What is Small Ship Cruising?
Embark on a Small Ship Cruise hosted by a seasoned storyteller and a passenger focused team of dedicated explorers. Experience a medley of culture, traditions, and history as you travel beyond the ordinary, immersing yourself in each destination and creating lasting memories. Exclusive to AE Expeditions, this curated approach to cruising appeals to experienced globetrotters eager to share the magic of exploration with like-minded travellers, in a relaxed atmosphere.
Hosted by an expert storyteller, each voyage reveals hidden gems and untold narratives that make each destination unique. Our Small Ship Cruises offer an unparalleled level of service and attention to detail that redefines the very essence of sea-based travel, offering a journey that is as enlightening as it is unforgettable
The Art of Storytelling
Long before the written word, our ancestors gathered around fires to share tales of survival, community and adventure. The storyteller, chosen for their oral prowess, wove narratives passed down through centuries, fostering companionship and community. At AE Expeditions, we believe that every day travelled creates a story. On our Small Ship Cruises, your journey is hosted by a master storyteller.
Selected for their deep knowledge, expert storytelling skills, and unwavering passion for the theme of their specific voyage, our hosts inspire exploration and cultural immersion. Whether a professor, archaeologist, or curator, their infectious enthusiasm for their chosen speciality is complemented by our network of local experts who guide our handcrafted onshore experiences. From the British Royal family to the D Day operations, Sicilian feuds to Croatian coastal life, our storytellers add a personal dimension to our voyages, instilling a deep fascination in each day travelled. Join them to craft your own story, one that will endure for eternity.
Your Choice Experiences
Hosted by our team and led by local guides, our handcrafted onshore and onboard experiences immerse us in a myriad of adventures. Our ‘Your Choice’ excursions invite you to experience our destinations hands-on. Follow in Van Gogh’s footsteps through the streets of Arles, sense the echoes of Pompeii’s last moments, and hear stories of survival from the Titanic.
Immersive Travel
Our ‘Your Choice’ excursions invite you to experience our destinations hands on. Follow in Van Gogh’s footsteps, sense the echoes of Pompeii’s last moments, and hear stories of survival from the Titanic.
Local Flavours
Whether it is mint tea in Marrakech, a limoncello on the Amalfi Coast, or a paella in Valencia, rest assured your tastebuds will be tantalised.
Locally Guided Walks
No one knows their hometown like a local. Our ‘Your Choice’ excursions are guided by local experts, ensuring every experience is authentic and insightful.
Cultural Enrichment
Explore the culturally fascinating, from Salvador Dali’s eccentric mausoleum to hilltop villages whose traditions have crafted the world’s most popular perfumes.
Past & Present
Exploring Europe is akin to flipping through the pages of history, where each chapter unfolds in real time before your eyes.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Whether exploring Athen’s Acropolis, Italy’s Cinque Terre or the medina of Marrakech, we ask you to join us in preserving the world’s most treasured sites.
Art & Artisans
Whether you are an art aficionado or simply captivated by the beauty of art, our curated experiences at galleries, architectural wonders and artisan workshops will entice your curiosity.
What kind of footwear do I need for our shore visits?
It is most important that you bring a comfortable pair of enclosed walking shoes to wear on board the ship. Muck boots are provided on board and are required to be worn on all landings. If you have concerns regarding extra small or large sizing, or hard-to-fit feet, we recommend you bring your own pair.
How do we dry wet clothing?
On board, you can store your wet weather gear and muck boots in your locker, found in the mudroom.
How often do we get off the ship?
We aim to get off the ship as much as possible to experience the destinations up close. Twice per day is common but more if weather, daylight hours and itinerary allow. Duration of the landings vary from site to site but at the height of the peak season, cruise operators must stick to timings allocated by authorities.
Should I bring along my own walking poles?
Yes, it’s a good idea, especially if you have trouble walking over uneven ground. Some of our landings can be on slippery rocks or deep snow, and we may go for extended walks to see different parts of our landing point. We recommend the telescopic poles, with the optional snow-basket tips. You can purchase these poles in most outdoor stores.
What if I need to go to the toilet when ashore?
Our expedition team will instruct you with these types of rules on board. Generally we ask you to relieve yourself on board before going on a landing and if the necessity arises ashore, you will be driven back to the ship.
Can I do more than one activity?
We strongly advise against selecting multiple activities as each is a dedicated activity for those with the relevant experience. To make the most of your time and money, we recommend selecting only one activity.
How fit do I need to be to travel on an Irish expedition?
To make the most of our voyages, you should be in good general health and able to walk reasonable distances, sometimes over uneven terrain. However, if you have problems walking on rough ground, you can enjoy the scenery closer to shore. Should you have any physical limitations please notify us well in advance of your departure, but this should not discourage you participating.
How many people on the ship?
Our ship carries a maximum of 154 passengers (130 on Expedition).
Where do passengers come from?
The majority of our clients come from Australia, the UK, Europe and the United States, however we do often have a mix of other nationalities on board, including our expedition team.
How much room is there for luggage?
There is ample storage space in your cabin on all our ships. Your empty baggage can be stored safely elsewhere on the ship if need be.
Do you have facilities on board to download digital images from my camera?
There will be computers in the library and media room for your use.
Is the ship air-conditioned?
All our ships are air-conditioned, with the on board temperature ranging from 15°C to 25°C. You can control the temperature of your cabin by adjusting the airflow through the roof vent and turning your heater on or off.
Does the crew speak English?
The crew aboard is international and all speak English.
What is the electrical supply on board?
The electrical supply on board is 220 volts, 50 hertz. Please bring a converter if your devices use 110 volts. International electrical sockets are available in your cabin and throughout the ship. If you have many devices, it is advised you bring a multi power board.
Is there Internet, email or telephone access on board?
Onboard WiFi internet packages are available for purchase during the voyage. Telephone access for personal use is not available on board. In case of an emergency, our expedition team can facilitate communication with your family members if necessary.
What is not included in the price of the voyage?
In general, items that are not included in the cost of your voyage are: flights to and from your voyage, pre and post accommodation, transfers, drinks from the bar (alcohol and soft drinks), gratuities, Ship Shop items, laundry costs and other items of a personal nature (unless stated in your voyage inclusions). Some voyages do include certain pre- and post-cruise travel arrangements, so please check your specific voyage inclusions on the website or contact us.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance, including medical evacuation cover, is mandatory for all AE Expeditions’ voyages. We advise you have insurance for voyage cancellation to ensure you will be covered financially if you are forced to cancel your voyage due to circumstances beyond your control. It is in your best interest to read carefully the General Terms & Conditions on your booking form.
How much should I tip? Are tips included, if not how much per person per day?
Gratuities/tips for crew included – to the value of USD$15 per person per day. It is at your discretion if you would like to increase/decrease the amount or remove the tip when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members.
Do you cater for special meal requests?
Yes. Our talented chefs will take your requirements into their meal planning and ensure you receive tasty, healthy meals. Please ensure you list any dietary requirements on your personal details form.
What currency do you accept on board?
The onboard currency is US dollars. All your onboard purchases including bar, laundry, ship shop, internet, and massages are charged to your shipboard account and settled by credit card or cash (US dollars only) at the end of the voyage.
Can I smoke on board?
There is a ‘No Smoking’ policy throughout the interior of our ships.
Are there hairdryers on board?
Hairdryers are provided in each cabin.
Will I get seasick?
Many people ask us if they will get seasick. It is a very difficult question to answer because it depends so much on the individual. Our experience is that a small percentage of people are seasick on any trip and most of these people are fine after a day or so at sea. If you feel that you are particularly susceptible to seasickness then it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. We advise you come armed with motion sickness tablets, and there will be a doctor on board to assist with any bouts of seasickness.
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