Nature Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trip Packages

Nature Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

7,406 Nature trips. Tours from 1,297 tour companies. 10,766 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating.

535 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Small Ship Cruise
Christmas in Antarctica: Antarctic Peninsula
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
Their ice-breaking cruise liners take travelers truly off of the beaten path and into the very heart of the polar realms.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Celebrating Christmas amidst fantastic rugged mountains, cascading glaciers, crystalline icebergs and clear waters abounding with whales and seals.
  • Countless penguins and endemic Antarctic birdlife - true memorable lifetime moments
  • Possibility for kayaking and camping under the southern stars in a world of ice and snow.

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Festivals & Special Events

What travelers are saying

"Best vacation so far!! Loved everything, especially highly professional team, that organised the whole trip super safe and on a highest level, the crew that does the cleaning and provides the food literally 24/7, the expedition team was super and the program, lectures, communication - everything couldn’t be better. I miss the cruise! And the best part of course the wild nature, animals. It’s a pity there are strict rules nowadays due to the flu and we couldn’t get closer, but it’s the right thing to protect the nature. Will be back for sure!"

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Island Hopping: Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Santorini
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By Greece Insiders
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
Designing original, innovative, and out-of-the-box travel itineraries and incredible personalized service.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Akrotiri, Athens, Mykonos, Parthenon, Santorini

Highlights

  • Marvel the impressive Acropolis and the New Acropolis museum
  • Discover the iconic Mykonos town
  • Taste and learn about the traditional products of Naxos
  • Learn all about the unique wines of Santorini
  • Visit Akrotiri prehistoric town of Santorini

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Normally, I don't feel like writing reviews, but I felt compelled to do it for Athens Insiders. I made the decision to travel to Athens in the summer of 2012 in order to avoid the commotion that was predicted to result from the Queen's jubilee. As usual, my work kept me busy right up to the last minute, so I ran out of time to do anything fun for my week-long trip. I learned about this young group of tour guides for Athens and its vicinity from a friend. I had a wonderful experience. I got in touch with Daphne, who gave me email recommendations for Athens attractions to see, inquired about my preferences for local cuisine, and then devised an itinerary for my trip. In addition to visiting the typical suspects in Athens (Acropolis, etc.), I also chose to travel to Delhi and spend a night at a campground there. And I had a great time, honestly. We visited the attractions when there were few visitors and spent the busiest times outside of Athens rather than being herded around like cattle. I was taken to incredible tiny eateries (the well-known tavernas), marketplaces, and other regional shops."

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Antarctic Wildlife Adventure: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
Their ice-breaking cruise liners take travelers truly off of the beaten path and into the very heart of the polar realms.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Buenos Aires, Falklands Islands, South Shetland Islands

Highlights

  • The greatest concentrations of seabirds and marine mammals on the planet.
  • Astounding abundance of penguins at huge breeding colonies
  • A rare view of albatross family life
  • Fearless marine wildlife and scenery beyond belief on the Antarctic Peninsula.

Themes

Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Best vacation so far!! Loved everything, especially highly professional team, that organised the whole trip super safe and on a highest level, the crew that does the cleaning and provides the food literally 24/7, the expedition team was super and the program, lectures, communication - everything couldn’t be better. I miss the cruise! And the best part of course the wild nature, animals. It’s a pity there are strict rules nowadays due to the flu and we couldn’t get closer, but it’s the right thing to protect the nature. Will be back for sure!"

Trip dates & details
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Glimpse Of Indochina In 15 Days
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5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They focus on the details to ensure that their travelers get a great introduction to their home country of Vietnam.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Bangkok , Chiang Mai, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Luang Prabang, Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Enjoy an overnight cruise in the stunning Halong Bay
  • Cycle around the villages of Vietnam and attend a cooking class
  • Explore the biggest temples complex in the world, Angkor Wat
  • See cascades waterfalls right in the middle of lush jungles

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

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21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand
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By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
40 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, Wellington

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Trip dates & details
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Absolute Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
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
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Charles Darwin Research Station, Cotopaxi, Darwin, Galapagos, Isabela Island, Isla Baltra, Isla Floreana, Isla Santa Fe, Isla Santiago, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Island, Santa Fe, Santiago

Highlights

  • With over two weeks spent on the archipelago, this trip takes a more leisurely pace. Spend more time on each island, soaking up the sun and the sea (lions).
  • Hike, snorkel, sleep, repeat – this isn’t your average cruise. Get active in the rugged and isolated Galapagos Islands.
  • Sea lions are like the dogs of the ocean: playful, goofy and curious. And while you can’t pat them, you’re bound to fall in love with these furry frolickers.
  • Pink flamingos, red-throated frigates and blue-footed boobies will have you craning your neck, snapping photos and contemplating a career in ornithology.
  • Towering cacti, rocky cliffs, red-sand beaches and more await you in this otherworldly archipelago.
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Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, 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
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Pure Galapagos (Grand Daphne)
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
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
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Darwin, Galapagos, Isabela Island, Isla Bartolome, Isla Santiago, Quito, Santa Cruz, Santiago

Highlights

  • If there’s one ultimate Galapagos adventure, this is it. Combining off-the-beaten-track gems with iconic sights like the Pinnacle Rock, this trip is a microcosm of the Galapagos
  • This unique, stand-alone sailing adventure shares its itinerary with no other Intrepid trip. Enjoy minimal contact with other travellers and boats
  • Explore the remote west coast of Isabela on a small Panga boat, and venture to the far-west Fernandina, home of the highest density of marine iguanas
  • Beach-lovers will be in heaven. The turtle-dotted Las Bachas is about as idyllic as they come.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, The Galapagos Conservancy. Donations support their Women in Sustainable Entrepreneurship (WISE) program, providing capital for sustainability initiatives and empowering female entrepreneurs in the Galapagos. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, 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
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Spitsbergen Photography Adventure
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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
Very Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Helsinki, Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, Svalbard

Highlights

  • Refine your skills and become a photography expert, capturing some of the most remote and extraordinary landscapes on earth. Better yet, you’ve got a team of photography experts on hand to help.
  • See onboard environmental and scientific lectures and seminars to give you all the Spitsbergen knowledge, plus a couple of photography masterclasses to hone your technique.
  • Twice daily zodiac excursions mean there’s plenty of opportunities to get up close to glaciers, icebergs and all types of wildlife. There are more polar bears than people on Svalbard, so get snapping!
  • Did someone say midnight snack? Because of the time of year, you’ll experience almost 24 hours of daylight, allowing for sightseeing any time of the day, or night!
  • With a flexible voyage itinerary, you’ll only hit the places which are worthwhile and have the best conditions, as your expert polar team to maximise wildlife spotting opportunities each day.

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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Nature Reviews & Ratings

4.7/5  Excellent
10,766  Reviews
See all Nature tour reviews
Excellent
5,104
Great
1,199
Average
128
Disappointing
25
Terrible
31
A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

A week in Jordan

Excellent Trip - fulfilled all my expectations - our Guide Zuhair was superb. on our second day in Petra spending time chilling at the tea shack by the High Place o...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Comprehensive

The guide was informative and well organised. We visited all the key sites in the week and had time to explore. Not a lot of time to relax, but the emphasis was ...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Fantastic week, thoroughly recommend

An awe inspiring trip, with something for everyone, and covering all the key sights, sounds and tastes of Jordan. I knew I wanted to see Petra, but didn't really h...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

A Week in Jordan

Highlight was night in the desert. Trek round Petra also very good. Trip to Aqaba seemed a bit superfluous. Maybe cancel that and have two nights in desert camp in...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

a week in Jordan - much more than Petra

This is a full on trip but we covered so much. It's probably only now that I am home that I can really appreciate it all. Issa our guide was really knowledgeable a...

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Nature Tour Selection Trips

Nature Photography Tips

Capturing the beauty of nature through photography requires skill and technique. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your nature photography experience:
Use a Wide-Angle Lens: Opt for a wide-angle lens to capture expansive landscapes and make background features pop. If using a smartphone, crop your photo horizontally to achieve a similar effect.
Long Exposure for Moving Water: When photographing moving water, use a long exposure effect to create a smooth, ethereal effect. Use a tripod to stabilize the camera during the exposure.
Know Your Subjects: Study the behavior of local wildlife before photographing them to anticipate their movements and capture compelling shots. Time your visit to capture specific natural phenomena, such as blooming or changing foliage.
Leverage Water Reflections: Take advantage of water reflections during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for stunning, ethereal photos with warm, soft lighting.
Edit with Smartphone Tools: Enhance your photos by using the editing tools built into smartphone cameras. Adjust brightness and contrast, and apply filters to achieve desired effects. Explore third-party editing apps for more advanced editing options.
Embrace Natural Lighting: The best filter for nature photography is natural lighting. Capture the soft, golden glow of the golden hour for beautifully illuminated subjects without harsh shadows.
Timing for Wildlife Photography: Plan wildlife photography excursions during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Avoid midday heat when animals seek shade and are less visible.
Respect Wildlife: When photographing animals on a safari, prioritize their well-being by respecting their natural habitat. Adhere to designated areas for visitors, refrain from disturbing or feeding wildlife, and observe from a respectful distance for the best photo opportunities.
Applying these tips can elevate your nature photography skills and capture stunning images of the natural world around you.

Additional details

Why go on a guided nature tour?

Depending on where you’re traveling, there is a good chance there will be little to no cell reception. Trying to connect to your GPS or internet if you get lost without cell service is a frustrating and nerve wracking experience. If you’re going to a new country, it can be difficult to navigate remote trails or national parks, especially if you don’t speak the language.

This should in no way discourage you from getting out in nature during your travels. Guided nature tours are the perfect option to take the stress out and truly enjoy the experience. The tour guides are out nearly every day, so they know the land, allowing you to just have fun without trying to navigate on your own. 

Tour guides may also know unusual and interesting facts about the area that will help connect your nature experience to the local community, culture, and heritage. And they’ll often know of secret viewing or picnic spots that the average traveler would not know about . A guided nature tour can keep you safe and stress free, allowing for the best experience.

Nature Travel and Ecotourism

When traveling in nature, it’s important to be aware of the environment and try your best to not disturb the landscape. Traveling has become extremely popular in recent years, and with globalization and the ability to travel more affordably than recent years, more and more people are visiting the worlds natural attractions. 

This is awesome! However not everyone is aware of the damage that can be done by some of their actions when they travel. 

Here are some tips for being a respectful traveler

1. Do some research before you go so you’re aware of what’s happening in that particular environment. By being knowledgeable about your destination, you’re not only staying safe, but you’re practicing good tourism etiquette and avoiding doing damage.

2. Consider trips with farm stays, local stays, and/or camping. These options can be eco-friendly and help boost the local economy, supporting the community.

3. Wild animals are not for entertainment. Do some research and look for tours that have high ethical standards. If you’re really keen on seeing animals, look for places that allow viewing of the animals in their natural habitat.



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