USA and Canada

From historic harbor towns and lighthouses to quiet fjords and riverfront cities, North America offers real variety, and much of it is best explored by water. Small ship cruising reaches less-crowded ports, inland waterways, and remote shorelines, with more time to enjoy places larger ships pass by.

Travelers benefit from:

Close 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 real connection with the landscape and culture

Sample Experiences Include:

Exploring Acadia National Park and the 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

North America offers cruising through much of the year, depending on the region:

New England and Canada (Maine to Québec): best from May to October, with peak fall foliage in September and October.

Alaska: cruise from May to September for the best wildlife viewing and long daylight hours.

Pacific Northwest and Columbia River: best between April and October, with spring blooms and fall harvests.

Mississippi River: best from March to June and September to November, with mild weather and cultural festivals.

Southeast U.S. coast: cruise from October to April for warm temperatures and fewer crowds.

At Small Ship Travel we specialize in matching travelers with carefully chosen itineraries that show the best of each destination. Whether you are exploring close to home or heading into new corners of North America, we work to make the experience smooth and enriching.

We provide perks such as onboard credits, cabin upgrades, and access to limited-capacity sailings and private excursions. Our planning includes pre- and post-cruise stays in cities like Boston, Seattle, Vancouver, or New Orleans. From your first message to the day you return home, a dedicated advisor supports you throughout.