Small Ship Adventure Cruise Blog

Blog on small ship cruise adventures for discerning travelers & travel reviews.

The Paul Gauguin off the coast of Moorea

Paul Gauguin Cruises Redefines Luxury for Independent Travelers

Paul Gauguin Cruises eliminates the single supplement on select voyages, inviting solo travelers to explore French Polynesia in refined, all-inclusive luxury. Enjoy intimate ships, immersive island experiences, and the freedom to travel independently without compromise.

Victory I docked at Mackinac Island

Victory Cruise Lines Upgrades for 2026 Season

Victory Cruise Lines is upgrading its fleet for 2026, introducing enhanced dining, upgraded lounges, improved accommodations, and expanded shore excursions. These changes elevate the small-ship luxury experience across Great Lakes and coastal itineraries, offering more immersive, personalized voyages.

Cannons at Vicksburg National Military Park

Featured Visit: Vicksburg, Mississippi

Discover Vicksburg, Mississippi, a must-visit stop on Mississippi River cruises. Explore Civil War history at Vicksburg National Military Park, stroll historic downtown, and experience Southern culture through immersive small ship excursions and local storytelling.

National Geographic fleet in the Galapagos

Galápagos Islands: A Premier Expedition for the Curious and the Cultured

Experience the Galápagos on an intimate small ship cruise with Sunstone Tours & Cruises, exploring pristine islands, rare wildlife, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Daily excursions include snorkeling, kayaking, and guided wildlife viewing aboard expert-led expeditions for a personalized adventure.

Dubuque, Iowa

Featured Visit: Dubuque, Iowa

A Mississippi River Gem for Small Ship Travelers Dubuque, located on the banks of the Mississippi River in northeastern Iowa, has long welcomed river cruise visitors exploring the Upper Mississippi River aboard small ship adventures. As one of the oldest settlements west of the river, Dubuque blends rich river history, scenic natural beauty, and vibrant local culture, offering a variety of memorable things to see and do during a day’s stop. Iconic Riverfront Experiences Mississippi Riverwalk and Port of Dubuque Begin your visit with a stroll along the Mississippi Riverwalk, a scenic pedestrian path tracing the riverfront with views of the water, bridges and historic structures. The riverwalk provides panoramic vistas of barges and river traffic, plus photo opportunities near the old Shot Tower, one of the few remaining 19th-century shot towers in the United States. The nearby Port of Dubuque anchors this lively area and is a historic river landing renewed with shops, restaurants and marina views, making it ideal for casual exploration. History and Culture National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium This comprehensive museum and aquarium complex celebrates the natural and cultural history of the Mississippi. It features river wildlife exhibits, interactive displays and river heritage installations, including historic boats and hands-on learning for all ages. Fenelon Place Elevator Don’t miss a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator, often cited as the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway. It was originally built in the 1880s and now connects downtown to a blufftop overlook with sweeping views of the river, city and tri-state area. Historic Architecture and Theatres Dubuque’s downtown contains beautifully preserved theatres and historic sites, including the Grand Opera House, a Richardsonian Romanesque performance venue dating to the late 19th century, and the Five Flags Center, a multi-purpose historic arts complex celebrating the city’s multi-national past. Outdoor […]

Sea Cloud II in a quiet cove in the Caribbean

Sea Cloud II: Sail in Sophistication, Discover in Style

Sail aboard the elegant Sea Cloud II, a three-masted barque blending classic tall-ship romance with modern luxury. Intimate, upscale cabins, gourmet dining, expansive decks and refined service create an exclusive cruise that celebrates tradition, comfort and unforgettable seascapes.

Brown Bear in Kelp Bay, Baranof Island, Tongass National Forest, Southeast Alaska

Featured Visit: Baranof Island, Alaska

Baranof Island is a highlight of Alaska small ship adventure cruises, offering close encounters with whales, kayaking along rugged shores, rainforest hikes, natural hot springs, and cultural stops in Sitka, all accessed by vessels designed for immersive exploration.

National Geographic Islander II

Small Ships Top Consumer Reports’ Best Cruise Lines of 2026

Consumer Reports’ 2026 cruise rankings highlight the best cruise lines based on nearly 19,000 traveler surveys, with small expedition and adventure-oriented lines leading the list. Tops include National Geographic-Lindblad, Windstar and Viking for service, value, food and excursions, helping readers choose the right cruise experience.

Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge

Featured Visit: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge blends political history, Cajun and Creole culture, and Mississippi River charm. Explore the tallest state capitol in the U.S., historic downtown districts, local art, live music, bold Louisiana cuisine, and nearby swamp tours for an authentic Southern experience.

The Victory I docked just outside of Toronto, Canada

Victory Cruise Lines Unveils a 35-Night Grand Half Loop Voyage

Victory Cruise Lines announces a 35-night Grand Half Loop voyage aboard Victory I from Oct 17–Nov 21, 2026, sailing from Chicago’s Navy Pier to Jacksonville, Florida. The itinerary visits over 20 Great Lakes, Canadian and Atlantic Coast ports, with onboard entertainment, lectures, exclusive cuisine and included excursions.

Georgian Bat, Ontario, Canada at sunset

Featured Visit: Georgian Bay, Ontario

Explore Ontario’s Georgian Bay on a scenic cruise through 30,000 islands, charming ports, and protected wilderness. Discover Parry Sound, Midland, Killarney, Manitoulin Island, and Fathom Five National Marine Park, where rugged granite cliffs, rich history, and rare wildlife define this unforgettable inland sea.

A brown bear standing in a stream on Admiralty Island, Alaska

Featured Visit: Admiralty Island, Alaska

Admiralty Island, Alaska is a wildlife haven where lush rainforest and icy peaks frame nutrient-rich waters. Spot humpback and orca whales feeding offshore, then search the shores of the Fortress of the Bears for one of the world’s highest densities of brown bears.

National Geographic fleet in the Galapagos

Luxury Galápagos Expedition Cruises

Travel deep into the Galápagos with National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions, where decades of expertise unlock rare wildlife encounters, immersive excursions, and authentic local connections. Each day blends exploration, enrichment, and refined comfort aboard intimate expedition ships.

Viking Octantis

Viking Savings Event – Save on the Great Lakes & the Mississippi River

The Viking Savings Event offers limited-time deals on North American cruises. Explore the Great Lakes’ natural wonders on state-of-the-art expedition ships or experience the culture of the Mississippi River aboard the modern Viking Mississippi. Enjoy reduced fares and inclusive luxury close to home.

An UnCruise ship in an Alaskan Cove

30 Years of Adventure with UnCruise

UnCruise Adventures celebrates 30 years with exclusive savings on select small-ship adventures. Save on Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, and Costa Rica sailings and experience immersive exploration, wildlife encounters, and active adventures at sea.

The American Serenade

New Small Ships & Itineraries in 2026

Explore new small‑ship cruise itineraries for 2026, featuring expanded expedition routes in Antarctica and the Arctic, fresh Mediterranean and Galapagos sailings, plus innovative sustainable vessels and exclusive cultural stops. Get the latest on destinations, ship launches, and must‑see experiences.

The Victory I on Georgian Bay in Lake Huron

Victory Cruise Lines Redefines Elegance on the Great Lakes and Canadian Coasts

Victory Cruise Lines offers intimate, all-inclusive voyages designed for mature luxury travelers. Enjoy personalized service, enrichment programs, comfortable small-ship cruising, gourmet dining, and exclusive access to Great Lakes and Canadian destinations with effortless mobility and exceptional care.

Kayaking with Wilderness Discoverer

UnCruise Adventures Crowned Best in Alaska for Expedition Cruising

UnCruise Adventures was named Best in Alaska Expedition by Cruise Critic 2026, offering intimate, all-inclusive small-ship voyages with expert guides, flexible itineraries, and close wildlife encounters, a top choice for discerning travelers seeking authentic, luxury Alaska exploration.

Zodiac filled with cruise guests sailing away from the National Geographic Venture to explore the Baja coast

Discover the Wild Side of Baja California

Explore Baja California with National Geographic–Lindblad Expeditions on small-ship voyages led by expert naturalists. Discover whales, sea lions, desert landscapes, and the vibrant Sea of Cortez in an immersive, refined expedition that feels remote yet close to home.

Happy cruise guests on a zodiac exploring the Inian Islands

Celebrate 60 Years of Expedition Cruising with Lindblad Expeditions

Celebrate 60 years of pioneering expedition cruising with exclusive savings. Enjoy up to 20% off and a 50% reduced deposit on select 2026–2027 luxury voyages, from Alaska to the Amazon and the Mediterranean. Discover the world in comfort with the original leaders in expedition travel.

Pure Amazon

A&K Debuts Pure Amazon Expeditions in Peru’s Pacaya-Samiria Reserve

Abercrombie & Kent’s 22-guest Pure Amazon riverboat brings travelers deep into Peru’s Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, pairing wildlife-rich expeditions and cultural art experiences with fine dining, sustainability efforts, and personalized luxury on three- to seven-night journeys.

AMA Waterways presents African Safaris & Wildlife Cruises

AmaWaterways Unveils New Africa Expeditions

For travelers who crave rare experiences, intimate exploration, and the kind of journey that money can’t simply buy, AmaWaterways is elevating luxury adventure travel with four extraordinary new Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise itineraries, launching August 2026.

Victory Cruise Lines ship in Montreal

Discover Victory in 2026 — Black Friday Offer

You’re invited to discover the best of small-ship exploration with Victory Cruise Lines. Their Black Friday offer is open is available now, giving you the chance to experience our 2026 voyages at special savings.

American Pioneer

American Pioneer Makes a Grand Debut in Key West

American Cruise Lines debuts American Pioneer in Key West, launching a 16-day Grand Florida Coast & Keys itinerary. With a two-day Key West stay, 20 excursions, and balcony accommodations for 130 guests, the new ship offers an intimate, luxurious way to explore Florida’s coasts.

Denali

UnCruise Alaska: Discover the Heartland on an Elevated Denali & Fairbanks Journey

UnCruise’s reimagined Denali Adventure by Rail & Trail offers luxury travelers an intimate, high-end journey into Alaska’s interior, with guided wildlife exploration, panoramic rail travel, serene lake paddling, and authentic local experiences designed to elevate any small-ship voyage.

A United States passport on a wood-grained table

Passport Prep for a Seamless Sailing

Ensure smooth international cruising by preparing your passport early. Learn about the six-month validity rule, renewal timelines, the convenience of online renewals, and key guidance for dual-citizen travelers so you can embark with confidence and avoid last-minute travel disruptions.

Mount Fuji in the distance, with a lake and cultural architecture in the foreground

Japan’s Soaring Demand Fuels a Luxury Cruise Boom

Japan’s soaring appeal is reshaping luxury cruising across Asia. Cruise lines are expanding seasons, adding new ports, and increasing Japan-focused itineraries as demand surpasses expectations. Record visitor numbers highlight a growing desire for immersive, high-end cultural travel.

The Paul Gauguin anchored off Bora Bora

Chef Tom Wong Elevates Paul Gauguin’s New Year Voyage

Ring in the New Year aboard The Gauguin, where Chef Tom Wong blends Hawaiian soul and French Polynesian elegance in a voyage of flavor.

The Charaidew II

A Journey Measured in Moments: Lindblad’s Expansive New River Season

Explore how Lindblad Expeditions’ river-cruise season is expanding, offering immersive, small-ship voyages across new destinations. With a focus on meaningful moments rather than ticking ports, the narrative highlights the evolving ethos of travel where depth, connection and place matter as much as the route.

Toronto Skyline, at dusk

Explore the Great Lakes — Close to Home in 2026

All-inclusive 2026 voyages from $4,999 per guest, including stateroom savings up to $5,000. Discover all 5 Great Lakes as indigo skies and vibrant foliage create postcard-worthy views aboard an intimate small ship. Enriching shore experiences await in every port. Book by November 29, 2025.

American Cruise Lines Ships

A New Era of American Luxury Cruising

American Cruise Lines expands its fleet with ten new ships and bold new horizons through 2028.

Ghost ship

Set Sail into the Shadows of the Halloween Season

Halloween is the perfect time for ghost stories and eerie adventures, and the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway are full of them.

Niagara Falls

The Great Lakes Reimagined with Victory Cruise Lines

Some places you visit, others, you feel. The Great Lakes are the latter: vast, wild, and endlessly inspiring. In 2026, Victory Cruise Lines invites you to experience them like never before.

Safari Quest in an Alaskan cove

UnCruise Adventures Checks Every Box on Your Alaska Bucket List

Step aboard the intimate 22-guest Safari Quest and see Alaska like few ever do. With just 11 cabins, personalized service, and all-inclusive comfort, this boutique yacht is your front-row seat to Glacier Bay National Park and Alaska’s wild frontier.

The Paul Gauguin anchored off Bora Bora

Paul Gauguin Cruises Reigns Again in Condé Nast Traveler Awards

For the second straight year, travelers have spoken: Paul Gauguin Cruises is the Best Small Cruise in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.

A modern riverboat on the Columbia River

Discover America’s Majestic West on a River Cruise Made for You

For many of us over 50, travel isn’t about rushing from place to place, it’s about slowing down, savoring new experiences, and connecting with history, culture, and nature. Few trips capture that spirit better than a river cruise through the American West.

The downtown Chicago skyline with Navy Pier in the foreground

Save $4,600 on all-inclusive 2026 Great Lakes voyages

Book by October 9, 2025 to receive stateroom savings up to $4,600 on all-inclusive 2026 Great Lakes voyages from $4,999 per guest.

American Patriot

Great Lakes Voyages: All-American Cruises Launching 2026

Starting May 2026, American Cruise Lines’ American Patriot will begin her Great Lakes journeys across Lake Erie, Huron, Michigan, and Ontario, offering 9- and 14-day cruises, all sailing exclusively within the U.S.

A riverboat sailing a European River at sunset

AmaWaterways to Launch Eight New Ships Across Europe

AmaWaterways will add eight new ships to its European fleet by 2030, offering immersive river cruises with luxury, culture, and adventure.

The Paul Gauguin anchored off Bora Bora

Indulge in Paradise with the “Tempting Tahiti” Offer from Paul Gauguin Cruises

Cruise into a world of luxury and discovery with the exclusive $1,000 shipboard credit per stateroom or suite on all 2026 departures from Paul Gauguin Cruises, available to those who book by September 26, 2025.

American Eagle

Celebrate America’s 250th in Style

In honor of the United States’ 250th birthday coming up in 2026, they’ve unveiled several 50-night (and longer!) river and coastal cruises that promise culture, scenery, comfort, and yes, plenty of time to truly slow down and soak it all in.

Skyline of Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee Gears Up for Great Lakes Cruise Boom

Starting in 2026, Milwaukee, Wisconsin will be making waves as a new hotspot for Great Lakes cruising. A brand-new South Shore Cruise Dock is under construction, opening the door for more ships from major lines like Viking and Victory Cruise Lines to call on this vibrant Midwestern city.

Guests kayaking near Safari Explorer

Discover Hawaii with the #1 Cruise in the Islands

Aloha, spirited travelers! You’re invited aboard the Safari Explorer for a week of unforgettable, immersive discovery, now officially the Best Hawaii Cruise of 2025, according to the USA TODAY 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.

Cruise guest up close to a Humpback Whale

Baja California: Wild, Remote, and Unforgettable

Framed by pristine coastlines and teeming with life, Baja California is one of the last great wilderness frontiers. Step aboard the nimble National Geographic–Lindblad fleet and venture into the Gulf of California, an ocean sanctuary that shelters more than a third of the world’s marine species.

Galapagos land formations

Authentic Exploration in the Galápagos

The Galápagos Islands remain one of the world’s most iconic destinations, and Lindblad Expeditions has been at the heart of their story for nearly 60 years. They were the first to bring international travelers to the Galápagos, forging a deep and lasting bond with this extraordinary archipelago.

Guests preparing to snorkel in Hawaii

Voted Best Hawaiian Cruise 2025 by USA Today’s 10Best

According to USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, the Hawaiian Seascapes Cruise on Safari Explorer by UnCruise Adventures is the best Hawaii cruise in 2025. This award recognizes their commitment to providing unique, small-ship adventures that showcase Hawaii’s cultural and natural beauty. The cruise is known for its intimate settings and personalized experiences.

A woman holding up a knit top while packing

Alaska Packing Tips: Be Ready for Anything

When it comes to Alaska, expect the unexpected. Locals joke that you can experience all four seasons in a single day. The golden rule? Dress in layers like an onion, something you can peel off or pile on as the weather changes.

American Maverick or American Ranger

2026 Ships – American Cruise Lines American Maverick and Ranger

The third and fourth vessels in American Cruise Lines’ Patriot Class of coastal ships will be launched in 2026. The 125-passenger American Maverick and American Ranger, feature 56 all-balcony cabins, including large solo cabins that measure 280 square feet. Suite options range from 420 to 620 square feet. Onboard amenities include a main restaurant and café,, two lounges, an outdoor sitting area, fitness center, and an elevator to all decks. Guest capacity (full occupancy): 125 Inaugural sailing: American Maverick – June 11, 2026, seven-night New England Islands American Ranger – September 19, 2026, seven-night Hudson River Maiden season: American Maverick – East Coast Coastal Cruising American Ranger – Hudson River, Mid-Atlantic, Alaska, Puget Sound & San Juan Islands # of cabin categories: 5

Victory I docked in Mackinac Island

Your Great Lakes Adventure Awaits … But Not for Long

Last chance to save big on Victory Cruise Lines’ 2025 Great Lakes voyages, fares start at $4,599 per guest, with up to $6,600 off per stateroom on select dates. Limited availability, and this offer ends July 31. Don’t miss the journey of a lifetime!

The Victory II passing Montreal, Quebec

Five Facts: Montréal – Architecture, Artistry, and Old World Elegance on the St. Lawrence

Discover Montréal. Choose the 14-day Montréal to Portland journey to explore the scenic Gulf of St. Lawrence, maritime history in Halifax, and coastal charm in Bar Harbor. Or opt for the 12-day Chicago to Montréal itinerary and sail all five Great Lakes before transitioning to the St. Lawrence River and finishing in Québec’s cultural capital.

Toronto

Five Facts: Toronto – A City of Castles, Towers, and World Records

Explore Toronto before or after you cruise on a 10-night Victory Cruise Lines voyage. Book by July 31, 2025, for all-inclusive fares starting at $4,599.

Woman talking off her shows at the TSA security area

Big Changes to Airport Security

The days of removing your shoes at airport security may soon be over. While not yet officially confirmed, an internal TSA memo reportedly outlines plans to drop the long-standing requirement.

A Victory Cruise Line ship, with a view straight on

Summer Savings from Victory Cruise Lines

Victory Cruise Lines invites you to explore the breathtaking Great Lakes with unbeatable savings—up to $5,800 off plus $800 air credit per stateroom on select itineraries. Book by July 31, 2025.

Solo female traveler with binoculars viewing an icy glacier landscape with small whales feeding nearby

Travel Solo, Not Alone

In celebration of Independence Day, Lindblad Expeditions asked one of their guests, Renie Craft of Virginia Beach, VA to share a few thoughts on traveling solo aboard the National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions fleet.

Today, July 4th only. Cruise for 2, pay for 1

Victory Cruise Line Great Lakes 4th July Sale

Victory Cruise Lines’ exclusive 4th of July Flash Sale is now live! Only available from 9 AM to 6 PM ET on July 4th! Book select 2025 Great Lakes voyages today and your guest sails free. But don’t wait, this offer vanishes at 6 PM ET.

American Cruise Lines ship sailing the Columbia River

Experience Summer Along the Columbia & Snake Rivers

Picture yourself gliding along glass‑calm water, framed on either side by emerald vineyards, basalt cliffs, and snow‑capped sentinels, Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens, rising in the distance like legends come to life. That’s the magic of American Cruise Lines’ 9‑day Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise.

Chicago Skyline with a Victory ship docked

Five Facts: Chicago in a Whole New Light

Bold, brazen and distinctly American, Chicago has personality to spare. From our embarkation point at Navy Pier to towering skyscrapers to regional cuisine and a quirky dialect, this city represents the heart and soul of the Midwest.

The 2025-2026 UnCruise Adventures brochure

UnCruise Turns 30, Unveils Bold 2025-26 Brochure

UnCruise Adventures marks three decades of small-ship exploration with the release of its 2025–2026 anniversary brochure, an immersive guide to fresh itineraries, intimate voyages, and personal reflections from Founder and CEO Captain Dan Blanchard.

AmaMagdalena

AmaMagdalena sets sail, now officially cruising Colombia’s Magdalena River

AmaWaterways officially welcomed AmaMagdalena to its fleet during a historic naming ceremony on June 17 in the UNESCO-listed city of Mompox, Colombia.

A series of Windmills lining a river

Discover Europe’s Rivers Like Never Before

With two immersive European itineraries, you’ll sail through the heart of Europe in signature Lindblad style, guided by an expert expedition team that includes National Geographic specialists.

Pearl Mist docked in MIlwaukee, WI

Milwaukee Welcomes Pearl Mist as Part of 2025 Cruise Season

The 2025 cruise season in Milwaukee is underway, and the Pearl Mist is a frequent visitor!

The Victory I on Georgian Bay in Lake Huron

Victory Cruise Lines Teams Up with Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation

Victory Cruise Lines is proud to announce an exclusive educational and marketing partnership with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation for the 2025 sailing season.

Nottoway Mansion, prior to the fire

Fire Destroys the Nottoway Mansion

A devastating fire tore through the historic Nottoway mansion Thursday, destroying much of the landmark completed in 1859 and once used as a plantation residence.

Victory cruise ship docked at Mackinac Island, Michigan

Five Fascinating Facts About Mackinac Island

Experience Mackinac Island — and all 5 Great Lakes — on Victory Cruise Lines’ 10-night voyages between Chicago and Toronto.

A skiff full of UnCruise guests as a guide describes the scenery of the coastline of Hawaii

Dreaming of a Hawaiian escape?

Not sure which Hawaiian island to visit or when to go? Wondering about Kona, Kealakekua Bay, or Hualalai? Let UnCruise Adventures be your guide.

Chicago skyline

Victory II Sets Sail with Grand Christening in Chicago

Victory Cruise Lines proudly christened the Victory II in a spirited ceremony at Navy Pier, officially launching the ship’s return to the Great Lakes.

A pair of sea lions laying on the beach

Top Wildlife Encounters on Small Ship Cruises

Small ship cruises offer an intimate, up-close experience with the natural world, a front-row seat to Earth’s most spectacular wildlife. Whether you’re watching monkeys in the Amazon jungle or spotting bears along Alaska’s coast, wildlife cruises deliver unforgettable moments in comfort and style.

A European town along a river at sunset

Lindblad to Launch European River Cruises in 2026

Lindblad Expeditions and Transcend Cruises have entered a multi-year charter agreement that will bring Lindblad-branded river cruises to Europe starting in spring 2026.

Antarctic landscape

Women-Only Antartica Expedition

Aurora Expeditions announced that international bestselling author, keynote speaker, and award-winning travel photographer Lola Akinmade Åkerström will host the Antarctic Direct: Fly the Drake Fly/Fly Women’s Only Expedition.

National Geographic Endeavour II guests landing on a beach in the Galapagos Islands

Discover the World Differently with National Geographic & Lindblad Expeditions

Set sail on an unforgettable journey with National Geographic & Lindblad Expeditions, now guided by fresh leadership and two new ships sailing the Galapagos.

Victory I sailing the great lakes

Victory I Christened in Toronto

On April 27, Victory Cruise Lines celebrated the christening of Victory I in Toronto, marking the line’s triumphant return to the Great Lakes.

Guide navigating a skiff in Alaska

UnCruise Adventures launches WiFi across much of its fleet

UnCruise Adventures has introduced onboard WiFi in response to guest feedback, aiming to strike a balance between connectivity and immersion in nature.

American Cruise Lines catamaran American Liberty

Discover the Charm of New England

Set sail along New England’s iconic coastline with American Cruise Lines’ one-of-a-kind itineraries. Discover historic seaside towns and delve into each port’s rich maritime heritage. Cruise in comfort aboard our modern fleet of small ships, designed for just 100 to 130 guests, offering exclusive access to charming ports and an all-inclusive experience.

Portland Light, with the Victory I sailing past

Victory I Departs on Her Maiden Voyage from Portland to Toronto

Today, Victory Cruise Lines Victory I® embarked on her maiden voyage from Portland to Toronto, hosted by Founder and Chairman John Waggoner and his wife Claudette.

American Cruise Lines ship cruising the Mississippi River

Set Sail Longer: American Cruise Lines Reveals New Extended Itineraries for 2026

American Cruise Lines has revealed a new series of extended cruises for 2026, including multiple 50+ day journeys that traverse the U.S. by river and coastline—each designed to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary in grand style.

The Paul Gauguin off the coast of Moorea

Refreshed and Refined: Paul Gauguin Returns to the Seas

Paul Gauguin Cruises has announced the completion of a major refurbishment of its namesake vessel, the Paul Gauguin.

National Geographic Sea Bird, Tongass National Forest, Southeast Alaska.

Unforgettable Expedition Through Alaska’s Inside Passage

We had to share this video, a great recording of the small ship cruise experience exploring Alaska with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird.

Plymouth, Massachusetts

American Cruise Lines Unveils New Antiques-Themed Cruise for 2025

American Cruise Lines has announced a new Antiques-Themed Cruise, set to depart on June 16, 2025, as part of its Maine Coast and Harbors itinerary.

Anchorage, Alaska

Mount Spurr Volcano near Anchorage showing some activity

Officials in Anchorage are closely monitoring Mount Spurr, located 73 miles away, due to a recent increase in seismic activity.

Glacier Bay National Park

Explore the Wild in Comfort with UnCruise Adventures

Step aboard UnCruise Adventures’ best-in-class small ships and experience nature like never before. These intimate, expedition-style vessels serve as your “floating basecamps,” designed to take you far beyond the reach of traditional cruise ships.

Belfast, Maine

Belfast Maine Votes to Ban Cruise Ships

Belfast, Maine, has unanimously voted to prohibit cruise ships carrying more than 50 passengers from docking in the town.

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka residents to decide on cruise passenger limit

Sitka, Alaska, residents are set to vote on a proposed cap on cruise passenger traffic in a referendum tentatively scheduled for May 30.

Whitney & Linda Androlia on a beachwith arms extended

New Staff Addition at Sunstone Tours & Cruises

Sunstone Tours & Cruises is thrilled to announce their new staff addition. Please help me welcome Whitney Androlia, who will join the staff as a front line agent, and co-owner. Whitney has worked along with her mother Linda, the owner and founder, for a number of years. Always in the background keeping the paperwork flowing, she will now join Linda in sales and working directly with clients.

The Paul Gauguin sailing near Taha'a

Paul Gauguin Arrives in Dry Dock for Major Refurbishment

The Paul Gauguin recently arrived in Singapore for a major multi-million-dollar refurbishment, which should conclude early April 2025.

American Cruise Lines ship sailing the Mississippi River

American Cruise Lines Launches Mississippi River Cruise Season

American Cruise Lines is kicking off its 2025 Mississippi Season soon. American’s riverboats will embark on over 12 itineraries along the Mississippi River through December. The company’s Mississippi Season cruises, ranging from 8 to 51 days, offer a variety of authentic American experiences across 10 states, from New Orleans, Louisiana, to St. Paul, Minnesota.

Guests kayaking near Safari Explorer

15% Off 2025 & 2026 Hawaii Cruises

Looking to experience Hawaii in a unique way? Save 15% on any cabin category for select Hawaii 2025 and 2026 sailings. This limited-time offer expires on March 31, 2025.

Colorful kayaks awaiting guests in an Alaska Fjord

Adventure Forever: $250 to $500 Off Select Alaska Sailings

Save up to $500 per person on select sailings aboard the Safari Endeavour and Wilderness Legacy, and all sailings aboard the Wilderness Adventurer. Expires March 31, 2025

Wilderness Adventurer with kayakers nearby in Alaska

The Iconic Wilderness Adventurer Returns to Service for the 2025 Alaska Season

UnCruise Adventures is excited to announce the return of the recently refreshed Wilderness Adventurer for the highly sought-after 2025 Alaska season.

American Constellation sailing in Alaska

American Cruise Lines adds second ship in Alaska in 2025

American Cruise Lines is bringing a second ship to Alaska in 2025 with five itineraries from May through September.

Expedition ship National Geographic Sea Bird at Elephant Rock Bay, Santa Catalina Island, Sea of Cortez, Baja California, Mexcio

Top 5 Small Ship Destinations in 2025

For 2025, small-ship cruises are continuing to rise in popularity due to their ability to access remote and less-explored locations. These destinations are perfect for those seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deep connection to nature, all while enjoying the personalized experience that small-ship cruising offers.

The ship National Geographic Explorer in Baddeck, Nova Scotia, Canada

Why a small ship cruise?

Ever wonder about the difference and draw of small ship cruising? We here at Sunstone Tours & Cruises are happy to share some insight.

Bora Bora

Paul Gauguin Cruises Releases New 2026 Voyages Brochure

Paul Gauguin Cruises has released its 2026 Voyages Brochure, featuring itineraries aboard the 330-guest Paul Gauguin.

Cruise guests in inflatable zodiacs exploring along the coast as the sun sets in the background.

Enjoy Special Savings When You Book Between December 3-31, 2024

This holiday season, give your friends and family a present they’ll treasure for years to come: the gift of exploration with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions.

Big Ships Bring Too Many People to the Small Town of Sitka

A Sitka nonprofit has filed an application to the city for a public vote on cruise ship tourism limits for Sitka.

US Map for The Great United States itinerary

Indeed, See America!

American Cruise Lines’ “Great United States” itinerary is far more than a typical river cruise. In fact, it spans three separate cruises (including an ocean cruise!), two flights, and a land-based tour that travels to 15 states in total.

Cruisers not welcome

Fewer European cruises, more Caribbean … for a reason

Ports are tired of the big ships depositing so many thousands of passengers their city is taken over … not an issue on small ship cruises. Small ships are always welcome.

National Geographic Islander II

Lindblad puts National Geographic name first

This year, Lindblad rebranded its name and partnership to National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. CEO Sven-Olof Lindblad said during the company’s Q2 earnings call that the new name “leads with the power and name recognition of National Geographic,” which is well known in media, from its documentary programs to its monthly magazine.

A couple of Frommer's guidebooks

Arthur Frommer dies

Arthur Frommer, who built a travel media empire that included books, magazines, newspaper columns, television and radio died November 18 from pneumonia complications.

Margaritaville at Sea Islander

Dogs, Dogs, Dogs … 250 of them on your cruise

Margaritaville at Sea Islander will play host to the first-known dog-friendly specialty cruise in November 2025. The cruise will be put on by Cruise Tails and Expedia Cruises of West Orlando.

Victory Cruise Lines ship in Montreal

Victory Cruise Lines Returns to the Great Lakes

Victory Cruise Lines is set to return to the Great Lakes in 2025. Previously known as American Queen Voyages when it merged with Victory Cruise Lines and American Queen Steamboat Company in 2021, they ceased operations on Feb. 20, 2024. Hornblower Group, the former cruise line’s parent company, filed for bankruptcy soon after.