Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Founded in 2007 as a subsidiary of Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Cruises has four small cruise ships: the Azamara Quest, the Azamara Journey, the Azamara Pursuit, and the newest ship, the Azamara Onward. Fine service, luxurious suites with butler service, speciality restaurants and destination specialists are just some of the many features of Azamara Cruises.
A nice touch are the AzAmazing Evening excursions, which are discoveries and experiences that continue into the evening and are often the highlight of the cruise, but the special land packages are also much liked. These 3 to 6-day programmes usually include transfers, and excursions led by local experts such as geologists, naturalists, sommeliers, astronomers, and wildlife trackers. They are carefully curated programmes for small groups averaging 12 to 18 guests, with stays in five-star hotels, castles, boutique hotels, and luxury lodges in the world's most breathtaking locations.
Azamara offers cruises to the North Sea, Baltic Sea, British Isles, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Central and South America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The 11-day cruises from Cape Town can be extended with 5-day land programmes to the Kruger Park, Victoria Falls, Kenya, and the Cape Winelands.
The newest ship in Azamara's fleet is the Azamara Pursuit, which, like its sister ships the Azamara Quest and the Azamara Journey, takes luxury and comfort to a high level. Because of the ship's not too large size, it is possible for the Azamara Pursuit to sail to extra special destinations.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Whoever says Celestyal immediately says Greece. This Greek shipping company is therefore completely at home in Hellas and continues the well-known Greek hospitality on board their ships. What is very appealing is that you can choose from 4-, 5- and 8-day cruises. They offer two formulas. The Inclusive formula includes the cruise with full board, drinks during meals, and €75 excursion credit per person. The Enhance formula includes the cruise with full board, a premium drinks package, 150 € excursion credit per person, Wi-Fi, and 25% discount on speciality restaurants.
The Eastern Mediterranean captures everyone's imagination wonderfully, and if you're travelling solo, you'll have even more time to admire its boundless natural beauty, enchanting historical setting and wealth of opulent architecture. Celestyal's ships are ideal for individual travellers due to their reduced size. With a full programme of entertainment and amenities on board, you are in control of your own freedom, but there are also special family and culinary cruises. Experience the ultimate pilgrimage on the 7-day "Steps of Paul" cruise, in search of traces of this famous apostle.
In September 2023, Celestyal took delivery of the Celestyal Journey, a 1994 ship that they bought and completely adapted to today's standards of comfort and luxury. Deck 11, for instance, is dedicated to the Greek tradition of wellness with a gym, jogging track, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. Aperotime and post-dinner indulgence can be enjoyed at one of the eight bars, and there is plenty of choice for dining, with each of the seven restaurants promising to tantalise your taste buds to the full.
Celestyal announces the arrival of the Celestyal Discovery in its fleet. This ship, which was acquired from Aida, underwent a multi-million Euro refurbishment programme over the winter months to offer fantastic programmes in March 2024.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
The Compagnie Française de Croisières was founded by Clément Mousset and Cédric Rivoire-Perrochat, who carry a wealth of professional experience in the French cruise industry.
This shipping company offers voyages with itineraries ranging from 7 to 15 days, departing from Marseille, Le Havre and Bordeaux. CFC is a fine project committed to offering its passengers authentic, traditional cruises on ships designed to maximise the exceptional service from its French-speaking crew.
You can discover Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, and Madeira in a totally new way, and this from French ports aboard their first ship, Renaissance. This ship, acquired from Holland America Line, was completely renovated and given a fresh and contemporary CFC livery in a combination of luxury and comfort. The Renaissance sails under the French flag and offers its premium customers spacious and elegant staterooms, with everything you need for a dream cruise, plus sublime public areas.
You can relax with a drink in one of Renaissance's many bars, or unwind in the ship's relaxation and wellness areas. Culinary indulgences can be expected in the general restaurant 'Vatel', the buffet restaurant 'Belle-Île' and the two speciality restaurants (grill and Asian). Moreover, Renaissance's crew is highly qualified and will go out of their way to give you a first-class experience on board. Whether you choose an indoor, outdoor or balcony cabin or a suite, you are sure to have an unforgettable time.
Everywhere on the ship, you will be assisted in French and all announcements are also exclusively in French. As such, this shipping company is a great alternative for customers who are less comfortable with the English language.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Explora Journeys is MSC Group's new luxury lifestyle all-inclusive cruise brand and will offer a wide range of immersive itineraries with six elegant 'State of the Art' ships. With 18 culinary experiences (including six restaurants and twelve bars and lounges), four pools, whirlpools, indoor and outdoor spa and attentive personal service, Explora Journeys effortlessly meets the needs and expectations of the most discerning cosmopolitan traveller. The six ships, with 461 suites each, all with a terrace, are powered by sustainable and eco-friendly technology.
Pure luxury, redefined, is how Explora Journeys describes itself. And this manifests itself in the impressively large suites, in the architectural gems of restaurants, as well as in the culinary delights, and the incredible wellness and fitness experiences, both on board, and ashore. This is because the Explora wellness experiences can also be continued ashore upon request, and then there are the personalised fitness suggestions. As many as four of the six restaurants allow for delicious outdoor dining, which is unprecedented. The Explora discovery voyages are characterised by non-conventional arrival and departure times, combined with overnight stays in selected ports to allow each guest to fully enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Explora Journeys deliberately opts for sea days during their itineraries to give guests quiet time to reflect on the amazing destinations visited. In short, this is a superbly crafted combination of discovery, inspiration and relaxation. In other words, time is of no importance once you board the Explora ships.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
With the MS EUROPA2, the German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has a winner on its hands, as this ship has already been awarded best cruise ship on several occasions. The MS EUROPA2 stands for luxurious cruising in spacious, tasteful and trendy suites, and a choice of high-level speciality restaurants. It is aimed at international customers, while the MS EUROPA focuses more on German-speaking customers.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises created high expectations, with the promise of a yacht and the serenity of a small resort that was to be the EUROPA 2, where you can enjoy the highest level of casual luxury with up to 500 guests. And that promise was completely fulfilled.
With an eye for detail, the chefs at the EUROPA 2 are constantly opening up new culinary horizons. They offer a fine selection of artfully presented dishes, also for vegetarian gourmets. Enjoy modern creations or timeless classics with flexible meal times and no fixed seating in one of the seven gourmet restaurants.
Families are warmly welcome on board. Unique, for example, is the guaranteed care for children from 2 years old. Trained specialists ensure that your child will not be bored for a moment during an exciting day. The Knopf Club offers fantastic entertainment for children aged 2 to 3. The Kids' Club takes children aged 4 to 10 on a journey of discovery, while older children aged 11 to 15 can go their own way in the Teens' Club.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Nicko Cruises offers surprise sea cruises aboard the Vasco da Gama. Five restaurants, seven bars and lounges, multiple pools, attentive service, a personal atmosphere and first-class entertainment are just some of the highlights. Thanks to the retractable glass roof, the pool on the Lido Deck can be used all year round, regardless of weather conditions.
To get to know the most fascinating places on earth, you have to give yourself plenty of time. At Nicko Cruises, they do not make it a race to see as much as possible during a single voyage, with no tight and hectic schedules; there is time to fully enjoy heavenly journeys and unique experiences. That is why this shipping company subscribes to the philosophy of 'slow cruising', so you can explore the world aboard a small and intimate cruise ship, with plenty of space, plenty of rest, and plenty of time for yourself.
An original itinerary is definitely the Canary Island hopping, where you visit Gran Canaria, La Gomera, Lanzarote, La Palma, and Tenerife. A great trip planned for 2025. But the Caribbean, South America, the British Isles, Northern Europe, and the Mediterranean are also on offer.
Do you know how it feels to watch the dolphins gracefully dive in and out of the water from your cruise ship? Have you ever sat in the front row as the sun slowly sinks into the sea and the water is bathed in beautiful colours? Or had the chance to enjoy all the different smells of ports around the world? There are endless precious moments like these! All wonders in themselves, Nicko Cruises takes you to all these fascinating places, and you have all the time to discover them on the Nicko world cruise.
On board the Vasco da Gama, you will see the world in a way that most people will never experience. In the spirit of its namesake, the Portuguese explorer, the ship sets sail for new destinations where the name alone says enough to make your travel heart beat faster: Marrakech, the Namib desert, Mauritius, La Réunion, the Maldives, the Taj Mahal, the temple of Angkor Wat, the Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock, Tasmania, Bora Bora, the Panama Canal, and much more.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Founded in 2002, Oceania Cruises regards gastronomy as a top priority. For this reason, it is also described as 'The Finest Cuisine at Sea', and is, in short, the perfect choice for foodies. Its seven medium-sized luxury ships call at more than 450 smaller ports all over the world. In addition, this shipping company is also known for its epic "Around the World" cruises and "Grand Voyages". The atmosphere on board can best be described as that of a luxury country club, with outstanding service, timeless elegance, soothing colours, and a fantastic range of speciality restaurants playing the leading role. It all comes across as refreshing, casual and friendly, making you feel as if you are in your own private country club, where everyone knows your name and preferences.
Oceania's OLife Choice is a package with extra pampering available on all cruises and for all cabin types, where you can choose between complimentary excursions, complimentary drinks package, or board credit. On top of that, you'll enjoy free internet on board.
Vista is Oceania's new Allura class ship with stunning interiors and harmonious spaces that reflect a fresh and new perspective inspired by land and sea elements. Spacious suites, all with veranda, exude luxurious residential style, with extra-large rain showers and plenty of storage space. New on the Vista is a category of veranda cabins designed specifically for solo travellers.
The Vista can also be called innovative in terms of gastronomy, including Ember, the trendy restaurant serving American classics with a contemporary twist. Among Oceania Cruises' vegan options, the Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar is definitely a must, located on the pool deck, next to the Waves Grill and serving raw, cold-pressed juices and vegan smoothies.
With the simply MORE package, you can enjoy many included services, such as the drinks package, which includes all soft drinks, champagne, wine and beer, as well as unlimited Wi-Fi, access to the speciality restaurants, and excursion credit. The amount of credit for your excursions depends on the duration of the cruise.
The next Allura-class ship is expected in 2025 and will be christened 'Allura'. Oceania Cruises is the official BENELUX partner of the prestigious Gault&Millau guide. With this endorsement, Oceania Cruises underlines the importance of a high-quality culinary experience.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers its guests an unrivalled cruise experience, with truly every luxury included. The shipping company's spacious and stylish ships, the Seven Seas Explorer, the Seven Seas Mariner, the Seven Seas Navigator, the Seven Seas Voyager, the Seven Seas Splendor and the newest ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur, carry no more than 750 guests and make up the world's most luxurious fleet.
You have to have experienced it to understand it. Indeed, every luxury imaginable is included, making it safe to say that this shipping company has taken the all-inclusive concept to the next level. Excursions are offered to you free of charge and without limit; whether active or relaxing, full or half-day, unaccompanied or accompanied, there is always an excursion that meets your expectations. Dining on board Regent ships is a true culinary delight, whether in one of the exquisite speciality restaurants or the general restaurant, Compass Rose, where a multitude of choices and unprecedented flexibility will delight even the most discerning passenger.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises often launches promotions for solo travellers and families. It also works hard to have a positive impact on society and the environment through the company's global sustainability program.
The Seven Seas Grandeur is a stunning example of Regent's heritage of striving for ultimate perfection. Luxurious suites, a huge sense of space, and unparalleled service are enhanced by reinventing Michelin-level fine dining with new dishes and a redesign of the setting, not only in the main restaurant but also in the speciality restaurants. The romance of train journeys and the first great American steakhouses are brought to life in the ever-sophisticated Prime 7, the chic style of 1920s Paris is embodied in the Chartreuse Restaurant, and Sette Mari superbly reflects the elegant style of the Amalfi Coast.
Inspired by the past and stunningly redesigned for the future, the Seven Seas Grandeur welcomes you to a luxurious oasis that offers the perfect balance of luxury and comfort, from the space and warmth of the Veranda Suite to the unparalleled opulence of the Regent Suite. Personal butlers and suite attendants ensure that all your needs are met.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Cruising on a boutique ship sounds like music to your ears, doesn't it? Well, Seabourn makes this a reality with its intimate ultra-luxury ships that sail to every corner of the world, where elegance, sheer luxury, personalised service and scrumptious cuisine play the starring role. If you prefer to dine in your suite, room service ensures flawless service. By the way, upon simple request, you will be served caviar and champagne in your suite in an eye-catching table setting.
Seabourn is a member of Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world's most prestigious gastronomic associations dedicated to the art of refined culinary enjoyment. Seabourn ships feature multiple restaurants, with choices from relaxed poolside lunches to gourmet dining. Seabourn said farewell to the culinary concept around Thomas Keller and launches 'Solis', its newest fine dining restaurant, focusing on contemporary Mediterranean cuisine and a contemporary approach inspired by the surprising destinations visited by Seabourn's ultra-luxury ships. Solis was introduced on Seabourn Quest in early 2024 and will be gradually rolled out on all other ships by spring 2024.
At Solis, every dish is a snapshot of sun-drenched beaches, azure seas, volcanic hills, green valleys, colourful houses, and architectural gems - in short, a Seabourn moment, pure and simple. Solis offers 143 dishes, 14 savoury standard dishes, 91 savoury dishes in 7-day rotation (day 13), 35 dessert dishes in 7-day rotation (day 5) and 3 standard dessert dishes.
Integrating physical, social, environmental and spiritual well-being, the Dr Andrew Weil Spa & Wellness programme is the very first of its kind at sea. The range of excursions is large and very varied, which is why Seabourn has divided them into seven categories or 'Collections'. Based on your interests and expectations, this already makes your choice of activities a lot easier.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
Silversea offers ultra-luxurious cruises to all parts of the world with small-scale, classically styled luxury cruise ships. Almost impeccable service, butler service in every suite, 24/24 room service, refined gastronomy, and high-end sleeping comfort play the leading role here. Handy to know is that excursions are included. Recently, Silversea launched its door-to-door all-inclusive concept, where the price also includes all transfers and flights. This shipping company also does its best to spoil solo travellers with special offers.
Gastronomy and service are truly an absolute priority, and in every restaurant on board Silversea's ships the dishes reflect reverence for Italian heritage on the one hand, and a contemporary interpretation of it on the other. On all recent ships in the Silversea fleet, S.A.L.T., which stands for Sea and Land Taste programme, has been introduced.
The Silver Nova was launched in summer 2023, making it the twelfth ship in the Silversea fleet. Its innovative asymmetrical design lets you see the world like never before and offers an immersive destination experience. Moreover, the Silver Nova is the most eco-friendly ship and thanks to its pioneering technological solutions, it has ushered in a new era of sustainable travel for Silversea. It is the 'Nova' way of travelling.
From the summer of 2024, the Silver Ray will be added as the second ship in the Nova class. The Silver Ray reflects every aspect of her sister ship, the Silver Nova, including an extraordinary use of glass in both public areas and the suite for uninterrupted views wherever you are! Moreover, the Silver Ray is one of the most spacious ships ever built, with an exceptionally high space-to-guest ratio, yet agile enough to offer purity in motion.
Small-scale cruise ships (< 1.500 passengers)
In 2015, Viking introduced its first ocean liner, with room for 930 passengers. This was quickly followed by nine more ships, all with a capacity of 930 passengers also. They are environmentally friendly in design, with energy-efficient hull, propeller and rudder arrangements, and engines with heat recovery systems.
As a result, the ships achieve the best Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) in their class, exceeding International Maritime Organisation (IMO) requirements by almost 20 per cent.
The Viking Saturn is the latest ship, with 465 staterooms decorated in calm and tasteful tones. Do not expect noisy nightclubs or flashy casinos, as Viking represents a more cultural approach to cruising, and this is reflected in everything from the daily programme offerings to the evening entertainment. The two main dining options are The Restaurant, Viking's equivalent of the general restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, and the more casual World Cafe, where, as the name suggests, dishes from around the world are served buffet-style. The second speciality restaurant is Manfredi's, serving Italian dishes. The Pool Grill serves burgers, fries, and other poolside grills.
