While many travelers are loyal to a preferred cruise line, others have found a favorite ship and will cruise wherever she sails. But sometimes the destination determines the vessel because some of the world’s most loved places simply lend themselves to a small ship experience. Small vessels, because of their size and maneuverability, are able to explore more obscure ports of call, as well as veer off course if something catches the captain’s fancy.
The islands of French Polynesia, for instance, with their warm, gracious people and laid-back attitude, perfectly reflect the casually refined lifestyle found aboard small ships such as the 332-guest Paul Gauguin. The vessel can navigate Tahiti’s more narrow channels and shallow lagoons – as well as take full advantage of its warm waters from the ship’s retractable marina. This specially designed watersports platform descends to sea level, making it easy to set out in a kayak or even take an underwater adventure to explore Polynesia’s underwater paradise.
In untouched places such as Costa Rica, a small ship offers up-close encounters with Mother Nature that can’t be matched. With its crisp white sails billowing in the warm tropical sun, Star Clippers’ 170-guest Star Flyer is an ideal choice for nature lovers (not to mention romantics) traveling to the lush Central American country. This authentic tall-ship calls in more obscure locales such as Golfito – your gateway to Piedras Blanca National Park, Golfo Dulce’s glorious beaches and Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica’s largest. Star Flyer is also able to navigate its way to the tiny island of Tortuga, an untouched gem where you’ll find dolphins and giant manta rays; it’s offshore from the Curu Wildlife Reserve, home to howler monkeys and scarlet macaws.
Of course, there are many locations that are simply inaccessible to larger vessels. River cruise ships bring your itinerary to life with onboard experts and lectures, and travel along the world’s great rivers such as the Volga, which runs through the heart of Russia. Leisurely rolling through this vast country, you have the rare chance to go beyond the major hubs and truly appreciate its picturesque landscape, remote villages and remarkable people.
Uniworld River Cruises is one river cruise company that does Russia in style. Along with the best of Moscow and St. Petersburg, you’ll explore such treasures as Yaroslavl, renowned for the fresco-covered Church of Elijah the Prophet, and serene Kizhi Island with its wooden Church of Transfiguration, built without a single nail. Best of all, you’ll enjoy inclusive shore excursions in every port, led by English-speaking local guides. State-of-the-art headsets (also included) mean you never miss an insightful word.
And just because you’re taking a cruise on a smaller-size ship doesn’t mean you have to lessen your desire for such indulgences as spa treatments or gourmet repasts with fine vintages. Uniworld’s culinary team, for example, is led by Global Master Chef Bernhard Zorn, while its wine program was created by a renowned sommelier. In such a relaxed setting, the dinner conversation seems to flow as easily as the wine, as you share adventures and plan for those yet to come. Indeed, your favorite activity just may be the camaraderie you share.
Other nice choices are Avalon Waterways River Cruises and AMAWaterways River cruises.
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