Each year, Travel and Leisure Magazine announces their much anticipated list of "Worlds Best Awards."
Results are consumer based, compiled from a survey sent to Travel & Leisure readers, so this list of small ship cruise lines is truly a representation of what real travelers prefer.
When you think of a small ship cruise, it's important to remember that the term covers a pretty wide range of experiences. Many are luxury, it's true, but it's possible to find more budget friendly options and even some truly adventures destinations like Antarctica - which was a trend for this years winners.
The worlds best small ship cruises list from Travel & Leisure this year specialize in far flung destinations - the kind of "once in a lifetime" places that are enhanced by the sailing experience.
Similarly to last year, the highlights were companies that have a strong destination speciality, rather than trips all over the world.
Here are the Top 5 Small Ship Cruise Lines of 2019
1. Quasar Expeditions
Coming in at #1 for the second year in a row, Quasar was established in 1986 and specilizes in cruises to the Galapagos and Patagonia.
Groups are kept very small on Quasar Expeditions trips - and the vessel is small as well. Luxrious yacht style travel is Quasar's bread and butter. They incorporate tours led by experts in a variety of fields and offer everything from family travel to private charters.
All Quasar Expeditions cruises »
2. Crystal Cruises
With a variety of cruise types, from yacht to large ocean, Crystal Cruises is a great option for those travelers seeking a lot of choice.
They visit destinations all over the world including Antarctica.
3. Ecoventura
Back on the list after dropping off in 2018, Ecoventura is another small ship cruise company specializing in cruises to the Galapagos. They are also a leader in sustainable tourism, so if this is an important factor in your travel choice, they are definitely worth looking at.
4. Grand Circle Cruise Line
Dropping a few spots from 2018 when it ranked #2, Grand Circle is another global cruise line, with cruises around the world, and a river cruise line that's mostly focused on European river cruises.
Grand Circle has been around since 1958 and are known for providing solid, affordable, cruise experiences.
5. Australis Cruise Line
Relatively unknown Australis Cruise Line has maintained a spot in Travel and Leisures World Best top 5 for the past two years. They specialize in trips around Patagonia.
Read the fill list on Travel & Leisure
See the Travel & Leisure World's Best Small Ship Cruises 2018 »
See the Travel & Leisure World's Best Small Ship Cruises 2017 »
