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. And the destinations selected are perfect for those seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deep connection to nature, all while enjoying the personalized experience that small-ship cruising offers. Here are the top 5 small-ship destinations in 2025 that promise unique experiences.

Alaska

Southeast Alaska’s Inside Passage is known for its pristine wilderness, diverse wildlife, and dramatic coastal scenery. Small ships allow travelers to get closer to glaciers, explore remote coves, and visit charming towns such as Ketchikan and Juneau. Alaska’s small-ship cruises in 2025 will continue to offer unforgettable experiences, navigating its pristine wilderness and rugged coastlines, which larger ships simply can’t access.

Some highlights that you can expect visiting Alaska aboard a small ship cruise include:

• Wildlife Viewing: Alaska is home to abundant wildlife, including whales (humpback and orcas), sea otters, brown and black bears, moose, and diverse bird species. Small ships are ideal for close encounters.
• Cultural Experiences: Small ships often offer excursions that delve into the local Tlingit, Haida, and other indigenous cultures, visiting native villages and learning about their traditions.
• Adventure Activities: Alaska’s small-ship cruises often include opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and even fishing, providing travelers with an active and adventurous experience.

Best time to visit

May through September is the peak season to explore Alaska via a small ship cruise, with warmer weather and abundant wildlife sightings. These summer months offer the best chances to see Alaska’s natural beauty in full bloom. A few sailings start as early as mid-April and provide an experience with fewer crowds, snow and ice areas, the reappearance of wildlife and the potential of seeing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). And the later summer months (August and September) are perfect for witnessing the incredible wildlife migration and stunning fall colors.

Featured areas

• The Inside Passage is a stunning waterway that stretches from Seattle to Alaska, offering a scenic route through calm waters flanked by towering mountains and pristine rainforests. Small ships can visit hidden coves and smaller, remote ports. Top attractions include Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka. Explore the Tongass National Forest and look for wildlife such as bald eagles, humpback whales, and sea otters.
• Glacier Bay National Park is a must-see UNESCO World Heritage site for any Alaska cruise. Small ships can get closer to the massive glaciers that calve into the sea, providing an awe-inspiring experience. You’ll also have opportunities to view wildlife such as orcas and brown bears. Top experiences include glacier watching, kayaking in icy waters, and hiking in the park’s coastal forests.
• Kenai Fjords and Prince William Sound is known for their impressive fjords and stunning coastal landscapes, these areas offer a more intimate cruise experience. Small ships can navigate narrow passages that larger ships cannot, allowing travelers to get up close to glaciers, wildlife, and isolated bays. Top experiences include viewing the stunning tidewater glaciers, kayaking or paddleboarding, exploring small coastal villages like Seward, and witnessing wildlife such as puffins and sea lions.
• Admiralty Island and Wilderness Adventures is located off the coast of the Inside Passage and is often referred to as the “Fortress of Bears.” It’s one of the best places to spot brown bears in the wild. Top experiences include Bear-watching tours, kayaking in serene waters, and visiting remote Alaskan villages. Small ships can venture to lesser-known spots for truly immersive nature experiences.

Recommended Alaska small ship cruise itineraries

• Alaska’s Inside Passage: Our most popular cruise! On this 8-day cruise aboard the National Geographic Quest or National Geographic Venture, explore Southeast Alaska on an unrivaled experience, guaranteed of in-depth encounters with all its wonders. Do more than just see Alaska—be an active participant in all that it has to offer.
• Voyage to Alaska, British Columbia and Haida Gwaii: On this 15-day cruise between Sitka, Alaska, and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada abaord the 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion, visit the remote, moss-draped archipelago of Haida Gwaii—the ancestral territory of the Haida Nation, by special invitation.
• Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise: On this 8-day cruise aboard the 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer, spend two days in Glacier Bay National Park. While many ships keep their distance, this itinerary takes you up close to Alaska’s iconic glaciers and landscapes.
• Alaskan Explorer Cruise: On this 12-day cruise aboard the 170-passenger American Constellation or American Constitution, experience Alaska’s expansive beauty and rich history as our intimate cruise ships navigate waters that immerse you in the region’s grandeur.

More Alaska small ship cruise itineraries…

Baja Mexico

Exploring Baja California’s stunning, rugged landscapes, pristine waters and rich marine life aboard a small ship cruise offers an intimate and immersive experience. You can cruise along the Sea of Cortez, known as the “Aquarium of the World” for its incredible marine biodiversity, including whales, dolphins, sea lions, and colorful fish.

Some highlights that you can expect visiting Baja Mexico aboard a small ship cruise include:

• Marine Wildlife Encounters, including Gray Whales, Whale Sharks, playful Sea Lions, Dolphins and Orcas.
• Exploration of Desert Islands, including hikes on remote islands like Isla San José and Isla Danzante, with rugged desert landscapes and hidden coves.
• Adventure Activities, including kayaking through crystal-clear waters along pristine shorelines, paddleboarding in calm bays and lagoons, and snorkeling among colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.
• Cultural Experiences, including visiting small fishing villages and interacting with local communities, learning about the history and traditions of the Baja region.
• John Steinbeck’s Legacy, including retracing the steps of John Steinbeck’s The Log from the Sea of Cortez, exploring the ecological and cultural richness of the region.
• Stunning Landscapes, including dramatic cliffs, red desert terrain, turquoise waters and sunrises and sunsets over the Sea of Cortez.
• Expert-Led Insights, with naturalist guides and marine biologists providing context for the region’s unique ecosystems. There’ll also be opportunities for photography workshops and stargazing under clear desert skies.
• Whale Migration Season, from January to April, enjoy peak wildlife activity aligns with the migration of multiple whale species.
• Eco-Friendly Focus, with many cruises prioritize sustainability, offering eco-conscious experiences.

Best time to visit

Baja Mexico small ship cruises sail between January through April, coinciding with the annual migration and breeding season for various whale species.

Featured areas

• Magdalena Bay, San Ignacio Lagoon & Guerrero Negro, which are exceptional locations to experience Gray whales breeding and calving.
• Loreto Bay National Marine Park, with the opportunity to view giant Blue Whales, often seen feeding in the rich waters of the Sea of Cortez.
• Southern Baja, particularly near Cabo San Lucas, where Humpback Whales can be found mating and calving.

Recommended Baja Mexico small ship cruise itineraries

• Baja California: Observing the Whales of Magdalena Bay: On this 6-day itinerary aboard the 62-passenger National Geographic Sea Bird or National Geographic Sea Lion, spend your time in the company of majestic gray whales in Mexico’s Bahía Magdalena, one of the best places in the world to witness interactions between gray whale mothers and their curious calves.
• Baja California: Among the Great Whales: On this 8-day cruise aboard the 100-passenger National Geographic Venture, explore Baja California’s Pacific Coast and the Gulf of California in search of dolphins, sea lions, and as many as four different varieties of whales.
• Baja California: A Remarkable Journey: On this 15-day cruise aboard the 100-passenger National Geographic Venture, venture into the gray whale birthing lagoons on the Pacific side of the Baja California Peninsula to get up close with these gentle giants. Then, spend over a week in the Gulf of California exploring waters teeming with whales, pods of dolphins, and leaping rays.

Please note

Starting in 2025, Mexico will implement a $42 immigration tax for each cruise ship passenger docking in the country. This new fee aims to bolster the economy but has faced criticism from the cruise industry.

More Baja Mexico small ship cruise itineraries…

Great Lakes

Exploring the Great Lakes aboard a cruise in 2025 offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural landscapes of North America’s inland seas. Embarking on one of these cruises promises an enriching journey through some of North America’s most captivating landscapes and cities.

Some highlights that you can expect sailing the Great Lakes aboard a small ship cruise in 2025 include:

• Diverse Itineraries: Cruises range from 8 to 16 days, covering various ports and attractions across the Great Lakes.
• Cultural and Historical Exploration: Visits to cities like Toronto, Detroit, and Chicago, along with historical sites and museums.
• Natural Wonders: Experience the majesty of Niagara Falls, the rugged beauty of Georgian Bay, and the dense boreal forests lining the shores.
• Luxury and Comfort: Modern amenities, personalized service, and intimate settings aboard small ships enhance the cruising experience.

Best time to visit

The Great Lakes cruising season typically runs from late spring through early fall.

Featured areas

Lake Superior

• Duluth, Minnesota: Known for its maritime history and the Aerial Lift Bridge. Explore the Great Lakes Aquarium or hike along scenic trails.
• Thunder Bay, Ontario: Gateway to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Rich in indigenous culture and fur trading history.
• Apostle Islands, Wisconsin: Famous for sea caves and pristine beaches. Popular for kayaking and wildlife spotting.

Lake Michigan

• Chicago, Illinois: A starting or ending point for many cruises, with an iconic skyline, museums, and Navy Pier attractions.
• Mackinac Island, Michigan: Known for its car-free streets and Victorian charm. Visit Fort Mackinac and enjoy the island’s famous fudge.
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Renowned for its brewing history and cultural festivals. Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum.
• Sault Ste. Marie (Locks), Michigan/Ontario: Witness the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks. Learn about shipping and Great Lakes history.

Lake Huron

• Georgian Bay, Ontario: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with rugged cliffs and clear waters. Home to the famous Flowerpot Island and the Bruce Peninsula.
• Manitoulin Island, Ontario: The world’s largest freshwater island. Learn about indigenous culture at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.

Lake Erie

• Detroit, Michigan: Explore the Detroit Institute of Arts or the historic Henry Ford Museum. Vibrant urban culture and revitalized waterfront.
• Cleveland, Ohio: Home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art and West Side Market.
• Niagara Falls (Port Colborne, Ontario): Cruise stops often include tours of Niagara Falls. Visit wineries in the nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake region.

Lake Ontario

• Toronto, Ontario: Canada’s largest city, offering a mix of culture, dining, and entertainment. Explore the CN Tower and Royal Ontario Museum.
• Kingston, Ontario: Gateway to the Thousand Islands. Rich in colonial history and architecture.

Recommended Great Lakes small ship cruise itineraries

• All 5 Great Lakes Cruise: On this 11-day cruise aboard the 202-passenger Victory I or Victory II, explore the Great Lakes with an intimate voyage from Toronto to Chicago and back. These vast “inland seas” stretch along North America’s eastern border between Canada and the United States, each one steeped in rich history and breathtaking natural beauty.
• Great Lakes and Georgian Bay: On this 8-day cruise aboard the 210-guest Pearl Mist, enjoy the beautiful and clear waters of the Great Lakes, the largest freshwater ecosystem in the world. Sail among the Thirty Thousand Islands and visit the many remarkable destinations along the way.
• St. Lawrence Seaway and Great Lakes: On this comprehensive 16-day cruise aboard the 210-guest Pearl Mist, explore the breathtaking landscapes, historic harbors, and cosmopolitan cities that make this region incredible.
• Great Lakes Explorer: On this 8-day cruise from Milwaukee to Thunder Bay Wisconsin aboard the 378-passenger Viking Octantis or Viking Polaris, discover the maze of granite islands that comprise Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve while hiking and kayaking through its tranquil beauty and admiring sweeping vistas.

More Great Lakes small ship cruise itineraries…

Galápagos Islands

The Galápagos Islands offer one of the most unique ecosystems in the world, with wildlife that has evolved in isolation, making it an unforgettable experience. Small ships allow for exploration of remote islands, nature reserves, and pristine beaches, often with naturalist guides. A Galápagos cruise in 2025 promises an unforgettable adventure, offering close encounters with unique wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin.

Wildlife Encounters

• Unique Species: The Galapagos Islands are home to an incredible array of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and Galapagos penguins. Small ship cruises provide ample opportunities to observe these animals up close in their natural habitats.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Discover the vibrant underwater world of the Galapagos Marine Reserve, where you can swim alongside sea lions, turtles, sharks, and rays. Small ships often include snorkeling and diving excursions led by expert guides.
• Birdwatching: The Galapagos Islands are a birdwatcher’s paradise, with numerous species of seabirds, including albatrosses, frigatebirds, and waved albatrosses. Many small ship cruises visit bird-rich islands and nesting sites, offering fantastic birdwatching opportunities.

Natural Wonders

• Volcanic Landscapes: Explore the unique geology of the Galapagos Islands, with their volcanic craters, lava fields, and otherworldly landscapes. Hike to the summit of volcanoes, such as Sierra Negra on Isabela Island, for breathtaking views of the archipelago.
• Beaches and Coves: Discover secluded beaches, hidden coves, and pristine coastal habitats, where you can relax, swim, and kayak in crystal-clear waters. Some small ship cruises include visits to remote islands accessible only by boat.
• Giant Tortoise Reserves: Visit conservation centers and reserves dedicated to the preservation of the Galapagos giant tortoise, such as the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island. Learn about ongoing conservation efforts and see these iconic creatures up close.

Cultural and Educational Experiences

• Naturalist Guides: Small ship cruises in the Galapagos typically include expert naturalist guides who provide informative lectures, guided excursions, and insightful commentary about the islands’ wildlife, geology, and conservation.
• Interactions with Locals: Visit local communities and learn about the culture and way of life of the people who call the Galapagos Islands home. Some cruises offer opportunities to meet fishermen, artisans, and other residents.
• Conservation Initiatives: Gain a deeper understanding of the conservation challenges facing the Galapagos Islands and learn about initiatives aimed at protecting the fragile ecosystems and biodiversity of the archipelago.

Best time to visit

Small Ship cruises exploring the Galápagos Islands take place year-round, however June to November offers cooler weather and the best wildlife viewing. Each season offering unique wildlife encounters and climatic conditions. Research the wildlife activity calendar to align your trip with specific animal behaviors, such as mating seasons or hatching periods.

Featured areas

The Galápagos Islands are renowned for their unique wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and pristine environments. Here are the featured areas often included in most cruise itineraries.

Santa Cruz Island

• Puerto Ayora: The archipelago’s main town, home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Visit giant tortoise breeding centers and observe conservation efforts.
• Highlands: Explore lush forests, lava tunnels, and giant tortoises in their natural habitat.

Isabela Island

• Sierra Negra Volcano: Hike to the world’s second-largest volcanic crater. Offers stunning panoramic views and insights into volcanic activity.
• Tagus Cove: A historic anchorage point for pirates and whalers. Excellent for snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Española Island

• Punta Suarez: Famous for the colorful marine iguanas and waved albatross (April to December). Dramatic cliffs and blowholes along the coast.
• Gardner Bay: Pristine white-sand beaches perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. Playful sea lions and vibrant marine

Fernandina Island

• Punta Espinoza: One of the most untouched areas in the archipelago. Known for large colonies of marine iguanas, sea lions, and flightless cormorants.

San Cristóbal Island

• Puerto Baquerizo Moreno: The capital of the Galápagos province. Home to the Galápagos Interpretation Center.
• Kicker Rock (León Dormido): A dramatic rock formation popular for snorkeling and diving. Frequent sightings of hammerhead sharks, rays, and turtles.

Floreana Island

• Post Office Bay: Historic site where whalers left mail for others to deliver. Visitors can leave and take postcards in a traditional barrel.
• Devil’s Crown: An eroded volcanic cone offering exceptional snorkeling. Abundant marine life, including sharks, rays, and coral reefs.

Bartolomé Island

• Pinnacle Rock: Iconic landmark offering breathtaking views from its summit. Great snorkeling opportunities with penguins and tropical fish.

Genovesa Island (“Bird Island”)

• Prince Philip’s Steps: Excellent birdwatching, with red-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and storm petrels. A great spot for snorkeling and observing marine life.
• Darwin Bay: A picturesque beach surrounded by cliffs teeming with bird colonies.

North Seymour Island

• Wildlife Haven: Observe frigatebirds with their iconic red throat pouches and blue-footed boobies. Home to land iguanas and sea lion colonies.

Rabida Island

• Red Sand Beaches: Unique red-colored sand caused by volcanic activity. Excellent snorkeling with sea lions, turtles, and tropical fish.

Recommended Galápagos small ship cruise itineraries

• Wild Galápagos Escape: On this 8-day cruise aboard the 48-guest National Geographic Islander II, witness the iconic wildlife that sparked the theory of evolution by natural selection, snorkel pristine waters teeming with sea lions and sea turtles, and hike black-sand beaches and lush highlands.
• Peru and Galápagos Escape: On this 11-day cruise aboard the 48-passenger National Geographic Islander II, experience the best of Galápagos, and Machu Picchu too.
• Exploring Galápagos, Machu Picchu and Peru’s Land of the Inca: On this 16-day land and cruise itinerary aboard the 96-passenger National Geographic Endeavour II or the 48-guest National Geographic Gemini, experience all the wildness of Galápagos and the sublime archaeological wonder of Machu Picchu.
• Galápagos by Catamaran: An Intimate Voyage: On this 10-day cruise aboard the 16-guest National Geographic Delfina, zodiac to pristine beaches, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard along volcanic shores, explore wildlife on land or under the sea.
• Darwin’s Discoveries: The Galapagos Islands: On this 8-day cruise itinerary aboard the 48-guest La Pinta, explore the unique ecosystems that influenced Darwin on our Galapagos Islands expedition cruises.

More Galápagos Islands small ship cruise itineraries…

Mississippi River

Mississippi River cruises offer travelers a unique and immersive way to experience the heartland of America while exploring historic cities, charming towns, and scenic landscapes along one of the world’s most iconic rivers. A 2025 Mississippi River cruise could be a memorable and unique experience for several reasons:

• Historic River Cities: Cruises on the Mississippi River typically include stops at historic cities such as New Orleans, Memphis, St. Louis, and Natchez, among others. Passengers have the opportunity to explore these cities’ rich history, culture, and architecture through guided tours, visits to museums and landmarks, and cultural experiences.
• Scenic Views: Cruising the Mississippi River provides passengers with scenic views of rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque river towns. Whether sailing past the bluffs of the Upper Mississippi or the bayous of the Lower Mississippi, passengers can enjoy breathtaking vistas from the comfort of the ship’s deck.
• Southern Hospitality: Cruises on the Mississippi River offer passengers a taste of Southern hospitality and charm. Onboard amenities often include live music, regional cuisine, and cultural performances that showcase the flavors and traditions of the South. Passengers can also enjoy lectures and presentations that provide insights into the region’s history, music, and cuisine.
• Antebellum Plantations: Many Mississippi River cruises include visits to antebellum plantations and historic estates that offer a glimpse into the region’s plantation-era past. Passengers can tour beautifully preserved mansions, gardens, and slave quarters while learning about the history of the Old South and the legacy of slavery.
• Riverboat Experience: Some cruises on the Mississippi River are conducted aboard authentic paddlewheel riverboats that evoke the nostalgia and romance of a bygone era. These riverboats feature period decor, live entertainment, and outdoor observation decks that allow passengers to soak in the sights and sounds of the river.
• Culinary Experiences: Cruising the Mississippi River often highlight the region’s culinary traditions, with onboard dining experiences that showcase Southern cuisine and local specialties. Passengers can enjoy dishes such as gumbo, barbecue, fried catfish, and pecan pie, as well as regional wines and spirits.
• Themed Cruises: Some cruises on the Mississippi River offer themed itineraries focused on specific interests such as music, history, or cuisine. These themed cruises may include special events, guest speakers, and curated excursions that cater to passengers’ interests and preferences.

Best time to visit

The best time to cruise the Mississippi River depends on what you want to experience, as each season offers unique highlights. Fall is often the best overall time to cruise, offering comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and breathtaking scenery. Spring is a close second, with its vibrant landscapes and pleasant conditions.

Featured areas

Lower Mississippi River

• New Orleans, Louisiana: Famous for its jazz, Creole cuisine, and vibrant French Quarter.
• Baton Rouge, Louisiana: A blend of history, politics, and Cajun culture, with attractions like the Louisiana State Capitol.
• Natchez, Mississippi: Known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions and Southern charm.
• Vicksburg, Mississippi: Rich in Civil War history, including the Vicksburg National Military Park.
• Memphis, Tennessee: Birthplace of blues and rock ‘n’ roll, with landmarks like Graceland, Sun Studio, and Beale Street.

Middle Mississippi River

• St. Louis, Missouri: Visit the iconic Gateway Arch, explore its thriving arts scene, or sample classic barbecue.
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri: A charming river town known for its Civil War history and vibrant downtown.

Upper Mississippi River

• Mark Twain’s Hannibal, Missouri: The boyhood home of Mark Twain, with attractions inspired by his writings, including “Tom Sawyer” and “Huckleberry Finn.”
• Dubuque, Iowa: A historic town featuring the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.
• Lake Pepin: Known as the birthplace of waterskiing, this natural lake on the river is surrounded by charming small towns like Red Wing.
• St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota: Explore the Twin Cities’ vibrant culture, historic sites, and scenic parks.

Recommended Mississippi River small ship cruise itineraries

• Historic Mississippi River Cruise: On this 8-day cruise sailing roundtrip from New Orleans aboard one of several brand new riverboats, this remarkable journey honors the festive culture and deep roots of a region where music speaks universally, and history is evident at every twist and turn of the river.
• Lower Mississippi River Cruise: On this 8-day cruise sailing, embark on a voyage along the Lower Mississippi River, one brimming with excitement and discovery, stretching from the vibrant streets of New Orleans, Louisiana, to the soulful rhythms of Memphis, Tennessee.
• Grand Ohio River Cruise: On this 16-day cruise, experience two of America’s greatest rivers through the heartland. Enjoy the idyllic countryside of the Ohio River and the wonder of the mighty Mississippi that inspired Mark Twain.
• Upper Mississippi River Cruise: On this 9-day cruise between St. Louis, Missouri and St. Paul, Minnesota, set off on an exhilarating journey where every moment resonates with the essence of hometown Americana and the breathtaking beauty that has captivated the imaginations of our nation’s most revered writers, artists, and musicians.
• Complete Mississippi River Experience: This epic 23-day cruise begins in New Orleans and travels north, visiting new ports of call each day before concluding in Minneapolis. American Cruise Lines’ onboard experts bring the stories of the River to life and provide context to each shore experience we provide along the way.

More Mississippi River small ship cruise itineraries…