Top Small Cruises in the USA for Unforgettable Adventures

Olympic Wilderness and San Juan Islands: Adventure Life

Ship: Wilderness Discoverer
With a passenger capacity of 76, this small ship has the ability to explore the shallow inlets and passages of the West Coast. Each room aboard the ship features an outside-facing window and TV that broadcasts highlights from the day’s journey. Additionally, a hot tub, sauna, and small gym are also available.

Highlights: Sailing from Seattle, Washington, the Wilderness Discoverer visits iconic Pacific Northwest locations like Olympic National Park, three of the San Juan Islands, and Deception Pass State Park. Throughout the seven-night voyage, adventurers can kayak through a protected bay off of Sucia Island, birdwatch for puffins on Protection Island, and hike through the lush rainforests of the Olympic Mountains. The itinerary includes a special “Captain’s Choice” day, allowing the captain to select a unique naval path through the San Juans, providing guests with surprises from the sea.

San Diego, California to Vancouver: Silversea

Ship: Silver Explorer
The Silver Explorer accommodates 130 passengers and offers adventure equipment with zodiacs for an engaging experience. Onboard, the two dining options serve fresh regional dishes, with an outdoor bar and two lounges available to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Highlights: This 11-day cruise embarks from San Diego, California, navigating the western coastline through Oregon, Washington, and the San Juan Islands, concluding in Vancouver, Canada. It uniquely includes stops in Monterey and San Francisco, where guests can explore picturesque coastal towns like Pebble Beach and Carmel-By-The-Sea. The cruise past Port Angeles and Olympia provides ample chances to relax on deck while scanning for wildlife such as eagles, seals, and even the elusive killer whale.

Seattle to Juneau: UnCruise Adventures

Ship: Variety
Passengers aboard UnCruise Adventures may travel on one of six vessels, each designed for small groups of no more than 80. These ships are outfitted with adventure gear such as paddle boards, kayaks, and wetsuits, and even include yoga mats for those wanting to practice at sea.

Highlights: This 12-day journey through Alaska and Canada’s inside passages sails out of Seattle, Washington, whisking passengers into the lush, forested islands of the San Juans. Key stops prior to Juneau, Alaska, include Ketchikan, renowned as the salmon capital of the world with the largest collection of standing totem poles, and the stunning glacial valleys of Misty Fjords National Monument. Wildlife sightings are a daily delight; travelers may spot orca and humpback whales whilst traversing Stephens Passage, along with black bears and minks along the coastline throughout Alaska.

Baja California: Lindblad Expeditions

Ship: National Geographic Sea Bird or Sea Lion
These newly renovated twin vessels each accommodate 62 passengers in 31 outside-facing cabins. They feature a sundeck and open bow, perfect for optimal wildlife viewing.

Highlights: Lindblad Expeditions collaborates with National Geographic to offer unique experiences at sea and along beautiful beaches. This expedition departs from La Paz, California, traversing the entire Baja peninsula, primarily seeking opportunities to spot and interact with gray whales. Interestingly, Lindblad is the only expedition company permitted to enter the whale birthing lagoons. During a two-day visit to Laguna San Ignacio, guests can explore waters via traditional boats known as pangas, observing and documenting mothers and calves in their natural habitats. The majority of the journey involves island hopping across the Sea of Cortez, enjoying hiking and snorkeling excursions off picturesque beaches.

Hawaiian Seascapes: Adventure Life

Ship: Safari Explorer
This luxurious 60-guest craft boasts an onboard wine library and spa area featuring a hot tub, sauna, and yoga classes. Each room is equipped with heated floors, along with amenities such as bathrobes and binoculars—an essential for any cruise enthusiast.

Highlights: This 8-day itinerary combines culture, wildlife, and outdoor adventure as the Safari Explorer journeys from Moloka’i Island through Hawaii’s stunning coves and beaches, concluding at Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island. On the inaugural day, guests can engage in traditional crafts such as poi making or explore hiking trails featuring picturesque waterfalls in the Halawa Valley. The route further includes a stop through the Humpback National Marine Sanctuary, presenting opportunities to spot dolphins and whales. Each day is filled with various activities including snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming throughout the beautiful Hawaiian islands.