Destination
India and the Subcontinent
The Indian Subcontinent is a region of remarkable contrasts—ancient temples and colonial architecture, bustling cities and serene villages, sacred rivers and coastal enclaves. Exploring this region by small ship or river cruise offers a rare perspective into India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and beyond, connecting you more intimately with the region’s history, spirituality, and cultural richness.
At Small Ship Travel, we curate journeys that go beyond surface-level sightseeing. We partner with a select group of river and coastal cruise lines operating in the region, each vetted for its authenticity, service quality, and local engagement. Whether you're sailing the sacred Ganges, the mystical Brahmaputra, or exploring the backwaters of Kerala, our cruises offer immersive experiences in places that are as spiritually resonant as they are visually captivating.
We work with a curated selection of cruise lines that specialize in culturally immersive, high-touch travel throughout India and the surrounding region. Each offers its own distinct approach—whether through luxury river cruising, heritage-inspired vessels, or world-class service—ensuring a meaningful exploration of one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse destinations.
Uniworld’s Ganges Voyager II offers elegant river voyages along the sacred Ganges River, providing a refined and immersive look into India’s spiritual and cultural heart. With all-suite accommodations, curated shore excursions, and locally inspired cuisine, guests enjoy seamless access to historic temples, bustling cities, and rural landscapes—all while traveling in comfort and style.
With decades of expertise in river exploration, Pandaw offers expeditions through India's lesser-traveled waterways aboard handcrafted colonial-style vessels. These small ship cruises feature open decks, informal luxury, and immersive excursions, taking guests deep into the cultural tapestry of northern India and the Bengal region.
For travelers seeking ultra-luxury experiences across the Indian Subcontinent, Silversea’s ocean itineraries include ports of call along India’s west and east coasts. These voyages offer a blend of indulgent onboard amenities and insightful land programs, connecting guests to the region’s spiritual, historical, and architectural wonders with ease and sophistication.
Each of these cruise lines has been carefully vetted by Small Ship Travel for their commitment to excellence, cultural authenticity, and guest experience. Whether you’re exploring the holy cities of Varanasi, tracing colonial history in Kolkata, or sailing past ancient temples along the riverbanks, these small ship journeys offer a transformative way to discover India and its neighbors.
Let us help you craft an unforgettable journey through the Indian Subcontinent—where heritage, hospitality, and discovery come together on the water.
River and coastal cruising in the Subcontinent offers a uniquely immersive way to experience this deeply layered region, where history, faith, and daily life unfold along the waterways. Unlike fast-paced land tours, small ship and river cruises allow for a slower, more intentional pace, giving travelers time to connect with local communities, understand spiritual traditions, and witness day-to-day life from a privileged vantage point.
These cruises often feature expert-led excursions, including visits to ancient temples, colonial trading posts, rural villages, and vibrant markets, as well as onboard enrichment, such as cooking demonstrations, yoga, and cultural performances. For those drawn to spiritual discovery, historical narratives, or authentic local interaction, few travel styles offer as much access and depth.
The ideal time to cruise in this region is during the cooler, drier months, typically from October to April.
At Small Ship Travel, we believe in travel that is culturally enriching, responsibly operated, and personally transformative. Our team carefully evaluates each cruise line and itinerary to ensure it meets our standards for authenticity, service, and sustainability. Whether you're exploring the spiritual heart of India, sailing past the tea plantations of Assam, or relaxing on the coastal waters of Sri Lanka, we’ll help you choose a journey that aligns with your interests and travel goals.
Through Travel Experts, a Virtuoso member, we offer exclusive amenities, including upgrades, onboard credits, private excursions, and tailored extensions in destinations such as Delhi, Jaipur, Kathmandu, Colombo, and the Maldives. From start to finish, we handle every detail—so you can travel with confidence and ease.
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.
Get in the mood for cruising by reading our travel guides, recommendations and cruise reviews.
River cruising offers a seamless and luxurious way to experience Europe’s most historic and scenic waterways, from the fairy-tale castles of the Rhine to the imperial capitals of the Danube and the artistic treasures of the Seine. Unlike ocean cruises, these intimate voyages bring travelers directly into the heart of medieval villages, grand cities, and world-renowned wine regions, allowing for deeper cultural immersion. Along the way, passengers can explore UNESCO-listed landmarks, savor locally inspired cuisine, and enjoy exclusive excursions, from private château tours to classical concerts in Vienna.
