Asia Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trip Packages

Asia Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

3,891 Asia trips. Tours from 477 tour companies. 10,341 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

52 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Small Ship Cruise
Phuket Sailing Adventure
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Andaman Sea, Phuket

Highlights

  • Leave behind the vibrant, modern pizzazz of Phuket and set sail on the beautifully calm waters of the Andaman Sea – by yacht no less!
  • Slip into the beach-loving life with long walks on the finest white sands and salty swims in the inviting azure waters of Thailand’s best beaches.
  • There are few things more relaxing than sleeping out beneath the stars, rocked by the gentle pitch of a yacht. Choose to spend a night on the deck and see for yourself.
  • Feast on delicious food with no effort at all – you’ll have the added benefit of an onboard chef, whipping up Thai favourites daily.
  • Relax with the knowledge that the biggest decision of the day is whether to paddleboard, snorkel, swim with the tropical fish or kayak across shimmering seas.

Themes

Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Sail Ko Phi Phi to Phuket
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Andaman Sea, Phuket

Highlights

  • Discover a true slice of paradise while kayaking, swimming and paddle boarding through the stunning inlets, caves and crystal-clear waters of Thailand’s best islands.
  • Sip cocktails on the beach and on the deck of your yacht, while watching the sun slip below the waves over Koh Phi Phi's iconic shores.
  • Slip into an indulgent, beach-loving life with long walks on the finest white sands of Nui Beach and bustling Phuket.
  • Feast on delicious food made daily by your onboard private chef, who will be whipping up Thai favourites for most of your meals.
  • Explore colourful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish with daily snorkelling opportunities by the Ko Khai and Koh Man Islands.
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Themes

Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Shackleton's Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica Expedition (Ocean Endeavour)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy

Visits

Georgia, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Wander the quaint British town of Stanley in the Falklands and explore the charming island farmsteads that teem with nesting seabirds – including many albatross and penguin species.
  • Marvel at breathtaking polar scenery and witness the enormous king penguin colonies of South Georgia, where you’ll learn more about Sir Ernest Shackleton’s history and visit his grave.
  • See the magnificent surrounds a little closer on daily Zodiac excursions and personalise your trip with our wide range of paid adventures – including kayaking, day paddling and camping.
  • Explore the local famous sites, towering glaciers and abundant penguin colonies of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for whales.
  • Benefit from onboard educational lectures on history, geology and ecology and participate in our Citizen Science Program – led by our expert Expedition Team.

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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Ultimate Antarctica: Falklands, South Georgia & the Antarctic Circle (Ocean Endeavour)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy

Visits

Georgia, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Try your hand at wildlife photography, witness thousands of nesting penguins and spot the largest albatross colony in the world in the Falkland Islands.
  • Learn about the epic survival of Sir Ernest Shackleton in South Georgia and visit the site where he was buried, among sub-Antarctic landscapes and abundant wildlife.
  • Explore the Antarctic Peninsula and cross the rarely experienced Antarctic Circle – reaching latitude 66°33’S. Keep your eyes out for migrating humpback whales!
  • Experience daily Zodiac excursions and onshore landings in Antarctica and personalise your expedition with our wide range of optional adventures (like photography lessons and sea kayaking).
  • Benefit from a variety of onboard activities on the Ocean Endeavour, including educational lectures and the Citizen Science Program, all led by our expert Expedition Team.

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
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Sail Phuket to Ko Phi Phi
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Andaman Sea, Phuket

Highlights

  • From vibrant Phuket, set sail on the beautifully calm waters of the Andaman Sea on a private yacht and watch unforgettable sunsets from the deck every evening.
  • Explore some of the gulf's best beaches, sailing in the early mornings before the crowds of tourists and residents arrive.
  • Feast on delicious food onboard thanks to your private chef who will be whipping up Thai favourites daily. You’ll also have the option to head to some of the local seaside restaurants.
  • Discover Koh Hong's mysterious caves – nicknamed the ice cream caves, for their distinctive stalagmite shape.
  • Take comfort in knowing that your biggest decision each day will be whether to snorkel, paddleboard or kayak.
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Themes

Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

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Shackleton's Antarctica, South Georgia & Falklands Explorer (Ocean Endeavour)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Falklands Islands, Georgia, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • This expedition hits three major Antarctic hotspots – the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands – maximising chances of spotting wildlife and exploring diverse polar landscapes.
  • Discover the penguin colonies, famous sites and glaciers of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands. Then, explore Grytviken and Elephant Island, sites written into the legend of Shackleton’s historic Antarctic voyage.
  • In the Falklands, wander the quaint British town of Stanley and explore its charming island farmsteads teeming with nesting seabirds, including numerous albatross and penguin species.
  • Retrace the route of the legendary Sir Ernest Shackleton, who led three expeditions to the Antarctic region, and uncover the historical events of his journey.
  • Customise your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with onboard yoga and a massage, take a bracing polar plunge or camp overnight like a true polar explorer.

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety +

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Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Falklands Islands, Georgia, Montevideo, Shetland Islands, South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Meet hardy locals and see unique wildlife in the falkland islands
  • Explore abandoned whaling stations and visit shackleton’s grave
  • Walk quietly amongst king penguins and watch them surf onto the beach
  • Learn about the environment and ecology from industry experts
  • Spot whales and seals while cruising through icebergs on zodiacs

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Trekking & Expeditions

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
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Sailing Thailand - Ko Phi Phi to Phuket
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Andaman Islands, Ko Phi Phi, Phuket

Highlights

  • Explore thailand's scenic southern islands
  • Savour tasty thai dishes
  • Unwind on idyllic beaches
  • Dive into blue waters

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
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Asia Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
10,341  Reviews
See all Asia tour reviews
Excellent
4,640
Great
1,094
Average
83
Disappointing
20
Terrible
16
C

Christopher

Apr 2017

Provided byG Adventures

When I was researching potential tours of Southeast Asia, I was looking for Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai specifically) and Cambodia (Siem Reap/Angkor Wat specifically)

When I was researching potential tours of Southeast Asia, I was looking for Thailand (Bangkok and Chiang Mai specifically) and Cambodia (Siem Reap/Angkor Wat specifi...

B

Bernard

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

The experience we had on this trip was life changing

The experience we had on this trip was life changing. We learned so many things about the people and cultures in the 4 countries we visited that it gave us a new app...

A

Aimee

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

This trip was unforgettable for me

This trip was unforgettable for me. It really opened my eyes to the history of these countries and the beautiful resilient people who live there. I love that the G/N...

C

Colleen

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

SE ASia is a culture shock if most of your travel has been in N

SE ASia is a culture shock if most of your travel has been in N.A. Or Europe. It was one new experience after another. We were not that prepared for such large citie...

L

Leane

Nov 2016

Provided byG Adventures

The experience was memorable

The experience was memorable. Never before have I wanted to book another tour so quickly and travel again with the group. I believe this trip has created a monster a...

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Asia Tour Selection Trips

  • Asia is particularly well suited to taking guided tours, especially since travel in China, India and many other countries can be chaotic and confusing for non-natives.
  • Don’t try to tackle too much of Asia in one trip, unless you have unlimited time, resources, and patience.
  • Countries that deserve their own special trips include China, Japan, India, Thailand, Mongolia, Nepal, and Israel – though you could say the same about many others as well.
  • Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore) is a favorite emerging destination, and can be experienced more authentically with the right tour operator who helps you get away from the tourist traps. 
  • River cruise trips are becoming increasingly popular in East Asia, especially in China (Yangtze), Vietnam and Cambodia (Mekong) and Myanmar (Irrawaddy) and are excellent options for those a bit intimidated about getting too up close with Asia yet still experiencing much of its beauty. 
  • Some Asian countries may be known trouble spots with active military or political conflict (Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan), but it is possible to arrange tours to some unexpected places, such as Iran, Kurdish Iraq -- even North Korea.

Additional details

Best Time to Travel in Asia

Pick any time of the year and you will be able to visit one part of Asia. With Asia covering so much space and a variety of landscapes, you will be able to find a time of year that fits. 

However, some areas of Asia during certain times of the year should be avoided. It’s recommended that you coordinate the time of year with the region of Asia you want to visit before booking. Some tours to Asia may be hindered or itineraries may change because of weather or water levels. 

There are a few times of the year you should keep in mind when doing your research. South Asia during the summer months sees high rains during its monsoon season. November through March is monsoon season for many parts of Southeast Asia. Western Asia is very warm during the summer months as much of that area is desert. Central Asia can get very cold during the winter months. 

However, the months of May and September are probably the safest for most of Asia. Temperatures may still be warm in many areas, but you will see less rain and the crowds will be smaller. 

Asia Luxury Travel

There are plenty of Asian luxury tour operators you can choose from. Luxury tours of Asia typically provide premium accommodation in 4 and 5-star hotels in the central areas of the major cities. If you are visiting Asia on a river cruise, you’ll see high-end cruise ships and fine dining options. 

What makes luxury travel in Asia special is the private and personalized experiences. Whether it is a private hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, Turkey, or a special photo opp with the Terra Cotta Warriors in China, Asia luxury travel is about those personal and exclusive touches to get you up close and personal with the diverse Asian cultures. 

Asia Budget Travel 

Asia is one of the best places to travel on a budget. Asia, and specifically Southeast Asia, is the epicenter of the backpacking world. 

There are many budget airlines and hostels throughout Asia. In places like Vietnam, you can pay $5 a night for a hostel dorm room and $10 for a bus ride. It can be easy to stick to a budget in Asia as there are many affordable options for travel and accommodation. 

There are plenty of Asia tour operators that provide budget tours or shoestring itineraries. Many of these tours will book you at hostels or homestays where you can meet locals and get to know other travelers.

You’ll also be traveling by local or public transportation to save money. These tours also often include more free time than luxury tours to keep the budget down and allow you to choose what to spend your money on. 

Asia for Older Travelers

While traveling through Asia may be intimidating for older travelers, there is plenty of opportunity to explore this diverse continent. 

However, it’s highly recommended that you do your research of the tour operator and countries you are looking to visit. For example, older travelers may have a harder time in some of the more rural areas of Cambodia and Laos with the dirt paths and trekking.

However, many tours take into account activity level and if you suffer from previous injuries or have a hard time getting around, a less strenuous tour may be the best. 

Much of Asia is mountainous, both in the cities and in the more rural areas. Cities like Istanbul with its very rugged streets and Kathmandu’s high elevation may make walking around difficult. If you are concerned about getting around, going with a more luxury, low intensity tour may be the best. 

Choosing a Southeast Asia Tour

Southeast Asia covers some of the most visited countries in Asia, however, trying to fit all of those countries into one trip will be overwhelming. 

Pick a few countries that you want to visit and find the tour that covers all of those countries. Many of the Southeast Asia tours group together a few countries in their itineraries. Vietnam is often included with Cambodia and Laos whereas Thailand can be combined with Singapore and Malaysia. 

Some of these countries do require a visa to enter the country, like Vietnam. Try to find a tour operator that helps or can direct you to where to get a visa because you will not be allowed into the country without one. 

Southeast Asia has some very interesting and colorful cities, but also some of the most breathtaking and beautiful landscapes in the world. Try to find a tour operator that includes both city life and rural destinations in their itineraries so you can see all that this amazing part of Asia has to provide. 

Street Food in Asia

Asia’s cuisine is vast and different, but one of the best types of food you’ll find everywhere is street food. In places like Bangkok and Hanoi, street food is part of the culture and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. 

Much of the street food you’ll find are quick bites like samosas in India or gua bao buns in Hong Kong. The food stands will also have small chairs and tables for you to sit at if you are eating bigger dishes like pho. Street food in Asia is a great way to get a look into the food culture and ingredients while also saving some money. 

However, it is important to protect yourself. If the food stand doesn’t have any locals buying from it or the food they are serving has been sitting out all day in the sun, don’t eat there. Go where the large lines are and the food has been cooked recently or fried.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 3891 trips to Asia and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

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