Intrepid travelers know that the world is more than a collection of iconic sites—it’s a treasure trove of timeless traditions, historical intrigue, and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. And O.A.T.’s Small Ship Adventures are designed to bring those highlights to life with discovery-rich itineraries and unmatched convenience.

Our privately owned, 50- to 98-passenger coastal-cruising small ships can slip into more remote ports that larger vessels cannot reach, giving you greater access to the cultural heart of the regions we visit. Our fleet also includes 14- to 1,000-passenger privately chartered or shared charter vessels that offer a different perspective on your destination. While on board, you’ll be in the company of one to four small groups of no more than 25 travelers—each with its own dedicated, local Trip Experience Leader, who be by your side every step of the way.

See below to learn more about why travelers choose us—and why Travel + Leisure readers ranked us the #2 Intimate-Ship Ocean Cruise Line in 2024, and why our privately owned fleet was ranked #2 in the Small Ships category in Condé Nast Traveler’s “2024 Readers' Choice Awards.”

Unmatched comfort, camaraderie, and convenience

Traveling aboard our privately owned, 50- to 98-passenger small ships is an adventure unlike any other. You’ll enjoy the convenience of unpacking just once, coupled with the thrill of discovering a new port of call almost daily. Throughout your voyage, you’ll enjoy ample included activities, as well free time to pursue your own interests—whether by visit a museum, relaxing in a café, or venturing off the beaten path on one of the ship’s onboard bicycles.

After spending the day exploring seaside villages and mountain hamlets and connecting with local people, you’ll be welcomed back onboard by a friendly, English-speaking crew dedicated to your comfort. Whether you’re relaxing in the lounge, taking in views from the Sun Deck, or enjoying a nightcap at the bar, you’ll receive top-tier service and enjoy the company of like-minded explorers. Plus, because all travelers can be accommodated at once during onboard discussions, meals, and evening entertainment, friendships form more easily.

Access ports larger ships can’t reach

Our small ships can navigate narrow passageways and off-the-beaten-path ports larger vessels can’t reach, and can transport you to far-flung islands, historic canals, and narrow fjords that are only accessible by ship. In fact, on some itineraries, we visit ports that are so remote, they can be only reached by Zodiac craft or tender. Whenever possible, we dock right in the heart of each destination, so you spend less time transferring and more time connecting with local culture. What’s more, all our privately owned small ships are equipped with onboard bicycles, which you can use to pursue your own interests and venture even deeper into your port of call. As a result, you discover destinations that are truly unique and experience authentic ways of life throughout your journey.

Cultural connections

Thanks to our small group size—no more than 25 travelers, guaranteed—our travelers can slip more easily into the pace of life. Locals welcome us as guests rather than tourists and proudly share their traditions. So whether you’re dining with families during Home-Hosted Visits, spending A Day in the Life of everyday people, discussing modern-day Controversial Topics with local experts, or visiting Grand Circle Foundation sites such as schools, women’s co-ops, and more, you’ll enjoy intimate cultural experiences on every small ship itinerary.

Trip Experience Leaders & local support

As residents of the region you visit, our Trip Experience Leaders are experts on local life and invaluable resources for personalized discoveries. When you’re exploring together, they’ll share personal anecdotes about their homelands. If you want to explore independently, they’ll recommend popular attractions, authentic dining opportunities, and options for active discoveries—such as scenic strolls and routes for utilizing the onboard bicycles. During nightly Port Talks onboard, they’ll share unmatched insights into the history and culture the next day’s port of call. Plus, they’re always available if you need assistance. And with more than 2,000 regional associates and 35 offices worldwide, enjoy the comfort of knowing that our team is always available, 24/7.

Unsurpassed value

Our unbeatable per diems mean that you’ll travel at the lowest prices per day while enjoying a wealth of included features: all accommodations, most meals, daily cultural activities and most gratuities. No other travel company offers more discovery for less. Solo travelers enjoy an unmatched value, too, with our free or low-cost Single Supplements. It’s no surprise that more than 130,000 solo travelers have explored with us since 2015. And if single spaces are sold out, there are other ways to join us solo, such as our Roommate Matching Program.