At first glance, it might seem that small ship cruising can't compete with the large, amenity-filled cruise lines. But, rather than focusing on what small ships cruises don't have, consider what they do have – superior levels of personalized service, superb cuisine, and a spacious, yet intimate atmosphere. Most importantly, by sailing on a small ship you can cruise waterways and passages that reach intriguing destinations inaccessible to a larger ship.

Galapagos Family Holiday 2008
Quito, Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands
Ship: MV Eclipse
Abercrombie & Kent

Luxury tour operator, Abercrombie & Kent's MV Eclipse is the perfect size for an expeditionary cruise to the Galapagos. Boasting the feel of a larger ship, the Eclipse hosts just 48 guests in 27 spacious cabins, all with ocean views, air conditioning, and a naturalist-guide for every 12-16 guests. The small size of this ship allows for a much more up-close-and-personal experience of the remote bays and exotic wildlife of the islands. The Eclipse is certified by the Rainforest Alliance as being eco-friendly and socially responsible. So enjoy the rocky beaches and volcanic landscapes with sleeping sea lions, exotic sea birds, sea turtles and much more! Learn More.

Journey into the Past: A Voyage to the Greek Islands and Southern Turkey
13-Night Cruise
Ship: Callisto
Travel Dynamics International

Experts in small ship cruising since 1969, Travel Dynamics International offers an extraordinary cruise of the Greek Isles and Turkey's turquoise coast. Sailing from Athens to Istanbul on the 34-pasenger Callisto is akin to cruising on your own private yacht. Amenities include satellite TV, marble bathrooms and 24-hour room service. In addition to the historic sites, you'll enjoy intimate inlets and remote beaches accessible only to a ship this size. Learn More.

In the Land of the Long White Clouds
From Hobart to Lyttelton, New Zealand
19-day Cruise
Ship: MS Bremen
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

The small German cruise line, Hapag-Lloyd, specializes in unique small ship cruising around the world. Sailing in December of 2008, the 164 guests onboard the MS Bremen will experience the land of unlimited contrasts, New Zealand. Small group excursions provide the adventurous explorers glimpses of New Zealand's remarkable flora and fauna in the shadow of snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes and amazing fjords. Ports of call include Picton, Queen Charlotte Sound, Tauranga, Auckland, Christchurch and more. Learn More.

© 2008 Luxury Cruise News, published by Thomas, Townsend & Kent. All rights reserved.

Thomas, Townsend & Kent, www.thomastownsendandkent.com