m/s Paul Gauguin at anchor in French Polynesia
WHAT IS SMALL SHIP CRUISING?
Small Ship cruising has emerged as the most popular trend in travel today. It’s a way to enjoy travel “up close,” with the ability to visit smaller, less “touristy” ports of call and to sail into bays and channels closed to giant ocean liners. Vantage Deluxe World Travel’s Small Ship cruises are rapidly growing in popularity.
HOW IS A SMALL SHIP DEFINED?
A small ship is a vessel with a capacity of 400 passengers or less. This category is broad, including small ocean liners (such as Vantage’s award-winning M/S Paul Gauguin, “the best small ship in the world”), river ships, yachts, clipper ships under sail, expedition vessels, and even paddle wheelers.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SMALL SHIP CRUISING?
Small ships can navigate harbors and ports where larger ships simply cannot go. Further, small ships can often dock right in the center of things, rather than anchor at an industrial pier far from city centers and attractions.
When embarking a small ship cruise, you unpack at arrival and settle into your cabin. You can relax and forget about the tiresome details of travel, such as putting your baggage out in the morning, or worrisome transfer schedules and long bus rides to the next destination. You are free to enjoy your cruise in a relaxing, take-it-easy style while travelling from port to port.
A congenial atmosphere surrounds you from the moment you step on board. Aboard
a small vessel, you’ll get to know your shipmates, and crew, quickly and easily. The atmosphere is friendly and casual, making it conducive to good times and forming lasting friendships. Plus, the smaller size of the whole ship’s operation means that you’ll get more personalized, attentive service.
