Sailing aboard a small luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean is an unparalleled experience. I love small-ship cruising for its intimacy and personalized service—something larger ships simply can’t offer.
Luxury Caribbean cruise itineraries feature charming, lesser-known ports, secluded beaches, and unique shore excursions. With the world’s best beaches, a laid-back island culture, and vibrant marine life, a luxury small ship cruise is the perfect way to enjoy the Caribbean.
What’s it like taking a small-ship cruise in the Caribbean? What can you expect regarding service, dining options, and onboard activities? I will take you on a journey of discovery to uncover the fascinating experiences awaiting you on a small luxury cruise ship with stops in the most stunning Caribbean islands.
What is a Small Luxury Cruise Ship?
A small luxury cruise ship typically accommodates between 50 and 300 passengers. Compared to larger cruise ships, they offer an intimate and personalized experience. On board, the boat layout and staff create the feeling of living in an upscale, boutique-like hotel rather than a commercialized large resort. You can enjoy high-end amenities and exceptional service.
Why Choose a Small Cruise Ship for a Luxury Caribbean Cruise
Cruising the Caribbean Sea on a small luxury cruise ship has many advantages. The higher crew-to-guest ratio results in more intimate, personalized service. Imagine entering a plush restaurant offering top notch cuisine, and the crew member greets you by name and remembers your preferences—this level of service transforms the entire experience.
Travelers often highlight the access to smaller, less-traveled ports and secluded bays as a huge benefit. Instead of disembarking along with thousands of passengers from several large cruise ships, you arrive at off-the-beaten-track places and secluded destinations. This lets you experience a more authentic, relaxing, less crowded Caribbean experience.
Many stories tell of bad experiences aboard megaships. If you’ve traveled on a huge cruise ship, you know about long buffet lines, scrambling for sun loungers, and waiting over an hour to get from ship to shore on a tender boat. But not so with small-ship Caribbean cruising.
Small ship cruise lines can stop off at intimate ports on idyllic islands like Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, the Windward Islands, and the Tobago Cays. This allows you to experience the Caribbean at its best.
Features of Small Luxury Cruise Ships
Remember that small luxury cruise ships don’t mean limited amenities, compact rooms, or a lack of activities. These ships focus on providing opulent experiences for all passengers. You can anticipate spacious suites, gourmet dining options, wellness centers, and lavish amenities. Expect plush bedding, elegant furnishings, and stunning ocean views—sometimes from a spacious private balcony.
I’ve found that many small ships cruising in the Caribbean often feature water sports platforms, infinity pools, and luxurious lounges. These create a superior, unmatched cruising experience compared to larger cruise ships. The atmosphere on small luxury cruise ships is more relaxed and sophisticated, providing a peaceful retreat emphasizing comfort and elegance.
Top Small Luxury Cruise Ships For the Caribbean
Choosing a small luxury ship offers a unique and intimate Caribbean cruising experience. Picture being on a cruise with stops at secluded islands, where the crystal-clear Caribbean waters invite you to explore their hidden treasures. On these select voyages, the higher crew-to-passenger ratio ensures personalized service, making every moment memorable.
Do you want to learn about smaller, less-traveled Caribbean ports to discover the true essence of these paradise islands? Are you yearning to enjoy sleepy island time far from crowded tourist spots where you can enjoy a tranquil, luxurious retreat? Please continue reading to learn about the best luxury small-ship Caribbean cruises.
SeaDream Yacht Club
Frequent cruisers mention that SeaDream Yacht Club offers a standout intimate yachting experience in luxury cruising, with exceptional service and gourmet dining. Sailing aboard their two luxury yachts provides an atmosphere of exclusivity and personalized service.
Many guests have shared that SeaDream’s small, luxurious ships allow access to unique Caribbean ports in the British Virgin Islands, the Leeward Islands, the Windward Islands, and the Grenadines. These destinations include lesser-known gems such as Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, St. Kitts, Nevis, Bequia, and Tobago Cays.
With up to 112 passengers on board, you’ll have a relaxing, stress-free time. On board, you can enjoy spacious suites and staterooms, luxury amenities, and 24-hour room service with an all-inclusive menu. Stopping off at St. Barts, Virgin Gorda, Bridgetown, and Cruz Bay, you can enjoy water sports directly from the yacht’s marina.
SeaDream I and SeaDream II
SeaDream I and II epitomize the luxurious yachting experience of SeaDream Yacht Club. This elegant ship features stylishly decorated staterooms and exceptional dining options, including an air-conditioned restaurant and al fresco dining. The intimate size of two luxury yachts ensures you receive personalized attention daily.
The yachts also have kayaks, paddleboards, Laser sailboats, and jet skis.
- Passenger capacity: 112
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Approximately 1.2:1
- Cabins: Luxuriously appointed staterooms and suites, luxury bath robes, high-class bath amenities, and a coffee machine
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, Balinese Dream Beds, an onboard marina, spa services, and an elegant yet casual ambiance
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and small groups seeking an intimate and luxurious yachting experience
Windstar Cruises
Fancy sailing the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea on a tall ship offering an intimate experience with the amenities of a cruise ship? Windstar has three tall sailing ships and three luxury yachts in its fleet. These travel to most Eastern and Southern Caribbean islands, including the ABC islands, Puerto Rico, Grenada, and Tobago.
The small size of the sailing ships and luxury yachts means you can visit lesser-known ports. You can enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean without the commotion of thousands of cruise ship passengers descending on a small island. Windstar offers its guests the comforts of home on a luxury ship. The boats have a marina, an open deck policy, and sumptuous dining venues.
Wind Spirit
Wind Spirit is a stunning sailing yacht for Caribbean cruises that embodies the Windstar experience. With its billowing sails and sleek design, the ship offers a perfect blend of adventure and luxury. On board, you can enjoy beautifully appointed staterooms, world-class dining, a spa, and various water sports.
The intimate atmosphere and attentive service make Wind Spirit ideal for exploring the Caribbean. The crew’s personalized service ensures every moment is memorable.
- Passenger capacity: 148
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.46:1
- Cabins: Elegant staterooms with ocean views, fresh fruit, L’Occitane bath amenities, robes and slippers
- Luxury features: Open bridge policy, gourmet dining, water sports platform, and a casual, relaxed atmosphere
- Best for: Adventure seekers, couples, and sailing enthusiasts looking for a luxurious and unique cruising experience
Star Breeze, Star Legend, Star Pride
The three superyachts in the Windstar fleet offer an elegant cruising experience sailing the Caribbean and Bahama waters. The all-suite ships have spacious accommodations, multiple dining venues, and a variety of opulent amenities designed for comfort and relaxation.
You’ll experience an unforgettable voyage as you berth in hidden gems like San Juan, St. Lucia, Willemstad, Man of War Bay, and Philipsburg.
- Passenger capacity: 312
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.5:1
- Cabins: Spacious suites with modern amenities, queen-size beds, WiFi (extra charge), fresh fruit, and fully stocked minibar
- Luxury features: World-class dining, expansive deck space, a watersports platform, luxurious lounges, infinity pool
- Best for: Travelers seeking a blend of luxury and adventure with personalized service and access to exclusive destinations
Swan Hellenic
Swan Hellenic has a fleet of three expedition ships. Its itineraries in remote locations blend luxury with deep cultural immersion. The line’s small ships dock at small ports in the Southern Caribbean, such as Gustavia, Deshaies, Bridgetown, Mayreau, and Soufriere.
In the Caribbean, Swan Hellenic offers a mix of tropical beauty and rich cultural heritage, ensuring an enriching and relaxing voyage. Exceptional service, elegant accommodations, and various enriching activities and lectures characterize the onboard experience.
The atmosphere aboard a Swan Hellenic cruise is refined and adventurous, appealing to those who seek relaxation and a deeper understanding of the destinations they visit. The ships offer luxurious amenities, spacious suites, and gourmet dining, all designed to enhance the overall travel experience. Whether exploring remote islands or vibrant coastal cities, passengers can expect a journey of discovery and comfort.
SH Vega
SH Vega offers an exceptional expedition cruising experience focusing on luxury and cultural immersion. This elegant ship features beautifully appointed staterooms, gourmet dining options, and a range of amenities designed to provide comfort and sophistication. The small ship can access exclusive ports and offer unique shore excursions, making each voyage a memorable adventure.
- Passenger capacity: 152
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.5:1
- Cabins: Luxuriously appointed staterooms and suites
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, spacious lounges, a well-equipped fitness center, and enriching onboard lectures and activities
- Best for: Cultural enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and travelers looking for a luxurious yet educational cruising experience
Emerald Cruises
Emerald Cruises offers a luxurious yachting experience around the Grenadines, Windward Islands, and St. Barts. The ships in their fleet—Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra—are excellent choices for island hopping to immerse yourself in Caribbean culture. The Emerald cruise experience means exploring secluded beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and charming coastal towns without throngs of cruise passengers.
During my research and conversations with fellow cruisers, many praised the intimate and personalized service on these small yachts. Imagine lying on the sundeck soaking up the Caribbean sun while marveling at crystal clear waters. The luxury yachting experience is ideal if you appreciate relaxation and adventure in opulent settings. Each small cruise yacht offers high-quality service, gourmet dining, and exceptional accommodations.
The small size of the yachts allows access to lesser-known ports like Tobago Cays, Union Island, Bequia Island, Cades Bay, Soufriere, and Bridgetown. On board, guests enjoy a range of relaxing activities, from water sports to spa treatments, all while surrounded by stunning Caribbean scenery.
Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra
Both small luxury cruise ships offer stylish staterooms, a fine-dining restaurant, La Cucina, and the Amici Bar & Lounge. From my research, the staterooms offer a private yacht experience with ocean views and comfortable queen-size beds. You can also spend time in the impressive Elements Spa, which has a fitness room that is open 24/7.
- Passenger capacity: 100
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.47:1
- Cabins: Modern and elegantly designed staterooms and suites
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, infinity pool, wellness center, marina platform for water sports, kayaks, snorkeling equipment, electric bikes for onshore activities, and spacious lounges
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and small groups seeking an intimate and luxurious yachting experience with personalized service and possibilities to visit smaller ports
Lindblad Expeditions
Lindblad Expeditions offers luxurious Caribbean voyages aboard the chartered tall ship, Sea Cloud. Sailing with Lindblad is a truly immersive experience, blending the elegance of a bygone era with the thrill of modern-day exploration. The itineraries feature idyllic destinations like Guna Yala, St. Lucia, and Fort Shirley, where guests can explore lush rainforests, colonial outposts, and vibrant coral reefs.
The ambiance on Lindblad’s chartered Sea Cloud is unmatched, transporting guests back to an era when tall ships ruled the seas. The teak sun decks are perfect for relaxation, and the dining experiences are nothing short of gourmet, often featuring locally sourced ingredients. Watching the crew expertly set the sails is a testament to their dedication and skill. The ship’s cabins, including former maritime officers’ quarters, have been masterfully restored, preserving their historical charm.
With a focus on exploration and discovery, Lindblad’s cruises offer a variety of activities, from vibrant coral reef snorkeling to exploring historic sites. The intimate setting of the Sea Cloud ensures personalized service, making every journey memorable. The blend of luxury and adventure is perfectly balanced, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Sea Cloud
The Sea Cloud, owned by Sea Cloud Cruises and chartered by Lindblad for select voyages, is a stunning four-masted tall ship that combines the romance of traditional sailing with modern luxury. The ship features 30 beautifully restored staterooms with antique and period-style furniture, gold faucets, and marble fireplaces. Its intimate, luxurious atmosphere and personalized service make the Sea Cloud perfect for exploring secluded ports and stunning landscapes in the Caribbean.
- Passenger capacity: 58
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: Luxuriously appointed staterooms and suites with a minibar, safe, and gold-plated fixtures
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, teak Lido decks, elegant lounges, and an onboard library
- Best for: History enthusiasts, sailing enthusiasts, and luxury travelers seeking a unique and intimate cruising experience
National Geographic Quest
The National Geographic Quest was purpose-built to explore remote locations. In winter, it navigates the South Caribbean and Panama shores, offering cruises featuring jungle expeditions, kayaking in Costa Rica, and traversing the Panama Canal. The expedition ship features luxurious amenities and expert-led activities.
The ship has spacious cabins, multiple dining venues, and state-of-the-art exploration tools. It also has Zodiacs for exploration and decks offering unparalleled ocean views. In winter, it’s located in the Caribbean and Central America. The trip through the Panama Canal is a highlight of one of their Southern Caribbean cruises.
- Passenger capacity: 100
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 3:1
- Cabins: Spacious and modern staterooms with large windows and private bathrooms
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, onboard wellness center, open-air observation deck, and dedicated exploration equipment like Zodiacs and kayaks
- Best for: Adventurous travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking an immersive and educational travel experience
Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours
Travelers frequently describe cruising the Caribbean in unparalleled luxury aboard Scenic Luxury Cruises ships, highlighting the all-inclusive service and exclusive excursions.
Although built for polar exploration, the discovery yacht Scenic Eclipse sails to the Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, and the Grenadines in winter. With just 228 passengers, you will enjoy a blend of luxury, adventure, and privacy.
Scenic’s small ships can access exclusive ports and hidden gems in the Caribbean where larger vessels cannot dock. The Scenic Eclipse berths alongside superyachts in secluded harbors. From what I’ve gathered, relaxing on board offers a mix of cultural enrichment and adventure. The Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours fleet provides a variety of amenities and activities to ensure a luxurious and memorable experience.
The onboard experience with Scenic is incredible. Suites are spacious and equipped with every luxury amenity you could imagine. You can escape to the Senses Spa, relax in one of the nine bars, or enjoy gourmet dining. Then, spend your evenings enjoying the state-of-the-art theater or lounging in one of the six private cabanas.
Scenic Eclipse
Scenic Eclipse redefines luxury cruising with its sleek design and state-of-the-art amenities. The all-suite ship offers an all-inclusive experience, with every large stateroom having a private balcony. Its small size allows it to navigate secluded Caribbean ports, providing guests with unique and immersive experiences.
- Passenger capacity: 228
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: Luxurious suites with private verandas and modern amenities
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining at Chef’s Garden Epicure, the luxurious Senses Spa, an onboard helicopter and submarine for unique excursions, and spacious lounges and sun decks
- Best for: Luxury travelers, adventure seekers, and those looking for an all-inclusive, personalized cruising experience
Seabourn Cruise Line
Seabourn Cruise Line has several small cruise ships sailing the Caribbean. The smaller vessels, like the Seabourn Venture, have access to exclusive ports alongside superyachts. Some of their adventure cruises start in St. John’s, Newfoundland, or Miami and visit several of the most idyllic islands and cays in the Lesser Antilles and Virgin Islands.
One of the most spectacular luxury cruises Seabourn offers is following the Atlantic whale migration from Canada to Puerto Rico, BVI, St. Kitts and Nevis, Martinique, and Barbados. You can also enjoy a 24-day adventure traveling from Canada to the Caribbean and Manaus in the Amazon Basin. Other Caribbean cruises on the small luxury cruise ships include island hopping in the Lesser Antilles.
Seabourn Venture
Seabourn Venture provides the adventure of a lifetime with its exploration cruises in the Caribbean. This ultra-luxury expedition ship offers an immersive yacht-like atmosphere. And with only 264 passengers, you’ll feel like you’re on a private yacht with friends. Its advanced technology and luxurious amenities offer an unparalleled cruising experience in the Caribbean.
- Passenger capacity: 264
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: Spacious, elegantly designed suites with modern amenities and private verandas
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, a world-class spa, expedition team, kayaks, Zodiacs, submarines for underwater exploration, and spacious public areas
- Best for: Adventure seekers, luxury travelers, and those looking for an immersive and personalized cruising experience with a focus on exploration and longer voyages
Seabourn Quest, Odyssey, Sojourn
Seabourn also offers luxury Caribbean cruises in mid-sized cruise ships accommodating 450 passengers or more. Suites contain walk-in closets, a fully stocked minibar, a bathroom with tub and shower, and in-suite dining.
Stopping at secluded beaches, you can enjoy beach BBQs, watersports, and fine dining and get immersed in authentic Caribbean culture.
Star Clipper Cruises
Star Clippers is frequently mentioned for providing a unique sailing experience with their tall ships, combining the thrill of traditional sailing with modern luxury.
Sailing with Star Clipper Cruises in the Caribbean feels like stepping back in time while enjoying luxurious comforts. The moment you board, you get the romance of traditional tall ship sailing combined with contemporary amenities.
Like other luxury small cruise vessels, the sailing ships access smaller, secluded ports away from the megaships and overly-commercialized ports.
During this one-of-a-kind experience, you can climb the mast, enjoy luxurious dining options, or swim from the ship’s marina. Compared to other tall ship luxury cruise lines, the costs for Caribbean voyages on Star Clipper ships are some of the most affordable.
Royal Clipper
Sailing on the Royal Clipper is an unforgettable experience. It’s the largest and only five-masted, full-rigged sailing ship in the world, combining grandeur with the intimacy of a smaller vessel. Guests love exploring the spacious decks and cooling off in one of the three swimming pools. The marina platform allows for easy access to water sports, adding an extra layer of adventure to the trip.
- Passenger capacity: 227
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2:1
- Cabins: A range of luxurious cabins and staterooms, from inside cabins to super-deluxe owner’s suites with marble bathrooms and a separate sitting area
- Luxury features: Three swimming pools, a spa and wellness center, the unique Captain Nemo lounge, a marina platform for water sports, and gourmet dining options
- Best for: Sailing enthusiasts, couples, and travelers seeking a unique and luxurious sailing adventure
Star Flyer and Star Clipper
A voyage on the Star Clipper is an exhilarating sailing experience without compromising luxury. The ship feels spacious on board, and the deluxe cabins are well-appointed, with comfortable beds, a bathroom, and a minibar. The original features, like the Edwardian-style library, fireplace, bars, and nautical decor, add to the voyage’s charm.
- Passenger capacity: 170
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Approximately 2.3:1
- Cabins: Comfortable staterooms with nautical decor, and some staterooms have doors opening onto the deck.
- Luxury features: Two swimming pools, a tropical bar, a library, and a marina platform for water sports
- Best for: Adventure seekers, sailing enthusiasts, and those looking for an intimate and relaxed cruising experience
Hurtigruten Expeditions
Hurtigruten Expeditions offers unique cruises blending adventure and luxury. The Caribbean cruises stop at smaller ports, allowing passengers to explore paradise islands. Imagine snorkeling in pristine coral reefs, hiking up a volcano, or exploring lush rainforests. You can also visit less-traveled coastal towns. Itineraries provide a balance of active exploration and relaxing downtime.
Ports of call on luxury Caribbean cruise itineraries include Corn Island, Boca del Toro, Belize City, Acajutla, San Blas Islands, and Portsmouth (Dominica).
Cruising aboard MS Fram is a voyage that’s as enjoyable as the destinations. Although built for polar waters, it provides winter luxury expeditions in Eastern and Western Caribbean waters. Passengers enjoy the spacious observation lounge, spa and wellness center, Explorer Lounge & Bar, and tasty fine dining options.
MS Fram
Sailing aboard MS Fram offers a distinctive expedition experience. This ship is designed for sailing in polar regions but provides an exceptional journey through the warmer waters of the Caribbean and Central America. The vessel features state-of-the-art amenities and focuses on environmental sustainability, ensuring a comfortable and responsible voyage.
The ship also has a lecture science center for expeditions to learn about destinations.
- Passenger capacity: 318
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Approximately 4:1
- Cabins: Comfortable, modern staterooms and suites with large windows or private balconies
- Luxury features: Advanced expedition equipment, including kayaks and Zodiacs, a wellness center, an observation lounge, and fine dining options in the Lindstrøm or Aune restaurants
- Best for: Adventurous travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking an immersive and educational expedition cruise experience
Ponant
Ponant offers luxury Caribbean cruises in small ships that combine elegance, sophistication, and a spirit of adventure. The fleet of luxury cruise ships includes superyachts and tall sailing ships. These have access to secluded ports on some of the most beautiful islands in the French Antilles, the Grenadines, the Windward Islands, and the Dominican Republic. Highlights include Fort-de-France, Pointe-a-Pitre, and Marigot.
Ponant Caribbean cruise itineraries provide an immersive experience, visiting popular and less well-known destinations. Imagine sailing through crystal-clear waters, snorkeling in hidden coves, exploring vibrant coral reefs, and discovering colonial towns on an 8-day cruise.
The cruising experience aboard Ponant ships is exceptional. It’s an atmosphere of refined elegance, with beautifully designed cabins, gourmet dining, and top-notch amenities. Enjoy relaxing in the underwater lounge, kayaking from the ship’s platform, or having fun in the swimming pool with an outdoor bar.
With quality and a high standard of services, it’s no surprise that Ponant receives awards like Best Small Ship Line, #1 Expedition Ship Line, and Best Cruise Ships in the World 2023.
Le Ponant
Le Ponant is one of the finest sailing ships in the world for small cruises in the Caribbean. It offers 32 passengers an intimate, exclusive sailing experience. You can enjoy dining in the panoramic restaurant, chill out on the sundeck, or get pampered in the wellness space on the Alizés Deck.
As a luxury yacht, it accommodates a limited number of guests, ensuring personalized service and a serene atmosphere. The ship’s sleek design and attentive crew create an exceptional cruising environment. Its high-class staterooms have a minibar, Bose speakers, WiFi, and a coffee maker.
- Passenger capacity: 32
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: Luxurious staterooms with modern amenities
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, a spacious sun deck, saltwater swimming pool, kayaks, fishing equipment, lounge, and exterior bar
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and those seeking an intimate and exclusive yachting experience
Le Bellot and Le Champlain
Enjoy modern luxury and adventure on a voyage in the Le Bellot luxury or Le Champlain small ships. The cruising experience is fantastic with its unique Blue Eye underwater lounge, marina, spacious lounge, theater, and swimming pool.
Guests rave about the exquisite French cuisine with a modern twist at The Le Nautilus restaurant, featuring dishes crafted from the finest ingredients. The open-air grill restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu of freshly grilled specialties, highly recommended by food critics for its exceptional flavors and ambiance.
- Passenger capacity: 184
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.5:1
- Cabins: Stylish and spacious suites with private balconies and ocean views
- Luxury features: Infinity pool, state-of-the-art theater, gourmet dining, an onboard spa, and underwater lounge for 40 passengers
- Best for: Luxury travelers, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking for a modern and sophisticated cruising experience
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club redefines luxury cruising, focusing on personalized service, elegant design, and the most stunning Caribbean destinations. The secluded and lesser-known ports of call let you explore turquoise waters, relax on secluded beaches, and enjoy exclusive shore excursions. Back on board, you can enjoy the exceptional service and amenities of Ritz-Carlton.
The fleets of luxurious cruise ships bring the style of Ritz-Carlton hotels to the sea. Many spacious suites have private terraces, a whirlpool, champagne, and an outdoor dining table. Additionally, floor-to-ceiling windows give magnificent panoramic ocean views. Ships have several dining options, a spa, an outdoor pool, a fitness studio, and onboard entertainment.
A nice feature of sailing with Ritz-Carlton luxury yachts is their exclusive shore excursions. These pre-designed tours are exclusively for ship passengers and ensure you discover hidden gems in each destination.
Evrima
Sailing on Evrima lets you enjoy the epitome of luxury and elegance. This yacht offers an intimate cruising experience in a spacious and sophisticated environment. It has the amenities and features commonly found on larger ships, with the intimacy associated with small private yachts.
- Passenger capacity: 298
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Approximately 1.2:1
- Cabins: Luxurious suites with private terraces, high-end amenities, espresso machine, superfast WiFi, walk-in closet
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, infinity pool, full-service spa, marina platform for water sports, and personal concierge service
- Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, and those seeking an exclusive and refined cruising experience
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers luxurious and immersive oceanic voyages from North America or Europe to the Caribbean. Their smallest and most intimate cruise ships are in the Hanseatic range. This expedition class of ships travels to exclusive ports, offering unique and fun adventures in remote destinations. These excursions let you enjoy pristine beaches, vibrant cultures, and rich histories while experiencing the highest standards of service and comfort.
The Hanseatic Inspiration and Hanseatic Nature feature spacious open deck space, high passenger-to-crew ratios, and a team of experts on board. With only 230 passengers on board, you’ll always have plenty of space. After an onshore adventure, you can relax in your spacious suite and admire ocean views from your veranda. Or enjoy a gourmet experience in the top-notch restaurants.
Whether relaxing by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or exploring ashore, every moment is designed to be extraordinary.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises are the perfect choice to combine an ocean voyage with a Caribbean cruise. Small cruise routes depart from Halifax, Canada, or New York and travel to the Caribbean. Ports of call include St. John’s, Curacao, Bequia, Trinidad, The Panama Canal, and Nassau.
Hanseatic Inspiration and Hanseatic Nature
- Passenger capacity: 230
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Approximately 1:1
- Cabins: Modern, spacious suites with private balconies
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, wellness area, observation lounge, and expedition equipment like Zodiacs and kayaks
- Best for: Adventurous travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a luxurious expedition cruise
What to Expect on a Small Luxury Cruise Ship in the Caribbean
Travelers book small luxury cruise ships in the Caribbean to enjoy a more intimate and enjoyable experience. With between 50 and 300 guests, you expect a personalized, high level of service and visit more secluded, sleepy locations.
Here are some of the features you what you can expect:
Personalized Service: A higher crew-to-passenger ratio means an attentive and customized experience. Crew members quickly learn your preferences, ensuring an excellent experience throughout your voyage. You also get acquainted with other passengers in the relaxed atmosphere of secluded lounges.
Exclusive Ports of Call: Small ships can access lesser-known ports and secluded beaches that larger vessels cannot reach. This allows for unique itineraries, offering a mix of popular destinations and hidden gems. You also escape the thousands of passengers disembarking a large cruise ship simultaneously.
Luxurious Accommodations: Expect spacious suites, often with private balconies and high-end amenities. The decor is typically elegant and refined, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploration. Staterooms and suites have high-end amenities, a fully stocked minibar, and 24/7 personal service.
Gourmet Dining: Dining on small luxury ships is a highlight, with multiple gourmet dining options available. Chefs often use locally sourced ingredients to create exquisite meals, catering to various dietary preferences.
Wellness and Relaxation: Most luxury cruise ships in the Caribbean have superb wellness facilities. These typically offer spa treatments, fitness classes, and relaxation areas. You can unwind with a massage, enjoy a yoga session, or simply relax by the pool on the sundeck.
Water Sports and Exploration: Many small luxury ships feature a marina platform. This unique feature of small, luxury cruise ships allows direct access to the water for snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and, sometimes, jet skis. Therefore, you don’t have to go ashore to book watersports.
Small Cruise Ships for Caribbean Cruising: FAQs
What is the smallest cruise ship that Royal Caribbean has?
Royal Caribbean’s smallest cruise ship is the Grandeur of the Seas. It can accommodate 2,440 passengers and provides all the facilities you’d expect from a large-ship cruise line. However, it’s not suitable if you want the experience of a luxury small-ship Caribbean cruise with only a few hundred guests on board.
What is the average cost of a 7-day luxury Caribbean cruise?
The cost of a 7-day Caribbean cruise varies significantly based on the cruise line, ship, time of year, and type of cabin chosen. You should expect to pay between $3,000 and $10,000 per person for a week-long Caribbean cruise on a small luxury ship. This price typically includes accommodations, meals, onboard activities, and some onshore adventures.
When is the best month to book a luxury small ship Caribbean cruise?
The best time to book a luxury Caribbean cruise on a small ship is during the shoulder seasons, from April to June and September to early November. During these months, you can often find better deals and fewer crowds. However, if you prefer the best weather and are willing to pay a premium, December to March is the best time to cruise the Caribbean.
What should I pack for a small luxury Caribbean cruise?
When packing for a small luxury Caribbean cruise, bring light, breathable clothing for warm weather, swimwear, and casual and formal outfits. When relaxing on the deck or secluded beach, remember that sun protection—sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—is essential. Also, don’t forget a light jacket for cooler evenings, personal toiletries, and necessary medications.
Which small-ship cruise line is best for cruising the Caribbean?
The best small-ship cruise lines depend on what you want from the adventure. For example, SeaDream Yacht Club is known for its intimate yachting experience. However, Windstar Cruises has luxurious, tall sailing ships. Additionally, Ponant combines French elegance with adventure, and Seabourn ships have all-suite accommodations.
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