Small-Ship Cruises, Closer to the Shore
Small ships trade waterslides and big theatres for smaller ports, more time ashore and a quieter, more personal feel on board.
There is no single definition, but small-ship cruises usually carry a few hundred guests or fewer. That lets them slip into harbours and anchor off islands that bigger ships pass by, sometimes with small boats called tenders taking you ashore. Some are sleek motor yachts; others are sailing ships with real sails.
I plan and book small-ship cruises for travellers across Canada, from checked information rather than a personal sailing report. I help you compare routes, ships and cabins, and add the nights before and after.
What a small-ship cruise is like
Smaller ports
Harbours and anchorages that larger ships cannot reach, so the itinerary often feels more like island hopping than a tour of cruise terminals.
More time ashore
Many small-ship itineraries stay later in port or overnight, which leaves time for dinner ashore or a quiet evening walk.
A quieter ship
Fewer restaurants and venues, a relaxed dress code and a crew that soon knows your name. You make your own entertainment.
Under sail
Some small ships are true sailing ships, using their sails when the wind allows. It is a lovely way to travel between islands.
Where small ships sail
The Greek islands
Small ships can reach quieter islands and anchor in coves, mixing famous stops with lesser-known ones. Greece planning
The Croatian coast
Old walled towns and islands between Dubrovnik and Split, with swimming stops along the way. Croatia planning
The Caribbean
Smaller islands and anchorages beyond the big cruise ports, often with time for beaches and snorkelling. Caribbean travel planning
Scotland and the British Isles
Islands, sea lochs and small harbours that suit a smaller ship, usually in the summer months. Scotland planning
Somewhere new to explore
Coastal and island routes in other regions, when I can research and book the sailing through my travel partners.
When to go
The Mediterranean
May to October, with May, June and September usually the best balance of warm weather and fewer crowds.
The Caribbean
December to April is the dry season. June to November is hurricane season.
Northern waters
Scotland and the British Isles are mostly summer destinations, roughly May to September.
Book early
Small ships have few cabins, and popular dates can sell out well ahead.
A good fit if you
- You want more time in port and less time at sea
- You prefer a relaxed, social ship to a floating resort
- Smaller harbours and swimming stops appeal more than big cruise terminals
- You like the idea of sailing between islands
Maybe look elsewhere if
- You want lots of restaurants, shows and activities on board
- You are prone to seasickness; small ships move more in rough seas
- You are looking for the lowest price per night
Good to know
- Where there is no dock, a tender takes you ashore. You need to be steady enough to step between the ship and a small boat.
- Medical facilities on board are more limited than on large ships, so travel insurance with medical coverage matters.
- Wi-Fi can be limited, and dress is usually relaxed.
- Because ships are small, cabin choice runs out quickly. Book early for the best options.
Small-ship cruises questions
How small is a small ship?
There is no fixed definition. Small-ship cruises usually carry a few hundred guests or fewer, and some yachts and sailing ships carry fewer than a hundred. Smaller ships can reach smaller ports and anchorages.
Will I get seasick on a small ship?
Small ships can move more than large ones in rough water, so if you are prone to seasickness, choose calmer seasons and sheltered routes, pick a cabin low and in the middle of the ship, and talk to your doctor about prevention.
Are small-ship cruises more expensive?
Often, per night, because there are fewer guests to share the costs. Some fares include more, such as drinks or excursions, so it is worth comparing what is covered rather than the headline price alone.
What is a tender?
A small boat that carries passengers between the ship and the shore when the ship anchors instead of docking. Getting on and off needs a little balance, and crew members help at each step.