Hidden Gems: Small Ship & Expedition Cruises Perfect for Avoiding Spring Break Crowds.

If you love the idea of a spring break cruise but dread the thought of crowded pools, packed buffets, and loud party decks, a small ship or expedition cruise might be the perfect escape.

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These intimate voyages trade massive crowds for breathtaking destinations, personalized service, and immersive experiences. Here are some of the best options for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

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Windstar Cruises – Yacht-Style Luxury Windstar’s fleet of small, elegant yachts (carrying just 148 to 342 guests) allows you to visit secluded Caribbean beaches, Greek islands, and Mediterranean hideaways that big cruise ships can’t reach.

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UnCruise Adventures – Wild, Remote, and Intimate For travelers who crave adventure over tourist traps, UnCruise Adventures offers expedition-style cruises to Alaska, Costa Rica, and the Sea of Cortez.

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With fewer than 100 passengers per ship, these cruises focus on wildlife encounters, off-the-grid exploration, and active excursions like kayaking and snorkeling.

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Ponant – French Elegance Meets Adventure If you want both luxury and adventure, Ponant’s small expedition ships blend high-end accommodations with incredible destinations. Sail to Antarctica, the Arctic, or the Galápagos, all while enjoying fine dining and world-class service.

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Viking River Cruises – A Cultural Escape For a crowd-free alternative to ocean cruising, Viking’s European river cruises (on the Danube, Rhine, or Seine) offer relaxed itineraries, stunning scenery, and a refined atmosphere—all on ships carrying under 200 guests.

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Spring break doesn’t have to mean crowds and chaos. A small ship or expedition cruise offers a peaceful, immersive way to explore the world—without the spring break madness.

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