Luxury cruising: the best small luxury cruise ships

Luxury cruising: the best small luxury cruise ships

Updated: 12 February 2026

Embarking on an ultra-luxury cruise is unlike anything else and one holiday experience you’ll never forget. Inviting you to travel in unrivalled luxury, while indulging in the most incredible cuisine available at sea and enjoying attentive personalised service, taking advantage of upcoming luxury cruise deals is your ticket to an elevated escape where you’ll want for nothing and have every need taken care of.

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Kyle Wilson Content Executive

Kyle has over a year's experience creating and improving content for Iglu Cruise, and over five years of experience creating digital content in both travel and entertainment elsewhere. When he's not learning about new cruise destinations and planning his next getaway, he's improving the cruise-related content you see and creating content that helps you plan your next dream holiday.

Often on ships far smaller than average, you’ll also have the chance to visit more unique ports on ultra-luxury cruise ships, remarkable destinations larger ships simply can’t visit. No matter where in the world you want to travel, doing so aboard a small luxury cruise ship is an adventure you’ll savour for years to come.

We know that all sounds like an excellent way to spend your free time, but the question remains: what can you actually expect when you set sail aboard a smaller ultra-luxury cruise ship? What makes this cruise experience actually stand out from ocean cruising aboard larger vessels?

Paddle-boarding off the back of Emerald Azurra

Whether you’re completely new to the world of cruising or a veteran browsing the latest cruise deals for your next adventure, you’re in the right place to find out more about ultra-luxury cruising. Below, in no particular order, we’re going to run through some of the best small luxury cruise ships sailing right now, giving you a taste of what to expect when you embark.

Contents:

  1. Crystal Serenity – Crystal
  2. SeaDream I – SeaDream Yacht Club
  3. Scenic Eclipse – Scenic
  4. Emerald Azzurra – Emerald Cruises
  5. Star Clipper – Star Clippers
  6. Star Breeze – Windstar Cruises
  7. Explora I – Explora Journeys
  8. Spirit of Ponant – Ponant Cruises
  9. Oceania Nautica - Oceania Cruises
  10. Seven Seas Grandeur - Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  11. Silver Origin - Silversea Cruises
  12. What is the best small luxury cruise ship?
  13. Where do luxury cruise ships go?
  14. What is the most luxurious river cruise line?

Crystal Serenity – Crystal

Recently refreshed and refurbished, Crystal Cruises' Crystal Serenity really is the epitome of opulence and elegance at sea. With a guest capacity of just 740 passengers and an attentive crew of around 655, an industry-leading crew-to-guest ratio for a ship of this size, every voyage aboard this remarkable vessel is certain to deliver the exceptional service and attention to detail Crystal promises.

Crystal Serenity

Whether you’re indulging in sensational Japanese-Peruvian fusion food from Umi Uma, or soaking up the sophisticated atmosphere of the intimate Avenue Saloon piano bar before a Broadway-style show in the Galaxy Lounge, you can rest assured knowing you’ll be well looked after in some of the finest establishments at sea aboard Crystal Serenity.

Crystal isn’t just pushing the proverbial boat out when it comes to the service aboard its Crystal Serenity cruise ship, though; the Aurora Spa – named for the Roman goddess of the dawn, Aurora – is easily one of the most sumptuous spas at sea. With a variety of soothing spaces and revitalising treatments available, from salt scrubs and body massages to acupuncture and micro-needling treatments, you’ll find yourself leaving each session in the Aurora Spa – whatever you decide to treat yourself with – refreshed and rejuvenated.

Of all the wonderful entertainment options available, the Casino de Monte Carlo is a stand-out example of Crystal’s elegance in excess. Created in collaboration with the team behind the Casino de Monte-Carlo (an iconic venue in Monaco), you’ll be hard-pressed to find another cruise ship with a more authentic high-end casino experience.

From shorter North American sailings and Baltic cruises to voyages through the Mediterranean and adventures around Australasia, a Crystal Serenity cruise isn’t limiting itself to one corner of the globe, and there’s a real wealth of experiences on offer in its upcoming itineraries. 

Other ships sailing in Crystal’s fleet include: Crystal Symphony.

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Want to embark on your own adventure aboard this stunning ship? Check out all the upcoming Crystal Serenity cruises right here!

SeaDream I – SeaDream Yacht Club

One of the more intimate-sized luxury cruise lines you can explore the world with, an adventure aboard SeaDream Yacht Club’s SeaDream I is an indulgent experience that’s nothing short of exceptional. Limited to just 112 guests, with 95 attentive crew members, you'll feel like you're sailing on your own personal superyacht while enjoying sensational service and indulgent experiences you won't soon forget.

SeaDream I

Presenting passengers with a refined experience where relaxation and wellness are valued just as much as recreation, SeaDream Yacht Club’s ships are home to the only Thai-certified spa service at sea, and you can indulge in anything from traditional Thai massages and radiant facials to detoxifying treatments and aromatherapy sessions. And, with plenty of places to sunbathe while at sea – from comfortable Balinese Dream Beds on the top deck to poolside sun loungers with aft-facing views – everyone will be afforded the chance to rest and recuperate between destinations during your getaway.

Although that isn’t the only side to SeaDream I, the aft-facing Watersports Marina Platform presents everyone onboard with the unique opportunity to enjoy the serene seas they’re sailing through with a variety of watersports equipment. From kayaks and stand-up paddle boards to banana boats and jet skis, you’ll have the chance to have a bit of fun on the open water during select sea days throughout your itinerary. Couple this with the exciting excursions available, and you’ll find that a voyage on SeaDream I is just as accommodating for sailors with a sense of adventure.

Sailing primarily to the Caribbean and through the Mediterranean, island-hopping and stopping in some of the most stunning spots in the world, sunshine and SeaDream I go hand-in-hand; from embarkation and the moment you step aboard to your final breakfast before you depart, you can expect a cruise experience unlike any other with SeaDream Yacht Club.

Other ships sailing in SeaDream Yacht Club’s fleet include: SeaDream II.

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Find out more about the upcoming Caribbean cruises on SeaDream I right here, and learn what drinks are included on SeaDream Yacht Club cruises ahead of time with our helpful blog!

Scenic Eclipse – Scenic

Raising the bar in almost every way, any adventure aboard Scenic Eclipse is unforgettable; you'll enjoy elegance in abundance with attentive service and stylish interiors complementing sensational cuisine and engaging entertainment. From state-of-the-art facilities and indulgent experiences onboard to exciting excursions and opportunities to see your stunning surroundings from completely unique perspectives, there really is no one doing it quite like Scenic's Discovery Yacht cruises right now.

With a capacity of just 228 guests and 176 crew, Scenic Eclipse is on the smaller side when it comes to the exciting selection of ultra-luxurious cruising experiences available – but that doesn’t mean you won’t be utterly spoilt for choice when it comes to eateries and entertainment.

Scenic Eclipse

This ship is home to an impressive eight restaurants, offering a combination of casual and decadent fine-dining experiences, serving some of the finest food and most delicious dishes at sea. You’ll also find a theatre onboard with its own itinerary of excellent entertainment for you to enjoy throughout your voyage, which is not something you see often on ultra-luxury yacht-style ships of this size.

What makes Scenic Eclipse cruises – and, by extension, voyages on Scenic's Discovery Yachts – really stand out, though, are the exploratory experiences available and how they connect you with your destinations beyond what other luxury cruise lines offer. 

Not only is there an onboard Discovery Team offering informative presentations and insights into a number of destination-relevant topics throughout your journey, all of which enhance your onshore experience, but there’s also an aft-facing watersports Marina to enjoy. And, adding to all of this, there are also two state-of-the-art Airbus H130-T2 helicopters and a custom-built submersible onboard.

From high above the ocean to sea level and below the waves, Scenic Eclipse is equipped to offer you the opportunity to explore and experience the destinations you visit from every available angle; these unique experiences elevate the ultra-luxury cruising and set these voyages apart.

Scenic Eclipse offers a variety of itineraries, from adventures down the west coast of South America to transatlantic cruises from Portugal to Brazil, and exploratory ventures around Iceland and the Arctic Circle, ensuring there’s something for everyone available.

Other ships sailing in Scenic’s fleet include: Scenic Eclipse II and Scenic Ikon (debuting 2028).

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For exciting adventures aboard this sensational ship, check out the latest Scenic Eclipse cruises and upcoming voyages here.

Emerald Azzurra – Emerald Cruises

Despite being a smaller ship among the luxury cruise ships sailing to some of the world’s most sensational destinations, Emerald Azzurra comes equipped with everything you could possibly need to enjoy a truly spectacular sailing. With a capacity of just 100 guests and 72 attentive crew, world-class service where you’ll want for nothing awaits. Each voyage aboard this superyacht-style ship is a stress-free experience, giving you more time to focus on the important things like soaking up the sunshine in a sun lounger, refreshing yourself with sumptuous spa treatments, and having the holiday of a lifetime.

Emerald Azzurra

Onboard, you’ll find some of the finest food at sea available in La Cucina, the main dining venue aboard Emerald Azzurra, with a menu that features regional dishes inspired by your itinerary and meals made with the freshest locally-sourced ingredients. So, even if you’re spending some time at sea during your getaway, you’ll still have the chance to connect with the world around you and appreciate the flavours and cuisine of the places you’ll be visiting.

Good food, though, isn’t the only way Emerald Yacht Cruises is taking care of its guests sailing on Emerald Azzurra; this ship is home to an entire wellness deck. Here, you’ll find an exquisite infrared sauna, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and the indulgent Elements Spa.

Beyond this, Emerald Azzurra is also home to an aft-facing Marina platform offering a selection of watersports. With snorkelling equipment and paddle-boards among the available equipment onboard, you’ll have the chance to find out just how welcoming the serene blue seas you’re sailing on actually are.

And, for those of you who would much rather spend your time lounging about in the sunshine instead, Emerald Azzurra has a forward-facing Observation Lounge with an outdoor terrace area, a swimming pool surrounded by comfortable seating, and a bar on the top deck – which is far from a bad place to enjoy your favourite beverage after a day exploring ashore.

Sailing everywhere from Bridgetown and St. Barths in the Caribbean to Athens and the Amalfi Coast in the Mediterranean, you’ll certainly have some truly wonderful destinations to explore while sailing with Emerald Yacht Cruises. A voyage aboard Emerald Azzurra promises to be an exciting one, with sunshine and elegance in equal measures.

Other ships sailing in Emerald Yacht Cruises’ fleet include: Emerald Sakara and Emerald Kaia (setting sail in 2026).

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If you're looking for a little more travel inspiration, this guide to the top underrated cruise destinations will help; and, you may find some of the latest Emerald Azzurra cruises are sailing to those very places!

Star Clipper – Star Clippers

A unique ship that marries the sailing traditions of days gone by with modern practices and technologies, a voyage aboard Star Clipper promises an experience unlike any other, yet still offers all the sumptuous creature comforts and modern amenities of other ultra-luxury ships. Onboard, you’ll find opulence and elegance at every turn; from your stylish stateroom to the welcoming lounge spaces, the stunning main dining room to the serene swimming pools, Star Clippers Cruises pays homage to its rich nautical history and the grand age of sail with its design – a decision that sets it further apart from the other ships being discussed.

Star Clipper

With a maximum capacity of just 166 guests and 74 crew members aboard at any one time, you can expect exceptional service everywhere onboard, with your every need well looked after, and more than enough space for everyone to enjoy lounging in the sunshine during sea days. 

Although if you’re looking for something a little more thrilling than that, this sailing cruise ship is also home to an aft-facing marina platform where, on select days, you’ll have the chance to spend some time on the sea in a different way. From snorkelling equipment and scuba-diving gear to kayaks and inflatable dinghies, you’ll find yourself met with plenty of ways to explore the ocean even more with Star Clipper.

Much like other ultra-luxury ships on the smaller side, Star Clipper sails to a variety of ports in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and in Central America – some popular, and some you won’t often find on cruise itineraries. From hopping between Greek islands big and small throughout the summer months to spending Christmas in Costa Rica and Panama, the voyages available aboard this vessel are as unique as the ship itself and promise elegance and excitement in equal measure.

Other ships in Star Clippers’ Fleet include: Star Flyer and Royal Clipper.

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Want to know more? We have answers to some top Star Clippers FAQs right here!

Star Breeze – Windstar Cruises

An ultra-luxury vessel large enough to ensure you’re well-pampered and looked-after while at sea, but small enough to simulate the sensation of sailing on your own private superyacht, Star Breeze is a sensational option for anyone looking to indulge in a port-intensive luxury voyage to some of the world’s most stunning spots. Slightly larger than other smaller luxury ships – with an upper capacity of 312 guests and 204 attentive staff onboard – this ship is home to four restaurants, alongside an al fresco veranda where light bites are available throughout the day, and three lounge bars.

Star Breeze

One thing that helps Star Breeze stand out is that it does not use a formal reservation system for its restaurants on board, even in the most elegant fine-dining establishments. This encourages a relaxed, stress-free atmosphere, something that extends to its state-of-the-art World Spa by Windstar. Here, you’ll find a full thermal suite and steam room available alongside a wide variety of sumptuous spa treatments. If you’re looking for somewhere to relax and refresh yourself after a busy day ashore, Windstar Cruises has you covered.

Taking full advantage of the benefits that come with being a smaller ship, Star Breeze will whisk you away on an adventure to popular ports across southern Europe and the Mediterranean – such as Rome, Valencia, and Dubrovnik – alongside smaller islands in the Caribbean and across the South Pacific – Bora Bora, Huahine, and Tahiti among them. 

While you might not be spending many sea days on Star Breeze with the itineraries available, Windstar Cruises has made certain that every moment you do spend onboard – whether you’re relaxing in the stylish all-suite accommodation after a serene spa session or relishing in the live piano playing at Compass Rose – will be a true delight.

With some of these destinations not often visited by larger cruise ships, Star Breeze affords everyone onboard the opportunity to visit these incredible places while luxuriating in the exquisite comfort and exceptional service that comes with an ultra-luxury cruise.

Other ships sailing in Windstar Cruises’ fleet include: Star Legend, Star Pride, Wind Star, Wind Surf, and Wind Spirit.

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Ready to embark on the voyage of a lifetime aboard Star Breeze? Keep an eye on upcoming Windstar Cruises sailings right here — more dates are coming soon!

Explora I – Explora Journeys

Explora I is taking ultra-luxury small ship cruising to new heights with an incredible superyacht design and an impressive crew-to-guest ratio for the size of the ship – 922 passengers with 640 crew – alongside some sensational cuisine, fantastic entertainment options, and itineraries that promise exciting adventures around the world.

Explora I

On the larger side, when it comes to these smaller luxury ships, Explora Journeys' Explora I is home to six distinct restaurants – from the exquisite Anthology and Sakura to Fil Rouge and the effortless Emporium Marketplace – all of which operate on an open dining policy without set dining times, affording you the freedom to enjoy what you want when you want it. You'll also find a fantastic selection of bars and lounges onboard, the abundance of which ensures that everyone will have somewhere to spend an evening onboard; whether you want to bask in the panoramic views found in the Explora Lounge or relish in a more relaxed environment courtesy of the Astern Lounge, delicious drinks and entertainment await.

Enrichment is something you can look forward to aboard Explora I, too. Whether you want to improve your fitness or maintain a workout routine, the state-of-the-art Fitness Centre on board, along with available fitness classes, will help. Similarly, Explora Journeys hosts a wonderful selection of masterclasses – from mixology sessions to immersive experiences with the onboard musicians.

When it comes to destinations, you can expect the excursions available to be just as enriching. Explora I sails to a selection of Caribbean islands, through the Mediterranean, and South America. So, if you're looking for sunshine, you'll find plenty of that aboard this wonderful vessel.

Other ships sailing in Explora Journeys' fleet include: Explora II, Explora III (setting sail in 2026), Explora IV (setting sail in 2027), Explora V (setting sail in 2027), and Explora VI (setting sail in 2028).

Travelling with a toddler can be challenging at times, but Explora Journeys is a fantastic cruise line for cruisers with young children; check out Chelsea's experience on Explora I for more details!

Spirit of Ponant – Ponant Cruises

Ponant Cruises’ Spirit of Ponant is one of the most unique small luxury ships sailing right now, and you won’t want to miss a chance to embark on an adventure aboard this remarkable vessel. An elegant catamaran-style ship with space for just 12 guests at any one time, this really is as close as you’ll get to sailing aboard your own private ship without actually owning one yourself.

Spirit of Ponant

With just four crew members on board, you’ll enjoy meals in an intimate dining space with an open kitchen, lounge in a casual lounge space, and spend your days exploring incredible destinations around the world. Everything about this experience is luxurious and personalised, which only adds to the incredible adventures available aboard Spirit of Ponant.

You’ll find a TV and Hi-Fi system in the living area for entertainment, and watersports equipment to take advantage of when the sun is shining and Spirit of Ponant is stopped in welcoming waters, but the highlight of a cruise aboard this ship is the destination – or, rather, destinations – you’ll be visiting. A small ship that’s able to sail further into each holiday hotspot and visit ports of call that larger ships just can’t, you’ll be able to customise your itinerary to suit your needs (with there only being 12 of you onboard) and make sure you have a memorable cruise getaway.

On Spirit of Ponant, you’ll find sailings to the Mediterranean alongside trips to idyllic islands like Corsica and the Seychelles. Other ships in the fleet include: Le Bellot, Le Laperouse, Le Bougainville, and Le Champlain. While just a selection of Ponant Cruises’ other ships, these vessels are a fantastic example of what you can expect when it comes to Ponant Cruises beyond Spirit of Ponant. Larger luxury ships with casual-yet-refined environments, comfortable social spaces, and stylish staterooms, Ponant Cruises’ fleet is among the best when it comes to elegant cruise experiences – and the destinations you’ll visit on each itinerary, be those ports in the Mediterranean and Caribbean or adventures in Antarctica, are always memorable.

Oceania Nautica - Oceania Cruises

An elegant ship boasting sleek designs and luxurious amenities, Oceania Nautica is everything truly excellent about Oceania Cruises’ sensational escapes. With a capacity of 670 guests at double occupancy and roughly 400 crew onboard at any one time, this cruise ship delivers the ultimate small ship experience for travel adventures to some of the world’s most spectacular holiday hotspots and hidden gems you’ll remember for years to come.

Oceania Nautica

Onboard, when you’re not taking a moment to admire the gorgeous neoclassical interior designs, you’ll be invited to dine in refined restaurants serving some of the best food at sea. From fresh interpretations of Italian classics in Toscana and American classics from the al fresco Waves Grill to elevated evening meals in the Grand Dining Room and beyond, each menu has been carefully curated by Oceania Cruises’ culinary team to complement your cruise experience, with a range of cuisines and flavours ensuring there’s always something for everyone to enjoy.

Life on Oceania Nautica isn’t just indulgent when it comes to the meals you’ll share with friends, family, and fellow cruisers, though; this cruise ship boasts an abundance of enriching experiences for mind, body, and soul. In the Aquamar Spa & Vitality Center, you’ll have the chance to indulge in a sensational selection of spa treatments and attend complimentary fitness classes. With rejuvenating massages and refreshing facials available alongside yoga, nutritionist consultations, and more, Oceania Cruises’ commitment to your wellness is evident.

Beyond this, the entertainment you’ll encounter while on Oceania Nautica is certain to make each evening at sea as enjoyable as every day you spend exploring new destinations ashore. Not only does this cruise ship boast a Monte Carlo-style Casino, but you’ll also be invited to marvel at an incredible array of live performances in the theatre venue, while also having the chance to unwind with intimate live music in Horizons. One of the larger ships on this list, Oceania Nautica utilises every inch to ensure you’re in for the time of your life.

With seasons exploring the Mediterranean and Aegean Sea alongside stretches of sailing through Southeast Asia and beyond, sunny shores and sensational adventures await with Oceania Nautica’s upcoming itineraries.

Other ships sailing in Oceania Cruises’ fleet include: Oceania Insignia, Oceania Vista, Oceania Regatta, Oceania Riviera, Oceania Sirena, Oceania Marina, Oceania Allura, and Oceania Sonata (debuting 2027).

For more on Oceania Cruises' upcoming Oceania Sonata, check out our exploration into this exciting new ship here: A symphony of modern luxury: What to expect aboard Oceania Sonata

Seven Seas Grandeur - Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Priding themselves on providing holidaymakers with luxurious, inclusive cruise experiences to some of the world’s most sensational destinations around the world, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sailings are a rewarding experience you won’t want to miss – and Seven Seas Grandeur is among the best ships in their remarkable fleet. With elegant accommodation for 744 guests at double occupancy, and 548 attentive crew members onboard to ensure you want for nothing while at sea, you’ll be well taken care of when sailing on this luxury cruise ship.

Seven Seas Grandeur

For those who wish to indulge in a luxurious, small-ship cruise experience but still enjoy ample options when it comes to onboard restaurants, bars, and other amenities, Seven Seas Grandeur is ideal. This cruise ship is home to several refined restaurants and numerous casual dining options, giving everyone onboard the chance to indulge in sensational food from around the world every day of their adventure. From explorations of Asian cuisines in Pacific Rim and elevated American steakhouse classics in Prime 7 to timeless French food in Chartreuse, authentic Italian flavours in Sette Mari at La Veranda, and more, a world of unforgettable flavours and new favourites awaits you onboard this elegant ship; coupled with the dining experiences you’ll have the chance to enjoy when you head ashore, you’re certain to find something to suit your mood each time you sit down to dine when cruising with Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

When you’re not tucking into a delectable dish at dinner time, you’ll be invited to revitalise and reenergize in Seven Seas Grandeur’s Serene Spa & Wellness, a tranquil haven of health and beauty. You’ll also be able to enjoy a wide variety of enriching experiences throughout the day, if unwinding in the spa isn’t quite what you’re after. These include everything from an insightful presentation from a guest lecturer and a game of bocce ball to a treat-filled afternoon tea and so much more. One of the larger luxury ships sailing today, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ensures you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to onboard activities and amenities.

You’ll also be met with an abundance of incredible entertainment when sailing aboard Seven Seas Grandeur. From dazzling stage shows and impressive theatrics in the Constellation Theater and soulful sounds in the Grandeur Lounge to intimate performances in the Observation Lounge and so much more, you’ll enjoy a wide variety of options throughout your cruise. It’s safe to say that your evenings at sea will be as unforgettable as each moment you disembark somewhere new and exciting.

With itineraries exploring the Caribbean Sea alongside those travelling to exciting destinations in the Mediterranean, cruises from Southampton, and more, you’ll also have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to sailings aboard Seven Seas Grandeur.

Other cruise ships in Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ fleet include: Seven Seas Navigator, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Splendor, Seven Seas Voyager, Seven Seas Explorer, and Seven Seas Prestige (debuting 2026).

Ready for your own taste of Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegance? Check out the latest Seven Seas Grandeur cruise deals right here!

Silver Origin - Silversea Cruises

An intimately-sized ultra-luxury ship designed specifically to skirt the vibrant coastlines of the Galapagos Islands, Silver Origin is Silversea Cruises’ first destination-specific ship, offering cruisers with an adventurous spirit the chance to explore this fascinating destination in unrivalled comfort and elegance. With well-appointed suite-level accommodation for just 100 guests and 90 crew members onboard at any one time, an expedition aboard Silver Origin invites you to experience the Galapagos like never before.

Silver Origin

Despite its small size, which helps this ship navigate the archipelago and visit more remote destinations among them, Silver Origin features two dining options for you to enjoy throughout your cruise: The Restaurant and The Grill. In The Restaurant, you’ll encounter a fresh menu of regional favourites and flavours each day, with the culinary team blending international dishes with destination-driven creations to capture the exploratory spirit of each voyage. Meanwhile, lighter lunch options and elevated seafood and steak dishes await you at The Grill, a poolside spot perfect for those sunny days sailing in the Pacific Ocean.

Silver Origin also features ample wellness facilities to enjoy while exploring this incredible archipelago, ensuring you’re never too far from Silversea Cruises’ sensational spa treatments and salon services, even when you’re sailing somewhere as remote as the Galapagos. With a range of indulgent massages and revitalising facials available alongside haircare, manicures, and more, you’ll have no trouble relaxing your mind and body between excursions ashore. And those excursions ashore are going to be unforgettable, thanks to Silver Origin’s fleet of Zodiac inflatables. Guided by an experienced team of Ecuadorian national expert guides, Silversea Cruises utilises these to take you even further into the Galapagos Islands – an experience you won’t forget.

From gathering around the fire pit in the Explorers Lounge to share stories of the day’s adventures to that final briefing in Basecamp before disembarking, cruises aboard Silver Origin are full of exciting moments, all underlined with an attention to detail and a sophistication that elevates every aspect of the experience.

Silversea Cruises’ fleet also includes: Silver Spirit, Silver Endeavour, Silver Whisper, Silver Nova, Silver Shadow, Silver Cloud, Silver Moon, Silver Wind, Silver Dawn, Silver Muse, and Silver Ray.

Silversea Cruises are also among the best cruise lines for exclusive cruise and stay Canada and Alaska getaways; don't miss out on the adventure of a lifetime in North America's most stunning spots and book now!

What is the best small luxury cruise ship?

If you’re still not sure which small luxury cruise ship you want to sail on next, or you’re just looking for some quick comparisons between the cruise ships mentioned above, you’ll find a useful table comparing key information below. The number of decks each ship has, and the guest capacity at double occupancy, should give you some sense of just how large each ship is; in the following list, Explora I is the largest ship in sheer size, while Spirit of Ponant is the smallest by a considerable margin.

Cruise Ship Debut (Refurbished) Guest Capacity Crew Decks Restaurants
Pools
Crystal Serenity 2003 (2023) 740 655 9 9 1
SeaDream I 1984 (2022) 112 95 5 3 /
Scenic Eclipse 2019 (2024) 228 176 8 8 2
Emerald Azzurra 2022 100 76 6 2 2
Star Clipper 1992 (2014) 166 74 4 1 2
Star Breeze 2015 (2021) 312 200 6 4 1
Explora I 2023 922 640 11 6 5
Spirit of Ponant 2024 12 4 3 1 /
Oceania Nautica 2005 (2022) 670 400 9 5 2
Seven Seas Grandeur 2023 744 548 10 8 2
Silver Origin 2020 100 90 6 2 1

Where do luxury cruise ships go?

One of the many fantastic things about cruising today is the fact that you can enjoy an incredible luxury small-ship cruise experience almost anywhere in the world, with luxury ships sailing to a sensational selection of destinations around the world. You’ll find a fantastic selection of luxury cruises on smaller cruise ships visiting ports in Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia, the Caribbean, and Australasia.

Luxury cruise ships island-hop in the Aegean Sea, visiting various Greek islands alongside other exciting destinations in the Med, skirt the coast of Japan and South Korea, inviting you to explore new cultures and cuisines in complete comfort, and even venture to the enigmatic Galapagos Islands, a remote archipelago off the coast of Ecuador. Ultimately, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to the destinations you can visit on a small luxury cruise ship.

What is the most luxurious river cruise line?

Ocean cruises aren’t the only type of cruise where you can travel in unrivalled comfort aboard elegant ships and enjoy attentive service, sensational food, and unforgettable entertainment. Several river cruise lines offer luxury cruises along major waterways throughout Europe and Southeast Asia, with some offering itineraries along the Nile, the Amazon River, and beyond. These include Riviera Travel, Scenic River Cruises, and APT Luxury Travel; you can find out more about these river cruise lines in our blog on six river cruise lines you should know right here.

Book your next luxury escape with Iglu Cruise today

If all of this has you itching to embark on your next cruise adventure, you can find out more about all the latest cruise deals right here; Iglu Cruise is also home to more fantastic offers on luxury cruises, last-minute adventures, and all-inclusive packages, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Or, if you're looking for a little more information before you make any decisions, check out some of the latest blogs from the Iglu Cruise team below: