The small ship and expedition cruise trend hasn’t slowed down one bit—in fact, demand has only grown stronger with today’s travelers. Here’s a look at the latest from three brands that take intimate, immersion travel to new heights.
andBeyond’s Newest Small Ship Expedition
andBeyond is extending its South America portfolio with the launch of a new expedition yacht, andBeyond Galapagos Explorer. The vessel only has four cabins and two suites for a max capacity of 12 travelers. You can book your clients on either of its two 7-night itineraries in the east and west of the Galapagos Islands, both accompanied by two expert guides. The ship is currently being refurbished and will be ready to set sail on June 17, 2024.
The eastern Galapagos Islands’ itinerary includes sightings of the endangered waved albatross on Española Island and the Kicker Rock formation; in the west, your clients will explore the geographical center of the Galapagos Islands, Sombrero Chino Island and enjoy close encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguanas on Santa Fe island. Expect a plethora of adventures on land and sea, including snorkeling, hiking and birdwatching.
Of note: andBeyond has plans to extend its Oceans Without Border initiative in the area.
For more information, visit andbeyond.com.
Aurora Expeditions Heads to Warmer Climates
Aurora Expeditions is known for its excursions to the icy reaches of the Arctic and Antarctica, but clients yearning for more tropical surroundings can tap the travel company for warm-weather destinations like Costa Rica and Panama. The company’s Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary—one of its “Discovery” voyages—dives into local culture and experiences with highlights that include a visit to the Curu Wildlife Refuge, a guaranteed daylight crossing of the Panama Canal for maximum social media exposure, time at several national parks including the Manuel Antonio National Park, Darien National Park and Coiba National Park, a stop at the Pearl Islands, guided hikes and active pursuits like SUP, snorkeling and more.
A voyage with Aurora Expeditions is all about immersion and enrichment, with passengers limited to a maximum of 132 per.
For more information, visit aurora-expeditions.com.
Sail Croatia
Sail Croatia specializes in small ship cruising and they’re debuting a new World Heritage Cruise specially tailored to the cultural aficionados on your client list. This is a week-long excursion to some of the country’s most beautiful natural wonders and, of course, its famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The itinerary leaves from Split and heads to two other UNESCO sites on the coast, Trogir and Sibenik, followed by a stop at Zadar to witness its unique sound and light installation. The journey continues south to the Krka National Park and waterfalls, with stops at different islands on the way to Vis, home of the Blue Cave. When the ship returns to Split, your clients will have time to explore Diocletians Palace. The cruise price includes private transfers, daily breakfast and lunch, a welcome reception, a Captain’s dinner, a village dinner, plus walking tours in Zadar, Split, Trogir and Sibenik.
Dates for the new itinerary are May 26, June 9 and Sept. 1, 2024, aboard Sail Croatia’s custom-built Elegance ships.
For more information, visit sail-croatia.com.
