Ocean Crossing

Star Clippers

17 Oct - 2 Nov 2024 (16 Nights)

From £2,190 pp

22-Day Atlantic Coast Harbors & Antilles Overture

18 Oct - 9 Nov 2024 (22 Nights)

34-Day Mediterranean Jewels To The Caribbean

20 Oct - 23 Nov 2024 (34 Nights)

Boston Sights, Warm Caribbean Nights

23 Oct - 3 Nov 2024 (11 Nights)

From £2,617 pp

Málaga to San Juan (Puerto Rico)

SeaDream Yacht Club

26 Oct - 9 Nov 2024 (14 Nights)

From £4,789 pp

Málaga to Marigot

26 Oct - 8 Nov 2024 (13 Nights)

From £4,116 pp

New York to Fort Lauderdale

28 Oct - 12 Nov 2024 (15 Nights)

From £7,100 pp

New York to Willemstad

28 Oct - 6 Nov 2024 (9 Nights)

From £4,900 pp

Ocean Voyage: Boston - Fort-de-France

29 Oct - 4 Nov 2024 (6 Nights)

From £1,560 pp

24-Day Mediterranean, Atlantic & Caribbean Magic

30 Oct - 23 Nov 2024 (24 Nights)

From £8,999 pp

Antilles Overture

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Caribbean Small Ship Cruises

Why Choose a Caribbean Small Ship Cruise

The Caribbean features uninhabited islets populated by hundreds of animal and bird species, crystal-clear waters rich with spectacular coral reefs and gorgeous vistas that unfold onto deserted shores. Aboard small cruise ships in the Caribbean, come face to face with rich biodiversity while swimming in tropical waters and learn about the enchanting ruins and history of the region.

Selecting a Caribbean cruise vacation with AdventureSmith safeguards your adventure as it’s backed by a fully insured, U.S.-based company. We also gain you access to remote, off-the-beaten path islands, away from tourist crowds. Relish the sense of seclusion only a small ship can bestow. The expert guides traveling alongside you are often from the region, ensuring each unspoiled stop is both special and fascinating.

Explore enchanting islands including Tobago, Grenada and more, on this luxury Caribbean cruise aboard a 184-guest luxury French ship. Enjoy a mix of Creole culture, UNESCO World Heritage sites, white-sand beaches, snorkeling and optional diving.

Spend 8 days discovering natural and cultural treasures of Panama and Colombia's Caribbean aboard 100-guest National Geographic Quest. Hike through dense rainforests, explore inlets by kayak, snorkel in blue water and explore age-old traditions that remain part of everyday life.

Come aboard 32-guest Le Ponant to sail among dancing waves and explore little-known places and long beaches lined with palm trees over 8 unforgettable days.

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Small cruise lines in the Caribbean offer up-close, off-ship exploration of vibrant barrier reef, peaceful beaches, wildlife-filled jungles, mythical ruins and welcoming communities. Why book your Caribbean cruise vacation with AdventureSmith? 

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Our luxury Caribbean cruise options offer top-notch guides and five-star onboard service. Consider one of our Caribbean tall ship sailing cruises aboard the historic Sea Cloud . Revel in French-inspired opulence aboard modern expedition ship Le Dumont D’Urville . Enjoy the luxury-meets-active feel of Le Ponant motorsailer. Or opt for the luxury of an exclusive Caribbean catamaran charter aboard a private Belize charter yacht or any of our small ships. Our experts are ready to help you find the best luxury Caribbean cruise based on your timeline and interests.

Year-Round Cruises to the Caribbean in 2024 & 2025

Our Caribbean sailing vacations are offered year-round. Some itineraries focus on the North American winter, when the weather is ideal and there are dependable tradewinds. Conversely, the North American summer months offer the best diving. Search by month, or ask our experts to help narrow down the options, from Barbados to the Belize Barrier Reef.

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Unique Caribbean Small Ships

Our Caribbean small ships offer a bright and airy atmosphere, bold colors, elegant decor and plentiful deck space perfect for taking in the sights and sounds of this sun-soaked region. Expedition ships feature sophisticated launch platforms, hydrophones and an underwater camera. Romantic tall ships or a Caribbean charter ship provide an exclusive experience. Caribbean sailing vacations aboard small ships offer opportunities for off-the-boat exploration that typical large Caribbean Sea cruisers can’t provide.

Small ships allow focused groups of likeminded travelers to tuck between unique islands into remote Caribbean resorts and beaches that are yours to savor. Access idyllic bays, hidden coves and white-sand beaches by inflatable skiff, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks. Spend your Caribbean cruise snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving in pristine waters near precious coral reefs and uninhabited islets.

The 58-guest Sea Cloud: Lindblad is the historic Marjorie Merriweather Post sailing yacht Sea Cloud, chartered by Lindblad Expeditions for select Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries. Enjoy the grace and class of an extraordinarily elegant ship while relaxing in the casual atmosphere and informal style of expedition travel.

These 6- to 10-guest catamarans are colorful motorsailors equipped for your all-inclusive, tropical island-hopping Belize sailing vacation. Enjoy your own captain, gourmet chef and activity gear for an exclusive, customizable getaway.

This Relais & Chateaux ship with a crew of 33 treats her 32 guests to authentic and luxurious experiences with refined French touches. Come aboard for 3 decks of open-air spaces, upscale cuisine, onboard activity gear and the feel of a private yacht.

The 184-guest Le Champlain is a refined, luxury expedition ship cruising the Caribbean. Enjoy her ethnic-yet-chic ambiance, luxury service, engaging educational program and active excursions.

Purpose built to cruise coastal waters, shallow coves and fast-moving channels, the 100-guest National Geographic Quest is a luxurious and state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed for supreme comfort and enhanced wildlife viewing.

The 184-guest Le Bellot is a modern, luxury expedition ship cruising the Arctic and Caribbean. She offers an upscale onboard ambiance, impressive service, and an engaging expedition program of both onboard lectures and off-ship excursions.

Our Travelers Rate Their Small Ship Caribbean Cruises

This was an amazing trip. The accommodations, tours, and overall experience was amazing. Everything was planned to perfection.

Our trip guides were incredible. All of them were very nice and very knowledgeable about the trip. Every guide had great enthusiasm and was just very happy to have us.

The trip to Belize was fantastic. We got to experience both the jungle and the ocean. Both places were excellent and different.

The food and hospitality were fantastic. The people of Belize frequently thank us for visiting their country. We really felt welcome!

We traveled with another family so it was super fun and easy. This trip is a great way to go with 2 families. Kids and adults had a blast!

This was an amazing trip. The accommodations, tours, and overall experience was amazing. Everything was planned to perfection. We never were waiting or wondering what was next. Definitely booking more trips. It was family and we all loved every minute of our adventures in Belize.

Accommodations Review

Top notch accommodations.

Meals Review

All of the food and service was excellent.

Crew & Guides Review

All of the guides and trip leaders went above and beyond to make our experience as fun as possible.

Itinerary Review

Loved the Chaa Creek experience in the jungle. We never lacked for fun or relaxation. Everything was very well planned. The Chabli Mar in Placensia was also great. It was nice to have jungle and beach in one trip.

Transportation Review

Every transportation we needed was right on schedule.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

We were very prepared by Andrew Browning for what we would need for our trip. We had absolutely no issues, because he had prepared us so well. Would highly recommend a trip with Adventure Smith. Top notch accommodations, tours, guides, and transportation. They put together a trip geared specifically for you.

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Our trip guides were incredible. All of them were very nice and very knowledgeable about the trip. Every guide had great enthusiasm and was just very happy to have us. (Our fellow participants were) very good. They were as active as us and very kind. They were also very social.

Chaa Creek and the sailboat were both great. In Chaa Creek your rooms are very open and comfortable and it had a nice pool for you to cool off in. The sailboat was great too; you can jump off it when you're stopped and the rooms are very cozy. It was amazing that the hotels we were staying at let us pick what we wanted to do; the boat also did the same and it was great.

I liked every meal I had on this trip. All of it was fresh and very well prepared. The meals on the boat were sometimes even fish we caught while moving.

My most enjoyed experience on this trip was scuba diving. Scuba diving was super fun and a great new experience for me. We saw super cool fish and creatures and the overall experience was great. My least Favorite experience was rafting down the river at Chaa Creek. You really have to raft at a certain time when the river is full and running fast; sadly, we did not go at that time and it was very slow and we had to paddle the entire thing.

The transportation was always on time and they used very good cars. The drivers were very nice and wouldn't be mad if you had to stop.

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• Belize Catamaran Charter Cruise
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The trip to Belize was fantastic. We got to experience both the jungle and the ocean. Both places were excellent and different. I enjoyed it all. It was so fun being able to explore and learn about the Belizean culture. Everything was amazing. We enjoyed every aspect of the trip.

I really enjoyed staying in the jungle at Chaa Creek. I have never done anything like that before so it was so cool to experience.

All meals were so delicious and unique.

Todd knows what he is doing and brought us on an excellent trip. (AdventureSmith is) the best travel company out there.

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Trip of a lifetime!! It was a great combination of exploring the jungle, ruins, and caves with sailing, snorkeling, and exploring cayes! The amount of wildlife we encountered both on land and sea was overwhelming. We needed to start a log so we would not forget! The food and hospitality were fantastic. The people of Belize frequently thank us for visiting their country. We really felt welcome!

Both Chaa Creek and the boat were very comfortable and upscale.

Not much more to say than the food was fantastic!

Our guides were knowledgeable and friendly. Really made us feel at home.

Hard to say (what I enjoyed the most)! I loved the ruins and cave visit but also loved all our time on the boat. It was perfect to combine the two. (What places or experiences did I enjoy the least?) None! I just would have liked one more day at Chaa Creek because there is so much to do.

We did not even need to think about it. It was all arranged and timely.

They helped us navigate all the new Covid requirements easily.

If you are going from land to sea and have packed light, take advantage of having some clothes laundered from Chaa Creek.

After sitting idle for 16 months from traveling outside of the US, it was awesome to finally venture out and have it be to Belize! This was a trip that was postponed from 2020 and it exceeded our expectations in experience, accommodation and activity. (We had) a desire to go on a sail boat, snorkel and dive and get out to the Caribbean. We were able to dabble in the interior for some jungle love and then on a sailing catamaran extravaganza around the cayes of Belize. We traveled with another family so it was super fun and easy. This trip is a great way to go with 2 families. Kids and adults had a blast! The mantra of the trip "Now we're doing something" couldn't have rang more true!!

Chaa Creek was beautiful and our villa was quite fancy. Large windows, spacious, a/c, our own pool and howler monkeys hanging out next to it. The catamaran "Tranquilo" was equally as nice. It fit the 8 of us plus the 2 crew just fine. Had a/c in the rooms, seemed to have plenty of storage, and the bathrooms worked fine.

Food at both the lodge and on the catamaran was wonderful. All fresh and uniquely prepared. Kainie from the boat was amazing in what she prepared and even went the extra mile and gave us a 4th of July picnic since we were there for the holiday. Just awesome.

Our group loved the ATM wet cave where you swam and splunked through big caverns and narrow passageways only to come to a part of the cave where old pottery relics and skeleton bones dated 1600 years were left behind by Mayan people. The Mayan ruin of Caracol. The fishing, snorkeling and diving of the incredible reefs of Belize. There is not much not to enjoy but I probably would not have done the tubing from Chaa Creek as it was long and slow.

I think if you have a group that would like to go to Belize spending the money on a charter boat is the way to go. So intimate, lots of flexibility and fun. The kids were taught to spear fish by our captain, sailing to the different cayes was amazing. I would have liked to have seen some more local communities but that can be for the next sailing trip. Being in the jungle and at Chaa Creek was also a great side trip to do in addition to the boat. So glad we got to experience both the jungle and sea!

Transportation was arranged via Chaa Creek and Belize Sailing Vacation. All were flawless and we were met on time with comfortable travel vehicles all equipped with a/c which was great since it was so hot and humid!

Communication about expectations and how to prepare were spot on and well needed since it had been awhile since any of us had traveled out of the country. With all the nuances added due to Covid we never felt uninformed about changes or requirements. Pretty seamless. Adventuresmith also provided us with a useful app that had all of our pertinent information, flights, etc for easy access to resources.

Adventuresmith prepared us in such a way that we always were kept abreast on any and all changes, requirements or nuances with the trip that we needed to be aware of. The app we had that held all of our information was pretty slick. Trip information and details were complete and accurate. Friendly and knowledgeable staff that were genuinely excited for us to travel.

Flights seem to change constantly so keep up with it. Make sure to do your research on what excursions you want to do and ask questions. Sometimes while you're in the country of travel you need to work a little for clarification for some of the excursions or experiences.

Our Experts Are Your Ticket To A Small Boat Caribbean Cruise Vacation

Need help narrowing down all the Caribbean cruise vacation options? Our experts are just a phone call or email away to assist you in finding cruises to the Caribbean in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Contact us to receive a personalized-to-you recommendation on the best Caribbean sailing vacations for your travel style, budget and timing needs. We have our finger on the pulse of the available options to cruise to Guatemala, Belize, Panama, Colombia and other hotspots along the Caribbean coast. Still want to research yourself? Head to our Caribbean Cruise Finder .

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24 Caribbean Cruises for Your Next Tropical Vacation

Island hop in luxury.

The Caribbean islands are among the most popular cruise destinations in the world thanks to the region's beautiful beaches, historic towns, ancient ruins, delicious food, and friendly locals. The diverse languages and cultures add to the appeal of the Caribbean, and cruises that visit a series of destinations highlight the distinctions among the islands. From ocean liners and yachts to small expedition vessels and sailboats, the best Caribbean cruises allow travelers to enjoy the time at sea and on land.

Caribbean cruises depart from many port cities, so for some travelers, spending a few days in a new place before or after the cruise adds to the experience. Cruises can be family-focused or adults-only, and many accommodate all ages with activities to keep everyone happy. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or an extended vacation, a cruise can fit into your plans. Here are some of the best Caribbean cruises to inspire your island vacation.

Ponant's Panama, Colombia, and Caribbean Islands

Duration: 12 nights

What to expect: This voyage aboard the 184-passenger Le Bellot begins in Panama’s second-largest city of Colón, which sits at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. The first stop is the historic town of Portobello, home to UNESCO-listed fortifications and a colonial-era shipping port. Then, the cruise heads to the San Blas Islands, where guests can relax on white-sand beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters, and learn about the traditional fishing techniques of the Kuna people. Next is Cartagena, Colombia, home to a colorful and lively UNESCO-listed historical center, and Santa Marta, a gateway to the lush Sierra Nevada, the highest coastal chain of mountains in the world. After a day at sea, the ship arrives at the diving hot spot of Bonaire. Highlights after that include Grenada's capital city of St. George’s, the tranquil beaches of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the lush rain forest of St. Lucia. The penultimate port is Les Saintes, a pristine and mostly uninhabited archipelago of nine islands in Guadeloupe. After swimming, snorkeling, and reflecting on the journey, guests disembark the next day in Fort-de-France, Martinique.

Frederic Michel/Courtesy of Studio PONANT

Disney Cruise Line's 6-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston

Duration: Six nights

What to expect: Disney Cruise Lines has been named one of the best large-ship ocean cruise lines by Travel + Leisure readers, and for good reason. This itinerary invites guests to board the 875-room Disney Magic , which offers plenty of entertainment to enjoy during the first two days at sea between Galveston and Grand Cayman. For young passengers, there are clubs, games, pools, and Disney character encounters. Adults might enjoy the spa, nightclubs, restaurants, and evening entertainment. In Grand Cayman, cruisers can relax on the famed Seven Mile Beach or learn about historical artifacts at the Cayman Islands National Museum. In Cozumel, Mexico, there's scuba diving, snorkeling, and more stunning beaches. The following day is spent at sea with time to enjoy Disney Magic 's amenities before returning to Galveston.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay and Dominican Republic

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: This cruise departs from Port Canaveral (Orlando) and spends the next day at sea aboard Norwegian Joy , which can carry 3,776 passengers, and has an adults-only relaxation area and beach club. The first port is Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, where travelers have time to enjoy the city views or explore on a hike. The ship visits the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie, which offers duty-free shopping and beaches. Tortola, British Virgin Islands, is the next port, where guests can snorkel or tour the forest canopy before heading out to sea for a day. Following that is Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, a private island for NCL guests to enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, WaveRunner adventures, or relaxing in a beachfront cabana before returning to Port Canaveral the next day.

Princess Cruises' 7-day Eastern Caribbean with St. Thomas

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Guests board the 3,660-passenger Sky Princess in Fort Lauderdale and cruise to Princess Cays on Eleuthera in the Bahamas. A beach barbecue, a local craft market, and water activities from snorkeling to fishing are available on the private island resort. The next day at sea on the way to San Juan, Puerto Rico, offers time to enjoy onboard activities including the pool, spa, sports court, and casino, as well as programs for young cruisers. After that, travelers can tour Old San Juan, the El Yunque National Rainforest, and Fort San Cristobal. The next stop is St. Thomas, which offers snorkeling, hiking, and golfing. With the next two days at sea, guests can enjoy the ship's restaurants, spa, and family-friendly Camp Discovery centers before returning to Fort Lauderdale.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Bridgetown to Bridgetown

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: This cruise aboard the The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection 's 149-suite ship, Evrima , starts in Bridgetown, Barbados, and heads to Saint-Pierre, Martinique, also known as "the Paris of the Caribbean." Here, cruisers can explore a charming seaside town, black-sand beaches, and dive sites with shipwrecks. The next stop is Soufrière, St. Lucia, a gateway to natural wonders like the steaming volcanic crater of Sulphur Springs, the organic gardens of the Tet Paul Nature Trail, and lush rain forest that can be explored via guided hikes. The next day is dedicated to the pristine palm-lined beaches of Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Grenada’s pedestrian-friendly capital of St. George’s gives guests a perfect opportunity to stretch their legs while viewing 18th-century architecture. The final destination before returning to Bridgetown, Barbados, is Canouan, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, home to colorful coral reefs, turtle nesting sites, and hiking trails up Mount Royal.

Norwegian Cruise Line's Western Caribbean: Harvest Caye, Cozumel, and Roatan

Duration: Seven nights

What to expect: This cruise leaves from New Orleans, so the celebration can start even before guests board the 3,903-passenger Norwegian Getaway for a day at sea with nightly entertainment, a casino, a spa, and a water park. There's the Splash Academy for young cruisers and the Entourage games and activities lounge for teens. The ship arrives at Costa Maya, Mexico, home to Mayan ruins, beaches, fly fishing, and river tubing. Belize is the next port, with river rafting through the jungle and relaxing on the beach. The next day is spent on Roatán, an island off the coast of Honduras, for snorkeling or a beach day. In Cozumel, off Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, there's snorkeling, trolley tours, and tequila tasting. After another day at sea, the ship returns to New Orleans.

Royal Caribbean's 7-night Southern Caribbean

What to expect: Passengers board the 2,416-guest Rhapsody of the Seas in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The next port is the island of St. Thomas, with world-famous beaches and snorkeling. From there, the ship goes to St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Then, it's on to Philipsburg on St. Maarten, a culturally vibrant island governed by the Netherlands and France. On St. Lucia, cruisers can opt to relax at a resort or on the beach or hit the island's hiking trails. The last stop before the ship returns to San Juan is Barbados, where guests can marvel at pink-sand beaches, go spelunking, or visit historic plantations.

Virgin Voyages' Eastern Caribbean Antilles

Duration: Eight nights

What to expect: One of the best adults-only cruises , this trip from Miami features a mix of adventure-filled days, nightlife, and experiences that are exclusive to Virgin Voyages guests. After boarding the 2,770-passenger Scarlet Lady , the first stop is the Dominican port of Puerto Plata, where excursions include an off-road adventure through villages, rivers, and waterfalls, a cable car ride up to the mountains, and a rum-tasting tour. The next stop in San Juan includes a late-night stay, giving guests extra time to experience Puerto Rico’s capital city in the evening. After a stop in St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, cruisers can enjoy the ship's many bars and restaurants before arriving at the Virgin Voyages Beach Club at Bimini, where they can relax by the shore or set out to explore the Bahamas' reefs, culture, and history on guided excursions.

Royal Caribbean's 4-night Bahamas and Perfect Day Cruise

Duration: Four nights What to expect: The 4,370-passenger Freedom of the Seas boards in Miami and heads to Nassau, Bahamas, for a day. Options there include Atlantis Resort and its water park, aquariums, and waterslides, as well as shopping and lounging on the beach. A day at sea gives guests time to enjoy the ship's water sports, nightlife, and restaurants. The ship arrives at CocoCay, Bahamas, for a day of fun in the freshwater pool, water park, Oasis Lagoon, and Coco Beach Club. The ship then returns to Miami for disembarkation.

Windstar Cruises' Classic Caribbean

What to expect: The cruise begins in St. Maarten aboard Wind Surf , a majestic 342-guest sailing ship with 150 luxurious staterooms. From there, the ship sails to Roseau, Dominica, and Pigeon Island, St. Lucia, where guests can explore rain forests and waterfalls. You can even hop aboard an aerial tram for a ride over the rain forest. In Guadeloupe, the Les Saintes archipelago offers snorkeling and rum sampling. In Basseterre, St. Kitts, there's an island tour, scenic railway, and zip line adventure. The cruise then heads to St. Barts for a catamaran sail before the ship returns to St. Maarten.

Hurtigruten's Tropical Waters and Remote Island Communities in the Caribbean

Duration: 11 nights

What to expect: Guests board the 550-passenger MS Roald Amundsen in Miami and spend the next two days cruising. The expedition ship has its own science center, as well as Nordic-inspired lounges, restaurants, and a spa, so guests can choose to dive into research or relax. The first stop is Belize, where you'll visit the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha and explore the country's pristine barrier reef. The cruise then heads to Honduras, stopping at spectacular dive sites and historic cities. Wildlife lovers will appreciate Nicaragua's remote islands of Cayos Miskitos, part of a protected nature reserve. Then, the adventure continues on Isla de Providencia in Colombia, Big Corn Island on Nicaragua's Caribbean coast, and Panama's UNESCO-listed Bocas del Toro islands. The final stop is Colón at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Hurtigruten engages guests with citizen science programs, in-depth lectures from its expedition team, and purpose-driven excursions focused on mindfully exploring nature and the local cultures. Options include guided visits to Indigenous communities, hikes along rugged trails, and opportunities to learn about wildlife.

Windstar Cruises' Boston Sights, Warm Caribbean Nights

Duration: 10 nights

What to expect: Sailing from Boston aboard the all-suite Star Pride , which accommodates a maximum of 312 guests, cruisers can enjoy the spa, dining venues, and infinity pool during two days at sea on their way to Bermuda. In Hamilton, shopping, kayaking, and fresh seafood restaurants await, and in St. George's, guests can tour natural grottos or a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Two more days at sea take cruisers to St. Barts. After that, the ship stops in St. Kitts and the British Virgin Islands. San Juan is the final port, and guests can explore the walled old town after disembarkation.

Celebrity Cruises' Bahamas, Labadee, and Grand Cayman

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Cruisers board the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Ascent in Fort Lauderdale and head to Nassau, Bahamas, for a day of relaxing beaches, duty-free shopping, and dining on the local specialty, conch fritters. A day at sea is next, with time to enjoy the ship's amenities, including 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges, a rooftop garden, and an adults-only solarium. Sip cocktails above the surf on the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform that can be raised up to 13 stories along the ship's exterior. The first stop is Labadee, a private Royal Caribbean port on Haiti's northern shore, which boasts stunning white-sand beaches and the world's longest over-water zip line. After another day of cruising the Caribbean, the ship arrives in George Town, Grand Cayman, for snorkeling, swimming with stingrays, and a beach barbecue. A final day at sea offers time to relax at the spa or dine at the three-story Eden restaurant before the ship returns to Fort Lauderdale.

Ponant's Pearls of the Caribbean Cruise

What to expect: From Martinique's capital of Fort-de-France, the 184-passenger Le Champlain sails to Bequia Island, home to lively Port Elizabeth, beaches, and a tropical rain forest. The ship makes several stops in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, including Mayreau Island for peaceful sandy beaches and snorkeling. The small islands of Tobago Cays teem with marine life such as green sea turtles. After a stop in the capital, Kingstown, the cruise heads to St. Lucia, where guests can relax on the protected beaches of Pigeon Island, a national landmark that features the ruins of an 18th-century British fort. A stop in Soufrière gives passengers a closer look at the Pitons, the island's signature twin volcanic spires. After a stop in Les Saintes, Guadeloupe, and Portsmouth, Dominica, the ship sails back to Martinique. Along the way, there's ample time to enjoy the elegant decor, swimming pool, and underwater lounge.

Azamara's 8-night Eastern Caribbean Voyage

What to expect: One of the best Caribbean cruises takes travelers on a voyage down to the region's eastern islands — all while sailing in the lap of luxury aboard the Azamara Quest , renowned for its comfortable 361 staterooms (including some with step-out balconies). The adventure begins in Miami and includes stops in St. Thomas, the British Virgin Islands, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Maarten, and St. Barts. Between shore excursions, guests can enjoy the ship's spa, fitness center, boutiques, enrichment programs, cocktail lounges, and performances by local talent.

Viking Ocean Cruises' West Indies Explorer

What to expect: Guests board the 930-passenger Viking Sea in San Juan before enjoying a day of exploring the town, kayaking, or horseback riding. Tortola, British Virgin Islands, is the next port, with time for snorkeling and the beach before heading to St. Kitts and Nevis. A rain forest safari and scenic railway trip are options there. In St. Lucia the next day, there's an aerial tram through the rain forest canopy and a catamaran tour. Bridgetown, Barbados, is the next port, and then Dominica the following day. Antigua and Barbuda offer a beach retreat or Segway city tour. In St. Maarten, sailing fans can participate in a simulated America's Cup race aboard a yacht. St. Thomas is the final stop before returning to San Juan.

Seabourn Cruises' 12-day Caribbean Gems

What to expect: The cruise begins in Miami, where guests board the Seabourn Sojourn for a day at sea on the way to San Juan. The ship offers 229 suites and an observation lounge and bar where passengers can enjoy the sea views. Activity options include a city tour, an El Yunque rain forest drive, or a culinary adventure. The next port is Gustavia, St. Barts, and then the ship continues to Guadeloupe for a day of touring or hiking. On Dominica, guests can explore waterfalls and hot springs before heading to Carambola Beach, home to some of St. Kitts and Nevis's most luxurious beach clubs and restaurants. Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands is the last port before the ship returns to Miami.

Viking Ocean Cruises' Amazon and Caribbean Adventure

What to expect: This cruise aboard the 930-guest Viking Sea begins in San Juan for sightseeing in the old city and access to white-sand beaches. Antigua and Barbuda are the next ports, where guests have a day to explore on land or via a catamaran cruise. Then it's on to St. Lucia for excursion options like an aerial tram through the rain forest canopy and a chocolate-making class. The ship arrives at Bridgetown, Barbados, for a day before setting sail for French Guiana. The next day is at sea, with time to enjoy the ship's activities before arriving at the Amazon River. The ship cruises the Amazon to the town of Santarém with its charming colonial-era cathedral. The next port in Brazil is Parintins, for a colorful folk performance, and then on to Manaus, 1,000 miles upriver from the Atlantic. Here, guests disembark to travel home or explore the city.

Silversea's Fort Lauderdale to Bridgetown

What to expect: This activity-packed voyage on the 596-passenger Silver Moon — one of the largest vessels in Silversea’s fleet — begins in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. After a couple of days at sea, the first stop is San Juan, where rain forest and architectural explorations await. Cruisers can take it slow in the next ports, St. Barts and St. Kitts, with beach time and culinary excursions or get their adrenaline pumping on a zip-lining adventure. The following two days include stops in St. John's and Guadaloupe, with shore excursions ranging from kayaking to snorkeling. On the seventh day, the ship arrives in Castries, St. Lucia, where guests can appreciate the capital city from above on a flightseeing helicopter tour or an aerial tram. The final stops are St. George's on Grenada and Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, before the voyage ends in Bridgetown, Barbados. 

Oceania Cruises' Tropical Retreats

What to expect: Passengers board in Miami for a day at sea on Oceania Cruises' Vista , with a pool bar, casino, spa, shops, 10 restaurants, and entertainment. The ship carries 1,200 passengers and features a wide variety of cabins including Oceania's first solo cabins. The first port is Cozumel, Mexico's largest Caribbean island, which offers shopping for local handicrafts and duty-free deals as well as snorkeling, river tubing, and boating. The next port is Harvest Caye, Belize, with beachfront villas and poolside cabanas that can be rented for the day and a lagoon for kayaks and pedal boats. Roatán, Honduras, is next, a remote island with white-sand beaches and coral reefs. The ship then stops at Costa Maya on Mexico's Caribbean coast, where guests can snorkel, kayak, relax on the beach, or explore nearby Mayan ruins. After a day at sea, the ship returns to Miami.

Celebrity Cruises' Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao

What to expect: After leaving Fort Lauderdale, this cruise begins with two days at sea, providing guests with ample time to enjoy the expansive top deck, restaurants, and bars aboard the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond . The first stop in the Dutch Caribbean islands is Oranjestad, Aruba, where guests can stroll down historic streets lined with colorful buildings. The next stops are Kralendijk, Bonaire, renowned for its dive sites, and Willemstad, Curacao, famous for its 17th-century fort, colonial buildings, street art, and vibrant cafes and bars. Another two days at sea allow guests to relax before disembarking in Fort Lauderdale. 

Holland America Line's 7-day Tropical Caribbean

Duration: Seven nights What to expect: Boarding in Fort Lauderdale, this voyage invites up to 2,106 passengers for a week of fun on one of the best Caribbean cruises. After a night at sea, the sophisticated Nieuw Amsterdam arrives at Half Moon Bay, Bahamas, Holland America Line's private island with boating, snorkeling, biking, hiking, or horseback riding excursions. The following day is spent cruising toward the next stop in Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, for snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on the shore. The next port is Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, to swim and snorkel or visit a rum distillery or cigar factory. After another day at sea, the ship arrives in Key West, Florida, giving guests a chance to visit the bars and restaurants of Duval Street and enjoy the historic architecture.

Lindblad Expeditions' Sailing the Caribbean Aboard Sea Cloud

What to expect: This cruise aboard Sea Cloud , a historic square-rigger ship that can accommodate 64 passengers, begins in Bridgetown, Barbados, for a true sailing adventure. The next day at sea provides time to relax on deck, observe the rigging crew as they hand-set the ship's 30 sails, or learn about the planned destinations. Upon arrival at Dominica, guests spend a day swimming and snorkeling before sailing on to Guadeloupe. The island of Bequia in the Grenadines is the next destination, where there's a model boat museum, a charming waterfront town, and local shops. Sea Cloud sails on to Grenada and then St. Lucia, which is home to a volcanic crater, waterfalls, sulfur springs, and mountains, before ending back in Barbados.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' Magic in the Caribbean

What to expect: One of the best cruises to book in 2024 , Regent Seven Seas dazzles passengers with its luxurious amenities and captivating itineraries. For this voyage, travelers board the 750-guest Seven Seas Grandeur in Miami and spend the next day at sea, enjoying the ship's amenities, including the fitness center, spa, bocce court, cooking classes, infinity pool, and much more. Then it's five days of island hopping to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Barts, Dominica, Antigua, and the British Virgin Islands. Two more days at sea provide plenty of time to take advantage of everything the ship has to offer before returning to Miami to disembark.

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The Best Caribbean Cruises 2023—With Stops at Rugged Volcanic Islands, Tropical Forests, and Serene Beaches

By Scott Laird

Caribbean cruises have long been a favorite with travelers for their picture-postcard attributes. White sand beaches front turquoise waters. But these tropical itineraries have something for every type of traveler. Activities abound—perhaps it’s shopping on one island, hiking through nature reserves and snorkeling among coral reefs on another, or having a beach day on a cruise company’s private retreat. Many Caribbean itineraries skew toward tried-and-true standards, but a number of cruise lines will have a handful of unique sailings put together for particular tastes or the seasoned cruiser who has already tried them all.

Some of these sailings visit offbeat destinations like volcanic Montserrat, while others take a non-traditional southern track from Panama along the northern coast of South America. Others visit sleepier, less-frequented destinations like St. Croix, St. Barts, and Mayreau, in addition to stopping at banner spots like St. Lucia and Aruba for dramatic vistas and spectacular beaches.

Here are some of the best Caribbean cruises to book for 2023.

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Seven Seas Splendor ventures to some of the Caribbean's most iconic isles.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Itinerary: Sunny Beaches & Emerald Forests

Departure: March 11, 2023

Experience: This 10-night sailing from Miami embarks on Regent Seven Seas' newest ship, Seven Seas Splendor , for a leisurely sail through the Caribbean’s windward isles. Hike to waterfalls in Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, explore Puerto Rico’s El Yunque National Forest, or relax on a sailboat excursion off minute St. Barts , which Splendor is right-sized to visit. Take an aerial tram through the rainforest canopy on St. Lucia or snorkel Champagne Reef on Dominica, watching bubbles and warmth rise from geothermal activity beneath the ocean floor. Excursions are included in the cruise fare with Regent—as are beverages, gratuities, transfers, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and laundry service.

Itinerary: Panama, Colombia, & Caribbean Islands

Departure: March 9 and 17, 2023

Experience: Voyage from the gates of the Panama Canal to the French West Indies, with a wealth of diversity in between. Experience Afro-Caribbean heritage in Portobelo, Panama, and Indigenous Kuna fishing communities in the San Blas Islands. Next, it’s on to Cartagena de Indias, Colombia, and then the coral reefs of Bonaire for diving. The spices of Grenada and St. Lucia’s volcanic pitons round out the itinerary before the intimately appointed ship Le Bellot (with fewer than 92 staterooms and suites) anchors in the turquoise waters of Fort-de-France for a fond farewell.

Celebrity Beyond 's Luminae Restaurant

Celebrity Cruises

Itinerary: Southern Caribbean

Departure: December 11, 2023

Experience: Offering a little of everything, this 11-night roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale includes calls at cobblestoned Cartagena, Colombia, the white-sand beaches of Aruba, and the famous colonial houses and swinging drawbridge of Curaçao. As an added bonus, Grand Cayman and Falmouth, Jamaica, also appear as ports to help break up the long journey south from Florida. The sailing takes place onboard the brand-new Celebrity Beyond , packed full of original art, Infinite Veranda staterooms—so-named for the floor-to-ceiling windows that open into a private balcony at the push of a button—and ocean-going gastronomy at Le Voyage, Chef Daniel Boulud’s first signature restaurant at sea.

Windstar Cruises

Itinerary: Windward Ways & Tobago Cays

Departure: January, February, November, and December 2023

Experience: Almost purpose-designed for cruisers who prefer their shore excursions to be on or in the water, this seven-day sailing onboard Windstar's Star Legend starts in the Dutch islands, offering up serene Aruba’s white-sand beaches and tranquil Bonaire’s 50 species of coral. “Isle of Spice” Grenada is next (nutmeg ice cream is a must-try), followed by spectacular vistas of the Grand Pitons on “seven times French; seven times British” St. Lucia. Mayreau is the smallest of the Grenadines—here cruisers can enter the water directly from Star Legend’s water-sports platform, then wind up the day with a private beach barbecue.

Valiant Lady will operate Caribbean cruises in spring and winter 2023.

Virgin Voyages

Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean Antilles

By Arati Menon

By Audrey Phoon

By Steph Koyfman

By Madison Flager

Departure: January, February, March, November, and December 2023

Experience: St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a less-trafficked port of call known as the “Garden of the Antilles” and Valiant Lady drops in during her Eastern Caribbean sailings, in addition to San Juan , Puerto Plata, and a day at Virgin’s lounge-y Beach Club at Bimini private island. Onboard, Wi-Fi and “essential” non-alcoholic drinks and gratuities are included on the adults-only ship, which touts over 20 eateries and a number of inventive ways to find a glass of champagne.

Holland America Line

Itinerary: 11 Day Panama Canal Sunfarer

Departure: March 14, 2023

Experience: Part Caribbean surf, part jungle excursion, this 11-day roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale onboard Eurodam calls first at Aruba and Curaçao for a taste of Holland America Line’s namesake Dutch culture before skirting the coast of South America for several days of scenic cruising the Panama Canal and Gatun Lake, taking in the maximum biodiversity (over 500 species of birds) of the Canal Zone, juxtaposed with the engineering wonders of the lock system.

A Signature Suite on board Evrima

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Itinerary: Bridgetown Roundtrip 7 Nights

Departure: March 19 and November 19, 2023

Experience: Ritz-Carlton has drawn on their vaunted properties to design everything from onboard dining to shore excursions on board the all-suite Evrima . Guests can visit Grenada’s Tower Estate to sample their famous blue tea, made from estate-grown butterfly peaflower, with cucumber sandwiches, cupcakes, and fresh fruit picked onsite. On Bequia, in the Grenadines, it might be a windjammer excursion to nearby Mustique for a seaside lunch, or a private car and driver arranged at one of the ports.

Silversea Cruises

Itinerary: 9 Day Bridgetown to San Juan

Departure: February 18, 2023

Experience: When not luxuriating onboard Silversea’s newest ship, the all-suite Silver Dawn , passengers might explore this itinerary’s most unique destination: Montserrat. Once a favored haunt of the jet-set, volcanic activity that earned it the nickname “The Pompeii of the Caribbean” has kept tourism development low-key, and visitors few, but cruisers on this itinerary will discover an Emerald Isle reminiscent of Ireland, and some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful, secluded beaches. Unspoiled Deshaies, on Guadeloupe, is another under-the-radar call for this spectacular ship boasting butler service in every suite and a guest-to-crew ratio of nearly one-to-one.

A suite onboard Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Cruise Line

Itinerary: Caribbean: Harvest Caye, Cozumel, & Roatan from Galeveston

Departure: December 15, 22, and 29, 2023

Experience: In December 2023, the new Norwegian Prima begins sailing the Riviera Maya from Galveston, also including port calls at resort-like Harvest Caye in Belize , where guests can rent private cabanas, and Roatan, in Honduras’s Bay Islands, home to a large Gumbalimba eco-preserve and animal sanctuary. Onboard, Norwegian has enhanced The Haven, the VIP suite area on this ship, with some the largest suite accommodations in the fleet, and all public areas in the suite enclave now have ocean views.

Princess Cruises

Itinerary: 5 Day Caribbean Getaway with Grand Turk

Departure: October 31, 2023

Experience: Not all Caribbean cruises need to be a week or two in duration. Princess Cruises offers a Halloween weekend getaway onboard Caribbean Princess that’s just five nights in duration, with two unbeatable ports—Grand Turk, and Princess Cays, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. A highlight of this seasonal sailing can be sitting in the ship’s piazza, watching festive passengers promenade their inventive costumes for spooky onboard revelry—a Princess tradition dating back to the days of the original “Love Boat” series.

Booking tips for Caribbean cruises

What are the best months to take a caribbean cruise.

Although some cruise lines operate in the Caribbean year-round, the widest selection of sailing dates and itineraries can be found between November and March.

What part of the Caribbean is best for a cruise?

The best Caribbean cruise is a matter of personal taste. Many cruises focus on a region, like the Southern, Eastern, or Western Caribbean, and itineraries, regardless of destination, often feature stops at cruise line operated private islands in the Bahamas.

What are the cheapest months to cruise in the Caribbean?

Generally, the beginning and end of the November-to-March season can be affordable—any time when North American schools are widely in session are also good times to cruise for lower fares.

Do you need a passport to go to on a Caribbean cruise?

Check with the cruise line before booking. U.S. citizens traveling on cruises calling at most Caribbean countries can do so with both an enhanced state ID and an original birth certificate in lieu of a passport, but a passport is by far the easiest form of identification (and most strongly recommended by both the U.S. State Department and most cruise lines) for U.S. citizens outside the country. It’s also important to note that documentation requirements can change, and passengers are ultimately responsible for having the required documents at embarkation or they may be denied boarding.

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The Caribbean’s Best Dive Resort Is in Bonaire

The Caribbean’s Best Small-Ship Cruise Lines

Exploring the best small-ship Caribbean cruise lines

By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

CJ Travel Editor

Most modern cruise ships are massive. They’re almost floating cities that have become destinations in and of themselves, carrying as many as 5,000 passengers across Caribbean waters. But sometimes we long for a more intimate experience, a return to the feeling of sailing rather than cruising, with only a few like-minded explorers for company. Smaller ships (for the purpose of this article defined as those carrying fewer than 1,200 passengers) fit the bill, allowing us to experience the elemental pleasures of sailing as we discover ports too small to accommodate large liners. And here are some of our favorites.

Mark your calendars:  Seabourn Odyssey’ s whopping 39-day Exotic Caribbean Exploration cruise departs from Fort Lauderdale on January 24, 2016, taking its 450 passengers to 20 ports including The Grenadines, Guadeloupe, Bonaire, Tobago and Cartagena, Colombia. Now  that’s  a holiday present!

The Best Caribbean Beach Resort You’ve Never Heard of 

There’s a boat just offshore called “Escape.”  It’s bobbing in some of the most brilliant, dynamic turquoise water I’ve ever seen, a few meters from a stretch of sand so bright and so white you have to squint to look […]

A Tiny New Boutique Hotel Just Opened on a Pink Sand Beach in The Bahamas 

The pink sand, the historic cottages, the chic beach bars and luxe villas. You may be thinking of Harbour Island.  But this is another increasingly hip destination in The Bahamas: Governor’s Harbour, Eleuthera, which just welcomed a brand-new boutique hotel.  […]

JetBlue Just Started Its First Nonstop Flights to Tulum

The beach shacks. The organic eateries. The Maya history. The spas. Yes, the all-inclusive resorts, too. Talk to anyone in the travel industry, and they’ll tell you Tulum is just about the hottest thing going right now, a once-quiet Mexican […]

It’s Getting Easier to Fly to the Island of St Kitts 

The Eastern Caribbean island of St Kitts is hotter than ever, from its world-famous music festival to a booming farm-to-table movement.  And that’s led a number of major airlines to ramp up service to the destination.  So how are the […]

Kempinski Is Entering a New Caribbean Market

Kempinski is coming to a new market in the Caribbean, Caribbean Journal Invest has learned.  The Swiss luxury brand has been named the operator of a new luxury beachfront residential resort on Grace Bay Beach.  The project will include four […]

A Unique New Luxury Home Project in San Juan

San Juan’s newest luxury residential project isn’t large.  In fact, it’s just two residences.  But they’re instantly one of the most attractive addresses in the city’s sought-after Condado Beach area. It’s a project called Haven. Each residence has a combined 6,489 […]

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Escape the Masses on These New Small-Ship Expedition, Luxury, and Sailing Cruises

With fewer crowds, excellent service, and the ability to get to remote destinations, small-ship cruising—on vessels that can only accommodate up to 500 passengers—might truly be the best way to explore by sea..

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Book a terrace suite on the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s newest vessel, Ilma , launching in 2024.

Photo by Jack Hardy/Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Authentic. It was Merriam Webster’s top searched word for 2023 and one that has dominated the travel vernacular in recent years. And while many would not necessarily associate the word with ocean cruising , the growth in popularity of small-ship cruises—particularly sailings with 500 guests or fewer—indicates that in the cruising world, passengers are seeking a more intimate, less crowded, and yes, arguably more authentic sailing experience.

Take expedition cruising , for example. As the number of adventure-focused ships and yachts has exploded in recent years, these cruises are no longer just about extreme voyages in polar regions. They are also about offering a deeper look into the culture, food, history, and environmental fragility of remote wonders of the world.

Although there isn’t a huge number of new small ships being introduced, there are a few notable vessels that have either recently launched or are launching this year with a focus on the idea that smaller is not just better, but more sustainable, too. These new small-ship cruises bring with them some exciting and more immersive new itineraries to destinations both warm and wintry that have us ready to pack our bags and sail away.

On Sea Cloud Spirit , passengers benefit from both age-old seafaring techniques and modern comforts.

Courtesy of Sea Cloud Cruises

Sea Cloud Cruises’ ” Sea Cloud Spirit”

• Suggested itinerary: Reset your mind and body on an eight-night sailing through Spain’s Canary Islands and on to Morocco on a special cruise featuring experts in restorative health. Pricing starts at $4,895 per person.

What’s more authentic—and sustainable—than setting sail on a tall ship where the sails are hoisted up each day by hand? Although not technically new (it was launched in 2021), the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit and its two sister ships, Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II , are upping their game in a push to introduce Sea Cloud Cruises’ unique product to North American travelers. The German company has traditionally catered to German and British passengers. As part of its effort to expand its reach and appeal, Sea Cloud is adding wellness programs with daily onboard yoga and guest fitness gurus, in addition to special food- and wine-focused sailings with well-known chefs making appearances. Sea Cloud Spirit , the largest of the three-ship fleet with 69 cabins, was meticulously designed to pay homage to the original Sea Cloud , which was the world’s largest private sailing yacht when Wall Street broker Edward Francis Hutton had it built in 1931 for his wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post.

The Sea Cloud Spirit combines the experience of decades of traditional seamanship with the modern-day luxuries of a private yacht. Cabins range from 172-square-foot single cabins to 300-square-foot balcony suites with soaking tubs. There’s a large fitness center and spa, which has a steam room, sauna, and thermal area for two; indoor and outdoor lounges; and a main dining area, plus a more casual bistro. The action, however, is out on deck, where passengers can stargaze at night or simply gaze in awe at the impressive sails blowing in the wind.

Luxury expedition cruising comes with priceless views when sailing with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages’ ” World Voyager”

• Suggested itinerary: Go searching for Arctic wildlife on a 12-night cruise from Reykjavík, which sails along the eastern coast of Greenland and to Longyearbyen in the Svalbard archipelago, one of the world’s northernmost inhabited areas and home to polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes, and other Nordic wildlife. Pricing starts at $6,499 per person.

World Voyager , which sailed its maiden voyage in Antarctica this past November, is the third vessel to join the fleet of one of the newest players in small-ship expedition cruising, Atlas Ocean Voyages. The company’s 100-cabin expedition yachts are almost identical and provide a hybrid of sorts between traditional expedition and luxury cruising. Cabins are spacious, almost all with balconies, desks, and seating areas. The bathrooms have glass-mosaic tiled showers with rain showerheads, wall jets, and even benches.

Everything on the ship—including the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows—is designed to provide maximum views. The ships also have spacious pool decks with two hot tubs, a fitness center overlooking the sea, a spa, and water toys like kayaks and paddleboards. There’s even extreme camping gear for those willing to brave an overnight under the stars in Antarctica. During North American winters, all three of Atlas’s expedition yachts sail in Antarctica. With the addition of World Voyager , the company is launching more Arctic Circle cruises during the North American summers while also adding a host of new epicurean and cultural expeditions in South America, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and northern Europe this year.

Joining its sister ship Evrima (pictured), the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Ilma is launching in 2024.

Courtesy of Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s “ Ilma”

• Suggested itinerary: Spend a little extra time in port on a 10-day sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon, which has three overnight stays, in Palma de Mallorca and Malaga in Spain, and in Lisbon, Portugal, one of Europe’s oldest cities. Pricing starts at $10,600 per person.

Another newcomer to luxury small-ship cruising is the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, which debuts its second ship, the Ilma , this year. With 224 suites, the ship is larger than the original Ritz-Carlton yacht, the 149-suite Evrima , which launched in October 2022. On the Ilma , all the suites will have private terraces, including a two-story suite with soaking tub; the coveted, 1,000-square-foot owner’s suite has a private outdoor whirlpool. Even the smallest suites are not all that small, at 300 square feet, and come with a personal concierge and 24-hour room service. The yacht boasts what Ritz-Carlton says is the highest ratio of space per guest at sea.

And you can expect to find the same meticulous service standards that you would find at Ritz-Carlton resorts throughout the world as the line aims to impress hotel guests seeking a luxury hotel experience at sea. Onboard are five dining venues, including S.E.A., a European tasting experience designed by chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany; Talaat Nam, featuring Southeast Asian cuisine and a sushi bar; and Mistral, a casual come-as-you-are alfresco grill with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Light bites are served at the marina at the aft of the ship, where you can also hop on a borrowed paddleboard. Oh, and did we mention there are two outdoor pools, too?

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?

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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.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Bigger Isn't Always Better: The Best of Small Ship Cruises

By Heidi Sarna &

Matt Hannafin

Though we like 'em all, we loooove the small ships best. They're intimate, personal and able to navigate remote waterways and small yachty harbors that mega ships can only dream about. In this age of giant cruise ships barreling into over crowded ports like St. Thomas, San Juan and Ketchikan, our hearts are won over by the small ships that can skip the hubbub and go for the genuine, unspoiled travel experiences. Small ships are the answer to anyone who likes the idea of traveling by sea, but not in a mass-market way.

Best Small Ships for Cushy Cruises

SeaDream Yacht Club: SeaDream's pair of cozy, 110-passenger yachts deliver an upscale yet very casual experience without regimentation on route to remote islands in the Caribbean and top spots in the Mediterranean, from Croatia to the French and Italian Rivieras. Cabin beds are fitted with fine Frette linens, but the best snooze on board is to be had in one of the 18 queen-size, Bali-style sun beds that line each vessel's top deck. Adult toys on board include jet skis, MP3 players, Segway Human Transporters and water sports equipment. Nautically-styled cabins have a flat-screen TVs, Internet access, and CD and DVD players. The all-inclusive pricing, doting service and high-end touches mean you soak in the hot tub while sipping a chardonnay and nibbling on shrimp cocktail. ( www.seadream.com )

American Safari Cruises : Every fall, American Safari does a series of 3- and 4-night California Wine Country cruises aboard its plush 22-passenger yacht Safari Spirit. Days are spent on private tours of various vineyards and estates, with wine tastings, art tours and gourmet lunches. Even a massage by a local therapist is included in the rates. In the late afternoon you can take out a kayak and explore the rivers on your own, then come back and soak in the top-deck hot tub. The line and its fleet of three tiny cruisers also do Alaska, Pacific Northwest and Sea of Cortez voyages. ( www.amsafari.com )

Star Clippers: If it's comfortable adventure with a romantic twist that you crave, then look no further than Star Clippers' three tall-masted modern clipper ships. With acres of sail above and you down below them in a deck chair, listen to sailors working the winches and heave the lines on route to the next small yachting port in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Far East. Attracting a young-at-heart international crowd, these ships are the perfect antidote to a typical mega-ship cruise. ( www.starclippers.com )

Windstar Cruises: The best of both worlds, the line's 312-passenger Wind Surf and its pair of 148-passenger vessels, the Wind Star and Wind Spirit , are yachty tall ships that manage to achieve an unstuffy casual luxury that's appealing to any one who demands great food and intimate surroundings without formality and pretention. Itineraries include the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Costa Rica. ( www.windstarcruises.com )

Best Small Ship Adventure Cruises

Lindblad Expeditions: Get your feet wet and brain working, Lindblad is the most adventure- and learning-oriented small-ship line out there, offering itineraries that avoid big ports and focus on wilderness, wildlife and history. Your time is spent learning about the outdoors from high-caliber expedition leaders and guest scientists, some of them aboard as part of Lindblad's alliance with the National Geographic Society. Try them in Alaska or in Mexico's Sea of Cortez for whale-watching and exploring starkly beautiful uninhabited islands. The line also ventures to Antarctica, the Artic, Galapagos, Central and South America, South Pacific, Mediterrean and other farflung and exhilarating locales. ( www.lindblad.com )

Cruise West and INTRAV: There's off-the-beaten-track and then there's crossing the Bering Sea. Cruise West's Spirit of Oceanus and INTRAV's Clipper Odyssey offer 2-week cruises that sail from mainland Alaska, through the Aleutian Islands, and then across the Bering Sea to the Russian Far East, visiting coastal towns and wilderness areas. Cruise West heads to Russia's severe Chukchi Peninsula, while INTRAV heads a little farther south to the more wooded Kamchatka Peninsula, home to more than 300 volcanoes. The two lines also offer ships and expedition-style itineraries along Alaska's Inside Passage and many other parts of the world. ( www.cruisewest.com and www.intrav.com )

The Maine Windjammers : You get a fairly relaxing adventure on these owner-operated vessels, but it's an adventure nonetheless because these are real sailing ships, relying on the coastal winds for propulsion. Not plush, these ships are the real deal for salts young and old. If you like, you're welcome to learn the ropes of sailing while aboard, as you sail to small islands around Penobscot Bay. ( www.sailmainecoast.com )

Best Small Ships for Learning Something

Majestic America Line: The wooden, 174-passenger Delta Queen was built in 1926 and is one of the great links to the Mississippi's stern-wheeler past. Cruises are a celebration of Americana, with lots of history and river lore, meals that feature Cajun and southern cooking, and a music program heavy on Dixieland jazz and swing. Special theme cruises focus on the Civil War and antebellum home visits. The fleet also includes newer paddlewheelers and other small ships. ( www.majesticamericaline.com )

American Canadian Caribbean: ACCL's utilitarian work-horse ships can navigate through the narrow, shallow waters of the old northeast canal system, with much time spent in the region's rivers and lakes, plus visits to historic sites such as Fort Ticonderoga, Cooperstown and the Baseball Hall of Fame, West Point, and the old Erie Canal. You don't get expert lecturers the way you do on many other small-ship lines, but then, they don't sail here. ( www.accl-smallships.com )

Imperial Majesty : This one's in its own unique category. The itinerary visits nowhere you'd normally call historic (the Bahamas), but Regal Empress , the line's one ship, is a piece of history in and of itself. Built in 1953, it's one of the only real old ocean liners still operating in the American market. By 2010, Coast Guard regulations will make it almost impossible for old vessels like this to sail, so if you want to see what ocean ships were like in the mid-20th century, Regal Empress is one of your last options. And it's cheap, too! ( www.imperialmajesty.com )

The Maine Windjammers: On the Maine coast, more than a dozen owner-operator schooners offer 3- to 6-night cruises throughout the summer. Several of them date back to the 19th century, including the 22-passenger Lewis R. French and Stephen Taber (both launched in 1871), while boats like the 26-passenger American Eagle and 20-passenger Timberwind date to the 1930s. Cruises let you become familiar with old-style sailing ships and learn something about handling the sails, all while tooling around the bays and coves of the gorgeous Maine coast.

Cruise West, Lindblad and American Safari: Follow in the steps of Lewis and Clark through the rivers of the Pacific Northwest (Columbia and Snake rivers), transiting locks and dams, visiting Indian petroglyphs, and experiencing one of the most beautiful river landscapes in the U.S. Some cruises also offer recreational activities such as kayaking, while others visit vineyards in Washington's wine country.

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Grenadine Islands

• Visit one island in Grenadines
• Smell the aroma of Grenada
• Walk and swim at Marigot Bay
• Taste the spicy Creole cooking

Classic Yachtsman Caribbean

• Enjoy Grenada's unique aromas
• Discover Falmouth Harbour, Antigua
• Enjoy the beach in ÎIes des Saintes
• Explore lush St. Lucia Island

Enjoy Caribbean Rhythms at the Turn of the Year

• Snorkel the famed Virgin Gorda
• See luxurious St. Barthelemy
• Explore the culture of Grenada
• Admire beautiful St. Lucia

Pearls of the Caribbean

• See UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Visit the Grenadine Islands
• Observe marine animals
• Enjoy the beach on Mayreau Island

Windward Islands

• Explore beaches in Barbados
• See lush island of St. Lucia
• Visit sophisticated Martinique

Treasure Islands

• Visit Virgin Gorda's famous “Baths”
• Enjoy the lifestyle of Soper's Hole
• Walk the streets of Basseterre
• Relax on famous St. Barts

Cruising the Leeward Islands

• Dive in Anguilla
• Explore Virgin Gorda
• Discover Anegada
• Experience Jost van Dyke

A Colorful Caribbean Time-Out

• Explore Old San Juan's forts
• Enjoy salsa music
• Sail in the British Virgin Islands
• Explore unique rock formations

Leeward Islands

• Visit Dominica Island
• Snorkel at Iles des Saintes
• Sail across Rivière Salée
• Enjoy Gustavia's unique charm

The Essential of the Caribbean

• Cruise in West Indies
• Visit heritage sites
• Discover British Virgin Islands
• Private beach day in Mayreau
• Sailing the Caribbean
• Experience a 4-masted, 30-sail ship
• Sail into lesser-known ports
• Explore wildlife, culture, and sea
• Enjoy the relaxed Caribbean pace

Eastbound Atlantic Ocean Crossing

• Explore the east coast of Barbados
• Discover Santa Cruz
• Experience Las Palmas
• Visit Caldera de Bandama

Island Odyssey: Bahamas to the Grenadines

• Explore beaches on Compass Cay
• See swimming pigs on Exuma Island
• Discover Long Island on foot
• Enjoy the view from Gorda Point

Barbados to Panama Christmas Cruise

• Explore Bridgetown, Barbados
• Discover Dutch colonial Curacao
• Transit the historic Panama Canal

Insider Tip for Sailing Enthusiast

• Experience culture and museum visit
• Explore beaches and marine life
• Experience Key West culture
• Enjoy exclusive ship amenities

Barbados to Panama

Panama to antigua.

• Swim in paradise in Bonaire

Exploring South America

• Explore the Amazon Rainforest
• Visit Georgetown and Paramaribo
• Explore Lençóis Maranhenses
• Explore cultures and wildlife

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Want an easy, cheap way to travel internationally? Cruise the Caribbean.

Nearly every time Kristin Chapman takes a cruise, she heads to the Caribbean .

The 38-year-old medical librarian has been on more than a dozen cruises, and itineraries packed with a variety of tropical destinations in the region have kept her coming back.

“What I really found enjoyable about the Caribbean was it really does give you the longer port days because the islands are so close together,” said Chapman, who lives in Connecticut. “It does make you feel like you have had more of an experience in where you're going, rather than the days at sea that you have in between different islands (on some other cruises).”

Caribbean cruises offer an easy, often affordable way to travel internationally from the U.S. “It’s a great way to check off a bunch of countries on your map,” Mike Harris, director of sales at online travel agency The Cruise Web.

Why are Caribbean cruises so popular?

Caribbean itineraries are the default choice of many cruisers – and with good reason. 

“Specifically, for the American market, it’s close to home,” said Harris. Cruise lines sail to the Caribbean from ports in cities ranging from Miami to Baltimore to New York City. “These are domestic ports that a lot of the country can drive to,” he added.

Once travelers set sail, there is something for everyone. “The versatility of the Caribbean is what makes it unique,” Harris said. That’s true of both the wide range of cruise lines operating there – including post-COVID-19 newcomers like Virgin Voyages – as well as its mix of beaches, cuisine, history, adventurous activities like cave tubing and zip lining and nightlife.

That combination of factors has proven increasingly compelling to guests. Demand for Caribbean cruises was up nearly 5% in the first two quarters of the year compared to the same time in 2019, according to Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade organization.

The Caribbean’s market share in the industry is also at 44%, an increase from 34% in 2019, said Michele Paige, CEO of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association.

Pro tip: Cruises that leave from the Caribbean, like a Carnival Cruise Line sailing Chapman took from San Juan, Puerto Rico, tend to have fewer sea days and maximize your time in port.

When is the best time to take a Caribbean cruise?

The region has long been seen as a “warm weather destination” where travelers can go to escape the cold, according to Paige.

But in recent years, more lines have begun offering Caribbean sailings all year. “They have year-round great weather, but it’s more than just the weather,” she said.

Still, Harris said passengers will find the most variety of ships there from November through March. “You'll get the big contemporary ships, you get the medium premium brands, but you also get the very small deluxe and luxury brands that are going to very small, exclusive islands that a lot of people just haven't heard of,” he said.

In the summer, smaller ships typically reposition elsewhere – like Alaska or Europe – and the Caribbean is mostly populated by big ships catering to families with kids out of school.

( Click here for USA TODAY’s cruise line guide ).

Are Caribbean cruises expensive?

Because so many itineraries are offered throughout the year, Harris said travelers can often find cheaper sailings than in some other destinations. “You can find a Caribbean cruise for as low as $60 a day, all the way up to $2,200 a day just depending on the experience you’re looking for,” he said.

These items are banned on cruises: Read this before you pack

Upcoming Caribbean cruises

◾ Royal Caribbean International’s Independence of the Seas ship will sail a four-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary departing Nov. 15. The cruise will sail round-trip from Miami with a stop in Labadee, Haiti. The fare starts at $272 per person based on double occupancy, according to the line’s website .

◾ Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Sun ship will sail a 12-day Caribbean cruise round-trip from Baltimore, departing Dec. 9. The cruise will stop in San Juan; Philipsburg, Sint Maarten; Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis; Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda; Saint Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola in the British Virgin Islands and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Cabins start at just under $849 per person based on double occupancy, according to the line’s website .

◾ Carnival Cruise Line will offer a round-trip six-day Western Caribbean sailing from Galveston, Texas, leaving Dec. 10. The sailing on the line’s Carnival Dream ship will visit Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, as well as Belize. Available cabins currently start at $809 per guest based on double occupancy, according to Carnival’s website .

◾ Silversea Cruises’ Silver Dawn ship will depart on a 10-day cruise from Bridgetown, Barbados, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Jan. 26. Passengers will visit Bequia in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Castries, Saint Lucia; Saint John’s; Gustavia in St. Barts; Saint Thomas; Spanish Town in the British Virgin Islands; and San Juan. Fares currently start at $5,350 per guest based on double occupancy, according to the luxury line’s website .

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Protect Your Trip »

The 26 best new cruise ships for 2024.

Check out these exciting new vessels before booking your next cruise.

The Best New Cruise Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas will be the world's biggest new cruise ship.

Cruising is one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism, with passenger numbers projected to reach 37.2 million by 2025, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Cruise lines are responding to this growth by building new (and often, larger) vessels with all the bells and whistles, including technological advancements that are more environmentally friendly and create the capability to use alternative fuels.

U.S. News has compiled this roundup of new cruise ships that have just set sail or are scheduled to launch later in 2023 and in 2024, plus a preview of new ships coming in 2025 and beyond. The list includes everything from expedition and luxury yacht-style vessels to reimagined ships and megaships – plus the debut of a brand-new cruise line.

• New ships for 2023
• New ships for 2024
• New ships for 2025 (and beyond)

Oceania Vista: May 2023

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Top feature: Luxurious, distinctive spaces

Fares begin around: $2,899 per person (double occupancy) for a 10-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean

Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Vista is the first ship in Oceania Cruises ' new Allura class and the line's first new ship in 10 years. The 1,200-passenger, all-veranda vessel features a fresh interior design inspired by nature. The elegant new signature spaces include the dramatic Grand Staircase, the reimagined Martinis bar, the clubby Grand Lounge and 180-degree ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling windows at Horizons.

Another highlight of the new ship is the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Elevated dining concepts on Oceania Vista include the new venue Ember, wellness-inspired cuisine at Aquamar Kitchen and The Bakery at Baristas, which specializes in French and Italian pastries.

Book an  Oceania  cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Carnival Venezia: May 2023

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Top feature: Italian-style ship

Fares begin around: $419 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night cruise to the Bahamas

Sails to: Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England, Panama Canal

Originally built for the Chinese cruise market in 2019, Carnival Venezia first sailed throughout Asia under the Costa Cruises brand. It headed to Europe in 2020, then was reintroduced as a Carnival Cruise Line vessel in 2023. The rebranded ship, now homeported in the U.S., features Carnival's "Fun Italian Style" concept, with Venetian-style artwork and the Piazza San Marco atrium – not to mention Italian-inspired beverages and dishes at venues like Frizzante, Amari, Marco Polo, the Canal Grande Restaurant and La Strada Grill.

The 4,090-passenger ship has classic Carnival favorites, too, like Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Piano Bar 88 and the Serenity Bar. Guests will also find Carnival's Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, three kids clubs, the outdoor SportSquare and onboard water park WaterWorks.

Find a  Carnival  cruise on GoToSea.

Resilient Lady: May 2023

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Top feature: New and exciting entertainment offerings

Fares begin around: $2,550 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to the Greek islands

Sails to: Europe, Middle East, Asia, Australia and South Pacific

Virgin Voyages' third adults-only ship , Resilient Lady , debuted with its MerMaiden voyage sailing the Greek islands in May 2023. The new 2,762-passenger ship offers the same features as its sister ships, including more than 20 dining venues with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, an impressive fitness and wellness program, and superyacht-inspired cabins.

The immersive entertainment is one highlight on the new Virgin ship, with shows like rock 'n' roll "Persephone," a concept from the Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes produced by Kaleidoscope Immersive. The Supper Club Series featuring Another Rose is a new show by Randy Weiner of theatrical performance "Sleep No More." The evening with the Supper Club includes a dining experience with cabaret and acrobatic performances in a tale of ill-fated love.

Explore  Virgin Voyages  deals on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia: June 2023

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Top feature: Commitment to sustainable cruising and environmental stewardship

Fares begin around: $219 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Northern Europe cruise

Sails to: Northern and Western Europe

The LNG-powered MSC Euribia has several features that exemplify the line's commitment to sustainable cruising , including an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system and energy-saving equipment like smart heating, air conditioning and ventilation. MSC Euribia's hull, decorated with the hashtag #SaveTheSea, was designed by artist Alex Flämig and is also a symbol of MSC Cruises ' dedication to preserving our fragile marine ecosystem.

One of the most striking features on MSC's fifth (and final) Meraviglia-class ship is the two-story Galleria Euribia. The 360-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade – lined with shops, restaurants and bars – sits beneath the longest LED dome at sea. Another highlight is the Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship. The new space features floor-to-ceiling windows, indoor and outdoor areas, and Big Band at Sea: a 19-piece in-house group of musicians and entertainers. MSC Euribia can accommodate up to 6,327 passengers.

Compare  MSC Cruises  on GoToSea.

Viking Saturn: June 2023

Courtesy of Viking

Top feature: "Residential design" (found on all Viking ocean vessels)

Fares begin around: $2,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Mainland Europe, British Isles, Iceland, Mediterranean and India

The 930-passenger Viking Saturn is the ninth ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet and identical in design to its eight sister ships. The all-veranda vessel offers six categories of accommodations ranging from the 270-square-foot Veranda Stateroom to the spacious 1,448-square-foot Owner's Suite. On board, guests will enjoy the sleek, elegant Scandinavian-inspired public spaces and lounges. The line's enrichment program includes lectures with resident historians, TED Talks and sessions with world-renowned guest speakers. There are eight dining venues featuring destination-focused cuisine, the Nordic Spa with its snow grotto, two pools and hot tubs, and a sports deck.

Book a  Viking Ocean cruise on GoToSea.

Norwegian Viva: August 2023

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Top feature: Indulge Food Hall

Fares begin around: $629 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night Greek islands cruise

The line's second Prima-class ship, Norwegian Viva mirrors the elevated design of sister ship Norwegian Prima . The new ship features six complimentary dining venues, including globally inspired dishes at Indulge Food Hall, pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill and 270-degree ocean views at the beautifully redesigned main restaurant, Hudson's.

The Haven on Viva is the most exclusive and spacious private enclave in Norwegian Cruise Line 's fleet; it was designed by one of Italy's leading designers, Piero Lissoni. Guests will also find updated styling at Mandara Spa. There's no shortage of entertainment on Viva; it's home to the first free-fall dry slide in the world, a three-story racetrack, high-tech mini-golf and the musical "Beetlejuice." Viva has the capacity to carry up to 3,099 guests.

Find a  Norwegian Cruise Line  itinerary on GoToSea.

Explora I: August 2023

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

Top feature: Luxury details and design, with a focus on sustainability

Fares begin around: $3,000 per person (double occupancy) for a six-night cruise to the Caribbean and Columbia

Sails to: Mediterranean and Western Europe, Caribbean and Central America, U.S. (including Hawaii) and Canada, Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula

Explora I is the first of six luxury vessels for new cruise line Explora Journeys. Owned by the Aponte family and MSC Group, the elegant 922-guest ship combines Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship, offering suites and residences that are comfortable and spacious enough to be considered "homes at sea."

Guests can explore 14 decks offering nearly 27,000 square feet of outdoor space. Lounge at four pools (one with a retractable glass roof), book a rejuvenating body treatment at the spa, work out at the fitness center or browse the boutiques. There are also six dining venues, 12 bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen for culinary classes and private dining. Regional wine pairings will accompany the onboard dining experience, which includes Pan-Asian, Mediterranean and French cuisine, as well as classic steakhouse offerings.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Silver Nova: August 2023

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Top feature: Ship's asymmetrical deck plan, which offers more open spaces and higher ceilings

Fares begin around: $3,850 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Central and South America

Sails to: Caribbean, Central America, South America, U.S. West Coast, Alaska, Canada, Asia, Australia and New Zealand

Silversea Cruises' newest ship is the 728-guest Silver Nova . The 12th vessel in the fleet is ultra-luxurious and offers one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the industry. Two highlights are the ship's asymmetrical design and aft suites, which have 270-degree views. Silver Nova's nine dining options include S.A.L.T. Kitchen's destination-inspired menus, Silversea 's classic dining experience at Atlantide and French cuisine at La Dame. Silver Nova is also Silversea's most environmentally friendly vessel yet.

Explore  Silversea  cruises on GoToSea.

Seven Seas Grandeur: November 2023

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Top feature: "Journey in Jewels," the first Fabergé egg at sea

Fares begin around: $3,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Mexico and Central America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean and Panama Canal

The 746-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur will be Regent Seven Seas Cruises' third Explorer-class vessel when it launches late this fall. While Grandeur is similar to its two sister ships, Explorer and Splendor , the new vessel features updated lounges, restaurants, spa spaces and suites. The line's signature Regent Suite – coming in at an impressive 4,443 square feet – has also been redesigned by Miami firm Studio DADO.

A few additional standout spaces include the art nouveau design of the Observation Lounge (located at the bow of the ship) and the reimagined Serene Spa. The stunning new Compass Rose is the ship's main dining room. Meanwhile, the onboard art collection is also notable: Seven Seas Grandeur will set sail with the first Fabergé egg at sea.

Compare  Regent Seven Seas  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Ascent: November 2023

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Top feature: 32 restaurants, bars and lounges, including the redesigned Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud

Fares begin around: $756 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean

Sails to: Europe, Caribbean

The fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises' Edge class, Celebrity Ascent , will accommodate up to 3,260 passengers and offer the same features as other ships in the series. There are 32 bars, lounges and restaurants, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud.

Other favorites from the Edge-class ships will return on Ascent, such as the multideck Sunset Bar and an open-air Rooftop Garden with floating pools that are cantilevered over the edge of the ship. It's also home to Celebrity's Magic Carpet, a multipurpose 90-ton deck that moves up and down the side of the ship between Decks 2, 5, 14 and 16; it's used for everything from tendering passengers to hosting happy hours and private functions and late-night parties. Guests will also find Celebrity 's innovative Infinite Veranda staterooms and the exclusive ship-within-a ship concept of The Retreat.

Book a  Celebrity Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Carnival Jubilee: December 2023

Top feature: Two new ocean-themed zones, Currents and The Shores

Fares begin around: $669 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Western Caribbean

Carnival's newest ship in the Excel class, Carnival Jubilee , will offer six zones (fun themed areas) for up to 6,631 passengers. The LNG-powered vessel features two new zones: Currents and The Shores. Currents is an immersive space with innovative technology such as LED windows and a wave-shaped LED Ceiling. Located on Decks 6 and 7, the space offers new venues for imbibing, dining and listening to live music, such as casual bar Inks, Ph.D and stylish lounge The Golden Mermaid. This is also where you'll find Emeril's Bistro 717.

The Shores, located on Deck 8, features a three-deck-high art installation of a school of fish, a boardwalk, and vibrant colors throughout the indoor and outdoor spaces. Dining and bar venues include Rudi's Seagrill, Cucina del Capitano and Marina Bar. Enjoy other returning Carnival favorites on Jubilee such as the BOLT sea coaster, Waterworks, SportSquare, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.

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Icon of the Seas: January 2024

Top feature: Largest cruise ship in the world, carrying up to 7,600 passengers

Fares begin around: $1,930 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean

Icon of the Seas is the first Icon-class vessel in the Royal Caribbean International fleet – and the first new class of ship since 2014. When the massive vessel debuts in January 2024, it will replace Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas as the largest ship at sea (Icon of the Seas is 6% larger). The ship features eight distinct neighborhoods – including the new Surfside neighborhood, a colorful space geared toward family fun with kids clubs, Splashaway Bay, themed eateries and bars, adjacent staterooms and more.

There are four additional new neighborhoods as well. Thrill Island features Category 6, the largest water park at sea, while Chill Island boasts the line's first swim-up bar and The Hideaway features the first suspended infinity pool at sea. AquaDome, the impressive glass-enclosed space at the top of the ship, is home to the AquaTheater, panoramic ocean views, a waterfall, and bars and restaurants.

Sun Princess: February 2024

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Top feature: Princess Cruises' largest ship and the first in the line's Sphere class

Fares begin around: $577 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean, Mediterranean

Sun Princess will have many new attractions when it launches in early 2024. It has the most balconies on any Princess Cruises ' ship, and you'll find exciting new dining, activity and entertainment offerings. One notable highlight is Park19, a top-deck space with activities for kids of all ages, including the Sea Breeze Rollglider, the first ride of its kind on a cruise ship. This new attraction soars 19 decks high and offers unparalleled views of the ocean below.

Cruisers can enjoy additional spaces like a two-story dome that is a pool during the day and a stage for shows at night; the European-inspired Piazza, which offers ocean vistas from nearly every angle; the Princess Arena, a high-tech performance space; the elegant three-story Horizons Dining Room; and the new Wake View Terrace with an infinity pool. There are also new styles of accommodations and expanded offerings for young children, tweens and teens. Sun Princess can accommodate up to 4,300 passengers.

Queen Anne: May 2024

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Top feature: The Pavilion, a glass-enclosed pool area with a retractable roof

Fares begin around: $1,199 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Canary Islands, Mediterranean, Northern and Western Europe, Iceland, British Isles, Australia, Asia, Africa and Indian Ocean

When Queen Anne launches in spring 2024, it will be Cunard Line's 249th ship since the company's inception in 1840, and the line's first new vessel in 14 years. The 3,000-passenger ship will feature a fresh, modern design, yet still give a nod to the Cunard's art deco past.

Once on board, guests will discover new entertainment venues like the Bright Lights Society show bar and more wide-open spaces throughout the ship, as well as Cunard 's first two-story theater. New international dining options include Japanese restaurant Aji Wa with sushi and omakase menus, plus Indian cuisine at Aranya. Queen Anne also offers an extensive health and wellness program in collaboration with health group Mareel that features a large thermal suite, a spa pool and a top-deck wellness studio.

Find a  Cunard  cruise on GoToSea.

Utopia of the Seas: July 2024

Top feature: Three- and four-night ultimate weekend getaways

Fares begin around: $471 per person (double occupancy) for a three-night Bahamas cruise

Sails to: Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island)

Utopia of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean's sixth (and final) Oasis-class ship when it debuts in summer 2024. With a capacity of 5,668 passengers, the vessel will join the line's other Oasis- and Icon-class ships as the largest cruise ships sailing on the high seas. The ship will have the same eight neighborhoods as other Oasis-class ships, including Central Park, The Boardwalk and the Pool & Sports Zone.

The 40-plus food and beverage options will include new additions like the Pesky Parrot bar and a themed "mixed reality" dining experience that takes place on a train. A reimagined playscape is another addition, with nets, games, puzzles, slides and climbing walls for junior cruisers. The line's Ultimate Abyss – a dry slide with 10 stories of thrilling twists and turns – will now stretch an additional 43 feet, making it the longest dry slide at sea.

Explora II: August 2024

Top feature: Luxurious cabins

Fares begin around: $4,500 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean and Central America, Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula and Red Sea, India, Indian Ocean and Africa

As sister ship to Explora I, Explora II will offer the same transformative travel experience for 922 guests. The luxury vessel will feature 461 oceanfront suites with private terraces. Cruisers can take advantage of 11 culinary options across six dining venues, a dozen indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen. Guests will also have access to four pools, 64 private cabanas and wellness facilities.

Silver Ray: Summer 2024

Top feature: One of the most spacious ships ever built; extraordinary space-to-guest ratio

Fares begin around: $4,000 per person (double occupancy) for a nine-night cruise to South America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles, South America, Caribbean and Central America

Silver Ray, Silversea's second Nova-class ship, is scheduled to set sail in summer 2024. The 728-passenger, low-emissions vessel will offer the same advanced hybrid fuel technologies as its sister ship, Silver Nova. It will also have Silver Nova's horizontal layout and asymmetrical design, creating more open public areas and providing suites with 270-degree views. In addition, guests on board the luxury vessel will have their choice of eight dining venues and a wide selection of bars and lounges, including The Marquee, a new alfresco restaurant.

Viking Vela: December 2024

Top feature: Larger than Viking's other ocean vessels, carrying up to 998 passengers

Fares begin around: $4,999 per person (double occupancy) for a 12-night northern lights cruise

Sails to: Scandinavia, British Isles, Iceland

Measuring 748 feet long and 101 feet wide, Viking Vela will be the line's largest ship when it debuts at the end of 2024. It will accommodate 68 more passengers than its sister ships, but feature Viking's signature veranda staterooms, public spaces, amenities and dining venues. Seasoned Viking cruisers can look forward to favorites like The Nordic Spa, the Wintergarden, Mamsen's, the Explorers' Lounge, the Sports Deck, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and The Chef's Table.

Disney Treasure: December 2024

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Top feature: Debut of new Disney Parks-inspired onboard venues

Fares begin around: $4,028 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean, Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line's private island)

Fans of Disney Cruise Line will find many familiar venues, attractions and restaurants on the new Disney Treasure, sister ship of Disney Wish . However, there will also be plenty of new features, including the theme of the ship: adventure. The Grand Hall, inspired by the movie "Aladdin," is designed with dark shades of blue, turquoise and gold and features a golden statue of a magic carpet with Aladdin and Jasmine.

Plaza de Coco replaces Disney Wish's "Frozen" dining experience with a two-night Mexican, "Coco"-themed theatrical dinner show. Meanwhile, "Disney The Tale of Moana" – a Broadway-style production based on the film "Moana" – will be exclusive to Disney Treasure. Adults will also find new lounges, such as the Jungle Cruise-themed Skipper Society and the Periscope Pub, which is inspired by "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." Disney Treasure can carry up to 4,000 passengers.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

MSC World America: Spring 2025

MSC's new futuristic ship – and sister ship to MSC World Europa – will be based in Miami and sail the Caribbean. The LNG-powered, 6,762-passenger ship will offer more than 420,000 square feet of public space and many of the attractions found on World Europa, such as the MSC Luna Park Arena and World Galleria. There will also be more than 30 dining venues, bars and lounges, as well as the line's private enclave, MSC Yacht Club.

Oceania Allura: June 2025

Oceania Allura will be the eighth ship in Oceania's fleet, the second vessel of the line's Allura class and the sister ship to Oceania Vista. The 1,200-passenger Allura will offer the same upscale amenities as Vista, as well as a new Chef's Studio and one of the highest space-to-guest and staff-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry. Allura is scheduled to debut in June 2025.

Star Princess: August 2025

Star Princess is scheduled to set sail in 2025 as the sister ship to Sun Princess. The 4,300-passenger, LNG-powered ship will offer the same features as Sun Princess, including the Dome, the Piazza and the line's Signature Collection Suites. The vessel will also have 29-plus restaurants and bars.

Star of the Seas: Summer 2025

Royal Caribbean plans to introduce Star of the Seas – the second Icon-class vessel and sister to Icon of the Seas – in summer 2025.

Disney Cruise Line: 2025

Disney purchased the former Global Dream from Genting's Dream Cruises in 2022, when it was still being built at the German shipyard MV Werften. Disney plans to base the ship in Singapore for at least five years, offering Disney vacations to the Southeast Asian market. When it launches in 2025, the vessel will be the line's seventh ship and is expected to carry 6,000 passengers. Another newly built, currently unnamed Disney ship is planned to debut in 2025, as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 2025 and beyond

The third Prima-class ship is expected to be approximately 10% larger than the first ship in the class, Norwegian Prima (143,535 gross tons). The following ships for the line are anticipated to be even larger, with the fifth and sixth Prima-class vessels (debuting in 2027 and 2028) weighing as much as 171,000 gross tons.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's fifth Edge-class ship will be more eco-friendly, thanks to the addition of a new tri-fueled engine model and the capacity to store three different kinds of fuel, including methanol. The effort toward net-zero emissions and more sustainable cruising is a partnership between Royal Caribbean, the French shipyard Chantiers de L'Atlantique and the technology firm Wärtsilä. A debut date for this ship has not yet been announced.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. She used her extensive experience with cruises to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships
• The Best Cruise Lines
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• The Best Gay Cruises
• The Best Transatlantic Cruises

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Princess Cruises Launches Cruise Industry’s Best Price Guarantee on 2025 & 2026 Cruises

The line’s new “better than best price guarantee" lets smart shoppers book early with absolute confidence.

By downloading this image you agree to the Princess asset use terms and conditions

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. (June 27, 2024) – Smart shoppers looking for the very best price on their 2025 or 2026 cruise vacation will appreciate the new “Better than Best Price Guarantee” from Princess Cruises. From July 1-September 2, 2024, guests can book their dream Princess vacation with the added confidence of knowing they are securing the absolute best price available.

With the “Better than Best Price Guarantee” guests are assured that if they find a better price for the same Princess cruise, stateroom category, and sail date at any time before their final payment, Princess will honor the lower rate and provide 120% of the difference in the form of an onboard credit.

“Our new guarantee underscores the Princess commitment to offering unparalleled value and exceptional service to guests…value that is unmatched by land-based vacations,” said Terry Thornton, Princess Cruises chief commercial officer. “With our booking volume for 2025 voyages already nearly 30% higher than it has ever been at this point in the typical booking cycle, securing your spot early has never been more important and this offer not only guarantees the best rates, but also ensures guests can choose their preferred dates and destinations. This way, guests can enjoy the best selection of Princess worldwide destinations and accommodations, knowing they have the best rate available for their cruise.”

How it Works

If a guest who books a cruise between July 1 and September 2, 2024, for any 2025 or 2026 departure, finds an active, publicly available lower price for the identical verified booking on princess.com prior to the final payment of the cruise, guests can submit a Guarantee Claim Form and Princess will give the guest an onboard credit (OBC) with a value of 120% of the difference between what the guest actually paid for the original booking and the located fare (or other mutually agreed makegood). Full terms and conditions can be found here:  https://www.princess.com/en-us/plan/best-price-guarantee/terms-and-conditions .

All 16 ships in the Princess fleet offer well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities.

No matter the cruise, Princess delivers a premium vacation with the line’s award-winning, signature Princess MedallionClass experience which offers unparalleled service and personalization. Guests booking can take advantage of inclusive packages like Princess Plus and Princess Premier which add popular amenities like WiFi, beverages, desserts, fitness classes, crew appreciation and more at an even greater savings of up 65% when the inclusive package amenities are purchased separately. 

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com .

Media Contacts

Contact information for members of the media

Negin Kamali, +1 661-753-1539, [email protected]

Briana Latter, +1 661-753-1538, [email protected]

About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

Additional media information is available at princess.com/news

Not a member of the media? 

Contact us at: 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or 1-661-753-0000

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Frugal Traveler

Affordable Island-Hopping in Croatia? What Could Go Wrong?

A 30-percent-off Black Friday sale on a cruise aboard a yacht meant off-season sailing and being prepared for the unexpected.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

As Croatians tell the story , the Greek hero Odysseus was shipwrecked and held captive on the Croatian island of Mljet. Visiting in May, I and six other sailors embraced the myth when the motor on our 54-foot yacht failed.

“Remember, Odysseus spent seven years on Mljet,” said Ivan Ljubovic, our captain. “We can do two nights.”

In the scheme of things, the clogged fuel filter that impeded our progress on a seven-night, island-hopping cruise from Split to Dubrovnik on a yacht — which the passengers helped sail — was minor. Though an engine, even on a sailboat, is vital for docking and sticking to schedules on becalmed days, most of my shipmates agreed that getting waylaid in a village with Roman ruins on a turquoise bay was an acceptable fate.

I had been resigned to what were, in my mind, worse inconveniences when I had signed up for the trip last November. Then, the tour operator G Adventures had put several trips on sale over the Black Friday weekend. Its best deals were in the off-season, which meant potentially chilly weather and closed restaurants and attractions. But leaving in late April for seven nights of island hopping at roughly $1,300 — after a 30 percent discount — was too tempting to pass up.

My cousin Kim agreed and we made plans to pack rain gear and meet in Split to test the budget waters.

‘Everything between is an adventure’

Little about the itinerary was published pre-departure and none of it was firm.

“Split and Dubrovnik are fixed,” said the captain, who would pilot the ship solo and double as our guide, on our first day. “Everything between is an adventure.”

It started with the Sauturnes, a handsome Kufner yacht with four snug guest cabins, four economical bathrooms where the retractable faucet doubled as a shower spigot, and a spacious galley. Our “crew,” a mix of Australians and Americans ranging from 18 to 75 — all of whom had also jumped on the promotional pricing — spent most of the time atop the boat, where foam mattresses invited sunbathing and a cockpit awning provided shade.

The weather, which turned out to be sunny and comfortably cool, was not our greatest concern. The G Adventures website had mentioned well-known islands, including beachy Brac and Vis , which played a convincing Greek idyll in the movie “Mamma Mia 2.” But since many places would be closed in the shoulder season, we would proceed, according to the captain, based on the dictates of the weather and conditions on shore.

Meals were not included, which meant finding open restaurants was critical. For shipboard breakfasts and lunches, we each chipped in 50 euros (about $54) for communal groceries, which we shopped for at local markets. At night, we would dine at restaurants; G Adventures advised budgeting $250 to $325 for the week, which was accurate, though we often splurged on Croatian wine (a carafe of house red averaged $15).

Small ports

After the frenzy of grocery shopping and moving into the bunk-bedded cabin Kim and I shared, we experienced the Zen of sailing as the ship set off on a sunny morning for 43-mile-long Hvar , the longest and purportedly sunniest island in Croatia.

Neighboring islands drifted past as the wind patterned the sea in shifting ripples and ruffles. A flock of shearwaters soared by at eye level.

Within a few hours, the ridgelines of steep Hvar appeared, revealing terraced lavender fields and olive orchards. Motoring down a long, narrow inlet, we arrived in Stari Grad , a village of stone homes with terra cotta roof tiles, as travelers had since 384 B.C., when Greek sailors from the island of Paros settled here.

Our mooring provided a front-row view of fishing boats and cafes animating the waterfront. Stari Grad’s attractions, including the Greek ruins of Faros and a 17th-century Venetian cathedral, had yet to open for the season, but we relished exploring the old quarter’s narrow lanes and deserted plazas.

From the waterfront, an aerobic 20-minute hike up a steep hill crowned by a giant white cross offered views over Stari Grad and the plains beyond, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of fourth-century agricultural fields, with stone walls circumscribing grapevines and olive orchards.

That evening, we visited them to reach Konoba Kokot , a farm restaurant that specializes in “peka,” a kind of barbecue in which meat cooks under an iron lid piled with hot coals. The family that runs it opened in the preseason, welcoming us with bracing shots of rakija, a local herbal liquor. At a long table under an arbor, we gorged on homemade goat cheese, wild boar pate and, from the hearth, roast lamb, veal and octopus with limitless jugs of red and white wine for 35 euros a person.

Starry nights

Small ships are unmatched at getting into small ports, but a yacht trip is also a little like camping, starting most mornings with D.I.Y. instant coffee. Marinas offered free bathhouses with showers.

Cool temperatures apparently deterred the celebrity-filled mega yachts, which are known to anchor in the town of Hvar on the south shore of Hvar island. Our captain declared it the “Mykonos of Croatia” as we motored by the port bustling with visitors carrying shopping bags and cones of gelato.

With clear weather in the forecast, we moored in an undeveloped cove east of town. The mooring belonged to the owners of Moli Onte restaurant, who ferried us to land on a motorized dingy, allowing us enough time before dinner to visit the fortress above Hvar and have an Ozujsko beer on St. Stephens Square, the largest in the region of Dalmatia.

Back on board, with no artificial light to wash out the night sky, we hit the upper deck for stargazing. As my shipmates peeled off to bed, I grabbed a blanket and beanie and bedded down under the stars for the evolving show, periodically waking to catch the drama of the moon rising, reflected in the still water.

Little Dubrovnik

Fingers of gray rock reached down to meet sloping vineyards along Hvar’s south coast as we departed for its neighbor, Korcula. On our longest day of sailing, five hours, I welcomed the chance to play first mate, manning the lines on the jib sail.

To break up the trip, Captain Ljubovic navigated to a quiet cove off the Peljesac Peninsula where the Caribbean-blue waters, cloudless sky and sandy bottom convinced us to jump in despite numbing sea temperatures.

Fifteenth-century walls ring the historic center of Korcula, earning it the nickname “Little Dubrovnik.” Past the stone gates carved with a winged lion representing the empire of Venice, which controlled much of the Adriatic after the 13th century, narrow alleys led to ornate churches and mansions. There was no better history trip than getting lost in the web of pedestrian lanes. Or so we told ourselves as we passed the purported home of Marco Polo, still closed preseason.

Along the seafront walls, restaurants served pizza and seafood under lights strung in the pines and we caught sunset from a former turret, now converted into Massimo Cocktail Bar , which requires patrons to climb a ladder to the rooftop, a caution against second rounds.

The most romantic port of the trip was also the rowdiest, at least in the marina, which was hosting a Polish sailing regatta. When I headed for the showers at 6 a.m. the next morning, I found a group still cheerfully dancing atop a yacht littered in empty booze bottles and crushed potato chips.

Marooned on Mljet

We left Korcula on strong 20-knot “jugo” or south winds and Captain Ljubovic unleashed the sails, saying “You paid for a sailing vacation, not a motorboat.”

As we tacked back and forth toward Mljet , the boat heeled at a queasy angle and we took face shots of ocean spray.

On Mljet, where the western end of the island is home to Mljet National Park , we rented bikes (10 euros) to ride a lung-busting route over the park’s mountain spine. On the other side, we cycled around a pair of inland lakes and took a boat trip to a 12th-century monastery built on an island in one of them (park admission, 15 euros).

Docked in the still sleepy town of Polace, we heard tales of high season, when up to 100 yachts anchor in the bay and members of the band U2 were once seen biking in the park. After a brief shower, the town glimmered at sunset and the restaurant Stella Maris welcomed us with grilled sea bass (25 euros) and prawns (20 euros).

“I’m so glad I chose this time, because I don’t do crowds,” said my shipmate Nova Hey, 46, of Sydney, who was traveling with her 18-year-old daughter.

In the morning, I had the trail to the peak of Montokuc to myself. The roughly three-mile round-trip hike reached one of the highest points on the island, a rocky knob with stunning panoramas shared by a family of feral goats.

Not long thereafter, the Sauternes’ engine refused to turn over, stranding us in a national park on a remote island with no mechanics.

Teeming Dubrovnik

The next morning, Captain Ljubovic jimmied a fix but it didn’t last long and the engine died again, this time just opposite a cave on Mljet that we joked had to be the refuge of Odysseus.

After a morning of light sailing, a mechanic from the mainland arrived by speedboat and within an hour we were motoring toward the Franjo Tudman Bridge that spans the inlet to the Dubrovnik marina where hot showers awaited.

“Dubrovnik is the most expensive city in Croatia,” said Captain Ljubovic as we spent the last of our pooled money, 70 euros, hiring a taxi van to get us to and from the walled heart of the ancient city about 15 minutes away.

With two large cruise ships in port, Dubrovnik was teeming with visitors and the price to climb the stone walls that encircle the city was a sticker-shocking 35 euros. (In the ensuing two days Kim and I would spend post-cruise in the city, we bought the more comprehensive Dubrovnik Pass for 35 euros that included admission to the walls as well as several museums and public bus transportation.)

On our final evening, we measured the lack of crowds versus closed museums; perfect hiking weather versus swim-inviting water; ample dock space versus more restaurant choices — and felt we’d come out ahead sailing in the bargain season.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Ljubljana, Slovenia:  Stroll along the river, explore a contemporary art scene and admire panoramic views in this scenic Central European capital .

Cities With Great Beaches:  Already been to Miami, Honolulu and Sydney? These five other coastal destinations  are vibrant on land and on the water.

Southern France:  The Canal du Midi traverses the Occitanie region and gives cyclists of all skill levels  access to parts of France that are rich in lore .

Port Antonio, Jamaica:  The D.J. and music producer Diplo recommends spots in a city he loves  on Jamaica’s northeast coast. A dance party makes the cut.

New Mexico:  Visiting the vast and remote Gila Wilderness, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, is both inspiring and demanding .