A Quick Guide to the Best Small Luxury Cruise Ships
If you’re hoping to add a little more than a touch of elegance to your next cruise getaway, indulge in incredible cuisine made with the finest ingredients, and relish in some of the finest service available at sea, then embarking on an ultra-luxury cruise aboard a small ship is something you should definitely consider.
With voyages on these unique vessels whisking you away to popular ports in some of the most stunning destinations around the world – alongside smaller ports you just won’t find on the itineraries available for larger cruise ships – an adventure unlike any other awaits aboard these remarkable ships.
But, what can you actually expect when you set sail aboard one of these smaller ultra-luxury ships? Well, if you’re new to cruising – or, you’re just someone who hasn’t really looked into ultra-luxurious getaways before – you’re in the right place; below, we’re going to run through some of the best luxury small cruise ships you can book onto with Iglu Cruise and give you a taste of what to expect onboard each one.
Contents:
- Crystal Serenity – Crystal Cruises
- SeaDream I – SeaDream Yacht Club
- Scenic Eclipse – Scenic
- Emerald Azzurra – Emerald Cruises
- Star Clipper – Star Clippers
- Star Breeze – Windstar Cruises
- Explora I – Explora Journeys
Crystal Serenity – Crystal Cruises
Refurbished in 2023, Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Serenity really is the epitome of opulent luxury and elegance at sea. With a guest capacity of just 740 passengers, being served by an impressive 655 crew – an industry-leading crew-to-guest ratio at that – every voyage aboard this remarkable vessel is certain to deliver the exceptional and attentive service Crystal Cruises promises.
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 Cruises 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 Cruises’ 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 luxury casino experience.
The Casino de Monte Carlo, a stunning stage show, and a Junior Penthouse Suite
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 Cruises’ fleet include: Crystal Symphony.
SeaDream I – SeaDream Yacht Club
As one of the most intimate ultra-luxury lines you can cruise 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 will really feel like you’re sailing on your own personal superyacht while onboard.
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.
Dinner al fresco, the Library, and the Top of the Yacht Bar
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.
Scenic Eclipse – Scenic
Raising the bar in almost every way when it comes to ultra-luxury cruising, a Scenic Eclipse cruise is an unforgettable adventure where elegance is in abundance. 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.
This ship is home to an impressive eight restaurants, with a combination of casual and decadent fine dining experiences delivering some of the finest foods and most delicious dishes available 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’s also two state-of-the-art Airbus H130-T2 helicopters and a custom-built submersible onboard.
A Verandah Suite, the Observation Lounge, and a Vitality Pool
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 on offer and set these voyages apart from others on offer.
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.
Emerald Azzurra – Emerald Cruises
A more intimately-sized small luxury ship than most, Emerald Azzurra really does come equipped with everything you could possibly need to enjoy a spectacular sailing to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations. With a capacity of just 100 guests, and 72 crew members attending to their every need with world-class service, each voyage aboard this sleek superyacht promises to be stress-free – meaning you can spend more time focusing on relaxing in the sunshine, refreshing yourself with sumptuous spa treatments, and having the holiday of a lifetime.
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 snorkeling 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.
The Observation Lounge, a Terrace Suite, and the Sky Bar with Sky Pool
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).
Star Clipper – Star Clippers
A unique ship that marries the sailing traditions of days gone with modern practices and technologies, a voyage aboard Star Clipper promises to be an experience unlike any other – but, one that still comes with all the sumptuous creature comforts and modern amenities other ultra-luxury ships offer. 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.
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 snorkeling 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.
Inside the Piano Bar, a Deluxe Deck Cabin, and the outside half of the Tropical Bar
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.
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.
Interestingly, even in the more elegant fine dining restaurants aboard, Star Breeze does not employ any sort of formal reservation system when it comes to the eateries available. 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.
Dinner al fresco at Candles, Cuardo 44 by Antony Sasso, and an Owner's Suite
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.
Explora I – Explora Journeys
Sailing since 2023, 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.
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 awaits.
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 onboard – and the available fitness classes – will help. Similarly, Explora Journeys hosts a wonderful selection of masterclasses – from mixology sessions to immersive experiences with the onboard musicians.
The Astern Pool, Sakura, and the Journeys Lounge
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).
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