Small Ship Cruising: Common Questions
Answers to what travelers ask most about small ships in Japan, the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand. For small-ship styles and lines worldwide, see our sister site Small Ship Cruises.
What is small ship cruising?
Cruising on vessels small enough to reach harbors, bays and coasts that large ships cannot, usually with a few dozen to a couple of hundred guests. The pace is more personal and the itinerary more flexible.
Are small ship cruises in Japan suitable for first-time visitors to Japan?
Yes. The ship handles transport between regions, and guided tours at each stop make it easy to see rural and island Japan without language worries.
Which small ships sail the South Pacific?
Several are based in French Polynesia year-round, including the Paul Gauguin and a Windstar ship, while the Aranui 5 serves the Marquesas. In Fiji, Blue Lagoon Cruises sails the Yasawa Islands.
Is small ship cruising in Australia only about the Kimberley?
The Kimberley is the best known, but small ships also sail the Great Barrier Reef and Cape York, Tasmania and other remote coasts.
How rough is the sea on these voyages?
Sheltered waters such as the Seto Inland Sea and Society Islands lagoons are usually calm. Open-ocean stretches, the Southern Ocean around New Zealand and crossings between island groups can be lively.
Are these voyages all-inclusive?
It varies. Some luxury and expedition ships include drinks, tips and excursions; others charge separately. We compare what each fare covers.
How far ahead should I book?
For peak seasons, a year or more. Small ships have few cabins and the best dates go first.
Can I take a small ship cruise in Indonesia?
Yes. Around Komodo and Raja Ampat, wooden phinisi-style boats carry small groups on snorkeling and diving trips, and some expedition ships include Indonesia on longer Asia voyages. Standards vary a great deal between boats, so ask us to check safety and comfort before you book.
Do I need a visa for these voyages?
Entry rules differ by country and change from time to time. US citizens currently need an electronic travel authority for Australia and an electronic travel authority (NZeTA) for New Zealand, for example. Check the official government sites for every country on your itinerary before you travel, and allow time for approvals.
What should I pack for a small ship in the tropics?
Light, quick-drying clothes, a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes for wet landings, a dry bag for camera and phone, and a light rain jacket. Dress codes on small ships are usually relaxed, with smart-casual evenings at most.
Are small ships comfortable for older travelers?
Many are, but ask about elevators, the number of stairs between decks and how guests get ashore. Zodiac and tender landings require some balance and agility, and a few vessels in this region have no elevator at all.
Can I combine a small ship cruise with a big-ship voyage?
Yes. Many travelers sail a large ship between major ports such as Sydney, Auckland or Tokyo and add a few days on a small ship for the remote coast. Our cruise advisors can line up the dates so the connection works.
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