When you are looking to explore unique and intimate ports of call, look no further than small ship cruises. With under 600 passengers, ships are small enough to sail into areas that big ships can't even dream of. But don't be fooled - small ships offer big and unforgettable experiences. Here are eight destinations that have caught our attention. Photo courtesy of Star Clipper Cruises Similan Islands, Thailand Located in southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea, the Similan Islands is a group of islands that form a marine national park. The area is well know for top scuba and snorkeling spots in addition to its pristine beaches, where the only thing left behind are footprints. Photos courtesy of Sea Dream Bonifacio, Corsica, France On the south side of Corsica, Bonafacio is a lovely medieval town rich in history dating back to 833. Perched on the plateau above the limestone cliffs, coming into the natural harbor makes for a dramatic entrance. Take a walk along the cliffs for beautiful views and to descend King Aragon's staircase or explore the Old Town and citadel that sits above the town. Corinth Canal, Greece The Corinth Canal isn't a port, but a "transit" - an exceptional experience only available by a small ship. The initial "ground breaking" dates back to 67 AD, however was actually completed in 1893. Approximately 4 miles long, the canal is quite narrow at only 70 feet wide at sea level. Ships 58 feet wide or less can make this transit. Photos courtesy of Tahiti tourism Taha'a, French Polynesia Called the Vanilla Island, Taha's is home to a number of vanilla plantations which give the area quite a lovely fragrance. Quiet with beautiful beaches, it shares it's lagoon with Raiatea, the most sacred island in the region. Check out the motu of Taha'a with its crystal clear waters and rich underwater life. Photo courtesy of Hurtigruten Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, Norway The world's northernmost city, Longyearbyen has become a primary destination for adventure travelers, featuring both summer and winter activities. The main reason people come to this area is because it is considered one of or the best polar bear viewing in the world. With over 400 bears one can understand why! Falmouth Harbor, Antigua Falmouth Harbor is in the southern area of the island, away from St. John, where the big ships come in. The town has shops and restaurants, but the best activity in the area is to explore the beaches. You have plenty of choices as Antigua boasts to have 365 - one for every day of the year! Camden, Maine A quintessential New England town, Camden is a pretty coastal town surrounded by lakes, rivers and mountains. It's scenic harbor is full of sailboats, including a fleet of schooners. Rovinj, Croatia
Rovinj is an enchanting and very picturesque town on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula. Romantic, quaint, captivating - all accurate descriptions of this lovely town. The Old Town area, built on a small peninsula, is full of character with its cobblestone streets and Venetian architecture.
Mary Emanuel
4/21/2018 08:23:49 am
I love these beautiful and under the radar spots you shared here. I've been interested in exploring the Northeast coastal areas more, maybe by Riverboat, so I'm particularly interested in having the opportunity to see rivers, harbors AND mountains in one trip. Comments are closed.
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Laurie Marschall - Owner and Founder
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