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USA and Canada

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Small Ship Cruises in the USA and Canada

North America’s waterways offer an extraordinary range of cruise experiences—whether you're navigating the coastal inlets of New England, exploring Alaska’s glacier-carved fjords, cruising along the Mississippi River, or discovering the wild beauty of Canada’s Atlantic coast. A small ship cruise through the United States and Canada brings you closer to the culture, nature, and history that define this diverse and richly storied region.

At Small Ship Travel, we curate a collection of cruises aboard intimate small ships —many accommodating fewer than 200. These small ship and river journeys deliver unmatched access to scenic harbors, remote coastlines, and culturally rich towns. Whether you're looking for heritage, wildlife, or culinary depth, we help you explore the best of North America in comfort and style.

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Curated Cruise Lines with USA and Canada Small Ship Itineraries

Curated Cruise Lines with USA and Canada Small Ship Itineraries

Each cruise line featured here has been carefully vetted for its destination expertise, intimate scale, and exceptional guest experience across the United States and Canada.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines offers a wide range of coastal, river, and inland cruises across the U.S.—from the Mississippi and Columbia rivers to New England, the Southeast, and Alaska. Their modern fleet emphasizes comfort, historical context, and all-American hospitality, with expert guides and flexible shore excursions.

Viking River Cruises

Viking’s expansion into U.S. cruising includes their Mississippi River itineraries, which combine modern Scandinavian design, cultural enrichment, and regionally inspired cuisine. Viking delivers an elevated experience with immersive shore excursions and refined service.

Seabourn

Seabourn’s North American sailings offer ultra-luxury coastal cruising, particularly along the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and Eastern Seaboard. Guests enjoy all-suite accommodations, gourmet dining, and curated cultural and natural excursions.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea offers all-inclusive, ultra-luxury voyages throughout Alaska, the Pacific Coast, and Eastern Canada, with small expedition and classic ships that allow access to remote ports and scenic wilderness. Their cruises feature expert-led excursions, fine dining, and personalized service in an elegant setting.

Ponant

Ponant’s fleet of sleek, eco-conscious expedition yachts offers voyages to Alaska, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the Great Lakes, blending French-inspired hospitality, cultural immersion, and nature-focused exploration. Guests enjoy small-group excursions led by naturalists, historians, and local experts.

AmaWaterways

Fleet

31 ships

Itineraries

126

Ecoventura

Fleet

3 ships

Itineraries

2

Four Seasons Yachts

Fleet

1 ships

Itineraries

35

Pandaw Cruises

Fleet

18 ships

Itineraries

20

Silversea

Fleet

12 ships

Itineraries

620

Windstar Cruises

Fleet

7 ships

Itineraries

308

Why Explore the U.S. and Canada by Small Ship?

Why Explore the U.S. and Canada by Small Ship?

From historic harbor towns and lighthouses to untouched fjords and riverfront cities, North America offers tremendous diversity best explored by water. Small ship cruising provides access to less-crowded ports, inland waterways, and remote shorelines, with more time to enjoy places that larger ships overlook.

Travelers benefit from:

  • Intimate access to historic and natural landmarks
  • Local guides, historians, and naturalists sharing in-depth knowledge
  • Flexible, immersive excursions tailored to your interests
  • A relaxed pace that allows for real connection with the landscape and culture

Sample Experiences Include:

  • Exploring Acadia National Park and charming towns along Maine’s rugged coast
  • Cruising the Mississippi River, with stops in New Orleans, Natchez, and Memphis
  • Whale watching and hiking in Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park
  • Touring the Canadian Maritimes, from Nova Scotia to Prince Edward Island
  • Visiting wineries and historic sites in the Columbia River Gorge
  • Discovering French colonial towns and island culture in Québec’s St. Lawrence River

Best Time for Cruises in the USA & Canada

Best Time for Cruises in the USA & Canada

North America offers year-round cruising opportunities, depending on the region:

  • New England & Canada (Maine to Québec): Best from May–October, with peak fall foliage in September and October
  • Alaska: Cruise from May–September for optimal wildlife viewing and long daylight hours
  • Pacific Northwest & Columbia River: Ideal between April–October, with spring blooms and fall harvests
  • Mississippi River: Best seasons are March–June and September–November, offering mild weather and cultural festivals
  • Southeast U.S. Coast: Cruise from October–April for warm temperatures and fewer crowds

Why Choose Small Ship Travel for your cruises in the USA and Canada

At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in matching travelers with thoughtfully curated itineraries that highlight the best of each destination. Whether you're discovering hidden gems close to home or venturing into new corners of North America, our expert team ensures a seamless and enriching experience.

As a Virtuoso affiliate through Travel Experts, a member agency, we offer:

  • Exclusive perks, including onboard credits and cabin upgrades
  • Personalized planning for pre- and post-cruise stays in cities like Boston, Seattle, Vancouver, or New Orleans
  • Access to limited-capacity sailings and private excursions
  • A dedicated advisor to support you from start to finish

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