The word “cruise” is such a broad term. When you think about what constitutes a cruise, most of us probably picture a gigantic ship bobbing around in the Caribbean. There is always a time and a place for taking a trip on one of the world’s many large cruise ships.
There are two schools of thought when it comes to cruising. Some see the ship as the destination. A floating city filled with over-the-top amenities like specialty restaurants, casinos, waterslides, pools and more. Others, however, see the destination as the star attraction.
Sometimes when you are thinking about cruise vacations, you do not want to have to deal with crowds. Instead, you want to enjoy a little peace and quiet, reconnect with yourself and discover the tranquility that the water can bring to your life. Large cruise ships have a great many things to offer, but those are not among them.
Maybe now is the time to consider small ship cruising. Small ship cruising and adventure cruising is something else. Small ship cruises take travelers where big ships simply cannot. Most small ships carry 40 to 100 passengers, while some even carry as few as eight guests.
On a small ship, you get to know the passengers, the captain and the crew. Because of their size, these ships usually do not have elaborate facilities and amenities. You might find a small spa with a couple of treatment rooms and a fitness room but rarely a fully equipped gym. Public spaces are also limited. On smaller ships, there are no Las Vegas revues; the lounges are smaller and more intimate, and the only entertainment is usually performed cabaret style.
Unlike large shops with multiple dining venues, small ships ordinarily have a single restaurant to accommodate all guests in a single seating, offering a more intimate and friendly chance to meet fellow passengers.
Because these smaller ships are able to maneuver into small coves and channels, they can dock at more intimate ports, offering a fascinating travel experience.
Take Alaska, for example. A small ship Alaskan cruise allows you a closer look at the beautiful scenery and exotic wildlife. Wake up to the sound of birds instead of the noise from the balcony next door! The smaller ships can also visit some places that the larger ones can only dream about such as the Misty Fjords National Monument near Ketchikan, Tracy Arm Fjord or the Dawes Glacier. The Inside Passage hosts the majority of small ship cruises in Alaska and is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The coastal mountain ranges and islands provide excellent wildlife viewing and opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and hiking.
There are small ship cruises for every interest, ability and budget from traditional small ships visiting popular ports and wilderness areas to active adventures aboard intimate yachts crewed by local Alaskans. Shore excursions are usually included. Contact your favorite travel agent and get started on a new adventure in cruising soon!
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