4. Celebrity Cruises (Xpedition)
Celebrity Xpedition opened up Galapagos cruises. formerly the province of backpacking (or high-end) "adventure travelers," to passengers who want more comfortable amenities and features. Indeed, the joy of the Galapagos operation is that it combines Celebrity's stylishness and high level of service and cuisine with a local, "small ship" ambience. (The ship carries 98 passengers.) Crew members -- almost entirely Ecuadorian, from the captain down -- are sunny, charming and tirelessly obliging. Destination-oriented features are incorporated into the onboard experience, such as a performance highlighting Ecuadorian folklore, preceded by a highly personalized slideshow with pictures of passengers meeting wildlife during the course of the trip. (All are presented with a complimentary CD to take home.) To give travelers more time in this fascinating yet far-flung destination, Celebrity Xpedition offers 10- and 15-night voyages.
Explore Celebrity Xpedition Cruises
5. Un-Cruise Adventures
Un-Cruise Adventures offers adventure cruises and river cruises that are meant to appeal to people who might not normally cruise. The line's eight vessels, holding between 22 and 88 passengers, sail to Alaska, coastal Washington, Hawaii, British Columbia, Mexico's Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Northwest's Columbia and Snake Rivers (the latter is the line's only river destination); itineraries to Costa Rica and Panama, and the Galapagos Islands, begin in 2016. The line doesn't do many typical port stops, preferring to pause in inlets and bays that offer maximum exposure to nature and wildlife. Vessels come equipped with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling equipment and hot tubs onboard for relaxing after a day of hiking or paddling. As the diverse fleet incorporates upscale expedition ships, yachts and even a replica turn-of-the-century steamboat, onboard offerings vary. Expect thoughtful premium appointments and amenities throughout, though, with fitness areas, lounges, libraries and mealtimes highlighting gourmet, locally sourced cuisine and fine wines and microbrews.
6. International Expeditions
International Expeditions. offering guests soft adventure, small-group journeys with a focus on nature, runs cruises to the Peruvian Amazon (aboard the 31-passenger La Estrella Amazonica ) and Galapagos (on the 32-passenger Evolution ). Step out onto your private balcony (in the Amazon only) or the sundeck (where Evolution also touts a hot tub) to enjoy the passing scenery, when not partaking in immersive shoreside experiences anchored on natural and cultural encounters. Ship atmosphere is informal, and trips are more focused on excursions and lectures led by the naturalist guides and expedition leaders than on many shipboard diversions (though you can expect onboard comforts like air-conditioning and well-prepared, locally inspired fare). Partake in active excursions like kayaking and piranha fishing in the Amazon, or snorkeling, swimming and hiking in the Galapagos. If you like the line but want more diversity of destination choice, look for chartered trips to places like Indonesia and Patagonia, Cuba and the Seychelles.